We’re Zoe and Ella, the founders of The Speakeasy Space. We first met during our psychotherapy training and are now both COSRT Registered Psychosexual and Relationship Therapists. Between us, we’ve worked with people experiencing vaginismus in both the NHS and private practice, and we’ve seen first-hand how isolating and overwhelming it can feel when sex is painful.
We created The Speakeasy Space because we believe no one should have to go through this alone. Talking about vaginismus or painful sex can be incredibly hard, and support services are often difficult to access. Our mission is to change that by offering a safe, supportive place where you can feel understood, explore your experiences, and begin moving from pain to pleasure.
Our first group therapy programme starts in January 2026 and is open to anyone with a vagina experiencing vaginismus or painful sex, whether you have a formal diagnosis or not. If painful sex or the fear of it is affecting your relationships, dating life, or sense of self, this group is here for you.
The programme runs for six weeks, and each session focuses on a different theme. We draw on psychotherapy principles and a sex therapy approach, combining self-reflection, processing emotions, sharing experiences, and learning new perspectives, tools, and techniques. You’ll also receive a workbook via email before the group begins, which you’ll use during sessions and for homework between them.
The group is co-facilitated by both of us and will have a maximum of 12 participants, ensuring plenty of time and space for everyone. There will also be the option to join a peer-support WhatsApp group, so you can connect with others between sessions (though this is entirely optional). Before the programme starts, we’ll meet with each participant for a short 1:1 session, giving you the chance to share your experiences and get to know us.
Programme Costs, Dates & How to Join
The cost of the programme is £40 per week, and we ask that participants commit to the full six weeks. We are currently creating a waiting list and will be in touch closer to the start date with more details and the option to sign up.
If this sounds like the right next step for you, we’d love to hear from you. You can email us at contactthespeakeasyspace@gmail.com with any questions or to join the waiting list. In the meantime, follow us on Instagram @thespeakeasyspace for updates, resources, and more.
You don’t have to suffer in silence; healing begins with being seen, heard, and supported.
Meet The Therapists
Zoe Yessaian: "I am a COSRT Registered Psychosexual and Relationship Therapist and a Registered Nurse. I believe that sexual needs are just as important as any other health needs and should be given the same care and priority."
Founders of The Speakeasy SpaFounders of The SpakeasySpa
Ella Tressler: "I’m a COSRT registered Psychosexual and Relationship Therapist, I offer a space where people can explore sex, intimacy, and relationships without fear of judgement or shame. These areas of life are deeply personal, and it takes courage to seek support. I aim to meet that courage with compassion, clarity, and care."
I’m a COSRT registered Psychosexual and Relationship Therapist, I offer a space where people can explore sex, intimacy, and relationships without fear of judgement or shame. These areas of life are deeply personal, and it takes courage to seek support. I aim to meet that courage with compassion, clarity, and care.
