Emily Gabelman (she/her)

LMFT, LCSW, CST
Accepting Clients

I'm Emily, a neurodivergent, progressive-minded, and goal-oriented sex and relationship therapist practicing virtually in IL, KY, and NY.

Sex Therapist in Illinois

Services
  • Individual
  • Couples

About My Clients

I work best with motivated and curious individuals and couples who are navigating the complexities of intimacy and sex. They want to understand their patterns rather than a quick fix. A focus of my practice is supporting autistic/ADHD folks , though my door is completely open to neurotypical clients as well. My clients often feel like the “normal” ways of operating sexually just don’t happen that way for them, and want an intimate life that fits their unique brains and bodies.

How I Can Help You

As a dually-licensed clinician (LCSW & LMFT) and AASECT Certified Sex Therapist, I combine a broad systemic lens with deep relational and individual expertise. This means we won’t just look at your concerns in a vacuum; we will explore how your past, your relationships, and your environment shape your present dynamics. My approach is collaborative, insight-oriented, and results-oriented, blending a laid-back, authentic conversational style with clinical directness. I am extensively trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to help couples untangle painful cycles, EMDR to process trauma and impactful life experiences, and Sensate Focus to help you reconnect with your body mindfully and without pressure. You bring the lived expertise of your life, and I bring specialized training to help you slow down, get curious, and make sense of your patterns. Together, we establish clear goals so you can experience tangible, meaningful shifts toward an authentic relational and sexual life.

My Values as a Therapist

I practice firmly from a progressive, anti-oppressive, anti-racist, feminist, and queer-, trans-, kink-, poly-, and neurodivergent-affirming lens. As an autistic therapist with ADHD traits, I know firsthand how exhausting it is to navigate expectations not built for your brain. I actively recognize that traditional therapeutic models were largely created by and for cishet, white, and neurotypical individuals, and I believe it is my responsibility to tailor my approach to your unique lived experience rather than forcing you into a rigid framework. I view mental, relational, and sexual health through a systemic lens, staying attentive to how power, privilege, and culture impact our connection to others and ourselves. Every single person deserves relationships, intimacy, and a sex life that feel authentic, fulfilling, and aligned with who they truly are, free from systemic shame.

Techniques I Use

Specialties
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Sex Therapy
Other Techniques
  • Couples Counseling
  • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
  • Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
  • Family Systems
  • Family Therapy
  • Sex Therapy
  • Relationship Counseling
  • Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)

Issues I Treat

Specialties
Relationship Issues Sexual Abuse or Assault Sexual Problems
Other Issues
  • ADHD Therapists
  • Anxiety
  • Attachment
  • Autism Spectrum Disorder
  • Body Image Issues
  • Family Conflict
  • LGBTQ-Friendly Therapists
  • Marriage Counseling
  • Polyamorous and Open Relationships
  • Relationship Issues
  • Self-Esteem
  • Sexual Abuse or Assault
  • Sexual Problems
I offer online counseling in the following states:
I have experience with the following
  • Judaism

At A Glance

  • Experience: 10 years of practice
  • Languages: English
  • Rate: $190 - 220/session

Reach out to Emily