I’m Holly Nelson, LPC, NCC, EMDR-Certified, & AASECT Sex Therapist (in progress). I am a sex-positive, trauma-informed therapist in Scottsdale, AZ, and Salt Lake City, UT. I’m passionate about helping individuals and couples create intimacy that feels safe, connected, and pleasurable.
I believe 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 role is to provide a supportive, affirming space where you can heal, rebuild trust, and rediscover pleasure.
Book your free 15-minute phone consultation!
My Education & Training
University of Utah – B.S. in Psychology (2016)
University of Phoenix – M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (2020)
EMDRIA Certified (2025) – Certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to help clients heal trauma, shame, body image struggles, painful sex, and sexual anxiety
Advanced EFT Training (2024) – Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples to rebuild trust, intimacy, and safety
Sex Therapy Training – 3 years of training under an AASECT-Certified Sex Therapist; currently pursuing my own AASECT certification
Specialized Areas of Focus
I have advanced training and certifications in:
Sensate Focus & Mindfulness-Based Sex Therapy
Sex and Neurodivergence
Tantra Practices
Healing Painful Sex & Pelvic Floor Awareness
Pleasure Enhancement Skills
Sexual & Reproductive Health
Sexual Fluidity & LGBTQIA+ Affirming Care
EMDR Sex Therapy for trauma, PTSD, desire, and arousal & orgasm
This unique blend 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
My style is warm, affirming, and direct. I combine:
EMDR Therapy → to resolve root causes of trauma, fear, and anxiety
EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy) → to strengthen emotional and relational bonds
Practical Skills & Education → to build confidence, communication, and sexual wellness
Together, we’ll create a roadmap to move from anxiety or disconnection toward sexual wholeness, confidence, and freedom.
Media Features & Expertise
My expertise has been featured in major outlets, including The HuffPost, Stylist’s Strong Women, Well Being News, 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 and reflect my commitment to breaking down shame, stigma, and silence around sex.
Let’s Work Together
At The Connection Couch, I work with individuals and couples online throughout Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Phoenix, Tucson, Queen Creek, Gilbert, AZ, as well as Salt Lake City, Park City, and Alpine, UT. 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, complimentary 15-minute consultation call to explore whether I’m the right fit for your goals.
