Sex Counselor

Thaina Cordero, PhD
Clinical Sexologist

Credentials:

Hi! I’m glad you’re here! Please let me formally introduce myself...
I’m a Somatic Sex Counselor with a focus on stress, sexuality, and relationships. I help people who want to feel at ease, experience more pleasure, and live a fulfilling life.

My clients are individuals, couples, and non-monogamous relationships who are exploring their relationship dynamics, communication styles, and conflict management.

They may also be exploring their sexuality, self-expression, and want to expand their sexual repertoire. Some are struggling with a lack of interest or enjoyment in sex, sexual dysfunction, or out-of-control sexual behavior (such as “porn addiction”).

My sessions feel like candid conversations. What sets them apart is that I am specifically trained to help you explore these topics, regulate your emotions, communicate effectively, and create lasting change.

If you're ready to explore your relationship dynamics, deepen your connection, and cultivate more pleasure in your life, I invite you to reach out.

You can schedule a virtual session here: Book Now. If you’d prefer an in-person session, please contact me. In-person sessions are available in Tampa and Saint Petersburg, Florida.

Stress Less. Find Bliss.

Sex-positive, kink-affirming, and inclusive counseling for individuals, couples, and non-monogamous relationships.

Are you looking for…?

  • Do you feel disconnected from yourself and others? Let’s uncover what’s holding you back and explore new ways to build meaningful connections within yourself and in your relationships.

  • Are you feeling drained, unsettled, or out-of-tune with your emotions? In our sessions, we’ll explore the feedback loop between your mind, body, and relationships, as you create a more balanced, resilient, and fulfilling life.

  • Self-confidence can be deeply affected by sexual function difficulties, body image concerns, or feelings of shame. You don’t have to face these challenges alone. Let's explore these challenges and tools to overcome them.

  • Are you struggling to find pleasure in your sexual experiences? Together, we’ll explore what’s holding you back and help you rediscover joy and intimacy in your relationships.

  • Are you ready to make lasting changes in your life? Whether you’re looking to build new habits, find clarity on your goals, or need support and accountability, I’m here to help.

“Explore effective tools to cope with stress, deepen your relationships, and experience more pleasure.”

Ready to get started?

Sex Counseling, Sex Coaching, or Sex Therapy: Which is Right for You?

Are you looking to resolve deeper sexual concerns, improve intimacy, or gain practical guidance?

  • Sex Counselors offer support, psychoeducation, and guidance for those dealing with sexual concerns or relational challenges. We help you better understand your sexual dynamics, improve communication, and overcome emotional hurdles. Counseling sessions offer a balance between practical advice and emotional exploration, empowering you to create a more satisfying and balanced sexual and relational life.

    • Common Topics: Relationship dynamics, communication, emotional disconnection, sexual dissatisfaction.

    • Best For: People seeking help with relational issues or emotional challenges affecting their sexual life, without needing in-depth therapy.

  • Sex Coaches offer practical, goal-oriented guidance to enhance your sexual satisfaction, intimacy, and communication. Through personalized coaching sessions, we help you set and achieve specific goals, whether you're looking to improve sexual confidence, try something new, or strengthen your connection with a partner.

    • Common Topics: Enhancing intimacy, sexual communication, confidence-building, trying new experiences.

    • Best For: Individuals or couples wanting actionable steps to improve their sexual life without diving into therapy.

  • Sex Therapists focus on the emotional and psychological factors affecting your sexual well-being. Provided by licensed professionals with specialized training, it addresses issues like sexual dysfunction, trauma, and relationship challenges. Through talk therapy, they explore the mental and emotional barriers to a fulfilling sexual life and help you heal and thrive.

    • Common Topics: Sexual dysfunction, past trauma, intimacy issues, relational conflicts.

    • Best For: Those seeking to resolve deep-rooted emotional concerns impacting their sex life.

 FAQs

  • The best way to contact me is to use the “Contact” form on this website, email hello@DrThainaCordero.org or text 813-381-8832.

  • My rate is $175/per session and I offer a sliding scale (discount) based on financial need. The sliding scale varies from $175-$90/per session.

  • A typical session, whether for individuals or couples, is about 50 minutes long. I also offer extended sessions and group workshops which may vary according to what you’re looking for.

  • No, I do not take insurance and my services are not eligible for out-of-network reimbursement.

  • I offer both virtual (ET/EST time zone) and in-person sessions in Florida. You can find me in Saint Petersburg at Cypress Wellness Center and in Tampa at FMP Mental Health Spa. Please know all appointments will be scheduled based on Eastern Time zone and the appointment reminders will reflect that.

  • One of the most difficult part is finding someone who you’re confident in their ability to support you in whatever you’re going through. The answer to this question is very nuanced and the best way to find out may be to have an initial session. You may also take a look at the Resources page, there you might find out more about me, my approach, and where I’ve learned from.

  • The most likely answer is: Yes! This is a time and space for you (and/or your relationship). I start most first-time sessions with: Where would you like to start today? You pick the pace, the goals, the topics…

  • The frequency is up to you! You might want to consider practical things (such as budget, schedule, motivations. and goals) and your own personality (how detailed are you when telling a story, how often you want to have potentially ‘hard’ conversations, etcetera).

  • Therapist have specific requirements and guidelines based on the states where they practice. Under the oversight of federal and state ethical and legal boards, they provide mental health assessments and treatment for a range of psychiatric conditions, encompassing depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, as well as trauma and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

    I practice ethically within my field, yet there is no legal oversight. There is no stand-alone licensure for Clinical Sexology. Choosing between a general mental health counselor, a sex therapist, or to work with me, really depends on your reasons to seek service.

    I do not offer a mental health diagnosis. Nonetheless, I am trained in the mental health field and follow a trauma-informed approach. In everything I do, there is a scientific understanding of human psychology, health, and well-being. You can see my credentials here.

    However, this service is not a replacement for therapy, psychiatric medication, or medical care. Please consult with your primary care provider, mental heath therapist, or another healthcare professional. You may also email me a short description of what you’re looking for and I can offer referrals if it is not something I work with.

    You can find out more about Sex Counseling, Sex Therapy, and Sex Coaching here.

  • This service would not be a good fit if:

    • There is active substance dependence. If you find yourself regularly relying on substances to function or cope, it may be beneficial to consider a higher level of care, such as an inpatient or intensive outpatient program. Professionals can provide more structured support to address the dependence.

    • You’re experiencing Intimate Partner Violence (aka Domestic Violence). If you are in immediate danger or experiencing ongoing violence, seeking immediate assistance from local authorities or a shelter is crucial. A higher level of care, such as seeking refuge in a shelter or counseling from specialists, may be necessary for your safety and well-being.

    • You have current suicidal ideation. Current or frequent thoughts of self-harm or suicide should be taken seriously. Seeking immediate help from a mental health professional, a hospital, or a helpline is crucial. A higher level of care might involve inpatient psychiatric treatment to ensure your safety and provide intensive support.

    • There are severe mental health symptoms. If you’re experiencing severe symptoms of depression, anxiety, psychosis, body dysmorphia, or other mental health conditions that significantly interfere with your ability to function (e.g., severe hallucinations, inability to maintain personal hygiene, disorientation), a higher level of care like inpatient psychiatric treatment might be necessary for stabilization and intensive support.

    • You’re currently struggling with an Eating Disorder. If you have an eating disorder (anorexia, bulimia, binge-eating disorder) that is severely impacting your health, necessitating medical monitoring, nutritional support, or psychological intervention, a higher level of care through an eating disorder treatment center or specialized program might be necessary.

    • There are unmanaged chronic health conditions. If you have chronic health conditions (e.g., diabetes, heart conditions, chronic pain) that are significantly impacting your mental health or vice versa, seeking a higher level of integrated care that addresses both physical and mental health needs might be beneficial.

    • There’s an active or recent acute psychiatric crisis. In situations of acute crisis where an individual is a danger to themselves or others, immediate intervention through emergency services or psychiatric emergency facilities might be necessary. This includes severe episodes of psychosis, uncontrollable agitation, or other behaviors that pose an immediate risk.

Remember, these are general guidelines, and seeking advice from a healthcare professional who can assess your specific situation is essential. Each individual's circumstances are unique, and the need for a higher level of care can vary widely based on personal factors. You can refer to our consent agreement for more information. 
You may also schedule one session without any long-term commitment. If you’re actively attending therapy or under primary medical care, you might consult with them if they believe this could be of benefit to you.