How Much Does a Sex Therapist Cost in NYC?
Takeaway:
The cost of sex therapy in NYC varies based on the therapist's credentials, experience, and location.
While it's an investment, many people find that addressing sexual concerns early actually prevents more costly relationship or health issues down the road.
This guide breaks down what you can expect to pay for sex therapy in NYC and helps you understand the value behind the investment.
If you're considering sex therapy, you might be feeling nervous about more than just the emotional work ahead. Unlike some other types of therapy that have become more mainstream, sex therapy still feels mysterious to many people. You might be wondering not just "How much will this cost?" but also "What exactly am I paying for?" and "Is this really worth it?"
The truth is, sexual health is health, period. Just like you wouldn't hesitate to invest in physical therapy for an injury or therapy for anxiety, addressing sexual concerns with a qualified professional is an investment in your overall well-being and relationships.
In this post, I'll break down the real costs of sex therapy in NYC, explain what goes into those rates, and help you understand why working with a certified sex therapist can be one of the most valuable investments you make in your life and relationships.
Let's dive in.
How much do sex therapists charge?
On average, sex therapy costs between $100-$400 per session in New York City.
Remember, this range is meant to be used for informational purposes only. The exact price per session will depend on which sex therapist you choose to work with, and fees vary widely based on factors we’ll explore in just a minute.
To give you more insight about the cost of sex therapy around NYC, I’ve compiled rates from several local, fully licensed sex therapists in each borough.
| Type of Setting | Estimated Cost per Session |
|---|---|
| Bronx | $100-$250 |
| Brooklyn | $175-$400 |
| Manhattan | $250-$400 |
| Queens | $150-$250 |
| Staten Island | $100-$250 |
Why sex therapy costs what it does
Now, before you see those numbers and immediately worry that sex therapy is out of reach for you, let's talk about what you're actually paying for.
Specialized training & credentials
Many sex therapists pursue advanced training beyond your typical therapy degree. For example, some are AASECT-certified (that’s the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists), which means they’ve completed extensive coursework and supervised hours specifically in sex therapy. That added expertise often comes with a higher price tag, and understandably so.
I’ve completed this certification myself, and it’s given me a breadth of knowledge about helping people improve their sex lives through a blend of compassion and evidence-backed methods.
Areas of focus
If you’re looking for a therapist who is kink-affirming, LGBTQ+ affirming, or trauma-informed, that niche expertise can influence the rate. Therapists who work with complex dynamics—like healing from sexual trauma or exploring open relationships—often bring a depth of experience that’s reflected in their pricing. At the same time, that added specialization can help you truly get the most out of your therapy journey.
Location, location, location
This is NYC, after all! A therapist in a Midtown office with floor-to-ceiling windows might charge more than someone practicing via telehealth from Queens. Real estate, office rental, and other overhead costs all play a role in pricing. Therapy practices are like any other business, and the cost of living definitely factors into rates.
Years of experience
A therapist who’s been in the field for 10+ years and has a waitlist might charge more than someone who’s earlier in their career. That said, “more experienced” doesn’t always mean “better for you”—it depends on the fit, not just the résumé. Just know that experience can factor into fees, and often for good reason.
Type of therapy
Are you coming in solo? With a partner? Maybe a throuple or polycule? (Yes, we welcome all relationship structures here!) Couples or relationship therapy with multiple parties often runs higher than individual sessions because the work can be more complex, and sessions may run longer.
Does insurance cover sex therapy?
Yes! Insurance often covers sex therapy, though there are some important factors to keep in mind when it comes to using your benefits for sessions.
Many sex therapists (including myself) are out-of-network. This means we don’t bill your insurance company directly, but we can offer superbills that you can then submit to your carrier for potential reimbursement. This gives us the freedom to tailor sessions to your needs, not to your insurance company's checklist.
Here are some questions I recommend asking your insurance company about out-of-network care:
Do I have out-of-network mental health benefits?
What’s my deductible, and has any of it been met?
How much will I be reimbursed per session?
Add couples sex therapy (vs. individual sex therapy) into the mix, and insurance reimbursement can get a bit more complicated. If you call your insurance company and ask if they cover couples counseling, they may say no.
However, therapists can bill for a reimbursable service called “family therapy with patient present.” To use your benefits for this service, one person will need to receive a diagnosis. Don’t worry; we can talk more about what this looks like when we meet.
Is sex therapy worth the price?
In my experience as a sex therapist, I’ve found that yes, sex therapy is often totally worth it.
I understand why you might be hesitant to spring for sex therapy, especially if you never have before. The cost can feel intimidating, but I’ve seen so many people completely transform their relationship with sex and sexuality through therapy. The best part? The benefits carry on with you even when our work together ends.
Sex therapy can help you:
Unpack shame around your sexuality
Heal from painful experiences or trauma
Navigate mismatched desire with your partner(s)
Learn how to talk about your needs and boundaries with confidence
Reconnect with pleasure—physically and emotionally
Build trust and emotional intimacy in your relationships
Feel more comfortable and at home in your own body
Plus, the benefits aren’t just limited to the bedroom. It spills into your relationships, your self-esteem, your ability to show up as your full self. And when that shifts? Everything else tends to shift, too.
Final thoughts
At the end of the day, the real question isn’t just, How much does sex therapy cost? It’s: What’s it worth to you to feel more connected, more confident, and more at ease in your sexuality, relationships, and your body?
Therapy isn’t just a line item in your budget. It’s a way of saying, “Hey, I matter. My needs matter. My relationships matter.” And that’s powerful.
If you're feeling nervous, unsure, or even a little awkward about starting—you're not alone. Most people don’t exactly grow up talking openly about sex, let alone paying someone to help them do it. But that's the beauty of sex therapy: it gives you a safe, judgment-free space to explore the stuff no one taught you how to talk about.
My approach to sex therapy is authentic, nonjudgmental, and–dare I say–fun! Yes, we’ll talk about serious topics, but I firmly believe that exploring your sexuality and sex life shouldn’t feel stiff, robotic, or awkward. I’m here to bring levity to our conversations and meet you with genuine support and compassion.
Ready to get started? Contact me today to request your free consultation. I look forward to meeting you!