Sexual Issues
Therapy for sexual issues, often referred to as sex therapy or sexual counseling, is a specialized form of therapy that helps individuals and couples address a wide range of sexual concerns, problems, and dysfunctions. These issues can encompass physical, psychological, emotional, and relational aspects of sexuality. Although often people experience shame around these issues, they are often normal, understandable and treatable.
Here are some common sexual issues that therapy can address and the approaches used to treat them:
Sexual Trauma or Abuse: For individuals who have experienced sexual trauma, therapy offers a safe space to process emotions, heal from trauma, and address its impact on their sexual functioning and relationships.
Erectile Dysfunction (ED): Therapists can help individuals with ED address performance anxiety, improve self-confidence, and explore potential underlying emotional or relational factors.
Premature Ejaculation (PE): Therapy for PE can involve exercises and techniques aimed at improving ejaculatory control. Couples may also learn strategies to enhance sexual satisfaction.
Low Sexual Desire or Interest: Therapists work with individuals or couples to explore factors contributing to low desire, such as relationship issues, stress, body image concerns, or underlying medical conditions.
Painful Sex (Dyspareunia or Vaginismus): Therapists can help individuals and couples address the physical and emotional aspects of sexual pain. Techniques may include education, relaxation exercises, and gradual desensitization.
Sexual Orientation and Identity Concerns: Therapy can provide support and exploration for individuals struggling with issues related to their sexual orientation or gender identity, including coming out, acceptance, and managing discrimination.
Body Image and Self-Esteem: Negative body image can affect sexual self-esteem and satisfaction. Therapy can promote self-acceptance and help individuals develop a more positive self-image.
Infidelity and Trust Issues: When trust has been broken due to infidelity, therapy can assist couples in rebuilding trust, improving communication, and addressing the emotional fallout.
Performance Anxiety: Whether related to sexual performance or body image, therapy can help individuals manage anxiety and performance-related concerns. Many sexual concerns stem from underlying relationship problems. Therapy can help couples improve communication, resolve conflicts, and enhance intimacy.
Therapists specializing in sexual issues typically have specialized training and certification in sex therapy, and at Self Space we have therapists who are AASECT certified. Our sex therapists create a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to discuss their concerns and work collaboratively to develop treatment plans that may include education, exercises, communication skills, and cognitive-behavioral techniques. Couples therapy can also be a valuable approach for addressing sexual issues within a relationship.
