Business Details
Online Therapy for Intimacy & Connection in NY, MI, CT
Kirsch, Paula is a dedicated practice specializing in online therapy services for individuals and couples across New York, Michigan, and Connecticut. Founded on principles of inclusivity and evidence-based care, we provide a safe, nonjudgmental space for clients to explore intimacy, communication, and self-acceptance. Our practice combines trauma-informed approaches with specialized certifications in sex therapy and couples therapy, utilizing techniques like EMDR and Brainspotting to address root causes of emotional distress. We serve diverse populations, including LGBTQ+, kink, and polyamorous communities, with a commitment to affirming all identities and relationship structures.Our virtual platform ensures accessibility while maintaining strict confidentiality through HIPAA-compliant technology. With years of professional experience and academic training from institutions like Wayne State University and the University of Michigan, we prioritize client empowerment through personalized support and practical tools for lasting change. Our mission extends beyond individual sessions to include educational resources and community-building initiatives like divorce support groups, reflecting our holistic approach to mental health care.
Services
Sex Therapy
Couples Therapy
LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapy
Kink-Aware Therapy
Polyamory Support
Trauma-Informed Therapy
Coaching Services
Divorce Support Group
Brainspotting
EMDR Therapy
Highlights and features
- Certified Sex Therapist with trauma-informed expertise
- Virtual convenience for clients in three states
- Inclusive practice affirming LGBTQ+, kink, and polyamorous identities
- Evidence-based techniques like EMDR and Brainspotting
- Academic credentials from Wayne State and University of Michigan
Associations and certifications
- IBOSP Certified Sex Therapist
- University of Michigan's School of Social Work (Sex Therapy Certificate)
- The Gottman Institute
- EMDR International Association
Services
Sex Therapy
Specialized therapy addressing intimacy challenges, sexual health concerns, and trauma recovery. Using evidence-based methods like EMDR and Brainspotting, we help clients overcome issues such as vaginismus, pelvic pain, and desire discrepancies. Our approach combines trauma-informed care with sex-positive education to foster healthy relationship patterns and self-compassion, specifically serving diverse populations including LGBTQ+ and kink communities.
Couples Therapy
Evidence-based support for couples facing communication breakdowns or trust issues. Utilizing Gottman Relationship Checkup assessments and trauma-informed techniques, we help partners rebuild connections and resolve conflicts. This service addresses mismatched desire, infidelity recovery, and communication challenges while respecting diverse relationship structures including polyamorous and non-monogamous arrangements through an affirming, nonjudgmental approach.
LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapy
Specialized mental health services for LGBTQ+ individuals and couples navigating identity exploration, discrimination stress, or relationship challenges. Our practice provides a safe space for clients to address mental health concerns without needing to educate therapists about queer experiences, focusing on empowerment through identity affirmation and community-connected care.
Kink-Aware Therapy
Nonjudgmental therapeutic support for clients in kink and BDSM communities. Our approach recognizes these practices as valid relationship frameworks, focusing on consent education, trauma recovery within kink contexts, and relationship dynamics specific to alternative lifestyle communities without requiring clients to explain foundational concepts.
Trauma-Informed Therapy
Specialized treatment for trauma survivors using EMDR and Brainspotting techniques. We address trauma's impact on relationships and sexual health while recognizing how systemic oppression affects marginalized communities. Our approach emphasizes safety, empowerment, and building resilience through personalized treatment plans that integrate somatic and cognitive therapeutic methods.
People
Paula Kirsch
Certified Sex Therapist
Paula Kirsch is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and IBOSP Certified Sex Therapist with over 20 years of experience in mental health. She specializes in trauma-informed care for diverse populations including LGBTQ+, kink, and polyamorous clients. Her academic background includes a Master of Social Work from Wayne State University and specialized training from the University of Michigan's Sexual Health Certificate Program.
Questions
What types of therapy do you offer?
We specialize in sex therapy, couples therapy, and trauma-informed care using evidence-based methods like EMDR and Brainspotting, with specific expertise in LGBTQ+/kink-affirming practices.
Are sessions conducted online?
Yes, all sessions use HIPAA-compliant Zoom technology for secure virtual therapy accessible from anywhere in New York, Michigan, or Connecticut.
Is your practice inclusive of non-traditional relationships?
Absolutely. We provide affirming support for polyamorous, kink, and LGBTQ+ clients without judgment or requirement to explain relationship dynamics.
What qualifications do you have?
Our therapist holds a Master of Social Work, LCSW and IBOSP certifications, Gottman Method training, and specialized education in human sexuality from the University of Michigan.
Do you offer initial consultations?
Yes, we provide free 15-minute virtual consultations to help clients determine if our services match their therapeutic needs and goals.
How is confidentiality maintained?
All virtual sessions use encrypted Zoom technology, and we follow strict ethical guidelines to ensure complete privacy and compliance with healthcare regulations.
