Relational Therapy Services
Common Concerns for Relational Therapy
Trauma-Informed Couples Sex Therapy
Familial influences, society’s expectations, religious upbringings, gender roles, vulnerability, fear, trauma, and past “failed” attempts at initiation can all make talking about sex really difficult. In trauma-informed couples sex therapy, I do my best to create a space where partners feel comfortable talking about the uncomfortable. I work with both straight and queer couples in sex therapy, and I strive to make sure all partners—regardless of identity, orientation, or relationship structure—feel affirmed and understood.
Many of the couples that come to see me for sexual concerns are also navigating the effects of sexual trauma. While individual therapy is also crucial to process these experiences, I can help guide partnerships through the challenges the impact of sexual trauma may bring relationally. It can be hard to make sense of our body’s reactions at times, and understanding the “why of things” can really help us and our partners show up from a place of empathy and curiosity rather than hurt and resentment. We will cautiously explore your vulnerabilities, find realistic tools for prioritizing pleasure and connection after trauma, and help you and your partner to feel more like a team than ever before. Trans-Affirming Couples Therapy
Navigating trans identities within relational contexts can be terrifying. There are already so many personal adjustments that come with transitioning, let alone managing possible societal stigma, discrimination, and family rejection. It makes complete sense that these outside stressors can affect your relationship—sometimes leading to distance, misunderstandings, or conflict. In trans-affirming couples therapy, my goal is to help you face these challenges together rather than feeling alone in them.
The world is great at trying to separate us, but I’m here to support you in moving through transition as a loving and connected team. I will do my best to validate the wide range of emotions you both may experience while cheering you on as you grow into the evolving, authentic version of who you are as a couple. Our work can include the emotional, relational, and practical layers of gender transition: processing varying emotional experiences, navigating changes in your sexual relationship during or after transition, exploring intimacy concerns, supporting you through parenting or co-parenting shifts, and helping you build or reconnect with an affirming community.
I also recognize the very real impact that ongoing political attacks and shifting anti-trans legislation can have on your sense of safety, stability, and hope. Those fears, frustrations, and grief responses are welcome here too. We can talk about them openly and without judgment.
Whether you’re just beginning to navigate transition as a team or have been on this journey for a long time, my focus is on helping you strengthen connection, improve communication, and build a relationship that feels affirming and secure.Pre-Marital Counseling
Even when you and your partner feel deeply connected and committed, marriage brings a new chapter with its own questions, adjustments, and opportunities for growth. Premarital counseling isn’t just for couples who are struggling—it’s for those who want to set a strong foundation and explore what a shared life will look like before saying “I do.”
Pre-marital counseling with me can be more structured than my typical work and usually lasts 8-10 sessions. Our initial intake session will give us the opportunity to identify the main areas you want to explore. Throughout our time together we can look at areas like managing finances as a unit, navigating broader family dynamics, clarifying values and priorities, and intentionally deciding how to support each other through life’s milestones. We can also explore habits, communication styles, and shared goals you want to carry forward as a couple. The focus is on reflection, curiosity, and connection… building a sense of clarity and confidence about how you want to live your life together.
This is a space to talk openly, plan intentionally, and dream together, while making sure both of you feel heard, supported, and aligned as you step into marriage. It’s about celebrating what already works in your relationship while exploring the areas you want to grow in as partners.
Take the leap today!
If it seems like we may be a good fit for relational therapy, fill out the short form here. I aim to get back to clients within 1-2 business days. I’m super excited to meet you!