Therapy in New York | Paula Kirsch, LCSW, CST | Authentic Living Psychotherapy

New York skyline — telehealth therapy for New Yorkers

New York State · Telehealth

Expert Online Sex & Couples Therapy for New York Residents

Compassionate, affirming virtual therapy from the comfort of your NYC apartment, Long Island home, or anywhere in New York State.

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A Modern Approach

Therapy That Fits Your Life

Life in New York is fast-paced and demanding. Finding time for therapy, let alone finding a specialist who truly understands your needs, can feel overwhelming. Whether you're in NYC or Upstate, you deserve expert support that fits your life.

I'm Paula Kirsch, a Certified Sex Therapist and LCSW licensed to support individuals and couples across New York State. I provide a confidential, convenient space online to help you navigate intimacy, improve communication, and build a more authentic, connected life.

How online sex therapy helps NY's high-performing professionals reclaim intimacy →

Skip the Commute

No subway delays, no traffic. Get therapy from wherever you feel most at ease.

Ultimate Privacy

No shared waiting rooms. Sessions are 100% confidential on a secure, HIPAA-compliant platform.

Access a Specialist

You're no longer limited to therapists in your borough. Expert care, anywhere in New York State.

Specialized Care

Online Therapy for New Yorkers

Online Sex Therapy in NY

A confidential space to address concerns around intimacy, desire, sexual trauma, or self-confidence. We'll work together to find clarity and compassion.

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Online Couples Therapy in NY

Reconnect with your partner. Using proven methods like the Gottman Relationship Checkup, we'll rebuild trust and develop tools to communicate effectively.

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Affirming Therapy for All

A welcoming, affirming space for all. I specialize in working with the LGBTQ+, polyamorous, and kink communities. You are safe to be you.

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Paula Kirsch, LCSW, CST — Licensed New York Therapist

Your Therapist

Paula Kirsch, Licensed New York Therapist

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) licensed to practice in New York, Connecticut, and Michigan. My commitment to this work led me to pursue advanced training, becoming a Certified Sex Therapist (CST) and a PhD student in Sexology at MSTI, where I continue to deepen my clinical understanding of human sexuality.

My approach is non-judgmental, empathetic, and collaborative. I use evidence-based methods, including Brainspotting and Gottman Relationship training, to help you achieve real, lasting change.

Authentic Living Psychotherapy was founded on the belief that everyone deserves a space to be their authentic self, and I am passionate about creating an affirming environment for the LGBTQ+, kink, and polyamorous communities.

LCSW — Licensed in NY, CT & MI

Certified Sex Therapist (CST) — IBOSP & IAPST

PhD Student in Sexology — MSTI

Gottman Level II Trained

Brainspotting & EMDR Trained

ENM, Kink & Polyam Affirming

Getting Started

Book Your Deep Dive Intake

Schedule online at my secure client portal. I typically have availability within a week, and you'll complete intake paperwork through your own encrypted portal.

Meet Online

I'll send you a secure Zoom link. All you need is a quiet space and an internet connection.

Begin Your Journey

Start weekly sessions from a space that feels safe and comfortable for you to explore, heal, and grow.

Book Your First Appointment

Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

About telehealth sex therapy in New York.

Yes. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) authorized to provide therapy to clients anywhere in New York State. All sessions are conducted virtually through a secure, HIPAA-compliant telehealth platform, so you can meet conveniently from home, your office, or wherever works for you.

I accept most Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO plans for individual therapy. For all other providers, I'm considered out-of-network (OON). I partner with Thrizer.com, which submits OON claims directly to your insurance — no forms required. Many clients with OON benefits receive 50–80% reimbursement depending on their plan. Couples therapy is not covered by insurance, since the work focuses on the relationship rather than an individual diagnosis.

I help couples improve communication, rebuild trust, deepen intimacy, and navigate conflict in healthier ways. My practice is affirming of diverse identities and relationship styles — including LGBTQ+, kink-affirming, and ENM partnerships. As a Certified Sex Therapist, I also address mismatched desire, sexual shame, and disconnection.

Yes. As a Certified Sex Therapist, I help individuals and couples address desire differences, sexual anxiety, and intimacy challenges. My approach is inclusive and affirming, focused on building deeper connection, enhancing communication, and cultivating confidence and pleasure in your relationships.

Schedule your first session at my secure client portal. I typically have availability within a week. You'll receive a link to complete intake paperwork in your own encrypted portal, then a secure Zoom link for your first session. All you need is a quiet space and an internet connection.