Everything you always wanted to know about sex therapy
Sexual problems are nearly always intertwined with psychological and relationship issues. As a result, treating the physical problem (if one is present) is only half the job. For best results, it’s important to address psychological issues—performance anxiety, anger, frustration, low self-esteem, hopelessness—as well. Many couples need help repairing both emotional and physical distance before they can regain a healthy sexual relationship. A certified sex therapist can help you and your partner do just that.
Many aspects of sex therapy have already been addressed in this report. This chapter explores in greater depth what may happen in a sex therapy session and explains sensate focus, which is one specific type of sex therapy.
What to expect
A certified sex therapist is a licensed mental health professional who treats sex and relationship
problems. Although sex therapists are qualified to understand the same broad emotional issues as individual or couple’s counselors, sex therapists have advanced training in addressing sexual problems, and they use a more targeted approach.
Assessment and intake
Contrary to what some people may think, you and your partner will not be physically intimate with each other while the therapist is watching, and the therapist won’t touch either of you. Sex therapy is a branch of traditional psychotherapy and is considered a form of “talk therapy.” That means you’ll be doing a lot of talking about your relationship in and out of the bedroom. The therapist will also educate you on physical and emotional issues that pertain to your circumstances, as well as prescribe specific exercises for you to try at home.
If having to discuss your sex life is an obstacle to getting help, rest assured that the sex therapist will not push you too quickly. Also, remember that an essential part of the treatment is learning how to talk about your sexual feelings more comfortably.