You deserve support that holds all of you — not just the physical pain.
A trauma-informed virtual group for people navigating chronic pelvic pain, led by two certified sex therapists who specialize in the emotional, somatic, and relational dimensions of healing.
ABOUT THE GROUP
Pelvic pain is not just a body problem. It reshapes identity, relationships, intimacy, and self-worth. This 8-week virtual support group is designed to work alongside your existing medical care and pelvic floor physical therapy — addressing the layers that often go unspoken in clinical settings.
Using a bio-psycho-social framework, somatic techniques, and the power of shared experience, this group creates a compassionate space for the full complexity of your journey.
THE FACILITATORS
Sarah Cissell LMSW, CST
Sarah Cissell (she/her) is an AASECT certified sex therapist. She incorporates somatic practices, mindfulness, and strengths based work in her practice. She is excited for the connection and solidarity this group can bring.
Naomi Rawitz LMSW, CST
Naomi Rawitz (she/her) is an AASECT-certified sex therapist and educator specialized in trauma therapy. She helps individuals cultivate self-compassion and a more connected relationship with their bodies.
What You'll Explore Across 8 Sessions
Each 75-minute session moves between education, facilitated sharing, and somatic practice.
Psycho-education on Pain and the Nervous System
Understanding the biopsychosocial model of pelvic pain, how the nervous system plays a role, and why emotional and physical experiences are deeply connected.
Processing Grief, Loss, and Identity Shifts
Facilitated space to explore the emotional impact of chronic pain — including grief over the life, intimacy, and sense of self that pain has affected.
Somatic and Mindfulness-Based Strategies
Evidence-informed practices for symptom management, nervous system regulation, and building a more easeful relationship with your body.
Sexual Well-Being and Intimacy
Frameworks for navigating sexuality and relationships alongside pain — without shame, and with a focus on what remains possible.
Medical Self-Advocacy
Tools and language for communicating effectively with healthcare providers, navigating dismissal, and getting the care you deserve.
Self-Compassion and Community
Developing acceptance and self-compassion — and discovering that you are not alone in this experience.
Who This Group Is For
This group is designed for people experiencing chronic pelvic pain who are seeking community and emotional support alongside their existing medical or physical therapy care. It may be a good fit if you are living with:
Dyspareunia (painful sex)
Chronic pelvic pain
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
Rectal or anal pain
Vulvodynia
Interstitial Cystitis
For referring providers: This group is designed to complement — not replace — individual treatment and pelvic floor physical therapy. Ideal referrals include patients who would benefit from psycho-education, peer support, and somatic tools as part of a collaborative care approach.
Endometriosis
Pelvic floor tension or hypertonic pelvic floor
Vaginismus
Sexual pain disorders
Group Details
Format: Virtual, held via secure video platform
Length: 8 weeks, 75 minutes per session
Cost: $45 per session
Start Date: Group is currently full, based on interest and enrollment another will be held in Fall of 2026
Sliding scale: At least two sliding scale spots will be reserved for individuals who cannot afford the session fee. Please mention this when reaching out.
Frequently Asked Questions
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It is both. This group is professionally facilitated by two licensed therapists and certified sex therapists, so sessions are structured, clinically informed, and therapeutically grounded. At the same time, peer connection and shared experience are central to how the group works. You will leave each session having learned something, processed something, and felt less alone.
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No. Individual therapy is not required. However, this group is designed to complement — not replace — one-on-one care. If you are not currently in individual therapy and find that the group brings up material you want to explore more deeply, your facilitators can help you think through next steps.
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No. Pelvic floor physical therapy is not a requirement for joining. The group is open to anyone experiencing chronic pelvic pain, regardless of where they are in their treatment journey.
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Yes. Many people living with pelvic pain spend months or years without a clear diagnosis. You do not need a diagnosis to participate. If you are experiencing chronic pelvic pain and are looking for support, this group may be a good fit for you.
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You are always in control of what you share. There is no pressure to disclose anything you are not ready or comfortable with. The facilitators will create a structured, boundaried environment where participation looks different for everyone. Simply being present and listening is a valid way to engage.
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Group size will be kept intentionally small to allow for meaningful connection and individualized attention within the group setting. Specific numbers will be confirmed once enrollment is finalized.
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Yes. Pelvic pain affects people of all genders, and this group is open and affirming to everyone — including transgender, nonbinary, and gender-expansive individuals.
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You are welcome to share this page directly with them. If you have questions about whether a particular patient would be a good fit, you are also welcome to reach out directly to discuss the referral.