Sexual health is an important part of overall well-being, yet it’s often one of the hardest topics to talk about. Sex therapy provides a safe, respectful space to explore concerns related to intimacy, desire, identity, communication, and connection without judgment or shame.
At Daybreak Counseling in Des Moines, sex therapy is approached with compassion, professionalism, and evidence-based care, honoring each person’s values, experiences, and goals.
Sex therapy is a specialized form of counseling that addresses emotional, relational, psychological, and behavioral aspects of sexual health. It is talk therapy, not physical contact, and focuses on understanding patterns, reducing distress, and improving communication and intimacy.
Sex therapy at Daybreak Counseling is led by Rachel Taylor, MS, LMHC, an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist with advanced training in sexual health, relationships, and intimacy. Rachel works with individuals and couples in an affirming, nonjudgmental environment where concerns related to sexuality, connection, communication, identity, and intimacy can be explored openly.
Sex therapy may be beneficial if you are experiencing:
You do not need to have everything figured out to begin. Many people come simply wanting clarity, relief, or a healthier relationship with intimacy
At Daybreak Counseling, sex therapy is individualized and grounded in evidence-informed, affirming care. Therapy may involve exploring emotional and relationship patterns, addressing anxiety or shame related to sexuality, improving communication and boundary-setting, rebuilding trust and connection, and developing greater awareness of personal needs, values, and experiences.
Depending on each client’s goals, treatment may incorporate relational approaches, cognitive behavioral strategies, mindfulness, trauma-informed care, and principles from couples therapy. Rachel works collaboratively with clients to determine an approach that feels appropriate for their concerns, identities, relationships, and goals.
Sex therapy can be helpful whether you attend alone or with a partner. Individual sessions may focus on personal concerns, identity exploration, or healing past experiences, while couples sessions often emphasize communication, connection, and shared understanding.
Both individual and couples sessions can provide meaningful opportunities to explore sexual and relationship concerns, and your clinician can help determine which format best fits your needs and goals.
Sexual concerns rarely exist in isolation. Communication, trust, emotional connection, stress, conflict, and relationship patterns can all influence intimacy and sexual well-being.
For couples experiencing concerns across both their relationship and sexual connection, therapy can provide space to explore how these patterns interact. Rachel’s advanced training in sex therapy and Level 2 Gottman Method Couples Therapy allows her to integrate both perspectives when appropriate, helping couples work toward healthier communication, greater understanding, and stronger connection.
We understand that discussing sexual concerns can feel vulnerable. Our clinicians are committed to creating a non-judgmental, confidential environment where your experiences are taken seriously and your comfort is prioritized.
You are always in control of what you share and how therapy unfolds.
At Daybreak Counseling in Des Moines, sex therapy is grounded in professionalism, ethics, and compassion. We work collaboratively with clients to reduce distress, increase understanding, and support healthier, more fulfilling relationships with intimacy and self.
If you’re considering sex therapy in Des Moines, Daybreak Counseling is here to help you take that next step with care and confidence.
Contact Daybreak Counseling to schedule an appointment or learn more about sex therapy services.