What is sex therapy?

Many people – both men and women – have problems with sex at some time in their life. Problems may revolve around lack of desire or difficulty in achieving orgasm, but there are many other potential issues, including addiction to porn, pain during sex, premature ejaculation, depression, low self-esteem, trust issues and so on. A trained sex therapist (sometimes called a psychosexual therapist) can see clients individually or as part of a couple. The sex therapist will talk through the situation with the client(s), allowing feelings on both sides to be expressed and acknowledged, and may suggest exercises or tasks. Counsellors and therapists who are members of the College of Sexual and Relationship Therapists specialise in this area; Relate and the Tavistock Centre for Couple Relationships both offer sex therapy.

Who benefits from sex therapy?

Sex therapy can help anyone of any age, gender, sexual orientation and health level to overcome issues which may be affecting their sex lives. Sex therapy can be helpful for both individuals and couples. It can be very beneficial to attend with your partner as it will help both parties understand the impact the sexual issue is having on both of you, even if the issue may only physically affect one person in the couple.