Sex is a natural part of life; but for some, their sex lives are not what they want them to be. If you’re having trouble in the bedroom or just need an outside perspective on how to spice up your love life, then you might consider visiting a local sex therapist. At first, it may seem strange, but there are many benefits that come from regular sessions with a sex therapist. In this article, I will discuss the ins and outs of sex therapy so don’t worry–you’ll have all the information you need before making any decisions!
Contents
What Is Sex Therapy?
Sex therapy is often the last resort for couples seeking help with their relationship. It’s not always a bad thing. Sometimes it can save a marriage. But there are times when couples should not seek professional help, instead of trying to work on the relationship themselves. Some people who seek out therapy are just looking for someone else to take over. Therefore, they don’t have to deal with their spouse anymore.
They aren’t ready to make changes, but they want the therapist to do it for them. Trying to figure out why your marriage has changed can be hard and scary. This gets even scarier if you are afraid you might be at fault. No one wants to hurt their spouse, but sometimes you need to think about how your behavior affects the other person in order to make things better. The most important thing is really being open and honest with each other. Things cannot just go positive by not just waiting for the therapist or anyone else to solve all of your problems for you.
Stages Of Sex Therapy
Sex therapists frequently assign “homework,” which consists of practice activities that clients are expected to complete in the privacy of their own homes.
Homework could include the following:
- Experimentation is encouraged. Couples who feel they are in a sexual rut may try different activities to increase their desire, such as role-playing or using sex toys. Other couples may need to change their sexual routines or positions, particularly if one partner has a health condition that necessitates such changes.
- Concentration on the senses. This technique for couples increases trust and intimacy while decreasing anxiety. Couples progress through three stages, beginning with nonsexual touching, moving on to genital touching, and finally, usually, ending with penetration.
- Formal education. Clients may not receive adequate sex education while growing up in some cases. As a result, they may be unfamiliar with anatomy and how the body works during sexual activity. Therapists may assign books, web content, or videos to read or watch. They may also advise clients to use a mirror to learn more about their bodies.
- Communication methods. In a relationship, clients can practice asking for what they want or need sexually or emotionally.
Success in sex therapy is frequently determined by how committed clients are to the process. Clients who are willing to put in the effort, either alone or with a partner, may be able to achieve their sexual objectives.
How Does It Work?
Sex therapy is similar to any other type of psychotherapy. You treat the condition by talking about your experiences, concerns, and emotions.
You then work out coping mechanisms with your therapist to help improve your responses in the future so that you can have a healthier sex life.
During your initial appointments, your therapist will either speak with you alone or with you and your partner. The therapist is there to guide and assist you in dealing with your current problem:
- They are not there to take anyone’s side or persuade anyone.
- Furthermore, everyone will keep their clothes on. The sex therapist will not have sexual relations with anyone or demonstrate how to have sex with anyone.
Your therapist will continue to push you toward better management and acceptance of your concerns that may be causing sexual dysfunction with each session. All talk therapy, including sex therapy, is both supportive and educational.
It is intended to provide solace and encouragement for change. You will most likely leave your therapist’s office with homework and tasks to complete before your next appointment.
If your therapist suspects that your dysfunction is the result of a physical sexual problem, they may refer you to a medical doctor.
Your therapist and doctor can discuss your signs and symptoms and work together to identify any physical issues that may be contributing to your sexual problems.
Do I Need Sex Therapy?
One way to determine whether you need to see a sex therapist rather than another type of talk therapy is to consider which aspects of your life are most affected by how you are currently feeling.
If your sexual dysfunction has a negative impact on your quality of life and emotional health, you should see a sex therapist. Similarly, if your most serious personal concern is a lack of intimacy or difficulty communicating with a partner, consulting a sex therapist is a good place to start.
Where can I find a sex therapist?
A licensed psychiatrist, psychologist, marriage and family therapist, or clinical social worker can be a certified sex therapist. To become a certified sex therapist, these mental health professionals must complete extensive additional training in human sexuality.
Begin your search with Mantra Care. This organization is in charge of clinical training for sexual health practitioners. They are also in charge of the credentials of these health care providers.
Mantra Care will help you find someone who is licensed and certified.
You can also search for therapists in your area on Google or call your local hospital or community education office. Many of these organizations will gladly provide contact information for sex therapists in their hospital network.
You can also inquire with your insurance company. They might be able to provide you with a list of certified sex therapists. You can go through the list until you find the right sex therapist.
If you want a more personalized recommendation, speak with your doctor, gynecologist, or urologist. Every day, many doctors meet and recommend sex therapists to their patients. They might be able to point you in the direction of a provider whose personality is similar to yours.
You can also communicate with your friends. Bringing up sensitive topics can be difficult for some people, but if you feel comfortable asking a friend, they may be able to recommend a doctor you and your partner can trust.
Things You Must Know Before Appointment
When you’re ready to start sex therapy, keep these five things in mind as you decide who to meet with for therapy.
Compatibility
Therapists are unique individuals. Successful therapy is largely determined by how well you communicate with your therapist and how much you trust them and their advice to help you work through your issues.
If you don’t feel at ease with a sex therapist at any point, find another.
Solo vs. couple
You are not required to bring your partner to sex therapy. For some people, solo sex therapy is sufficient to address their concerns. Others may find that having both people present during therapy helps to improve satisfaction and build a stronger connection.
Discuss your decision to begin therapy with your partner.
Logistics
When choosing a sex therapist, keep in mind where your therapist’s office is and how easy it is for you to get there. You might have appointments during your lunch break, after work, or on random days when you have an hour free.
Some therapists also provide telehealth sessions, which means you may be able to meet with them online from the comfort of your own home.
Make sure it’s easy to get to your doctor’s office, or you’ll find yourself making excuses to avoid going.
Treatment strategy
Your therapist will most likely go over an initial treatment plan with you during your first appointment. Several sessions are usually required at first for most individuals and couples.
However, if treatment is making a significant difference and your therapist is confident in your ability to handle future challenges, you may be discharged from your therapist’s care.
Insurance protection
Psychotherapy is not always covered by health insurance. Those that do cover it may have additional requirements or a separate deductible.
Before you go to your appointment, confirm your insurance details with your insurance company so that you are prepared for the financial investment.
Conclusion
Sex therapists are trained professionals who work with people in various stages of their lives to overcome sexual problems. Some issues that a person can address through sex therapy include low libido, erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, and inhibited arousal.
If you are looking for affordable Online Counseling and sex therapist MantraCare can help: Book a trial therapy session
