Dr. Janet Brito

Dr. Janet Brito is an AASECT-certified sex therapist and supervisor with licenses in social work and clinical psychology, providing her with well-rounded knowledge that she uses to support those struggling when it comes to their sexuality, gender identity, sexual identity, mental health, and more.

During her professional journey, Dr. Janet Brito has worked in a wide variety of clinical settings that supported diverse populations. Along with community mental health facilities, she assisted forensic organizations, supported child protection agencies, sexual health programs and worked with behavioral medicine healthcare clinics. Each position gave her a new understanding of the needs of diverse populations, increasing her desire to find ways to ensure each had the guidance and support they needed to thrive.

Originally from Chicago, Dr. Janet Brito is the daughter of immigrant parents from Mexico. Along with attending graduate school in New York City, she spent time in Minnesota and Arizona before settling in Hawaii, where she’s lived for 20 years.

When it comes to her academic and professional journey, Dr. Janet Brito received her MS in Social Work from Columbia University in 2000. She then headed to Pacifica Graduate Institute – a school that specializes in Jungian and psychoanalytical psychology – graduating with a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Depth Psychology. In 2018, her dissertation – a phenomenological analysis on infertility among Mexican women living in the United States – was published in the Revista Interamericana de Psicologia/Interamerican Journal of Psychology.

In 2013, Dr. Janet Brito added to her credentials, receiving a Certificate in Sex Therapy and Education from the University of Michigan. During her studies, she focused on a variety of areas, including, but not limited to: gender identity, sexual identity, LGBTQIA+ sexual health, relationship intimacy issues, and compulsive sexual behavior.

Wanting to further her knowledge, Dr. Janet Brito completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Minnesota Medical School in 2016. She was drawn to the university as it is one of only a few university-level programs dedicated to sexuality education and training, making it a unique and enlightening option as she pursued her interest in sex therapy, intimacy counseling, and related subjects.

Throughout her career, Dr. Janet Brito had the honor of working for many esteemed organizations, allowing her to serve an array of diverse communities. In 2014, she spent time with the Peace Corps, serving as a volunteer in Nicaragua and providing educational counseling, and performing community outreach to families and their children. In the role, she planned and conducted self-esteem-oriented presentations and workshops, creating unique opportunities to get to know those she assisted, ultimately broadening her understanding of the larger global community.

As she honed her expertise, furthered her education, and continued to learn more about the needs of those seeking support, she took the next step in her professional journey.

In 2017, Dr. Janet Brito founded the Hawaii Center for Sexual and Relationship Health, creating a practice that focused on relationship and sex therapy, out of control sexual behaviors, mindful sex, infidelity recovery, and providing affirmative care to gender diverse populations.

In 2021, Dr. Janet Brito founded the Sexual Health School, launching an online training program for healthcare professionals in all specialties who wanted to enhance their knowledge of human sexuality and its impact on patient care.

Dr. Janet Brito has let her motto – less shame, more freedom – serve as her guide. Her goal is to promote sex positivity, provide comprehensive sex education, and decrease the stigma associated with sex, sexuality, and gender identity. Additionally, she works to help those she supports to enhance their relationships, providing tools to improve communication and strengthen critical bonds, as well as provide affirmative sex therapy.

Additionally, Dr. Janet Brito has been featured in a variety of publications, both creating publications and providing expert guidance to those covering topics like sexual health and intimacy. Along with the publication of her doctoral thesis in the Revista Interamericana de Psicologia/Interamerican Journal of Psychology, she has been featured in Bustle, Healthline, the Huffington Post, Oprah Magazine, Playboy, Thrive Global, and Women’s Health Magazine.

Outside of her professional pursuits, Dr. Janet Brito is an avid traveler, spending her time exploring the world and its intriguing cultures whenever the opportunity arises. Hiking and camping are also two of her favorite hobbies, allowing her to channel her energy, explore the outdoors, and renew herself.

To remain centered, Dr. Janet Brito is a regular yoga practitioner. For relaxation, reading is one of her favorite activities, as well as spending time with family and friends.

Whether at home or away, exploring new coffee shops is a personal passion. It’s an opportunity to enjoy a treat, relax, and enjoy the unique atmosphere that each coffee shop she encounters provides.

Finally, Dr. Janet Brito never passes up a chance to enjoy a homecooked meal of Mexican food prepared by her parents. Not only does it speak to her roots, but it also reminds her of the power of love, family, and a homecooked meal.