About

About Kenneth L. DeSeve, Ph.D

Kenneth L. DeSeve, Ph.D., provides therapy for adults dealing with psychological and sexual issues. He has extensive experience in various areas and strives to be a resource for clients even after treatment has ended.

Education and Certification

Dr. DeSeve earned his doctorate in clinical psychology from Washington State University in 1975 and completed a joint internship at the Palo Alto VA Hospital and Stafford Mental Research Institute. He became a licensed independent practitioner in Washington in 1978 and was certified as a sex therapist by the American Association of Sex Educators, Counselors, and Therapists in 1980. He has expertise in helping clients who are struggling with:

Sexual Difficulties

Inhibited Desire

Impairment in Function

Low Levels of Intimacy

Sexual Compulsions

Abuse or Trauma

Interpersonal Conflict

Substance Abuse Disorders

Low Self-Esteem

Shame-Based Depression and Anxiety

Romantic Couple on Beach

Therapeutic Approach

When working with individuals or couples, Dr. DeSeve employs an integrative approach that draws from various theoretical positions, such as psychodynamic, cognitive/behavioral, and emotionally focused therapy. He heavily relies on the latest research findings that contribute to meaningful attachments, as well as the qualities and characteristics of individuals who report positive outcomes in their personal lives. This approach helps his clients achieve positive results in their intrapersonal world.

Dr. DeSeve has worked with individuals and couples for more than four decades, and he believes in maintaining a balance between individuality and togetherness. He considers a secure emotional attachment to be the cornerstone of spiritual, emotional, and sexual intimacy. From his perspective, the relationship serves as a reflection site, while individual growth and change are seen as the work site.

There is a conscious effort to view problems and difficulties as a catalyst for growth and change rather than a problem that needs to be eliminated. From this vantage point, Dr. DeSeve encourages individuals to identify patterns of living that are proving to be difficult or unrewarding. Often, these patterns have been operating unconsciously and for a long time.

In both individual and joint sessions, continuous support and encouragement are given to break free from ingrained patterns and cycles that drain the joy out of relationships. This model emphasizes growth by building on strengths instead of focusing on eliminating weaknesses.