Sexuality & Gender-Affirming Sex Therapy for Gay Men

Sex therapy for gay men in Rhode Island provides a safe, affirming, and shame-free space for men to explore intimacy, strengthen relationships, and connect more deeply with themselves and their partners. At Rhode Island Sex Therapy, our clinicians understand the unique challenges gay men face both inside and outside of the bedroom. With culturally competent, gender-affirming care, we help clients embrace their sexuality, build confidence, and find greater fulfillment in their intimate lives.

Why Many Gay Men Avoid Sex Therapy

Men are half as likely as women to go to therapy. Members of the LGBTQ+ community have what can kindly be referred to as a complicated history with counseling. It’s no surprise that gay men are extremely reticent to schedule therapy sessions.

As a gay man, Dr. Michael Stokes, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the State of Rhode Island and a AASECT Certified Sex Therapist, understands where you’re coming from. He knows how difficult it can be to trust another person to see and affirm who you are, understand your struggles, and help you navigate life’s challenges.

Even as a therapist, he sometimes finds himself hesitant to schedule therapy sessions when having a tough time or needing to decompress. Yet, he knows how much it helps. If you want to learn more about what it means to see an affirming sex therapist, keep reading. You can also reach out to Rhode Island Sex Therapy at any time.

What Is Sex Therapy & How Is It Different for Gay Men?

Sex and sexuality are layered, complex parts of human experience. Sex therapy is a specialized form of counseling that helps individuals and couples improve sexual satisfaction, address challenges, and build healthier, more fulfilling intimate connections.

For gay men, sex therapy often involves an added layer of care. It’s not just about addressing sexual concerns. It’s also about navigating the impact of stigma, discrimination, or internalized shame that may affect self-image and sexual confidence. Sex therapy for gay men may focus on issues such as:

• Exploring sexual identity and expression in a safe space
• Addressing performance anxiety, arousal challenges, or sexual dysfunction
• Healing from experiences of discrimination or trauma
• Improving communication and intimacy with a partner
• Embracing authenticity in sexual and romantic relationships

This approach goes beyond simply treating symptoms. It provides affirming support that validates your experiences as a gay man while helping you thrive in your sexual and emotional life.

Why Would I Need Sex Therapy?

There are many reasons gay men choose to begin sex therapy, and one of the most common is the desire to experience more excitement and satisfaction in their sexual relationships. Therapy creates space to rediscover pleasure and intimacy, whether with a partner or within oneself. Sex therapy for gay men can also:

Improve Intimacy & Relationships

Sex therapy can help improve or restore arousal, desire, and gratification when sexual fulfillment feels out of reach. For some, this means addressing challenges with sexual function; for others, it’s about exploring new ways to connect and enjoy intimacy. At its core, sex therapy for gay men is about helping clients embrace authenticity, feel more confident in their bodies and relationships, and build a healthier, more fulfilling intimate life.

Help You Process & Heal from Discrimination

Many gay men seek therapy to process and heal from the effects of discrimination or isolation that can still be present within the LGBTQ+ community. Talking through these experiences in a supportive, affirming environment can be transformative.

Provide Support After Sexual Trauma

Therapy for gay men may also support healing after sexual trauma, offering a path toward reclaiming confidence and comfort in one’s sexual life. And for those who want to work with a therapist who genuinely understands their identity and lived experience as a gay man, Rhode Island Sex Therapy offers validation and care without judgment.

Will Sex Therapy for Gay Men Help Me?

Every person’s experience with intimacy is unique, and so is the journey through therapy. For gay men who feel stuck, disconnected, or unsatisfied in their sexual relationships, sex therapy can be a powerful way forward.

Working with an affirming therapist provides the chance to talk openly about concerns that might feel too difficult to share elsewhere. This process often leads to greater self-awareness, stronger communication with partners, and a deeper sense of confidence in one’s sexual self.

Sex therapy for gay men may also take place in individual sessions or in relationship counseling with a partner. Together, you’ll set goals, explore obstacles, and create a plan that fits your needs. Along the way, progress is reviewed and adjustments are made to ensure the work continues to feel supportive and effective.

Over time, many clients find they not only resolve specific concerns but also discover new ways to experience intimacy, connection, and fulfillment. With the right guidance, sex therapy for gay men can be an empowering step toward feeling more authentic, confident, and satisfied in your sexual and relational life.

How Do I Get Started With Sex Therapy for Gay Men?

You might be hesitant to schedule a session at Rhode Island Sex Therapy. Hopefully, this information has eased your worries. If you want to find out more about sex therapy for gay men, there is no pressure to schedule a session right away. You can simply call (401) 236-5021, email DrMichaelStokes@gmail.com, or use the online contact form to ask any questions you may have and find out more.