What is Sex Therapy?
According to the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT), sex therapy is a specialized form of psychotherapy that focuses on addressing sexual concerns, improving sexual function, and enhancing overall sexual well-being.
Sex therapy takes a holistic approach, integrating principles from various therapeutic models including cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and systemic approaches to address the complex and multifaceted nature of sexual issues.
Sex therapists work collaboratively with individuals and couples to create a safe, open, and non-judgmental space. Guided by ethical standards, they help clients explore their concerns, communicate more effectively, and develop healthier attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors related to intimacy and sexuality.
What Sex Therapy is Not:
Sex therapy is not a form of entertainment, explicit performance, or a means to fulfill personal fantasies. It is not a space for engaging in sexual activities, and therapists do not engage in physical contact with clients.
Contrary to misconceptions, sex therapy is not solely focused on the act of intercourse or specific sexual techniques. It does not aim to impose societal norms or values onto individuals or couples but rather seeks to understand and address their unique concerns and needs.
Sex therapy is not a replacement for medical interventions in cases of physiological issues; instead, we collaborates with medical professionals when necessary.
It is not coercive, judgmental, or directive, but rather a collaborative and client-centered process aimed at fostering healthy sexual attitudes, behaviors, and relationships.
What To Expect in an Sex Therapy Session:
In sex therapy, clients can expect a confidential, supportive, and non-judgmental space where concerns related to sexuality, intimacy, and relationships can be safely explored. Sessions are guided by a trained sex therapist who uses a client-centered, empathetic approach to address a wide range of topics such as sexual function, desire, communication, and relational dynamics.
Depending on your goals, therapy may include education, skill-building, and open dialogue to help you better understand yourself and your experiences. The focus is on collaboration, respect, and empowerment, with the goal of enhancing both sexual health and overall emotional well-being.
Brief History of Sex Therapy
Sex therapy, as an evidenced-based psychotherapeutic modality, emerged in the mid-20th century with the pioneering research of Masters and Johnson. Formal recognition and structure developed in the 1960s and 1970s, alongside shifting societal attitudes towards sexuality. Organizations like AASECT were pivotal in establishing professional standards and promoting evidence-based practices. Integrating cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and systemic approaches, sex therapy addresses diverse sexual concerns. AASECT's ongoing contributions underscore its importance within psychotherapy, fostering the enhancement of individuals' and couples' sexual well-being.