I’m Marissa Talarico, a sex positive therapist. Ready to talk about sex? Let’s explore some common questions about sex therapy…
A Sex Positive Therapist, A No-Shame Space
As relationships evolve, it isn’t uncommon to experience sex or intimacy difficulties. As individuals, it isn’t uncommon to experience, anxiety, addiction, or feelings of isolation in regards to sexual desires or satisfaction.
As a sex positive therapist, I find that for many couples, that attend therapy after many years of marriage or being in a relationship identifying that sexual differences or dissatisfaction is a primary concern for them. Engaging in sex therapy can be uncomfortable and scary at times, which is why I strive to encourage open and honest reflection of sexual desires, finding true pleasure in your relationship. Many clients I have worked with tell me they respond well to my direct approach, feeling secure that I won’t mislead in therapy. I use compassion to walk with you through shame, guilt, embarrassment and confusion.
Individuals may attend therapy to discuss their sexual preferences, shame in sexuality, addiction or sexual isolation that has negatively impacted their well-being.
Because I identify as a sex positive therapist, I ensure that I come from a non-judgmental, compassionate place to listen to your sexual concerns, and find ways to incorporate your sexual desires into your relationships. With my training in sex therapy, I am able to work with a wide range of challenges including; sexual or pleasure differences, understanding intimacy after children, arousal difficulties, as well as sex or porn addictions, fetishes, differences in desire (low or high sexual desire), navigating non traditional relationships, open relationships and polyamory relationships.
How do I know if sex therapy is right for me?
When we refer to therapy being one of the most vulnerable and yet rewarding experiences of a person’s being, we forgot to mention sex therapy! Sex therapy is historically fairly new. Since sex continues to be a taboo subject in our society, and for many families it is very hush hush, it may feel very uncomfortable to seek out sex therapy. Let me tell you, you are not alone! This is part of why we need more sex positive therapists!
For many attending sex therapy, they state they are embarrassed, ashamed, or uncertain about their concerns. Sex therapy can be helpful to manage any number of challenges, including but not limited to feeling a dissatisfaction of sex in your relationship, pleasure differences, infidelity, sex or porn addiction, navigating open relationships, or reigniting the flame. For many couples and individuals speaking the genuine truth about their sexual concerns can alleviate a lot of anxiety and uncertainty.
What should I expect in sex therapy?
My primary goal for you in sex therapy is to feel completely comfortable in a safe, non-judgmental environment to express your concerns, and work through the worry that accompanies them. For many this will look like managing the anxiety experiences in talking about these subjects, while finding strategies to help cope with some of the most uncomfortable aspects of our sexuality. You will find that I offer a direct approach to allow you greater insight and manage symptoms. Whether you are trying to navigate finding pleasure in sex, compulsive sexual behaviors, or healing from infidelity, I am here to hear and validate where you are and help guide you to where you want to be.