Joseli Alves-Dunkerson, LMFT
She/Her/Hers
Therapist and Owner
Attending residents from the states of Iowa, Washington State & Florida*
Email Hello@RelationshipAndIntimacy.com

Joseli Alves-Dunkerson, LMFT, AASECT CST​
Couples Therapist, Marriage Counselor
AASECT Certified Sex Therapist
Interfaith Spiritual Director

Hello and welcome!

Relationships and intimacy are complex issues. If you are one of the many people who have questions about relationship and intimacy, be assured that you are not alone! Dealing with these issues in your life is a sign that you are proactive and willing to grow further as a person, partner, and lover. And the good news is: I can help you.

I am a certified couples counselor, sex therapist, and interfaith spiritual director. I work mostly with couples with relationship and intimacy issues, and with some individuals referred for sexual health issues. I see clients in person (in Iowa) and online (in Iowa, Washington State, and Florida). I also do online workshops for people nationwide. Appointments are generally in the afternoons, evenings and Saturdays. People from all backgrounds are honored and welcome!

I take BCBS insurance for issues related to conflict, communication. Sexual issues are not covered by any insurance and need to be paid by client.

Here are some of the common issues I can help you with:

• DISSATISFACTION: Are you feeling stuck in your relationship? Do you feel you have tried enough and now you need some new strategies?
• CONNECTION: Do you feel disconnected, emotionally and/or physically, in your relationship?
• CONFLICT: Is conflict or distance a constant in your relationship? Do you feel the need to communicate better with your partner?
• SEXUAL DESIRE: Do you and your partner have different levels of sexual desire? Do you feel insecure about yourself?
• SEX AND BABY: Are you facing a change in your sexual life in preparing for the arrival of your baby, or after the baby arrived?
• SEXUAL HEALTH: Do you have problems with sexual functioning?
• SEXUAL TRAUMA: Do you have a history of sexual trauma that may be interfering with your wellbeing and/or relationships?
• DISABILITY AND SEX: Do you have a chronic condition that impacts your sexual life? Like cancer, heart problems, diabetes, or a physical disability? Would you like to explore a new intimate life with your partner?
• AGING AND SEX: Is aging (menopause, andropause) impacting your sexual life? Would you like to learn more about sex after 50?
• AFFAIRS: Are you going through infidelity issues? Did you know that 50% of couples going through affair issues can recover and have a stronger and honest relationship?
• DIVORCE: Are you considering divorce but are not sure? Have you experienced divorce and want to prepare yourself for a new chapter in your life?
• DATING: Are you single or divorce and trying to navigate the dating scene? Would you like to learn more about yourself and what you really need in a partner?
• BREAK-UPS: Have you had a heartbreak and are having a tough time to grieve and overcome it?
• SELF-LOVE: Do you feel shame or guilt for some of your past life experiences? Would you be interested in learning acceptance and self-compassion to open yourself to a new life?
• PREP FOR MARRIAGE OR COHABITING: Are you preparing to live together or get married? Are you prepared for what lies ahead?
• PURITY CULTURE: Do you want to learn more about your biology so that you can be prepared for your marital life?
• SPIRITUALITY: Do you feel uncomfortable or conflicted when dealing with issues related to love, sex, and religion?

I am also available for clinical supervision and professional peer consultation.

Fees

My private fees are: $220 for 50 min couples session and sex therapy; $300 per 50 min divorce discernment session; $350 for 80 min couples session. 
I am considered an Out of Network (OON) provider for most insurance, which may allow you to get partially reimbursed by your insurance (please check to see if your insurance plan includes OON benefits).

My training includes:

• Masters in Psychology by Saybrook University (in-person training), Seattle Campus, WA
• Certified Sex Therapist by the American Association of Sex Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT)
• Trained in the Gottman, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Imago Approaches
• Certified Interfaith Spiritual Direction by Saint Placid’s Spirituality Center in Lacey, WA
• Masters in Public Health and Business Administration by the University of Iowa, IA

My professional associations are:

• American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT)
• American Society of Sex Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT)
• Society for Sex Therapy and Research (SSTAR)
• American Sexual Health Association (ASHA)

Feel free to ask me any questions.