Psychosexual Therapy

Psychosexual therapy (or psychosexual counselling) is a specialised therapeutic technique. It is specifically designed to help people living with difficulties that are of a psychological, sexual nature and that are too difficult or complex to be resolved on their own.

The origins of psychosexual therapy lie in the pioneering sex therapy founded by 20^th century Washington University research team, William H. Masters and Virginia E. Johnson. In 1970 they published a report on a “new” therapeutic approach to sexual problems, which revolutionised treatment for such difficulties. Psychosexual therapy incorporates the key behavioural and cognitive principles of Masters and Johnson’s original approach, and has proven successful in helping people of all ages, health and sexuality to overcome their sexual problems.

Individuals living with long-term sexual problems are often too ashamed and embarrassed to discuss their concerns with anyone – not even their partner – and this can take a toll on their sex life, relationships and well-being. Psychosexual therapy provides an outlet for people to talk about their issues with a trusted and supportive therapist who specialises in resolving all kinds of sexual problems.

Some of the issues psychosexual therapists will be able to help with include:

• loss of sexual desire
• painful intercourse
• difficulties with orgasm
• arousal disorders
• erectile dysfunction
• premature or delayed ejaculation
• sexual difficulties following abuse
• general breakdown in a couple’s relationship
• not being able to achieve penetrative sex
• fear of sex
• menopause
• pregnancy and postnatal sex
• sexuality and illness
• sex avoidance
• poor body image relating to intimacy.

What’s The Solution?

The essential aim of psychosexual therapy is to identify the root cause of a sexual problem(s) and then treat it appropriately. Sessions do not involve any examinations, tests, or any sexual acts – psychosexual therapists simply want to listen. Their main priority is to demonstrate to clients that they are relaxed and experienced in talking about sex. Although psychosexual therapists are fully trained to deal with emotional and relationship problems, their approach is focused primarily on helping people to talk openly about sexual feelings and concerns.

Psychosexual therapy sessions begin with lots of talking and sharing, where clients are encouraged to assess their sexual problems and pinpoint thoughts, behaviours and other factors that might be contributing to them. This stage will involve exploring relevant past experiences, such as sexual abuse, which may have unconsciously affected sexual attitudes. Therapists will also ask about a client’s relationships in order to identify how sexual problems may be linked to, or causing issues in their personal life.

Once the root cause of a sexual problem is identified, sessions will then move on to treatment.

We always work collaboratively with our clients to provide the best results to therapy. Our service is confidential and we aim to foster a safe environment where you can feel positive and empowered.