What is sex therapy?
Sex Therapy
Sex therapy is a specialized form of psychotherapy, which builds on traditional talk therapy to encompass a wide range of sexual topics including sexual anxiety, desire discrepancies, erectile dysfunction, difficulties achieving orgasm, painful intercourse, and much more. Sex therapy can also address questions related to sexual orientation, gender identity, and sexual/relationship preferences including monogamous, polyamorous, and open relationships. For those interested in exploring new sexual dynamics or lifestyles, such as kink or BDSM, therapy can be a way to acquire appropriate information and explore new behaviors in a safe environment. Sex therapy is conducted by therapists who have specialized training and skills in the areas of sex and sexuality.
What can I expect in sex therapy?
Sex and sexuality are a core part of the human experience, yet when our sex lives are unfulfilling, we can often experience anxiety or discomfort around sex and intimacy. In sex therapy, we will:
Explore biological, psychological, and social factors that may be contributing to your sexual dysfunction
Work to gain an understanding of your sexual wants, needs
Learn skills to communicate openly and honestly with your partner(s)
Work toward building an empowered, happy, and fulling sex life.
As a trained sex therapist, I have explored my own sexual attitudes, biases, and beliefs in depth. This has allowed me to truly take a non-pathologizing and non-judgmental approach to this work. I am unconditionally accepting and open to any kind of client or presenting issue.
What I Do
Sex therapy offers numerous benefits that extend beyond just improving sexual functioning. It can enhance the overall quality of life, relationships, and emotional well-being. Here’s a deeper look at the various benefits of sex therapy:
- Sexual Dysfunction: Sex therapy addresses specific issues such as erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, anorgasmia, and vaginismus. Through targeted techniques and interventions, individuals can overcome these challenges and achieve better sexual health.
- Increased Libido: For those experiencing low sexual desire, sex therapy can help identify underlying causes, whether they are psychological, relational, or medical, and work on strategies to reignite sexual interest and excitement.
- Open Dialogue: Sex therapy encourages couples to discuss their sexual needs, desires, and boundaries openly. This fosters a more open dialogue about sex, reducing misunderstandings and enhancing mutual understanding.
- Conflict Resolution: By improving communication skills, couples can better navigate conflicts related to sexual issues, reducing resentment and frustration.
Improved Sexual Functioning
Enhanced Communication
INCREASED INTIMACY
GREATER SELF-AWARENESS
- Emotional Connection: Sex therapy helps couples build a stronger emotional bond by addressing barriers to intimacy and fostering a deeper emotional connection.
- Physical Intimacy: Through exercises and techniques such as sensate focus, couples can reconnect physically in a non-pressured and explorative manner, enhancing their overall sexual experience.
- Understanding Preferences: Clients gain a better understanding of their own sexual preferences, fantasies, and boundaries, which can lead to more satisfying sexual experiences.
- Body Positivity: Therapy can help individuals develop a healthier relationship with their bodies, increasing body positivity and self-esteem.
HEALING FROM TRAUMA
- Processing Past Trauma: For those with a history of sexual abuse or trauma, sex therapy provides a safe space to process these experiences and heal. This can reduce the impact of trauma on current sexual functioning and relationships.
- Building Trust: Therapy can help rebuild trust in intimate relationships, which is crucial for those who have experienced betrayal or abuse.
ADDRESSING PSYCHOLOGICAL BARRIERS
- Anxiety and Depression: Sex therapy can address underlying psychological issues such as anxiety and depression that may be impacting sexual desire and performance.
- Performance Anxiety: Techniques such as mindfulness and relaxation can help reduce performance anxiety, allowing individuals to enjoy sex without undue stress or pressure.
SEXUAL EDUCATION
- Accurate Information: Sex therapists provide accurate information about sexual health, anatomy, and functioning, dispelling myths and misconceptions that can contribute to sexual problems.
- Informed Decisions: With better knowledge, individuals and couples can make informed decisions about their sexual health and well-being.
STRENGTHENING RELATIONSHIPS
- Partnership Bond: By working through sexual issues together, couples often find their overall relationship strengthened. The collaborative process of therapy can enhance mutual respect, empathy, and partnership.
- Shared Goals: Setting and working towards shared sexual goals can bring couples closer together, fostering a sense of teamwork and cooperation.
PERSONAL GROWTH
- Empowerment: Therapy empowers individuals to take control of their sexual health and well-being, leading to greater confidence and self-assurance.
- Life Satisfaction: By addressing and resolving sexual issues, individuals often experience increased life satisfaction and a more positive outlook on their overall well-being.
Sex therapy may benefit anyone who wants to improve their relationship with sex and pleasure. People of all ages, from any background or culture can benefit from sex therapy.
You can participate in sex therapy if you are single or in a relationship - although, if you are in a relationship, that does not mean that sex therapy has to be done with your partner(s).
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When to Seek Sex Therapy?
Consider seeking sex therapy if you or your partner are experiencing:
Persistent sexual problems that cause distress.
A significant mismatch in sexual desire or interest.
Difficulties with sexual performance or satisfaction.
Emotional or psychological barriers to sexual intimacy.
Questions or confusion about sexual orientation or identity.
The impact of past sexual trauma on current sexual life.
Questions about alternative relationship styles, such as polyamory or consensual non-monogamy.
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Scenic Heights Counseling
Ready to enhance your intimacy and relationship? Reach out for a free consultation.
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