What is the Difference Between a Sex Therapist and a Sex Counselor.
Looking for a provider to help with your sex life? There are many options, but some of the terminologies can seem to overlap. Let’s clear up the difference between a sex therapist and a sex counselor.
How are they similar?
Both sex therapists and sex counselors must be AASECT Certified. In general, both professions require extensive education in psychotherapy or professional counseling before applying for licensure and becoming certified. Both practitioners create a non-judgmental, comfortable space for discussing sex. They both define the concerns of the client, determine how these issues evolved, provide options for resolution, and assist clients in reaching their goals.
What does a sex therapist do?
Sex therapists are licensed mental health professionals that address sexual issues through psychological and cognitive therapy. The aim is to use their specialized training to offer a more targeted approach and to encourage clients to talk about sex openly. They are certified, registered, or clinical members of a national psychotherapy organization. Sex therapists can work with simple sexual concerns to more in-depth, long-term problems. Many people seek out a sex therapist for issues like trouble orgasming, sexual aversion, and vaginismus. Sex therapists may give homework between sessions for couples to work on, and may also provide specialized treatment in cases where there are multiple psychiatric diagnoses.
What does a sex counselor do?
Sex counselors can represent many different professions, such as Planned Parenthood counselors, school counselors, or other health professionals. Counselors take more of a problem-solving approach by offering education, tools, and techniques to address short-term problems. People may seek out sex counselors for sexual problems rooted more in relationship issues, and less about sexual dysfunction. This can be a better option for couples looking for guidance on short-term sexual issues that can be resolved with effective communication strategies. Sex counselors provide information, education, and suggestions to help their clients. Sex counselors may also refer clients to sex therapists in cases where the problem should be treated over an extended period of time.
In sum, both professions address sex-related issues. The main difference between the two consists of how these issues are treated. Sex therapists can diagnose and treat long-term problems more intensely, while sex counselors provide short-term solutions and education while referring to sex therapists when necessary. Which sounds right for you?
Respark offers both sex therapists and sex counselors in both Colorado and Texas that are trained specifically for your needs! Contact us today to learn more or book your appointment.