Sexual therapy is a form of counseling for people and couples in order to find a solution to sexual problems for example performance anxiety or other problems which are found to be related to the relationship.
Sexual therapy is scheduled to take place in the office of a therapist. Some individuals prefer to attend sessions alone; while others attend with their partners. The frequency and length of the session usually vary as it depends on the client and the type of problem being solved.
It is common for clients to feel anxious during meetings with a sex therapist, most especially when meeting for the first time. A lot of people are not as convenient as they find it very difficult to talk about sex, therefore talking about this with a stranger seems to be difficult. However, the majority of the sex therapist are aware of this and always put try everything within their power to ensure that their clients are comfortable. They often ask questions about the client’s health and sexual history, sexual education, their opinions about sex, and specific sexual problems of the client.
During meetings with a sex therapist, it is vital to understand that sexual therapy sessions do not involve physical contact or sexual activity between clients and therapists. In the event that you are not comfortable with some aspect of therapy, you have the right to voice out or put an end to your meetings with such a therapist.
There are some works which you can do at home with your partner; this is known as “homework”. It is assigned by your sex therapist and it is expected of you to practice these activities in the privacy of your home.
Listed below are some of the homework:
- Experimentation. Couples who have the feeling that they are in a sexual rut can try different activities, for example, role-playing or using sex toys, to further boost sexual desire. It may be recommended for other couples to make an adjustment to their sexual routine or positions, most especially in cases where one of the partners has a health problem that demands such changes.
- Sensate focus. This procedure is designed for couples to build trust and intimacy while reducing anxiety. Couples progress in three phases, starting with non-sexual contact, progressing toward genital contact and, in general, ending with penetration.
- Education. Sometimes clients do not get adequate sex education during their growth. Because of this, they may not have the knowledge of anatomy and how the body works during sexual activity. In this case, a sex therapist may assign books or web content to read or videos to watch online. It can also be suggested by sex therapist that clients should make use of a mirror in order to have a better understanding about their body.
- Communication Strategies. Clients may engage in the act of requesting for what they want or need when it comes to a sexual or emotional relationship.
The success of a sexual therapist depends on the commitment of the clients to the process. If clients are willing to make efforts alone or with a partner, they can achieve their sexual goals.
How to find a sex therapist?
One of the best ways to find a sex therapist is to ask a doctor, but it is useful first to have a complete physical examination. Some sexual problems are related to basic medical conditions. For example, many men with diabetes or heart disease suffer from erectile dysfunction. Women may have poor lubrication after menopause. Treating these conditions can lessen the problem. However, if a physician suspects psychological causes, it may be directed to a sex therapist.
A professional organization is also another way of finding a sex therapist, they have been found to reveal the names of licensed experts with the appropriate qualifications.
The relationship which exists between the client and therapist is important. Sometimes clients have to talk to several therapists before finding the one who suits them. If for any reason the client feels embarrassed, he must put an end to meeting the therapist.