What is Sex Therapy and How Can it Help You?
Sex therapy is a specialized type of therapy that focuses on helping individuals and couples address and resolve sexual issues that are affecting their lives. Sex therapists are trained to work with people of all genders, sexual orientations, relationship statuses, and relationship orientations to help them overcome a wide range of sexual concerns.
Sex therapy can be beneficial for a variety of reasons, including addressing issues related to sexual dysfunction, sexual trauma, sexual identity, and relationship challenges. Here is a deeper look at what sex therapy is and how it can help individuals and relationships.
What is sex therapy?
Sex therapy is a type of therapy that focuses specifically on issues related to sexual health, sexual well-being, and relationship health. Sex therapists do not treat physical health conditions but often collaborate with physicians (urologists, OBGYNs, and primary care providers) to support clients. Sex therapy is a collaborative process between a therapist and client that helps to address and resolve sexual problems that are causing distress or impacting one’s quality of life.
Sex therapists are trained to work with individuals and relationships who are experiencing a range of sexual concerns. They can support with navigating the various types of sexual dysfunction, including:
low sexual desire
painful sex
erectile dysfunction
premature ejaculation
difficulty achieving orgasm
Sex therapists can also support you through other concerns, including:
support navigating different relationship structures including non-monogamy
infidelity
sexual trauma
sexual identity concerns
living with sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
Sex therapy typically involves a combination of talk therapy and exercises that are designed to help clients overcome their specific concerns. These exercises may include mindfulness techniques, communication exercises, and other tools that help to improve sexual function and satisfaction.
What happens during a Sex Therapy appointment?
Sex therapy typically involves a series of sessions with a licensed therapist who specializes in sexual health and well-being. During a first session, I work with the individual or partners to identify their goals and develop a treatment plan. We’ll discuss your background, lifestyle, and your reason for seeking support.
In ongoing sessions, we work together to build insight into your concerns. This may involve exploring underlying emotional and psychological factors that are contributing to sexual issues, and providing tools and exercises to help improve sexual function and satisfaction. We’ll progress on your goals through discussion, tools, and take home assignments. These exercises may include mindfulness techniques, communication exercises, and other tools that help to improve sexual function and satisfaction. Sex therapy does not involve physical contact between therapist and client.
How can sex therapy help?
Individuals who are experiencing sexual dysfunction
Sex therapy can help to identify the root cause of the problem and provide strategies for resolving it. This can help to improve sexual function and satisfaction, as well as overall quality of life.
Individuals who have experienced sexual trauma
Sex therapy can be a safe and supportive space to explore and address the emotional and psychological impacts of the trauma. It can help to reduce anxiety and fear related to sex, improve communication and trust in relationships, and improve overall emotional well-being.
Couples and Groups experiencing challenges related to sex and intimacy
Sex therapy can help to improve communication and understanding between partners, and provide tools for resolving conflicts and improving sexual satisfaction.
Sex therapy can be a safe and supportive space for individuals and relationships to explore and address a wide range of sexual concerns. Whether you are experiencing sexual dysfunction, sexual trauma, or relationship challenges related to sex and intimacy, sex therapy can provide you with the tools and support you need to improve your sexual health and well-being.