3 Best NYC Sex Therapists
Do you feel like you have it together in other areas of your life—career, social life, health—but find yourself struggling when it comes to your romantic relationship? Do you struggle with intimacy and feel broken or like something is wrong with you sexually? Maybe you long to regain the passion and connection you once had, or you're stuck in the same relationship conflicts over and over with no resolution.
If you feel unheard and misunderstood by your partner, discouraged about your sex life, or simply unsure where to go from here, you're not alone.
I’m Emily Lambert Robins, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and AASECT certified sex therapist in NYC. I specialize in helping individuals and couples just like you navigate these exact challenges—from desire discrepancies and painful sex to communication struggles and exploring different relationship dynamics.
Struggling with sex can feel isolating, but I’m here to assure you that you don’t have to deal with this by yourself, and that a joyful, fulfilling sex life is possible! Contact me today for a free consultation to see if we’re a good fit for each other.
I also recognize that sex therapy is highly personal. Below, I've curated this list of skilled sex therapists I recommend in case my practice isn't the right match for your specific situation or preferences.
3 Highly Recommended New York City Sex Therapists
Melissa Thoen
Melissa is a Latina Clinical Social Worker based in New York City, specializing in couples therapy within her private practice. She previously served as Clinical Director at the Ackerman Institute for the Family, where she oversaw clinic protocols and procedures. Her passion lies in helping partnerships of diverse backgrounds navigate communication about intimacy.
An AASECT-certified sex therapist, Melissa is currently undertaking Sex Therapy Supervisor training. Her comprehensive background includes an externship at Ackerman, Sex Therapy training from the University of Michigan, and a Master of Social Work from Columbia University.
Stephanie Rocha
Meet Stephanie Rocha, certified sex therapist and licensed clinical social worker right here on Long Island! With years of experience, Stephanie’s passionate about helping women feel confident and empowered through all stages of life, especially during perimenopause and menopause.
She also works with couples and young adults, offering a warm, judgment-free space to talk about all things intimacy and connection. Stephanie takes a strength-based, sex-positive approach to therapy—because your sexual health matters, and it’s okay to talk about it. Stephanie is here to help!
Madeline Cooper
Madeline runs Madeline Cooper & Associates, a boutique group practice that focuses in sex and relationship therapy. Madeline and her associates specialize in working with couples with desire discrepancy, traditional sex therapy issues (like erectile dysfunction or vaginismus), and issues relating to parenthood and intimacy.
Her practice has expanded from an individual practice to one with six practitioners within the past three years and continues to grow due to their reputation of having deep expertise, curiosity, and compassion.
FAQs About Sex Therapy
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Think of sex therapy as a safe, comfortable space where we can talk openly about topics that might feel too vulnerable to discuss elsewhere. It's specialized therapy focused on sexual health and intimacy, and I've received extensive training in human sexuality and relationships, so nothing you share will surprise me—I promise! We'll explore whatever is impacting your sexual wellness with openness, curiosity, and absolutely no judgment.
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If you're asking this question, there's probably something in your intimate life that doesn't feel quite right—and that's completely normal. Maybe you and your partner(s) have different levels of desire, sex has become painful, or you feel disconnected from the intimacy you once shared. Or maybe you’re single and want support understanding the hang-ups you experience in your sex life. Regardless, many people feel stuck when it comes to their sex life, so if this sounds like you, trust your instincts. If something feels off, that's reason enough to explore sex therapy.
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I work with all sorts of intimate concerns—low desire, mismatched libidos, painful intercourse, erectile challenges, performance anxiety, or curiosity about opening your relationship. Many clients come when life changes, like parenthood, menopause, or health issues, have impacted their sexual connection. But there are also plenty of other areas that sex therapy can help with, too. Remember, there's no concern too small or too complex; if it matters to you, it matters to me.
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I believe therapy should feel like a collaboration between two real humans, not like you're being analyzed. I'm warm, genuine, and use humor because I think joy has a place in healing. I'll share examples from my own journey when helpful, and I see you as the expert of your own experience. My goal isn't to pathologize you, but to help you understand what’s going on and take steps toward a healthier, happier sex life!
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Sex therapy is just talking in a comfortable office setting—no physical exercises or awkward demonstrations! We'll have honest conversations about your intimate life, and I'll share education that helps things make sense. Sometimes I'll suggest homework you can try at home. This process is completely collaborative—I regularly check in about what's working and what you need. My job is to support you, not tell you what to do.
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I know this might be an awkward question, but it's completely understandable to ask! The answer is absolutely not—sex therapy is strictly talk therapy in a professional setting. We'll discuss sexual topics openly (which can feel refreshing!), but there's never any physical contact, nudity, or sexual activity. Any "homework" I suggest would be for you to explore privately in your own space and time.
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Not at all! While I love working with couples and people in polyamorous relationships, I see many individuals on their own sexuality journey. Maybe you're single and want to explore your relationship with sexuality, work through past experiences affecting your dating life, or understand your desires better. Many people come to address anxiety around intimacy or relationship patterns. Your sexual wellness matters whether you're partnered or not.
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I'm an out-of-network provider, which means that I don’t work directly with any insurance companies. However, many clients get partial reimbursement through out-of-network benefits using the superbill I provide. I'm happy to help you understand how to submit for reimbursement, though coverage varies by plan. Most clients feel the investment in their sexual and relationship wellness pays dividends in many life areas.
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If you appreciate authenticity, humor, and a therapist who sees you as a whole person rather than a problem to fix, we might be a great match! I work especially well with high-achieving professionals, creatives, highly sensitive folks, and neurodivergent individuals. If you want someone who'll encourage you and your partner(s) to talk to each other and believes healing should include joy, I'd love to meet you.
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Taking the first step is often the hardest part, so I want to make it easy. Just reach out for a free consultation call—a no-pressure conversation where we see if we're a good fit. I'll ask about your concerns and what you're looking for, and you can ask me anything about my approach. If it feels right, we can schedule your first appointment.