How Much Does Sex Therapy Cost?

Whether you are in the aftermath of a breakup or feeling a lack of intimacy in your relationship, sex therapy may serve as an effective means of healing from sexual dysfunction, trauma, and other related concerns. The cost of sex therapy varies, but in-person sessions typically cost more than virtual therapy sessions. Online therapy platforms often offer the same services as in-person therapists, while providing individuals with more affordable reachable to therapy, including sex therapy. 

What is the cost of sex therapy?

Sex therapists provide important therapeutic services that can help individuals develop more fulfilling sex lives and better overall relationships with intimacy. The cost of sex therapy can vary widely depending on the unique requirements of the individual and the type of therapy provided. 

The cost of sex therapy can also fall outside of those ranges, and is usually determined based on factors such as:

• The expertise of the therapist
• The type of treatment plan recommended 
• Additional services offered
• Geographical location of treatment provided
• The necessity for additional specialists' assistance 

Some therapists charge a flat hourly rate, while others offer package deals for several sessions at a discounted rate. Depending on the complexity of what you hope to address in sex therapy, such as erectile dysfunction or past trauma, you may need extended therapy sessions or a referral to an additional specialist, which could potentially increase costs.

Some sex therapists offer additional services, such as workshops or online courses, to further aid an individual’s healing process. These services can also add to the total cost of treatment. However, these add-ons may enhance the overall effectiveness of treatment.

How to find the right sex therapist 

Sex therapy focuses on helping individuals improve sexual health and develop a fulfilling sex life. It may help to address concerns such as low libido, erectile dysfunction, intimacy issues, and past sexual trauma. Finding the right sex therapist might feel difficult, but with patience and research, you can find a provider who fits your needs and has an established track record. 

We recommend looking for credentials such as an advanced degree in human sexuality or couples counseling from an accredited institute. When looking for a sex therapist, you may also ask potential therapists if they hold membership in any professional organizations like The American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT). 

You will likely also want to assess their experience and any additional certifications they hold. Consider asking how long they've been practicing, as well as about their overall philosophy when it comes to sex therapy, and what approaches they take, so you can identify if you'd feel comfortable working with them. 

It can also help to do one or two trial sessions to personally assess if your potential therapist is the right fit. Many therapists offer free or discounted initial consultations so you can get a better idea of their style before committing to long-term sessions. 

Additionally, consider checking to see if the therapist is licensed in your state. If they aren't licensed in your state, they may be unable to legally provide services where you live.

What to expect 

An AASECT-certified sex therapist typically conducts in-person sex therapy sessions. Sessions can be one-on-one, with a partner, or in a small group. During an in-person session, the therapist might discuss challenges such as:

• Communication and intimacy problems
• Sexual orientation and gender identity exploration
• Body image concerns
• Performance anxiety
• The difference between sex and intimacy
• Difficulties in achieving orgasm or pleasure during sex 

Common therapeutic techniques used include cognitive-behavioral therapy, role playing, talking through experiences or fantasies together, breathing exercises, and mindfulness practices. A therapist may also utilize other forms of therapeutic interventions that help to improve connection with one's body and sexuality.

Online sex therapy may include video conferencing sessions with a certified professional mental health counselor who specializes in sexual health topics. These sessions can be held over online therapy platforms or other video chat programs that allow for virtual discussions between client and therapist. 

Some counselors may also offer phone consultations or messaging services for clients who do not feel comfortable discussing personal details through video conferencing. Although online sessions may not involve the same face-to-face aspect that in-person sessions do, they may still be useful for helping individuals navigate their sexual health journey. 

No matter what type of sex therapy you choose to pursue, whether it's online or in-person, research your options carefully, so you can find a qualified sex therapist who meets your needs at a price point that fits your budget.

Benefits of online sex therapy

Online sex therapy is often more affordable than traditional in-person sex therapy because it's less expensive to facilitate. Online sex therapists can provide care remotely without paying for office space or transportation costs. Furthermore, clients who feel uncomfortable discussing intimate issues in person may find it easier and less intimidating to talk about them in a digital setting.

This type of therapy can help people feel more comfortable expressing themselves sexually and enable a better understanding of their partner’s wants and needs. Sex therapists also may help couples develop healthy strategies for managing conflicts regarding intimacy or sexual activities. 

In one study, researchers looked at the effectiveness of virtual cognitive-behavioral therapy in helping pregnant women improve sexual function and intimacy. Their team found that after the intervention, participants reported both improved sexual satisfaction and intimacy with their partners. This study illustrates the ability of online-delivered sex therapy to help individuals make positive progress in their sex lives and mental health.