A dock extends onto a blue lake with green trees in the background sets a serene scene for discussing judgement-free sex therapy.

WHAT IS SEX THERAPY?

Sexual concerns and infidelity counseling as my focus, I create a compassionate and judgment-free space for you to explore your most intimate challenges including:

  • Separation and divorce counseling & co-parenting

  • Menopause

  • Body image

  • Sex & trauma

  • Sexual orientation

  • Alternative lovestyles

  • Open relationship therapy

  • Consensual non-monogamy (CNM) therapy

  • Sexuality and aging

  • Relationship conflict

  • Sexual arousal & dysfunction

  • Desire discrepancies

  • Pleasure enhancement

  • Out-of-control sexual behavior (sex addiction therapy and porn addiction therapy)

  • Infidelity counseling

  • Conscious uncoupling

 

MY PHILOSOPHY

 
About Lovestyles and Fidelity Contract Therapy Services | Susanna Carlson LCSW

LOVESTYLES & FIDELITY CONTRACTS

Do you want to re-evaluate your beliefs and decision-making regarding sexual behaviors, sexual health, and sexual identity? Are you looking to expand on your sexual expression and the concept of intimacy based on your values? 

I help you gain a better understanding of the nuances of different fidelity agreements, the purposes they serve, and how to negotiate effective, adaptive, and sustainable agreements. As a poly-friendly therapist, I am available to assist in your exploration of the best fitting alternative lovestyles, consensual non-monogamy (CNM therapy), and to facilitate conversations about transitions to new fidelity contracts. 

About Infidelity Counseling Services | Susanna Carlson LCSW, Certified Sex Therapist

INFIDELITY COUNSELING

Did you discover your partner’s infidelity? Was your own affair exposed? Do you feel betrayed?

I provide discreet, non-judgmental, and thoughtful therapy in this moment of crisis for high-conflict couples. Beginning infidelity counseling immediately after the revelation of betrayal is vital and my methodological approach ensures your best possible outcome. Infidelity counseling as my specialty, I effectively support both partners while helping you in resolving issues beyond the presenting problem toward best fitting steps and decisions for the future.

About 'Sex Addiction' Therapy Services | Susann Carlson LCSW, Certified Sex Therapist

‘SEX ADDICTION’ THERAPY

Are your sexual thoughts dominating your daily life? Do you risk severe consequences with your sexual behaviors and can’t stop? Are you worried about your partner and their sexual behaviors?  

A thorough assessment is critical in treating Out-of-Control Sexual Behaviors. I will employ evidence-informed methods in psychotherapy to learn to understand you as a whole person and to enable a sustainable change for you. Uncontrollable sexual behaviors are more often than not the symptom and not the problem. With my assistance, you explore and expose the deep-rooted origin of your hardship. We uncover possible underlying and untreated issues, such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), other mental health concerns, as well as emotional, physical, and sexual trauma.  

 
 
Separation and Divorce Counseling Services | Susanna Carlson LCSW, Certified Sex Therapist

SEPARATION & DIVORCE COUNSELING

Are you at an impasse in your relationship? Did you or your partner decide to separate? Is your mediation and divorce process slowing down with unnecessary conflict?

Unlike couples therapy, separation, and divorce counseling occurs when one or both partners decide to end the relationship. Rather than seeking a way forward together, this therapy empowers you to create a new family paradigm while growing awareness and making sense of this reality as an independent person. You will learn effective communication (conscious uncoupling) staying focused on the essential elements of your separation without creating avoidable disagreements and struggle.

INDIVIDUAL AND COUPLES THERAPY

Do you feel stuck? Do you feel alone? Misunderstood? Confused? 

Individual therapy begins by exploring your past experiences, present circumstances, and formulating your future goals while developing an effective way of communication. In couples therapy, we explore all that for each of you and enable you to develop healthy ways of integrating yourselves into the aspirations you establish for your partnership.

My training in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) enables you to cast aside the emotional blocks that keep you from living an emotionally expressive life. We can work to move through trauma, loss, and grief offering you a chance at a changed, more adaptive perspective on your present life. 

About Susanna Carlson LCSW, Certified Sex Therapist

ABOUT SUSANNA

Not your traditional therapist. I am known for my authentic and direct style combining various techniques and creative solutions with a unique perspective you can benefit from. My education, training, and personal journey as a daughter, partner, and mother of three young adults allow me to assist you in finding meaning and purpose in your life.

I create a compassionate and judgment-free space in individual therapy, couples therapy, and sex therapy for you to explore your most intimate challenges while working toward the goals you set for the process.