Helping You Find Healing and Wholeness - Sex Therapy in New Jersey
My story of becoming an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist in New Jersey
From early on in college, though working with different patient populations, people had questions about sex and didn't have a safe place or person to talk to, so they asked me. Now, back in college, I didn’t know more than others about sex, but I could build rapport and be a good listener that drew people in. My ability to make people comfortable is one of my tools in discussing the intimate topic of sex. Without rapport and ease, the topic can be challenging to discuss.
“My profession found me, that is how I became a Certified Sex Therapist…”
When I worked with the substance abuse population, patients would discuss their fear of sober sex and developing intimacy and vulnerability in relationships. However, when working with the geriatric population, many would be mourning the loss of physical touch from a partner or anyone. These topics are human topics that need someone to be there and hold that space. I was shocked they had no one to discuss this with, not even their doctors.
With those experiences and some advice from mentors, I pursued more training to become a Certified Sex Therapist through the American Association of Sexual Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT). I continue to provide this space for people now, whatever the reason that brings them to my practice. In addition to being a Certified Sex Therapist, I also work with symptoms of anxiety, depression treatment, sexual trauma, and low self-esteem in both individual therapy and couples therapy.
Outside of my work with individuals and couples, I also have found a passion in providing clinical supervision and mentoring men and women who are interested in becoming AASECT Certified Sex Therapists.
Benefits of working with a Certified Sex Therapist
Enhanced Relationship Satisfaction
By working with a certified sex therapist, you and your partner will improve communication and understanding, which will make your relationship safer and more fulfilling. Dr. Donahue, a certified sex therapist in New Jersey, addresses issues like desire discrepancies, pain with sex and sexual dysfunction, helping you and your partner feel more connected emotionally and sexually.
Personal Growth and Empowerment
When couples decide to work with a certified sex therapist, it empowers both individuals to explore and express their desires, needs, and wants within their relationships. Both Individual Therapy and Couples Therapy facilitates a deeper understanding of one's sexuality and identity, which boosts self-confidence and empowerment. Sex Therapy gets to the underlying barriers to intimacy, which, when explored, will help individuals to feel more empowered in their sexual life as well as in their emotional connection.
Holistic Health and Wellbeing
Sex Therapy uniquely addresses the physical and emotional dimensions of sexuality. This particular approach can lead to reduced stress levels, symptoms of anxiety, and an improved quality of life both on an individual level and in your marriage or partnership. Additionally, in working with an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist, Dr. Donahue will be able to help you better understand sexual health and wellness practices, which contribute to long-term physical and emotional well-being.
A Word from Dr. Donahue | Certified Sex Therapist in New Jersey
At MD Counseling, it is important to us that you are valued, heard, and supported as you explore and get curious about issues that are coming up for you or your partner around your sex life. We firmly believe that you deserve to experience genuine connection and intimacy, and our mission is to assist you in cultivating just that. Your relationship deserves to be a safe space where you feel truly seen and heard, and we are dedicated to fostering an environment where your voice is prioritized and respected. Remember, your sexuality is a fundamental aspect of being human, and it evolves with you from the earliest stages of life to your final breaths. Whether you're navigating challenges in your relationship or looking to enhance sexual and emotional intimacy, we are here to provide guidance and support as you articulate your wants and needs. The time to invest in your relationship is now, and together, we can help you and your partner to find greater connection, satisfaction, and fulfillment.
Client Testimonials about sex therapy in new jersey
“Dr. Donahue offers a safe, engaging, supportive therapeutic environment.”
How To Get Started With Sex Therapy in New Jersey
one
Identify What You Need
Begin by selecting the counseling service that aligns with your goals, whether it's individual therapy, couples therapy, or sex therapy. Within each of these counseling services, we can address specific issues such as symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, etc.
two
Request Consultation
Once you have an idea of what kind of support you are looking for, click the button below and request a consultation with Dr. Donahue. This initial step allows us to understand your needs and ensure we can match up our calendar’s accordingly.
three
Find Fulfillment and Passion
Show up and do the work. We’re really good at providing safety and a space for you to learn, be curious and to grow but this work requires you to actively participate. Whether you’re seeing Dr. Donahue for Individual Therapy, Couples Therapy or Sex Therapy you'll find more fulfillment in your life and relationships.
She has earned certificates through Boston University in Child Maternal Health and Gerontology. She trained at the Institute for Sexual Medicine at Boston University School of Medicine with Dr. Irwin Goldstein, a leader in the field of sexual medicine. Dr. Donahue has been participating in an ongoing supervision consultation group for years under the training of Esther Perel. She has led the Association of Oncology Social Workers, serving as the New Jersey State Representative and presenting at their annual conferences. She is presently the Northeast Unit Leader for five counties for NASW-NJ (National Association of Social Workers) and has presented at their state conference. In addition to her work in her private practice, Dr. Donahue is an active member of the Collaborative Divorce Association of North Jersey.
Dr. Donahue is a AASECT Certified Sex Therapist
DSW, LCSW, CST
She is a national presenter, author, educator, and clinical therapist. She is one of only 900 Certified Sex Therapists globally through AASECT (American Association of Sexual Educators, Counselors, and Therapists). With clinical experience in oncology, substance abuse, and gerontology, she understands how sexuality can be impacted in different patient populations.
As a recent graduate from Rutgers University, School of Social Work, with her doctorate, Dr. Donahue used her professional experience to focus on research, specifically on the lived experiences of patients with vaginismus and doctors caring for them.
Counseling Specialities for Individual Therapy, couples therapy and sex therapy in New Jersey
Anxiety Treatment
Depression Treatment
LGBTQ Therapy
Trauma Treatment
Therapy for Women
Therapy for Men
Read About Anxiety, Depression and Sex Therapy
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What Other Mental Health Services Does MD Counseling Offer?
Whether you're struggling with symptoms of anxiety, mens issues, sexual trauma, or looking for an LGBTQ affirming therapist in New Jersey, MD Counseling in Ridgewood, New Jersey is dedicated to providing the support you need. Our counseling center offers in-office sessions, as well as online therapy sessions for your convenience. At MD Counseling, we believe everyone deserves to have a fulfilling sex life. We're here to support you.