About Sarah Cissell, Sex & Relationship Therapist in Ann Arbor
Choosing a therapist is a personal decision — especially when the work involves intimacy, relationships, and vulnerable parts of your life. My goal is to offer a space that feels grounded, respectful, and collaborative, where you don’t have to perform, explain yourself, or rush toward answers.
I provide sex therapy and couples & relationship therapy in Ann Arbor, Michigan and virtually across Michigan working with individuals and partners who want thoughtful, inclusive, and evidence-based support.
My Approach
My work is grounded in the belief that challenges with sex and relationships are rarely about something being “wrong” with you. More often, they reflect the impact of stress, trauma, relational patterns, cultural messaging, and nervous system responses — all of which can be understood and gently shifted with support.
I approach therapy in a way that is:
Sex‑positive and shame‑reducing
Trauma‑informed and consent‑centered
Relational and attachment‑aware
Practical, collaborative, and paced
Therapy with me is not about fixing or forcing change. It’s about building understanding, safety, and choice so that change can happen organically.
Who I Work With
I work with adults and couples seeking support around:
Sex and intimacy concerns
Relationship and communication challenges
Desire differences and disconnection
Sexual pain, anxiety, or avoidance
Identity, boundaries, and embodiment
The impact of trauma on relationships
My practice is inclusive of LGBTQIA+ individuals and couples, non‑monogamous and alternative relationship structures, and people navigating complex or non‑linear paths toward connection.
What It’s Like to Work Together
Clients often describe our work as grounded, thoughtful, and relieving — a place where they can slow down and make sense of patterns that have felt confusing or overwhelming.
In sessions, you can expect:
Clear explanations without jargon
Curiosity instead of judgment
Respect for your pace and boundaries
Tools you can take outside the therapy room
You don’t need to know exactly what you want to work on when you begin. Part of the process is figuring that out together.
Training & Professional Background
I bring advanced training in sex therapy and relationship work, alongside a commitment to ongoing learning and ethical care. I am an AASECT certified sex therapist, level 2 Gottman trained, and IFS informed. I am a member of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) and American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists (AASECT). I also have experience as a birth doula, supporting birthing people during labor and delivery. My work is informed by contemporary research on sexuality, attachment, trauma, and nervous system regulation.
Why This Work Matters to Me
Sex, intimacy, and relationships are deeply human — and deeply shaped by culture, power, and personal history. Many people carry unnecessary shame or confusion because they were never given accurate information, permission, or support.
I care about offering therapy that is honest, affirming, and grounded in reality — therapy that respects both the complexity of relationships and the resilience people bring into the room.
Working Together in Ann Arbor
I offer therapy in Ann Arbor, Michigan, with options for individual sessions and couples work. My practice is rooted in accessibility, clarity, and collaboration, with transparent conversations about logistics, fees, and expectations. I co-founded Intuitive Therapy Partners and our office is downtown Ann Arbor, Michigan. I see clients in person and virtually across the state of Michigan.
If you’re considering therapy, a brief consultation is a low‑pressure way to ask questions, share what’s bringing you in, and see whether working together feels like a good fit. You don’t need to be certain, confident, or “ready” to begin therapy. Curiosity and uncertainty are enough to start.
Support begins with a conversation.