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Vetted

Mar Ortmann(She/Her/Hers)

(She/Her/Hers)
Licensed Clinical Social Worker, LCSW
California
Couples counseling- LGBTQIA, gender, & sexuality topics- Relationship issues- Sexual health & dysfunction-Nonmonogamy, polyamory, and kink-Infidelity-
AboutSpecialtiesLocationsInsurance & Fees

Professional statement

Clients who work with Mar Ortmann tend to be thoughtful, curious and motivated to create healthier, more fulfilling intimate lives. They may be navigating ethical non-monogamy, rebuilding trust after challenges, addressing desire discrepancies, exploring kink, or seeking clarity around sexual identity and expression. Many are individuals, couples or polycules longing for more connection, communication, and confidence. Others are facing life transitions such as menopause, managing neurodivergence or recovering from sexual trauma and want a compassionate guide who understands the complexity of modern relationships.

Mar’s therapeutic approach centers on sex-positive, affirming, collaborative work that blends emotional insight with practical tools. Sessions prioritize safety, warmth and honest exploration, helping clients understand their patterns, articulate their needs and build resilience in themselves and their relationships. Drawing from evidence-based modalities and a deep respect for each client’s unique sexual and relational makeup, Mar emphasizes consent, attunement and shame-free dialogue. Her goal isn’t just symptom relief—it’s cultivating relationships that feel alive, aligned and sustainably nurturing.

Professionally, Mar brings a rich background in relationship counseling, sex therapy and the nuanced dynamics of non-traditional relationship structures. Her experience includes working with couples in crisis, individuals healing from trauma and communities engaged in kink and consensual non-monogamy. With advanced training in sexuality, attachment, trauma-informed care and communication frameworks, Mar offers both a grounded clinical foundation and a culturally informed approach to diverse identities and relationship styles.

Her practice is based in Emeryville, conveniently located for clients traveling from Oakland, Berkeley, San Francisco and the greater East Bay. In-person sessions are available in a comfortable, private office designed to support openness and ease. Remote therapy is also offered for clients anywhere in California, making ongoing support accessible even with busy schedules or changing life demands. Flexible appointment times—including some evenings—allow clients to find care that fits their lives without added stress.


Message to clients

I’m Mar Ortmann, a licensed clinical social worker and sex-positive psychotherapist who helps individuals, couples and polycules explore the full potential of their intimate and emotional lives. Whether you’re curious about or actively practicing ethical non-monogamy, interested in exploring kink or simply seeking deeper connection, I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space to talk openly about your needs, desires and challenges so as to find what truly works for you. Together, we’ll create new ways of relating that feel authentic, sustainable and joyful.

My approach is collaborative: you are the expert on your own life, and I bring expertise in helping people navigate emotional struggles, shift unhelpful patterns and overcome relationship roadblocks. Together, we’ll challenge limiting beliefs, expand your options, and create new ways of relating—to yourself and to others—that feel authentic and fulfilling.

Whatever aspect of intimacy and connection brings you here, therapy can be a safe haven for growth, balance, and self-discovery. With me, you can explore who you are, what you want and how to create the life—and relationships—that truly fit you.


Work and Education

Years of Experience: 28 years

Self, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, 1998 - Present

Loyola University Chicago, MSW, 1998

Licensure

California: LCS20765

Languages

English

Specialties

Couples counseling - Addressing relationship challenges and life transitions; strengthening communication and feelings of security, desire, connection, and love

LGBTQIA, gender, & sexuality topics - Exploring topics of sexuality, gender, and identity; coping with discrimination and oppression; navigating relationship, family, and cultural challenges

Relationship issues - Understanding one’s wants and needs in relationships; exploring patterns of interaction, addressing concerns, and strengthening satisfaction in relationships and dating

Sexual health & dysfunction - Addressing emotional, physical, and biological concerns related to sexual intimacy and functioning; education and skill building around topics such as erectile dysfunction, orgasms, low libido, shame, and history of abuse; improving communication to realize a fulfilling sex life

Nonmonogamy, polyamory, and kink - Exploring one’s values in and beliefs about relationships; practicing boundary-setting, conflict resolution, and romantic or sexual relationship bonding with partners

Infidelity - Processing through the impacts that infidelity has on one’s relationship; learning how to set boundaries, resolve conflict effectively, and promote healing in the relationship




Clientele

  • Adults (24+)
  • Couples
  • Parents
  • Seniors (65+)
  • Young adults (18-24)

Locations & Hours


Insurance

Mar Ortmann is not in-network with any insurances.

Read about the benefits of seeing an out-of-network provider here.


Out-of-pocket fees

  • Individual sessions:$220 (50min)
  • Initial session:$220 (50min)
  • Couples sessions:$220 (50min)
  • Group sessions:$100 (50min)
  • Family sessions:$220 (50min)
  • Extended:$350 (80min)

Additional session information

Out-of-network billing options

This provider can support you in getting reimbursement from your insurance company if you are seeking out-of-network reimbursement. Here are the out-of-network billing options they provide:

  • Super billing
Payment options
  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card
  • Debit Card
  • Zelle
Session frequency

Frequency of sessions this provider offers to see clients once you are an established client.

  • Weekly
  • Monthly
  • Every other week
  • Every other month
  • Multiple times a week
  • As needed

Reach out to Connect

Small steps make a big difference. Start by connecting with Mar Ortmann today.