Most people have heard of a sex therapist before. However, not as many people know exactly what sex therapists do, or how they might be able to help.
If you already have an idea of what a sex therapist is, consider tossing it out the window. There are so many misconceptions and stereotypes that it’s often better to start with a clean slate.
In reality, sex therapists are professionals who can help you deal with everything from intimacy issues to concerns about different sexual functions. Because they offer a wide variety of services, it’s understandable why they can often be mislabeled or their practices misunderstood.
With that in mind, let’s take a closer look at what exactly is a sex therapist, and whether you should consider making an appointment with one.
The Paths of a Sex Therapist
Sex therapists have extensive knowledge of everything from sexual disorders to how your mental health can impact your sex life. If you’re struggling in your sex life or you and your partner are having issues with intimacy or performance, a sex therapist should be able to help.
It might seem like the scope of a sex therapist is broad, and in some ways, it is. However, that’s a good thing for individuals and sex partners who may not be sure where to start when it comes to restoring their sex life or building intimacy. A sex therapist can help with issues regarding sexual desire and passion, trouble “performing,” or even dealing with painful sex.
It’s important that a sex therapist can cover a lot of different issues, since sex isn’t always easy for people to talk about. Knowing that you can build a relationship and a sense of trust with one therapist will make it easier to open up and show vulnerability, rather than having to go to multiple therapists to find a solution.
What to Expect
If the idea of going to a sex therapist seems a little overwhelming, it can help to know what to expect.
Every therapist might be a little different. However, what you’ll cover largely depends on why you’re there, in the first place. You’ll meet with our Sex Therapist for a free 15 minute consultation to gather more information and see if you’re a good fit for each other.
After that in your first session, it’s likely your therapist will want to know more about your sexual history. Your past sexual experience can really shape what you’re going through now, and the same goes for your partner(s).
Your therapist will also want to know what challenges you’re facing and why you decided to reach out. It provides a good starting point and can make it easier to get to the root of the problem(s).
How Can Sex Therapy Help?
Depending on the issues you’re facing, you might benefit from seeing a sex therapist only a handful of times. Some people, however, go on a more long-term basis as they try to restore a broken sexual history or build intimacy with their partner.
No matter what, you can likely expect “homework” between each session. Sex therapy is talk therapy. You’ll learn a lot about yourself, your past, and your partner(s). However, it’s at home that the real work happens. Common homework assignments can range from communication exercises to different activities that allow you to explore and experiment with your partner.
Sex isn’t the most important thing in a relationship. However, it’s an essential element when it comes to trust, intimacy, and togetherness. It’s something you and your partner(s) share that’s unique to you.
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If you’re struggling with your sex life or you’re worried that a negative history and/or current issues might be impacting your sexual activity, know you’re not alone. Feel free to Contact Us to learn more about Sex Therapy and whether it’s right for you. family therapy. Serenity Experiential Family Therapy Center offers therapy services in Colorado.