Sex therapy is a specialized form of psychotherapy or counseling using clinical skills to assess and treat non-medical factors that contribute to sexual problems. Sex therapists assess trauma, performance anxiety, intimacy and sexual dysfunction, and sexual attitudes that may interfere with healthy sexuality.



With couples, a trained sex therapist will also evaluate potential relationship dynamics associated with sexual problems. Treatment may involve information on sexual skills or techniques, understanding emotional factors, and resolving psychological conflicts.

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Sex therapists may also help individuals and couples who have problems understanding their sexuality or struggling with their sexual identity. Some of the issues couples or individuals seek support through sex therapy include erectile dysfunction, difficulty reaching orgasm, low desire or libido differences, premature ejaculation, pornography addiction, sexual compulsive behaviors, or the impact of past sexual abuse.

 

Sex Therapy is a professional and ethical (non-touch) treatment approach to problems of sexual function and expression. 

WH​AT HAPPENS IN A SEX THERAPY SESSION?



A couple or individual is seen for the initial assessment for a 1 1/2 to 2 hour consultation during which a complete history is taken.


The first step in sex therapy is evaluating and assessing the presenting problem or problems. A sexual history is taken which asks the patient to describe his/her sexual experiences. If it is a couple, each partner’s sexual history is taken. Any information you give or conversation you have with your sex therapist will remain strictly confidential.

The therapist carefully analyzes the medical and historical data, together with any issues or related circumstances described by the patient, to identify all the strands that weave into the patients current condition. This evaluation results in a diagnosis and detailed treatment plan.

The treatment will vary depending on the diagnosis, but it usually involves special exercises for each individual or couple.

Sex therapy is not “just talking.” Each week the therapist will suggest new experiences for the individual or couple to try in the privacy of their home. These at-home “sensate focus exercises” are designed to take the pressure and worry out of sex. In subsequent sessions, the at-home exercises are discussed and any difficulties are explored. The exercises help the individual or couple “re-learn” more satisfying sexual behavior.

The therapist functions as an sex educator, providing accurate information about anatomy, physical response that is specific to the clients sexual concern. The patient may be given books to read or educational videos to watch.