I’m Emmarose Stern, LAMFT, a queer sex therapist in Philadelphia, PA offering unapologetically affirming care for individuals and relationships that don’t fit into society’s “traditional” mold. I work with curious humans craving depth, honesty, and real change without having to shrink any part of themselves.
In therapy, I’m a direct communicator. I believe honesty and clarity are essential for growth, and I’m not afraid to challenge you to step out of your comfort zone. I approach my work with curiosity and a good dose of humor because healing doesn’t have to feel heavy all the time. Whether you’re looking to reignite the spark in your relationship, explore your sexuality, or embrace your true self unapologetically, I’m here to create a space where all parts of you are celebrated.
Radically real therapy to
help you live authentically.
Hi, I'm Emmarose!
Hi, I'm Emmarose!
Hi, I'm Emmarose!
Hi, I'm Emmarose!
In-Person in Philadelphia | Pennsylvania Online
LGBTQ+ Sex & Couples Therapist in Philadelphia
In-Person in Philadelphia | Pennsylvania Online
Hi, I'm Emmarose!
Hi, I'm Emmarose!
LGBTQ+ Sex & Couples Therapist in Philadelphia | In-Person in Philadelphia | Pennsylvania Online
Emmarose Stern, LAMFT
Philly Sex & Couples Therapist | LGBTQ+ Therapist
I’m Emmarose Stern, LAMFT, a queer sex therapist in Philadelphia, PA offering unapologetically affirming care for individuals and relationships that don’t fit into society’s “traditional” mold. I work with curious humans craving depth, honesty, and real change without having to shrink any part of themselves.
In therapy, I’m a direct communicator. I believe honesty and clarity are essential for growth, and I’m not afraid to challenge you to step out of your comfort zone. I approach my work with curiosity and a good dose of humor because healing doesn’t have to feel heavy all the time. Whether you’re looking to reignite the spark in your relationship, explore your sexuality, or embrace your true self unapologetically, I’m here to create a space where all parts of you are celebrated.
Non-Monogamy
I help people and partners navigating non-monogamy—monogam-ish, open, polyamorous, and more. We work on communication, boundaries, jealousy, attachment, and power without heteronormative or patriarchal assumptions or shame. I support relationship anarchy and help you create connections that match your values, community, and true feelings.
My clinical specialties reflect the depth, complexity, and expansive possibilities of relationships, affirming your lived experience.
Parenthood & Intimacy
Becoming parents is beautiful, confusing, and exhausting all at once. Caring for a tiny human can make you lose touch with each other and yourselves. I help new parents reconnect—find intimacy and a sense of “us." Some topics we may address are mismatched desire, body or sexual changes, resentment, unequal labor, feeling like roommates, and wondering where your erotic selves went.
Breakup Discernment
Considering a breakup can feel like standing at a cliff edge. Together we untangle self-worth from external validation, so your decisions come from who you are rather than who you think you need to be. We identify and challenge internalized narratives (the “I’m not enough,” or “this is my fault” stories) and replace them with grounded, compassionate truths.
LGBTQ+ Self-Esteem
I help LGBTQ+ clients separate self-worth from outside approval and grow steady, authentic confidence. We identify shrinking stories, practice kinder self-talk for your younger selves, and build practical tools to connect without losing yourself.
LGBTQ+ Self-Esteem
I help LGBTQ+ clients separate self-worth from outside approval and grow steady, authentic confidence. We identify shrinking stories, practice kinder self-talk for your younger selves, and build practical tools to connect without losing yourself.
Anxiety, Autism, & ADHD
If you’re overwhelmed, burnt out, or struggling with a brain that feels out of step with the world, our work focuses on your experience—not on labels. I use a systems view and parts work (IFS) to address shame and self-criticism. Together we’ll create practical tools for regulation, unmasking, and better self-understanding, while leaving space for deeper healing.
Kink, Fetish, and BDSM
I work with people into BDSM, kink, and fetishes (like doll play, AB/DL, age play, consensual non‑consent, leather, Shibari, electric play, and more). Therapy helps you understand what turns you on and bring kink into your relationships in ways that respect your pleasure, identity, and values.
Emmarose Stern
I hold a Master of Science in Couple and Family Therapy with a specialization in Sex Therapy from Thomas Jefferson University. I maintain a clinical private practice and operate within the Philadelphia Institute of Individual, Relational, and Sex Therapy. Over the past six years I have accumulated diverse experience in the mental health field, including the provision of crisis intervention and care for marginalized and underserved populations.
I worked three years at a Women’s Resource Center, creating community programming and educating on social justice issues, while also running a local nonprofit for reproductive justice and abortion equity. Those experiences, plus my clinical training, shaped my careful therapeutic approach and strong commitment to inclusive, affirming care—especially around the pillars of relationships, sexuality, and identity.
I recognize that a therapist’s social location can be an important part of the therapeutic relationship for some clients. In the spirit of transparency and alignment, I’m happy to openly share that I identify as a lesbian, polyamorous, and neurodivergent.
Outside of my clinical work, I’m someone who feels most at home in the rhythm of city life. I love spending my free time going to stand-up, improv, and burlesque shows, or wandering through Philadelphia’s river trails with an iced vanilla latte in hand and a comedy podcast playing in my headphones.
MFT, LAMFT, She/Her
Emmarose Stern
Therapy Services
Therapy Services
-
In individual therapy, we work together to identify and pursue your goals and reflect upon your values. This is a space to explore yourself deeply, gain clarity, and grow in ways that feel authentic and empowering.
My current rate is $160 per 50 minute session.
-
In couples therapy, we work together to strengthen your connection, improve communication, and navigate conflicts in a way that honors both partners’ values and needs. I help serve as a high-definition mirror for your relationship, reflecting patterns, strengths, and opportunities for growth in a supportive, affirming space.
My current rate is $160 per 50 minute session.
-
Like individual or couples therapy, sex therapy offers a compassionate, nonjudgmental space to explore your thoughts, feelings, and lived experiences—with a particular focus on sex, sexuality, desire, and intimate dynamics.
My current rate $160 per 50 minute session.
-
I offer therapy in a comfortable office in Rittenhouse, Philadelphia, as well as virtually via Zoom, so you can access affirming care wherever you feel most at ease. My office in Philadelphia provides a beautiful view of the city skyline as well as free coffee and tea.
Let’s get started!
I’m so glad you’re here. I look forward to reading your message and will reach out within two business days to schedule a free 15-minute initial consultation.