Sex can be a beautiful way to connect with ourselves and our partners, offering joy and deep pleasure. Yet, for many, the journey to fulfilling intimacy can be complicated. Thankfully, a dedicated community of sexual and mental health professionals is here to help navigate these challenges.
What Is Sex Therapy?
Sex therapy serves as a valuable resource for those dealing with sexual difficulties. But what does it entail? Who can benefit from it? Letβs break it down.
What Is Sexual Dysfunction?
Research indicates that around 43% of women (assigned female at birth) and 31% of men (assigned male at birth) experience sexual dysfunction at some point. This can stem from psychological or physiological factors and is typically categorized into four main types:
Arousal Disorders: Difficulty achieving physical arousal during sexual activity.
Desire Disorders: A notable lack of interest in sex.
Pain Disorders: Experiencing discomfort during intercourse.
Orgasm Disorders: Issues with reaching orgasm, either delayed or absent.
While many who seek sex therapy are dealing with dysfunction, others may pursue it to explore their sexual identity or strengthen their connection with a partner.
Insights from a Sex Therapist
Meet Dr. Jennifer Litner (she/her), a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Certified Sex Therapist based in Chicago. Dr. Litner addresses a wide range of concerns, including mismatched desires, arousal and orgasm difficulties, performance anxiety, painful sex, and identity exploration.
What motivated her to become a sex therapist? Jennifer aims to help individuals achieve satisfying intimate relationships and heal from sexual shame and trauma. Many therapists are inspired by personal experiences or by witnessing loved ones face challenges related to sexual well-being.
What Happens in Sex Therapy?
Sex therapy is a form of talk therapy designed to create a supportive atmosphere where individuals can identify and address sexual health issues. According to Jennifer:
- The therapist will first assess the clientβs specific concerns and collaborate on a tailored plan.
- Through conversation and various therapeutic approaches, clients explore solutions and exercises to help reach their desired outcomes.
Common methods include mindfulness, cognitive behavioral techniques, relational skill-building, and psychoeducation. Ultimately, the goal is to help clients reframe their sexual challenges, leading to greater pleasure and satisfaction. Both individuals and couples can benefit from sex therapy, and a mix of individual and couples sessions may be advantageous.
If thereβs a physiological issue at play, consulting with a medical professional, like a pelvic floor physical therapist, may also be necessary.
Tools for Enhancing Sexual Health
Addressing sexual health challenges often requires a holistic approach, and not everyone has access to a sex therapist. However, having practical tools at your disposal can make a significant difference.
One effective tool that Jennifer suggests is creating a pleasure wheelβa DIY graphic listing pleasurable activities to enjoy with a partner. Here are some ideas to include:
- Making out
- Cuddling
- Oral sex
- Back rubs
- Mutual masturbation
- Intimate dancing
Incorporating sex toys, like vibrators, can also enhance pleasure and expand your sexual options.
Inclusivity in Sex Therapy
Sex therapy often intersects with topics like gender exploration, evolving sexual identities, and trauma. Itβs crucial to find a therapist who not only acknowledges these issues but actively embraces them, fostering a safe and inclusive space. While not mandatory, seeking a therapist with similar life experiences or identitiesβsuch as a queer therapist for those exploring queer identitiesβcan be beneficial.
How to Access Sex Therapy
You donβt have to struggle alone; resources are available to help you achieve a fulfilling and stress-free sex life. Sex therapy could be the answer youβve been looking for.
Websites like Psychology Today allow you to search for providers tailored to your needs, offering insight into their backgrounds before you decide to reach out. The American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists also maintains a database of certified practitioners. Depending on your insurance and location, sex therapy may be covered; otherwise, out-of-pocket payment may be necessary.
Donβt hesitate to βshop aroundβ to find the right therapist for you. Therapy is an intimate process, and a solid connection with your therapist is vitalβespecially in sex therapy. Remember, youβre paying for a service, and you deserve the care and attention that fits your needs.