About me

Hi, I’m Holly Nelson, LPC, NCC, EMDR Certified, and AASECT Sex Therapist (in progress). I’m a sex-positive, trauma-informed sex therapist in Scottsdale, Arizona, passionate about helping individuals and couples create intimacy that feels safe, connected, and pleasurable.

I believe that everyone deserves a sex life free from shame, fear, and pressure — whether you’re struggling with painful sex, performance anxiety, low desire, relationship disconnection, or the aftermath of sexual trauma. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where we can work together to heal the past, improve communication, and rediscover pleasure.

My Education & Training

I graduated from the University of Utah in 2016 with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, and earned my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Phoenix in 2020.

• EMDRIA Certified: I became fully certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy in January 2025, allowing me to use this powerful, evidence-based method to help clients heal from sexual trauma, body image issues, painful sex, and performance anxiety.

• Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT): I completed the advanced EFT training in March 2024 and I use it to help couples rebuild trust, intimacy, and emotional safety.

• Sex Therapy Training: I spent the first three years of my career training and working under an AASECT-certified sex therapist, where I learned to address the full spectrum of human sexuality. I am currently pursuing my own AASECT Sex Therapy Certification to further deepen my expertise.

Specialized Training & Focus Areas

I have completed extensive training in:

• Sensate Focus and Mindfulness-Based Sex Therapy

• Sex and Neurodivergence

• Tantra Practices

• BDSM and Kink Safety

• Painful Sex & Pelvic Floor Awareness

• Pleasure Enhancement Skills

• Sexual and Reproductive Health

• Dominance & Submission 101

• Sexual Fluidity and LGBTQIA+ Affirming Care

• Out-of-Control Sexual Behaviors

• Performance Anxiety in Men

• EMDR for Sexual Trauma,

• EMDR sex therapy for Desire, Arousal, and Orgasm

• EMDR sex therapy for Body Image Issues

This unique combination of training allows me to approach therapy from a whole-person perspective — integrating the body, mind, emotions, and nervous system to create lasting change.

My Approach

I am a sex-positive, trauma-informed therapist who believes that sexual healing is possible at any age and in any stage of life. I combine:

• EMDR therapy to resolve the root causes of sexual trauma, pain, fear, or anxiety

• Emotionally Focused Therapy to strengthen relationship bonds

• Practical exercises and education to build confidence and sexual skills

Together, we create a roadmap to help you move from anxiety or disconnection toward sexual wholeness, pleasure, and freedom.

Media Features & Expertise

My expertise has been featured in major outlets, including The HuffPost, Stylist’s Strong Women, and Voyage Phoenix, where I’ve shared professional insights on sexual wellness, intimacy, trauma healing, and creating emotionally connected relationships.

These features allow me to educate a wider audience on topics like breaking free from sexual shame, rebuilding intimacy after trauma, and approaching sex from a sex-positive, compassionate perspective.

Let’s Work Together

If you’re ready to work with a therapist who understands the complexities of sexuality, trauma, and relationships, I’d love to meet you. I offer a free 15-minute consultation so we can explore whether I’m the right fit for your goals.

Schedule your consult today and take the first step toward building the sex life and intimacy you deserve.