Sexual health: A better sex life starts here

It can be challenging to navigate sexual concerns on your own, but the Sexual Health Clinic at UW Health is here to help.

As Wisconsin’s only integrated sex therapy clinic, our team of certified sex therapists works alongside your medical team to provide you with holistic care. We specialize in treating individuals and couples of all gender identities with psychological or behavioral issues related to sex.

Uniquely located together with medical specialists who focus on treating the physical symptoms of pelvic organ conditions, our providers are able to collaborate and treat both the mental and physical aspects of sexual dysfunction in one convenient location.

Our expert team has experience treating a wide variety of sexual health issues, including:

• Low desire

• High desire

• Female orgasmic disorder

• Painful intercourse

• Erectile dysfunction

• Premature ejaculation

• Relational issues related to sex

Our team includes licensed sex therapists and support staff who are specially trained to diagnose and treat sexual health issues using evidence-based therapy techniques and a sex positive approach.

Sex should be a source of pleasure, but sometimes it’s overshadowed by stress or physical complications. In our judgment-free space, you can feel safe to discuss your most sensitive concerns. Our goal is to empower you to experience sexual health that satisfies your needs and desires.

Sex therapy can be very helpful for treating the psychological/behavioral aspects of sexual health issues.

What is sex therapy?

• This specialized form of psychotherapy empowers patients through sex education, psychoeducation — providing education and information about mental health conditions — and behavioral interventions. It does not include sexual touch.

• Collaboration is key for successful sex therapy. When needed, our sex therapists partner with urologists, gynecologists, urogynecologists, pelvic floor physical therapists and primary care providers to ensure you receive holistic care.

• Sex therapists are licensed as counselors, marriage and family therapists, psychologists or social workers. Some are certified by the American Association for Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists (AASECT).

What can patients expect in sex therapy?

• Before your first appointment, you’ll be asked to complete questionnaires and other paperwork. During your first visit, your therapist will review your mental health history, clarify sexual health concerns, and discuss treatment goals and therapeutic recommendations. If needed, your therapist will refer you to other specialties.

• During follow-up sessions, your therapist will help you work toward your goals using talk therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy and/or interpersonal psychotherapy approaches. Sessions are typically 45-50 minutes.

• Most patients benefit from 6-12 sessions. Sessions are typically spaced every 2-4 weeks, depending on your needs.

• Appointments are available virtually and in person at the Eastpark Medical Center.

• You are welcome to bring partners to your appointment for support, education or relational therapy.

Erin's story

After years of navigating unhealthy relationships, Erin's confidence dimmed and she struggled with depression and anxiety. Finally, after a two-year relationship dissolved, Erin made an appointment with Madelyn Esposito, LPC, a certified sex therapist and program manager of the UW Health Sexual Health Clinic. Read Erin's story and learn about her experiences in therapy

As a first step, it’s a good idea to connect with your primary care physician to rule out any physical conditions that could be causing sexual health concerns. However, even issues with a physical cause can have an impact on your emotional well-being, confidence and relationships. Our team of licensed sex therapists can help you work through those issues using evidence-based therapy techniques and a sex-positive approach.

Appointments are available virtually and in person at Eastpark Medical Center.

To schedule an appointment, call (608) 914-1400.

Prior to your first appointment, patients are asked to complete a health questionnaire. The form is available below.