Sex therapy is a form of psychotherapy that focuses on sexual health and relationships. It’s often used in couples but can also be helpful for individuals who are having difficulties with sex. Sessions are confidential and non-judgmental.
Most therapists will ask questions about your general health and sexual history, sex education, and beliefs about sex. They’ll then explore what you want to achieve from your sex life. This could include looking at ways to increase intimacy with your partner or understanding what makes sex satisfying to you. It’s important to build a therapeutic relationship with your therapist, so you feel comfortable discussing your most personal sexual experiences.
The most common reason people seek sex therapy is for help with sex issues, but it can be helpful to address sexual concerns at any time. Sex problems can develop from a number of factors, such as childhood trauma, stress in a relationship, or physical changes like menopause. Some sex therapists specialise in treating a specific area, such as intercourse, while others work with a wide range of issues.
Sex therapy usually involves talking therapies, but some therapists use more hands-on techniques. They may assign ‘homework’, such as asking clients to practise touch in private and to read certain books or articles. They might also ask you to experiment with different types of sex toys, which you do in your own privacy at home. The success of sex therapy depends on how committed you are to the process.