What is Sex Therapy?: How Sex Therapy can benefit you and your partner no matter where you are in your journey
Sexuality is a fundamental aspect of human life, contributing to physical, emotional, and relational well-being. However, challenges in the realm of sexuality are fairly common and can sometimes significantly impact an individual's quality of life and relationships. This is where sex therapy comes into play. In this blog post, we will explore what sex therapy is, how it works, and the numerous benefits it can offer to individuals and couples no matter where you are in your journey together.
What is Sex Therapy?
Sex therapy is a specialized form of talk therapy that focuses on addressing issues related to sexuality, intimacy, and sexual functioning. It is designed to help individuals and couples navigate challenges and concerns related to sexual desire, performance, and satisfaction.
Sex therapy can also benefit couples who are affected by illness or aging related issues, or struggling to connect due to desire discrepancy.
How Does Sex Therapy Work?
During sex therapy sessions, you work together with your therapist to develop a strategy that will help you move towards the sex life (and quality of life) you desire. You may have at home assignments including reading and different exercises with yourself and your partner.
Please note: you can come to sex therapy with your partner, but you can also come alone.
Here are a few components of sex therapy sessions:
Assessment: During the initial session the therapist will begin by conducting a thorough diagnostic assessment. This helps the therapist get to know you better and understand the concerns you’ve been having. This also enables the therapist to develop an effective treatment plan that’s tailored to your concerns.
Education: Sex therapy can sometimes involve providing clients with accurate and helpful information about sexual anatomy, physiology, and psychology. Educating clients about sexual response and communication can dispel myths and misconceptions, fostering a healthier outlook on sexuality.
Communication: Open and effective communication is crucial in any intimate relationship. Sex therapy teaches and empowers clients to communicate their needs, desires, and concerns to their partners with empathy and honesty. Learning to communicate your sexual desires and boundaries can lead to enhanced pleasure and intimacy.
Emotional Exploration: Sexuality is closely linked to psychological well-being. Sex therapy may involve exploring any underlying core beliefs or past experiences that could be impacting an individual's attitude toward sex.
Homework Assignments: Sex therapists often assign homework to help clients practice new skills, communication techniques, or intimacy-building exercises in their everyday lives (and in the privacy of their homes).
Benefits of Sex Therapy
Enhanced Communication: Effective communication is vital in any relationship. Sex therapy fosters open dialogue about sexual needs and desires, which can reduce misunderstandings and increase vulnerability between you and your partner.
Increased Intimacy: By addressing emotional and psychological factors, sex therapy can deepen the emotional intimacy between partners, leading to a more satisfying and meaningful relationship. An improved mindset towards sex as well as any resolved sexual functions can also lead to more sex with your partner, which is valuable for overall connection.
Reduced Performance Anxiety: Individuals dealing with performance anxiety or sexual concerns often experience decreased self-esteem. Sex therapy provides tools to manage these anxieties, promoting self-confidence and sexual self-assurance.
Resolution of Sexual Dysfunctions: Whether it's addressing issues like erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, or low libido, sex therapy offers strategies to overcome these challenges and regain control over one's sexual health.
Support for Trauma Survivors: For individuals who have experienced sexual trauma, sex therapy can provide a safe environment to process their emotions, heal, and gradually reclaim a positive relationship with their bodies and sexuality¹
Sex therapy is a valuable resource for individuals and couples seeking to enhance their sexual well-being and overall quality of life. By addressing sexual concerns with the guidance of trained professionals, people can experience improved sexual functioning, enhanced intimacy, and a more satisfying emotional connection with their partners.
The benefits of sex therapy extend beyond the bedroom, positively impacting various aspects of one's life and relationships!
If you feel like sex therapy can improve your life or your relationship with a partner, please see the services tab of my website and fill out an application form! I would love to be able to help you overcome any obstacles that are inhibiting you from a happy, healthy relationship and sex life.
Citations:
Holland, Kimberly. “Sex Therapy: Couples, Techniques, and What Does a Sex Therapist Do?” Healthline, Healthline Media, 27 June 2018, www.healthline.com/health/sex-therapy.
