Sexuality
“When our innermost desires are revealed, and are met by our loved one with acceptance and validation, the shame dissolves. It is an experience of profound empowerment and self-affirmation."
-Esther Perel
What is Sex Therapy?
Sex therapy is a specialized form of psychotherapy focused on addressing sexual issues and improving sexual health. It involves working with a trained therapist to explore sexual concerns, understand underlying causes, and develop strategies for improvement. Issues addressed in sex therapy can range from physical problems to psychological concerns.
Sex Therapy in Akron Ohio
Specializations
Questions around sexual orientation and identity
Curiosity, uncertainty, or desire for sexual exploration
Kink, BDSM, and power dynamics
Open relationships, polyamory, monogamish, or swinger dynamics
Shame, guilt, or internalized beliefs about sex and desire
Difficulty with arousal, pleasure, or connection
Performance anxiety
Intimacy concerns—emotional, physical, or both
Understanding your body, desire, and what actually feels good to you
Our work together isn’t about fitting you into a label or pushing you toward a specific outcome. It’s about helping you develop a clearer, more grounded relationship with yourself so you can make choices that feel honest, aligned, and sustainable.
I have a LGBTQ-affirming, kink-friendly, and nonjudgmental approach. I also work with individuals and couples exploring consensual non-monogamy. Together, we can explore:
Affirmative Therapy for the LGBTQ+ Community
My therapy practice is open and affirming to those of any gender, sexual orientation, and relationship structure.
Come as you are.
I support couples and individuals who want to explore their self expression, sexual identity, and relationship dynamics. Non-traditional relationships styles such as non-monogamy, polyamory, and swinging lifestyles are all welcome here. Whether you are figuring things out for the first time or just need to reassess your current needs, I am a supportive person who will meet you where you’re at.
Connection to your sexuality is a vital part of having a satisfying and vibrant life.
Sexuality is deeply personal and sometimes a complicated subject to approach. Everyone deserves a space to explore their feelings, thoughts, desires, and concerns about sexuality in a non-judgmental space.
I work with individuals and couples navigating sexual orientation, health, consent, kink, and non-monogamy as well as concerns about sexual confidence and intimacy.
My approach is sex-positive, kink-friendly, and affirming. Whether you are exploring your sexuality for the first time, reclaiming it, or just want a safe place to talk about it,
support is here.
All sexual orientations and relationship styles are welcome here.
Other Specializations
Frequently
Asked Questions
-
Friends can provide support and encouragement. Therapy offers a dedicated space focused entirely on you, where you can explore patterns, underlying causes, and obstacles that may be difficult for you to recognize on your own or with a friend. My role is not to give simple advice, but to help you better understand yourself and create meaningful change.
-
No. You don’t need to have the right words or know where to start. We’ll work together to figure out what’s bringing you in and what you hope will be different.
-
My therapy practice is private-pay only and I do not accept insurance. Many clients choose private-pay therapy for greater privacy and personalized care. I can provide a superbill for possible out of network insurance reimbursement.
-
I love working with couples. In my opinion, some of the best therapeutic work is done in couples therapy because we can address attachment wounds, communication blunders, and stuck places in real time together.
-
My approach is warm, collaborative, direct, and depth-oriented. I help you explore patterns and underlying experiences. I do not just focus on symptom management.
-
Carley Irwin, LPC
License #C.2506790Supervisor
Julie Labanz LPCC-S, CST-S
Ohio License #E2102378
Feel free to book a consultation to ask further questions before jumping into therapy. Consultations are a free resource I offer to ensure that you feel I’m a good therapist for you.
My approach is compassionate but direct. The focus of therapy centers around your needs and goals.
In person sessions available
Conveniently located office
Plenty of off-street parking
ADA accessible building
Summit County LGBTQ+ Resources
Finding affirming support and community matters. Below are local and national LGBTQ+ resources to support you and your loved ones.
CANAPI
Community AIDS Network/Akron Pride Initiative
Offers HIV testing, community events, case management, and practical support and housing assistance.
http://www.canapi.org
Equitas Health
Provides affirming healthcare, HIV/STI services, and community-based support
https://equitashealth.com/locations/akron-health-center/
Summa Health Pride Clinic
LGBTQ+ affirming healthcare services
Website
PFLAG Akron
Support for LGBTQ+ individuals and their families, including peer-led meetings and community connection
https://pflagakron.com
Akron Children’s Hospital Center for Affirming Medicine
Specialized care for transgender and gender-diverse youth and families.
Website
Bayard Rustin LGBTQ+ Resource Center
A local drop-in center offering basic needs and support, advocacy, and community building resources.
https://ohioaac.org
National Crisis Support
The Trevor Project
24/7 Crisis Support for LGBTQ+ Youth
Call: 1-866-488-7386
Text: “START” to 678678
Chat: thetrevorproject.org
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Call or text 988 (24/7 free and confidential)
Trans Lifeline
Peer support run by and for trans people
Call: 877-565-8860
Book a 15 Minute Consultation
Contact Form
For all other questions please use this form