More Intimacy Can be Achieved Through Individual and Couples Sex Therapy

A relationship requires different things to thrive. Good communication is necessary, as is mutual respect and compromise. But one of the most important aspects of a healthy relationship is a sense of intimacy between each other. While intimacy can be fostered through communication, there is really no better avenue to it than a loving sexual relationship.

Often, when people are having trouble in the bedroom, their sense of intimacy takes a significant hit. This lack of true intimacy within our relationships can greatly diminish our quality of life. What needs to be created is a sense of safety. That’s why it is recommended that couples seek the guidance of a sex therapist.

What is Sex Therapy?

Sex therapy is a form of talk therapy that can help couples address any issues they may be having in their sex life. The goal of sex therapy is to assist individuals to move past any physical, emotional, or psychological challenges they may be facing to enjoy a healthy and satisfying sex life.

Symptoms of Sexual Dysfunction

Sexual dysfunction is more common than you might realize. In fact, 43% of women and 31% of men have reported experiencing some form of a sexual issue during their life.

Some of the most common symptoms of sexual dysfunction are:

Erectile dysfunction

Low or no libido

Premature ejaculation

No interest in sex

Low self-esteem

Lack of response to sexual stimulus

An inability to reach orgasm

Distressing sexual thoughts

Unwanted sexual fetishes

Sex therapy can help individuals address and change their behavior, leading to increased sexual satisfaction.

How Does Sex Therapy Work?

The term sex therapy conjures up all sorts of scenarios in a person’s mind! But the reality is, this therapy is like other forms of talk therapy where you share your experiences, feelings, and concerns.

In a safe and nonjudgmental setting, a couple can openly discuss any sexual issues with their therapist, who then offers coping strategies to help improve communication and sexual responses. A therapist can help you express your true feelings to your partner and guide you towards an intimate relationship that is free of judgement and unique to your or your partner’s specific desires. They can offer guidance for encouraging reciprocity for a more satisfying and fulfilling sexual experience. Through strengthening your sexual bond, you can build a more trusting and devoted relationship with your partner. A qualified sex therapist is not there to take anyone’s side or show the couple how to have sex. He or she is there to facilitate understanding, development, and ultimate healing so that intimacy can be reestablished between the couple. If your therapist suspects your sexual issues stem from a physical condition, they will refer you to a medical doctor.

Sex Therapy Benefits

Sex therapy can help establish intimacy because it:

Strengthens communication. Your therapist is there to help you and your partner have uncomfortable conversations.

Helps you heal. It is quite common for one or both people in the relationship to have sexual pain or trauma from their past.

Cope with performance anxiety. Many men suffer from performance anxiety while many women are unable to let go and reach orgasm.

Navigate infidelity. Recovering from infidelity can be incredibly challenging.

Seeking Help

I am a licensed therapist with a doctorate in Clinical Sexology and a certified member of the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT). If you would like to explore treatment options, please get in touch with me so we can discuss how I may help you.

SOURCES:

https://www.marriage.com/advice/physical-intimacy/how-sex-therapy-can-help-build-more-intimacy/

https://blogs.psychcentral.com/relationships/2015/01/sexual-reintegration-therapy-healing-solutions-for-sex-and-porn-addiction/

https://www.healthline.com/health/sex-therapy