Specialized counseling for couples, individuals, and complex relationships. Honest work. Uncommon expertise. A space where nothing is off-limits.
The same argument on repeat. Intimacy that has faded. A betrayal that changed everything. We work with couples who are ready to stop managing the problem and start actually changing it — using Relational Life Therapy and direct, honest clinical work.
Begin the conversation →Desire differences. Sexual concerns you've never said out loud. Questions about sexuality or identity. We bring doctoral-level expertise in human sexuality to conversations most therapists aren't trained to have — with zero judgment and complete confidentiality.
Begin the conversation →Anxiety, trauma, chronic patterns that keep showing up, a sense that something is off but you can't name it. Individual work at Portsmouth Community Counseling goes deep — awareness first, then tools, then real change that sticks.
Begin the conversation →Sometimes weekly sessions aren't enough to break through. Our intensive formats — half-day and full-day — are designed for couples or individuals who need to go further, faster. Available in-person in Portsmouth or via telehealth.
Begin the conversation →I'm Arielle Hobbs, PhD, CMHC, CST, RLT — a couples therapist, Certified Sex Therapist, and doctor of Sexology. I founded Portsmouth Community Counseling to bring specialized, honest clinical work to the Seacoast community.
"I'm not interested in making you feel good in the room. I'm interested in creating the awareness that brings out the most relational, honest version of you."
I work at the intersection of intimacy, sexuality, and relationship dynamics — the places most therapists aren't trained to go. My approach is rooted in Relational Life Therapy (RLT), Certified Sex Therapy, and the Murray Method. I tend to move fast — you can always tell me to slow down.
Before establishing Portsmouth Community Counseling, I founded St. Augustine Counseling, where I built a thriving multi-clinician practice. I bring that same standard of care — and a lot of hard-won experience — to the Seacoast.
No nodding along. No vague reflections. Every session at Portsmouth Community Counseling is built around awareness, honesty, and tools that actually work outside the room.
Real change starts with seeing the patterns clearly — not just managing them. We go to the root before we reach for the tools.
You won't leave sessions wondering what we actually think. We're clear, we're direct, and we respect you enough to tell you the truth.
Every session ends with something concrete. Insight alone doesn't change behavior — practice does. We bridge the gap between the room and the rest of your life.
Sexuality, shame, betrayal, the things you've never said out loud — this is a space where all of it is welcome. We've heard it. We won't flinch.
PhD, CMHC, CST, RLT · Founder
Doctor of Sexology, Certified Sex Therapist, and Relational Life Therapist. Specializing in couples, sex therapy, and intimacy. Licensed in NH.
We are building a team of clinicians who share our values — honesty, depth, and expertise in the areas that matter most.
Inquire about joining our team →Accepting licensed clinicians with specialization in couples, sex therapy, trauma, or relational work on the Seacoast.
Submit your interest →You're not alone in having these questions. Here are the ones we hear most often.
A sex therapist is a licensed mental health professional with specialized training in human sexuality. Contrary to what many people assume, sex therapy does not involve any physical contact or sexual activity — it is talk therapy, focused on the thoughts, feelings, patterns, and dynamics that shape your sexual and relational life. Sex therapists are trained to address concerns like desire differences, intimacy issues, sexual dysfunction, shame around sexuality, and more. A Certified Sex Therapist (CST) has completed advanced training and certification beyond a standard therapy license.
Relational Life Therapy was developed by Terry Real, a nationally recognized therapist, author, and founder of the Relational Life Institute. RLT is a direct, results-oriented approach to couples work that focuses on breaking the patterns that keep relationships stuck — rather than simply processing feelings indefinitely. Terry Real is the author of I Don't Want to Talk About It, How Can I Get Through to You, and Us — widely regarded as essential reading on modern relationships. RLT is known for being honest, fast-moving, and genuinely effective for couples who are ready to change.
The Murray Method was developed by Marilyn Murray, a pioneering therapist and author of Prisoner of Another War and The Murray Method. Her model focuses on healing childhood wounds that show up in adult relationships and behavior — particularly the ways early trauma shapes how we love, connect, and protect ourselves. It is a deeply compassionate framework that helps clients understand the younger parts of themselves that are still driving the bus. Arielle has completed all three levels of Murray Method training.
We offer a free 15-minute consultation for all new clients. It's a low-pressure conversation — no commitment, no pressure. Just a chance to ask questions and see if this feels right.
Location
Portsmouth, NH · Seacoast Region
In-person & telehealth available
Phone
(904) 325-6301
Payment
Private pay only · All major cards accepted
Request a free consultation