What Is Sex Therapy?
Let's pause on that notion and offer a broader perspective. Contrary to popular belief, sex therapy isn’t solely about airing your intimate business in front of someone you don’t know, it is about building and creating a supportive environment where you can explore your sexuality, and concerns and work towards a solution. Sex therapy is, in essence, a specialised form of psychotherapy, providing a safe space where you can collaboratively enter a journey between you, your partner (not necessarily) and the therapist while fostering a healthier sex experience.
Is Sex Therapy Only For Couples?
Sex therapy isn't limited to couples. Individuals, too, can struggle with sexual dissatisfaction or confront challenges related to desires, needs, and wants. So, whether you're navigating relationship dynamics or exploring your sexual journey, sex therapy offers a supportive space to unpack and address these matters with guidance and understanding for everyone.
What Issues Does Sex Therapy Attend To?
Sex therapy can address topics concerned with sexual dysfunction that come from more practical to more psychological levels, however, most of the time both are intertwined. Here are a couple of examples:
Sexual difficulties & anxiety
Erectile dysfunction
Maintaining or having no arousal/desire
Vaginismus
Challenges communicating your needs with your partner
Facing sexual dysfunctioning due to intimacy problems
Self-esteem, confidence and body-image problems
Changes to sex after birth or during menopause
Trauma-related to sexual intercourse
Read more here: Intimacy and Sexual Difficulties
What Happens In a Sex Therapy Session?
A sex therapy session can vary from person to person, depending on the individual's history and present experiences. Let’s examine three different scenarios as presented by an actual sex therapist, Dr Amanda Major.
Can I Attend Sex Therapy On My Own?
There is a certain debate on this topic. If we are talking about going on your own, as a single person that needs to explore their sexual identity, challenges and concerns, we highly encourage you to do so! However, this is where things might get tricky while you are in a relationship. If the sexual concern you are facing is affected by/related to your partner, it is advised that both of you attend sex therapy. Not only that but it is advised that you commit to this together from the beginning of starting therapy, suggesting a higher success rate after sex therapy is complete.
What is Sensate Focus in Sex Therapy?
"Sensate Focus" is aimed at enhancing intimacy and communication between partners through touch. An important mention is that “Sensate Focus” is a sensual touch exercise, not a sexual one. This means that you refrain from any sexual intercourse with your partner while practising it. Through these mindful touch exercises, the goal is to reduce sexual anxiety and provide an opportunity for both you and your partner to explore each other's bodies. It's a way of practising mindfulness more intimately, where you focus on the sensations and touches, aiding in being present in the moment.
Is Sex Therapy Awkward?
However, we want you to remember that in sex therapy, you will be in the space of a qualified professional, they are aware that the topic might be awkward and intimidating for you.Opening up about something so personal and intimate is not easy. Keep in mind, they are not a friend, family member or someone that will judge you for your choices or experiences. Sex therapists are trained to put you at ease, build comfortable space for you and let you open up at your own pace. Take it easy on yourself and be sure to share any uncomfortable topics and themes you are still not ready to open up to, so both you and your therapist are on the same page.
Is Sex Therapy The Same as Couples Therapy?
The Role of a Sex Therapist During Sessions:
Guidance and Support:
Whether you're coming solo or with a partner, your sex therapist is there to help you identify and address your main concerns about your sex life. They provide a supportive space for you to explore these issues openly.No Pressure, Just Homework:
You won’t be asked to do anything sexual during the sessions. Instead, you’ll receive “homework” to work on privately. This helps you make progress at your own pace.Open Communication:
If you're feeling nervous about what the sessions involve, don’t hesitate to bring it up with your therapist. They’re there to answer your questions and ensure you feel comfortable throughout the process.
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