If you’re considering seeing a sex therapist, it’s a positive step towards improving your sexual health, emotional well-being, and relationships. Whether you’re struggling with intimacy, sexual function, or communication issues in a relationship, sex therapy can provide valuable support. Here’s what you can expect when seeking help from a sex therapist.
Why Consider Seeing a Sex Therapist?
You may be thinking about seeing a sex therapist for a range of reasons related to your sexual health and relationships. Therapy can be incredibly helpful in addressing emotional, psychological, and relational aspects of sexual well-being.
Common reasons people seek sex therapy include:
- Low or mismatched sex drive
- Difficulties with arousal, orgasm, or pain during sex
- Erectile dysfunction or premature ejaculation
- Intimacy challenges after illness, childbirth, or trauma
- Relationship issues or communication problems related to sex
- Questions about sexual orientation, gender identity, or preferences
- Sexual anxiety or unresolved past experiences
Whatever your concern, seeing a trained sex therapist can be a great way to address and resolve these issues in a supportive, professional environment.
What Is a Sex Therapist?
A sex therapist is a trained mental health professional who specialises in helping people address sexual and relationship issues. They come from various backgrounds such as psychology, social work,counselling, psychotherapy, or medicine, with additional training specifically in sex therapy.
Sex therapists do not perform medical exams or prescribe medication. Their focus is on the emotional, psychological, and relational factors that influence sexual well-being. They provide strategies and tools to help improve intimacy, communication, and sexual function in a way that is comfortable and empowering.
What Happens in a Session?
During your first session, you’ll have the opportunity to:
- Discuss the issue(s) you’d like help with
- Share your personal, relationship, and sexual history
- Set goals for what you’d like to achieve in therapy
The sessions are conducted in a safe, non-judgmental, and confidential space, where you are encouraged to speak freely at your own pace. You won’t be asked to do anything sexual during therapy.
Sessions may include:
- Talk therapy (individually or with your partner)
- Education about sexual response and function
- Exercises or techniques to practice at home
- Communication strategies to improve conversations with your partner
Can I Come Alone or with My Partner?
You’re welcome to attend sex therapy sessions alone or with a partner. If the issue you’re facing affects both partners, attending together can often be helpful, but it’s not a requirement. The therapist will work with you to create a therapy plan that best suits your needs, whether you attend individually or as a couple.
How Many Sessions Will I Need?
The number of sessions you need will depend on the nature and complexity of the issue. Some people may only require a few sessions, while others may benefit from longer-term support. After your initial assessment, your sex therapist will discuss the length of therapy with you, ensuring that it meets your needs.
Is It Confidential?
Yes, everything you discuss in your sessions is confidential. Your sex therapist will maintain strict privacy, and any information shared with your GP or other healthcare providers will only be provided with your permission. Confidentiality will only be broken in situations where there is serious risk to yourself or others, following professional guidelines.
Will It Be Embarrassing?
It’s natural to feel anxious or unsure about discussing intimate matters. However, sex therapists are specially trained to make you feel comfortable and open-minded when discussing sensitive topics. You are not alone—many people benefit from sex therapy, and you can feel assured that the therapy will be tailored to your comfort and pace.
Key Points to Remember
- Seeking therapy is a positive step towards improving sexual health and relationships
- Sex therapy is confidential, safe, and respectful, tailored to your needs
- Therapy can boost personal confidence and relationship satisfaction
- Sex therapists help you set the pace—there’s no pressure to move faster than you’re ready for
Have Questions Before Your Appointment?
If you’re considering seeing a sex therapist but have questions or need more information, don’t hesitate to contact the clinic. We’re here to answer your questions and support you on your journey toward better sexual health and relationship fulfilment.
