What Do Sex Therapists Do?
While visiting our Respark Therapy website, you’ll see recommendations from sex therapists, interviews with sex therapists, advice on how to find the right sex therapist for you, and more. With all of this information, you might find yourself asking, “But what do sex therapists do?” A quick internet search can provide answers such as: “a sex therapist helps people with sexual problems,” however, it’s much more than that!
What topics are covered in sex therapy?
The Mayo Clinic provides the following examples of topics that can be covered in a sex therapy session:
- Concerns about sexual desire or arousal
- Concerns about sexual interests or sexual orientation
- Impulsive or compulsive sexual behavior
- Erectile functioning concerns
- Ejaculating early (premature ejaculation)
- Difficulty with sexual arousal
- Trouble reaching orgasm (anorgasmia)
- Painful intercourse (dyspareunia)
- Intimacy issues related to a disability or chronic condition
- Concerns regarding past unwanted sexual experiences
What do sex therapists do? Addressing Trauma to Assisting with Consensual Non-Monogamy
Within the realm of sex therapy, individual practitioners have their own specialties and scope of practice. Some therapists might focus more on assisting clients overcoming sexual trauma, or those in consensual non-monogamous relationships, or with those questioning their gender and/or sexuality. Finding the right sex therapist is just like finding the right medical specialist to meet your needs.
Typically, sex therapy sessions are talk therapy (which sets sex therapists apart from surrogates and those who do bodywork). Sessions address sexual or intimacy issues directly by making treatment plants and setting goals. With this direct approach, sex therapy can be short-term, with a limited number of sessions.
Sex therapists can be licensed psychiatrists, marriage or family therapists, counselors, psychologists, clinical social workers, or doctors who specifically have had advanced training in sexual health, intimacy, and relationships. Sex therapists are considered specialists in their field and are the best option for individuals and their partners encountering sexual problems.
What does it mean to be a certified sex therapist?
To become a certified* sex therapist, a professional must complete a program through an accredited organization, such as Sexual Health Alliance, the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists, or “AASECT.” Sex therapy programs typically include extensive continuing education credits in key core knowledge areas, clinical hours/fieldwork, therapy training, and supervision from a Certified Supervisor of Sex Therapy. In the US, sex therapists’ licenses will allow them to practice in specific states.
For clients in Colorado and Texas, Respark sex therapists, with their specialized experience and a sex-positive attitude, are ready and willing to assist you and your partner(s) with any intimacy and sexual issues or questions!
*It’s important to note that there is not a current entity governing the use of the term “sex therapist” as a provider’s credentials. Because of this, it’s vital to research a practitioner’s license and qualifications before scheduling a session.
Written by William Lynch
Resources:
Everyday Health, What is Sex Therapy?