Sex Therapy for Individuals and Couples

Sex Therapy for Healthy Intimacy and Relationship Wellness

Relationship wellness includes healthy sexual intimacy, where each person experiences satisfaction. For couples who are struggling with sexual dysfunction, sex therapy can help improve the skills needed to develop a positive and enjoyable sexual relationship.

What Is Sex Therapy?

Sex therapy is a treatment modality for a wide range of sexual disorders. It may include psychoeducation, intimacy counseling, mindfulness and other therapies to improve intimate relationships and treat sexual disorders.

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5) defines a sexual disorder (SD) as a significant impairment of sexual response and pleasure or as pain during intercourse, causing persistent and considerable distress.

Common Concerns Addressed

Every couple has different dynamics and, therefore, will have a different sexual relationship.

They may also differ in the difficulties and concerns regarding their intimacy. Therapy can help address many common and very treatable concerns.

Desire Differences

According to a study in Sexual Medicine, sexual desire differences are the most common subject among couples seeking help.

Sexual desire is the motivation to behave sexually, which can be either wanted or unwanted by a partner. Some have a high libido, while others have a low libido. Both can be a problem in a relationship.

There are many reasons why someone has more desire than their partner, including hormones, physical or mental health problems, medications and relationship dynamics.

Erectile Issues

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is seen in males and defined as the inability to achieve or maintain the erection needed to have satisfying sexual intercourse, persisting for longer than six months.

Some may claim it is related to performance anxiety. However, there are psychological issues, medications and numerous physical health diseases that can cause ED. If left untreated, it can have a significant impact on a relationship.

Pain During Sex

Pain during sex is a common complaint leading to sexual dysfunction in women. This pain is generally felt in the genital area before, during or after sex.

Causes of pain may be related to several psychosocial and physical health sources, such as hormones, inflammation, infections, contraceptives, medications and trauma.

Often, treating the underlying emotional or physical issues can help to turn this around.

Emotional Intimacy Issues

Emotional intimacy refers to the closeness and connectedness between a couple. It is a significant contributor to the quality of a relationship, especially a sexual relationship.

Emotional intimacy can look different for men and women. These differences can be overcome by utilizing techniques learned in sexual health therapy.

Therapeutic Approach

Sex therapists typically use an integrative approach when working with individuals and couples.

They consider factors that are contributing to sexual problems, such as past or current trauma, self esteem issues, medications, communication and other personal and relationship stressors before developing an individualized treatment plan.

Talk Therapy

Talk therapy is one therapeutic approach that can help to improve desire and arousal, pain, assertiveness and other concerns that individuals and couples may experience.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most commonly used evidence based treatment in sex therapy. Therapists using CBT techniques work with couples to change the thoughts, beliefs and behaviors that negatively affect their relationship.

Behavioral Exercises

Another therapeutic approach includes using behavioral exercises to improve a couple’s sexual relationship. In intimacy counseling, couples learn behavioral exercises that can help to heal their sexual relationship.

Some behavioral exercises include:

Introducing enjoyable shared activities during sex
Providing sexual and non sexual forms of affection
Introducing toys or other ways to promote desirable sensations
Touching that is enjoyable for both partners

Most importantly, couples can learn relationship communication skills so they can feel safe and comfortable talking about sexual pleasure, desires and needs.

Being able to communicate about sex makes it easier for couples to reach their intimacy goals.

Trauma Informed Care

Anyone who has experienced sexual trauma may find it difficult to enjoy or desire sex, even with someone they love. To overcome these issues, a therapist will use a trauma informed approach to care.

This form of therapy can help couples learn how to make each other feel safe, build trust, build self esteem, become resilient and enjoy having sex.

Benefits for Couples and Individuals

Relationships can be challenging, especially when there are problems with intimacy. If left untreated, the issues can grow and contribute to the deterioration of the relationship.

Sexual health therapy helps couples develop the skills they need to improve intimacy, confidence and sexual satisfaction.

For example, building greater trust, creating goals and dreams, setting healthy boundaries and addressing the underlying issues that may contribute to sexual dysfunction.

How to Choose a Sex Therapist

Choosing the right sex therapist for you or your relationship is critical.

Search for a certified sex therapist with at least a master’s degree in counseling or marriage and family therapy. They should also have two or more years of clinical experience and be licensed to practice in their state.

Furthermore, they should be knowledgeable in their field and have experience with the specific concerns of you and your partner, such as culture, sexual expression, developmental sexuality, health and medical conditions related to sexual dysfunction and the principles of sex therapy.

FAQs

Do Sessions Involve Physical Contact?

No. Sex therapy does not involve intimate physical touch or sexual activity. Instead, it is a form of treatment that includes evidence based talk and behavioral therapies.

Some therapists may assign homework activities for you to practice with your partner outside of treatment.

How Long Does Sex Therapy Typically Last?

The length of time you stay in sex therapy will vary among couples.

Factors that determine length include the type of sexual problems you are experiencing, whether any co-occurring factors exist and if there is a motivation and commitment to make a change.

Some couples and individuals may complete therapy in a few months, while others may need more time.

Can Sex Therapy Help After Sexual Trauma?

Yes, sex therapy, especially trauma informed care, can help you overcome sexual dysfunction related to trauma.

While a traumatic event can make sex feel unsafe and uncomfortable, sex therapy can help you overcome those emotions so you and your partner can enjoy intimacy.

Getting Started with Sex Therapy

If you are experiencing sexual dysfunction, help is available. Call 800-731-0645 ( Sponsored) today, and someone will help you find a certified sex therapist to meet your relationship needs.

They can connect you with a provider that offers a safe, supportive space where you and your partner can learn new skills to improve your intimacy and overall relationship.