Sexual therapy has been around for decades, but it’s only in recent years that people have become much more open about seeking help from sexual therapists.
This is an excellent step forward since sexuality is a natural part of life, and unresolved issues could lead to various negative implications.
Sexual therapists mainly help individuals to overcome their sexual problems, to better understand their sexual preferences, and to improve their relationships.
The Online Mental Health Reviews team is committed to providing informative and empowering guidance to help readers improve their mental health, of which sexuality is a vital part.
In this blog, we will provide you with more information on the growing popularity of sexual therapists, the benefits of seeing them, and how you can find the right sex therapist for you.
1. The Growing Popularity of Sexual Therapists
- Sexual therapists are becoming increasingly popular, with more individuals seeking their services to manage their sexual health.
- Society is becoming more understanding and accepting of the need for sexual therapy. There is a growing awareness that sexual problems can happen to anyone and that we need to support one another.
- The internet has played a significant role in allowing people to share their experiences and to raise awareness.
- Social media also helps mitigate the stigma associated with sexual problems, making it easier for people to come forward and seek help.
2. The Benefits of Seeing a Sexual Therapist
Sexual therapy can undoubtedly offer various benefits to those who seek it.
- One of the primary benefits is improved intimate relationships.
- Sexual therapists can help couples communicate better, which can lead to a more satisfying sex life in their relationship or in expressing their sexual orientations.
- They can also help individuals address specific sexual problems such as erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, low sex drive, anxiety, and trauma.
- Sexual therapists can also help people explore their sexuality and understand their sexual preferences better, fostering better self-awareness.
3. How to Find the Right Sexual Therapist for You
Finding the right sexual therapist can be challenging, but there are things you can do to make the search easier.
- Firstly, it is crucial to be comfortable with your therapist and to find someone who is trained and experienced in sexual therapy or clinical social work therapist.
- Secondly, you may want to consider factors such as cost, location, and availability.
- You can ask for recommendations, read reviews online, or contact your primary care provider or insurance company for referrals.
- You can also browse the online directories of professional associations dedicated to sexual therapy, for example, sexual doctors which are similar but different than therapists specializing in sexuality.
4. What to Expect from a Sexual Therapy Session
During your initial consultation, a sex therapist will ask you about your concerns, medical history, and sexual experiences.
They may also assess your mental health and emotional state. From there, they will develop a personalized treatment plan that may involve behavioral therapy, cognitive therapy, or psychoanalytic therapy.
The duration of the treatment will vary depending on your needs, but it’s essential to remain committed to the process and to adhere to the therapist’s advice.
What Happens in Sex Therapy?
Sex therapy is a type of counseling that focuses on helping people address issues related to their sexual health. It can be beneficial for those who are struggling with mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression, as well as those who are having difficulty in their relationships.
During sex therapy sessions, the therapist will work with the individual or couple to identify and address any underlying issues that may be contributing to their difficulties. The therapist will also help them develop skills for pleasure and arousal, and guide how to communicate effectively about sex.
Sex therapists may also recommend exercises or activities that can help improve intimacy between partners.
Ultimately, the goal of sex therapy is to help people move past physical and emotional challenges to have a satisfying relationship and pleasurable sex life.
What Does Sex Therapy Look Like?
Sex therapy can involve insight-oriented work, such as processing the psychological aspects of sexuality, as well as providing education about sexual health.
During sex therapy, you may talk through your experiences, worries, and feelings with a therapist who specializes in this area. They will emphasize sexual freedom of thoughts, feelings, fantasies, and healthy forms of sexual activity.
Sex therapists use a non-pathologizing approach to help you gain clarity on your goals for your sex life and provide guidance on how to achieve them.
It’s important to note that sex therapy is customized to each client and their individual needs. It can involve anything from identifying beliefs or blockages around sex to helping you understand different aspects of sexuality.
If you’re considering sex therapy for trauma, it’s important to find a therapist who is experienced in this area and who has the right credentials. You should also make sure they are someone who makes you feel comfortable talking about sensitive topics like sexuality.
What does Sex-Positive mean?
According to Healthline1, sex-positivity is an attitude that centers on responsible, ethical, and consensual sex as mentally, emotionally, and physically healthy.
- It means having a positive attitude towards sex and feeling comfortable with one’s own sexual identity and with the sexual behaviors of others.
- It also involves respecting other people’s sexual preferences and the freedom to explore their sexuality without shame or judgment.
- Sex-positivity encourages open dialogue about sex to reduce stigma and promote pleasure-based education.
- In practice, this means understanding that all consensual sexual activities are fundamentally healthy and pleasurable, regardless of gender identity or orientation.
- It also means recognizing that everyone has the right to make decisions about their own body without fear of judgment or discrimination.
Overall, sex-positivity is an empowering attitude that promotes respect for oneself and others while encouraging honest communication about sex.
Learn About Sexual Health DIY
What if you want to embrace your sexuality, and be more sex-positive, but you don’t want to go to therapy and would rather do-it-yourself?
Learning about more sexuality is often a pre-requisite for people to feel more comfortable before therapy, and just in general to feel better about their sex lives.
You may want to check out “Taoist Sexual Secrets” an online, self-paced course from Sounds True that’s got 5/5 stars from 9 reviews (https://onlinementalhealthreviews.com/taoist-sexual-secrets).
- Explore the powerful healing and spiritual connection of Taoist teachings on Taoist Sexual Secrets with Lee Holden and Dr. Rachel Carlton Abrams
- Learn fanning the fire, microcosmic orbit, pleasure anatomy 101, and the alchemy of ecstasy practices for nourishing your body, heart, and soul
- Enhance your sexual energy with breath-based practices to elevate desire, healing, and spiritual connection in yourself and your intimate relationships
- Experience deeper pleasure both alone or with a partner through these ancient arts.
How to Find a Suitable Sexual Therapist in Each City
Finding a suitable sexologist in each city can be a daunting task. But with the right resources and guidance, you can find the perfect fit for your needs.
- The first step is to research local therapists and their qualifications. You can use websites such as Psychology Today or GoodTherapy to search for therapists in your area. Look for those who specialize in sex therapy and have experience treating mental health issues related to control, sexual behavior, and/or to sexuality.
- Another way to find a suitable sexual therapist is by asking friends or family members who have seen one before. They may be able to provide valuable insight about their experience with the therapist, which can help you decide if they’re the right fit for you.
- You can also look into online therapy options, such as Talkspace or Brightside, which offer convenient access to qualified professionals from anywhere in the world. While these services may not be available in every city, they are great alternatives if you’re unable to find a local provider.
- Finally, make sure that you feel comfortable with your chosen therapist before committing to treatment. Ask questions about their approach and background so that you can make an informed decision about whether they’re right for you.
Finding an appropriate sexual therapist doesn’t have to be difficult—with some research and guidance, you can find someone who meets your needs and helps you on your journey toward mental health and well-being.
How to Use Zocdoc to Find a Sexual Health Professional in Any City
Are you looking for an easy way to schedule meetings with certified healthcare workers in your area?
It’s easy to find a doctor, dentist, or other health care provider on Zocdoc.
The Zocdoc website is made with helpful tools like insurance proof, real-time availability, and patient reviews that help you book the right care for your needs.
In our Zocdoc review, we bought and tried the service. Nowe we believe Zocdoc fits right in with our goal of helping you choose a healthcare provider so that you can get the care you need without any extra trouble.
- Go to Zocdoc.com and select “Sexologist” as the type of doctor you want. You could also search for ‘marriage family therapist’ or ‘sexual health’.
- Type in the city or zip code where you want to see a sexologist.
- Have a certain insurance plan? You can limit your search to only show doctors who take your insurance.
- You can narrow your search even further by job, gender, language spoken, and whether or not the person is available.
- You can check the profiles of certified sexologists to see if they are open when you want to talk to them.
- Look at how other patients have ranked each professional, read reviews, and check their credentials to find the one who will work best for your needs.
- You can choose a time that works for you once you know who will give you the best care. Zocdoc will remind you of important meetings so you never miss one.
Zocdoc knows how hard it can be to find the right doctor, especially one who specializes in mental health. So, Zocdoc’s job is to make the process as easy as possible, so all you have to think about is getting the care you need.
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The Benefits of Seeking Help From a Sexual Therapist
- Sex therapy can help you gain an understanding of your sexual wants, needs, and desires while helping you to get comfortable communicating these to your partner.
- It can also help improve sexual satisfaction and address a wide range of sexual concerns too.
- Some people visit sex therapists for sexual education, tips to improve intercourse or intimacy exercises they can learn with their partner.
- The goal of sex therapy is to help people move past physical and emotional challenges to their sexual desire and have a satisfying relationship and pleasurable sex life.
- A therapist can help you communicate needs or concerns that you’re unable to express on your own, as well as provide guidance on how to navigate difficult conversations with your partner.
Can I Talk about Sexual Problems With a Therapist?
Talking about sexual problems with a therapist can be a difficult but important step in addressing mental health issues.
It is important to remember that your therapist is there to help you and that talking to a couples therapist about sex is not wrong or embarrassing. Your therapist should be able to provide you with the support and resources needed to address any sexual issues you may have.
When discussing sexual issues with your therapist, it is important to think about what your goals are in addressing them. Ask yourself what you would like to get out of the conversation and how you would like your therapist to help you. It may also be helpful to prepare some questions ahead of time so that you can make the most of the session.
It is also important to remember that your therapist will not judge or criticize you for anything that comes up during the conversation. Ideally!
While there are always some bad apples, in general for the vast majority, therapists are trained professionals who understand how difficult it can be to talk about these issues, and they will do their best to provide a safe space for discussion.
Overall, talking about sexual problems with a therapist can be an important part of addressing mental health issues. With the right preparation and support, it can be a positive experience that helps lead to better mental health outcomes.
Alternatives to Visiting a Sexual Therapist, Such As Self-Help Resources Or Joining an Online Support Group
If you are struggling with mental health and considering alternatives to visiting a sexual therapist, there are several options available.
- Self-help resources can be found online or in books and provide information on topics such as understanding your sexuality, communication skills, and managing stress. You can also join an online support group where you can connect with others who have similar struggles. This type of group provides a safe space to share experiences and receive advice from peers.
- Another option is to seek out sex therapy services that are offered online. Online sex therapy is similar to in-person counseling, except it takes place through online chat, video conferencing, or phone conversations. This type of therapy can help address underlying mental health concerns, sexual trauma, or other issues that may prevent you from feeling desirable.
No matter what path you choose for your mental health journey, remember that seeking help is a sign of strength and courage. It takes time to find the right fit for you but it’s worth the effort!
What Does a Sexologist Do in a Bed?
Sexologists do not perform sex themselves; rather, they focus on helping the patient identify their sexual goals and providing them with the necessary resources to reach those goals. This can include advice on how to communicate better with partners, understand one’s own body better, explore different types of sexual intimacy, or learn more about healthy relationships.
Evidence Supporting the Effectiveness of Different Types of Sexual Therapy
Sexual therapy can be used to treat a variety of conditions of sexual dysfunction, such as erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, low libido, and difficulty achieving orgasm.
Studies have found evidence that several types of sexual therapy are effective in treating these conditions.
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is one type of sexual therapy that is effective in treating female sexual dysfunctions.
- A meta-analysis2 by Kyle Stephenson, Ph.D., found evidence that mindfulness-based therapy was also effective for this purpose. See the study here “Effects of Mindfulness-Based Therapies for Female Sexual Dysfunction: A Meta-Analytic Review“.
- CBT and mindfulness-based therapies focus on identifying and changing negative thought patterns or behaviors that may be contributing to sexual difficulties.
Other Techniques of Sex Therapy
- Systematic desensitization involves gradually exposing the individual to anxiety-producing situations related to sex until they become more comfortable with them.
- Sensate focus is a technique where partners take turns touching each other without the goal of intercourse or orgasm to increase comfort with physical and emotional intimacy.
- Interpersonal therapy focuses on improving communication between partners about their needs and desires related to sex.
- Behavioral interventions involve teaching the individual new skills or techniques for addressing their particular issue with sex.
Costs Associated with Receiving Help From a Sexual Therapist
The cost of receiving help from a sexual therapist can vary depending on the type of therapy and the therapist’s expertise.
- Generally, therapy sessions range from $65 to $250 per hour. Some therapists may charge less or more than this amount.
- For example, online sex therapy may cost between $50-$300 per session.
- Additionally, couples counseling may cost anywhere from $35 to $250 per session.
If you have health insurance, your plan will likely cover some or all of the costs associated with seeing a sexual therapist. However, if you do not have health insurance, you should expect to pay out-of-pocket for your therapy sessions.
It is important to note that the cost of therapy should not be a barrier to seeking help. If you are struggling with mental health issues, there are many free resources available to help make therapy more affordable.
Selecting the Right Kind of Sexual Therapist Based on Individual Needs and Situation
Selecting the right kind of sex therapist is an important decision. It’s important to find someone who is qualified and experienced in treating the specific issue you are facing.
- The first step in selecting a sexual therapist is to determine what type of professional you need. A sex therapist can be a psychiatrist, a marriage and family, a certified sex therapist, a psychologist, or a clinical social worker. Each type of professional has different qualifications and experience in treating sexual issues.
- It’s also important to consider your individual needs and situation when selecting a sexual therapist. For example, if you are struggling with mental health issues, it may be beneficial to look for a therapist who specializes in mental health as well as sex therapy. You should also consider whether you prefer an individual or group setting for therapy sessions.
- When researching potential therapists, make sure to check their credentials and certifications. The American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT – https://www.aasect.org/aasect-certified-sex-therapist-0) offers certification for sex therapists who have specialized training in this field.
- Finally, it’s important to find someone who makes you and new clients feel comfortable and understood. Don’t be afraid to ask questions about their background and experience during your initial consultation so that you can make sure they are the right fit for you.
Who Should Seek Out Help From a Sexologist, as well as Those Who Should Avoid Seeking Such Help
- People who may benefit from seeing a sexologist include those who are experiencing difficulty in the sexual functioning of their relationship due to lack of communication or understanding; those dealing with issues related to their sexual orientation or gender identity; and those looking for advice on how to enhance their sex life. Anyone must consider seeing a sexologist feels comfortable discussing these topics openly and honestly.
- On the other hand, some people should not seek out help from a sexologist. For example, if you are experiencing severe depression or anxiety that is impacting your daily life, it is best to see a mental health professional instead of a sexologist. Additionally, if you are in an abusive relationship you must get help from someone trained in domestic violence counseling rather than a sex therapist.
Overall, if you feel like talking to someone about your sexual health could be beneficial for you then seeking out the help of a qualified sexologist may be the right choice for you.
Find a Sexual Therapist Conclusion
Sexual therapy is becoming increasingly common due to the growing awareness of sexual health, the acceptance of seeking assistance, and the openness of society.
Seeking a sexual therapist is vital for anyone experiencing sexual problems or for those seeking to explore their sexual preferences.
Sexual therapy can improve romantic relationships, promote self-awareness, and offer a better understanding of one’s sexuality.
While finding the perfect therapist can be a challenge, it is essential to be comfortable and to have someone with expertise and experience in sexual therapy.
We hope that this blog has provided you with enough information about sexual therapists and their importance.
Finally, our team at Online Mental Health Reviews has covered similar topics you may want to explore, such as: why sex work is becoming more popular, social works and sexuality, the costs of sexology, sexual trauma and mindfulness therapy, sexual emotional abuse, the counseling of somatic sexology, and the pros of sexual therapy.
Sources
- What Does It Actually Mean to Be “Sex Positive”? (n.d.). 7 Sex Positivity FAQs: What It Means, Who It’s for, How to Do It. https://www.healthline.com/health/healthy-sex/sex-positive-meaning
- Stephenson, K. R., & Kerth, J. (2017, June 15). Effects of Mindfulness-Based Therapies for Female Sexual Dysfunction: A Meta-Analytic Review. The Journal of Sex Research, 54(7), 832–849. https://doi.org/10.1080/00224499.2017.1331199
If You Are In Crisis
If you find yourself in a crisis, waiting for an online therapy appointment may not be the best course of action. For immediate help, please call 911. This includes if you have plans to harm yourself or others.
There is also the option to call the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at any time if you are considering self-harm. You can simply dial 988 to speak with someone who can support you.
Moreover, you can call the National Helpline of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) at 800-662-HELP (4357) to get free and confidential assistance at any time regarding substance abuse disorders or mental health issues. SAMHSA provides information about treatment options and serves as a resource for those seeking support.
Remember that help is always available, and there are resources to assist you in times of crisis. Please don’t hesitate to reach out for support.
