Marci Burroughs, Phd

Licensed Psychologist and AASECT certified Sex Therapist

We all desire emotional, physical, and intellectual connections with others, but our negative patterns can hinder them. Instead of behaviors that bring us closer, we often resort to criticism, defensiveness, substance abuse, infidelity, and emotional withdrawal. These habits contribute to arguments, isolation, and loneliness that can damage the relationship emotionally and sexually. However, there is hope. By recognizing and changing these old patterns, we can move towards the fulfilling relationships we desire. Contact me for a free consultation to assess if I can help your relationship(s).

What you may notice if your relationship is struggling:

  • arguing a lot and the arguments are escalating

  • feeling lonely even when with your partner

  • physical intimacy has decreased and/or you find that your desires for sex and intimacy are mismatched

  • you are feeling criticized or resentful

  • you feel defensive and/or notice defensiveness in your partner

  • you feel emotionally abandoned or withdrawn

  • you don’t know each other well anymore and may feel more like roommates than partners

How I can help:

  • I specialize in helping couples who are having difficulties in their relationship.

  • First, I assess couples’ problems in detail to understand where they're struggling. Then, I use this information to guide my treatment methods.

  • My interventions are based on research and my experience working with clients.

  • I assist clients in identifying and changing harmful patterns in their relationship, and offer techniques to improve intimacy, communication and reduce the impact of sexual issues.

  • In our sessions, I strive to create a safe and supportive space where we can openly discuss challenging topics without judgment.

  • Sometimes, we get stuck in negative ways of thinking that prevent us from connecting and improving our relationships. I help my clients recognize areas where they can be more flexible in their thinking, allowing them to gain a broader perspective on themselves, their partner, and their relationship.

  • I focus on improving communication and conflict resolution skills. We practice these skills during our sessions, and I give clients assignments to work on at home between sessions.

  • I also incorporate mindfulness techniques to help clients stay present and intentional in their interactions with their partner. This includes learning how to stay focused on their physical sensations during sexual intimacy.

  • I provide a non-judgmental environment for individuals who identify as LGBTQ+, polyamorous, nonmonogamous, or part of the kink community. They can address their concerns within the specific context of their lifestyle.

Why choose an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist?

  • While many mental health providers say they do sex therapy or call themselves sex therapists, there is rarely more than one class in most mental health graduate school programs related to sex, sex therapy, sexuality, sexual dysfunction, etc.

  • AASECT Certified Sex Therapists are licensed mental health professionals, who have gone through a rigorous, 2 years + of additional training focused on being proficient in providing sex therapy.

  • AASECT Certified Sex Therapists must complete over 150 hours of education on human sexuality and sex therapy skills.

  • AASECT Certified Sex Therapists must complete a minimum of 300 supervised clinical hours of providing sex therapy prior to being certified.

  • In order to retain their certification, AASECT Certified Sex Therapists must complete regular continuing education that is approved by AASECT.

Contact Us

Email for a free 15 minute phone consultation to assess therapeutic fit:

marciburroughs@itherapymail.com
(865) 696-7332 phone

(865)761-8198 fax

Monday–Thursday
10am–6pm

I am credentialed through Psypact to practice psychology via teletherapy in all 39 participating Psypact states. Click button below to see participating states.