Sex Therapy

What Is the Difference Between Psychosexual Therapy and Sex Therapy?
In practice, there is no difference. The terms psychosexual therapy and sex therapy are often used interchangeably.
"Psychosexual therapy" is the professional term commonly used within specialist training and clinical settings, while "sex therapy" is the term most people are familiar with and are more likely to search for online.
Both refer to a specialist form of talking therapy that helps individuals and couples explore concerns relating to intimacy, desire, sexuality and sexual functioning.

What Is Sex Therapy?
Sex therapy is a specialist form of talking therapy that helps individuals and couples address sexual difficulties, intimacy concerns and relationship issues that may be affecting their sexual wellbeing.
It provides a safe, confidential and non-judgemental space to explore concerns that can often feel difficult to discuss elsewhere.
Sex therapy is entirely conversational. There is no physical examination, nudity or sexual activity during sessions.
If there is a possibility that your concerns have a physical or medical cause, I may recommend that you consult your GP or another healthcare professional. Any communication with medical professionals would only take place with your knowledge and consent.

What Issues Can Sex Therapy Help With?

People seek sex therapy for many different reasons, including:

• Changes in desire or libido

• Feeling disconnected from your sexual self

• Differences in sexual desire between partners

• Difficulties with arousal or orgasm

• Anxiety about sex or sexual performance

• Erectile difficulties, premature ejaculation or delayed ejaculation

• Painful sex or vaginismus

• Challenges with intimacy and emotional connection

• The impact of perimenopause or menopause on sex and relationships

• Sexual confidence, body image and self-esteem concerns

• Wanting to improve communication about sex and intimacy

• Exploring sexuality and sexual identity

What Approach Do You Use?
I use a biopsychosexual approach, which means we explore the biological, psychological, relational and social factors that may be contributing to your concerns.
Sexual difficulties are rarely caused by a single issue. Together, we will consider the wider picture, including relationships, emotions, beliefs, life experiences, physical health and current circumstances.

What Happens in the First Session?
The first session is an opportunity for us to discuss your concerns, explore what has brought you to therapy and consider what you hope to achieve.
We will also discuss practical matters such as session structure, fees, confidentiality and whether sex therapy appears to be the most appropriate approach for your needs.
There is no obligation to continue after the initial session.

What Happens After the First Session?

Following our initial session, I will usually arrange up to four assessment sessions (occasionally more, depending on your circumstances and the concerns you bring to therapy). These sessions provide an opportunity to explore your personal experiences, relationship history and sexual history in greater depth.

If you are attending as a couple, these assessment sessions will usually take place individually with each partner following the initial joint session.

Once the assessment process is complete, we will discuss the most appropriate way forward. Depending on your circumstances, if sex therapy is not suitable we will discuss the option of individual or relationship therapy first. 

How Often Are Sessions Held?
Sessions are usually held weekly, particularly at the beginning of the process. As the work progresses, sessions may move to a fortnightly schedule if appropriate.
We will regularly review what feels most helpful for your circumstances.

Will I Need to Complete Exercises Between Sessions?
Yes, exercises will be given to be completed  between sessions. Sex Therapy is a collaborative process  and therefore any exercises will be discussed and agreed together.

Why Choose Online Sex Therapy?
Many people find it easier to discuss sensitive topics from the privacy and comfort of their own home.
Online therapy offers flexibility, accessibility and convenience, allowing you to access specialist support wherever you are. Sessions are held securely via Zoom.

How Many Sessions Will I Need?
There is no set number of sessions, as every person and couple comes to therapy with different concerns and goals. However, following the assessment some issues can improve with 10-20 sessions. 
Some people seek support for a specific issue and find that around 10-20 sessions is sufficient. Others choose to continue therapy for longer to explore more complex or longstanding difficulties.
We will regularly review our work together and discuss whether further sessions would be helpful.

How Do I Get Started?

You can book an initial session. This first appointment gives us an opportunity to discuss your concerns, explore your goals and consider whether sex therapy feels like the right fit for you.