Demystifying Sex Therapy: What We Do and How We Can Help

Sex therapy is a specialized form of talk therapy designed to help individuals and couples address a wide range of sexual concerns. While the topic of sex can feel taboo or uncomfortable, we provide a safe and supportive space to explore and resolve these issues. Often people are confused as to what sex therapy actually is, and what the role of a clinical sexologist is. So, let us clarify.

What is Sex Therapy, From Our Perspective?

Sex therapy, as we practice it, is not about having sex with your therapist—so get that our of your head. There is no touching or hands-on contact. Instead, it involves open and honest communication with us, as highly trained and AASECT Certified professionals, who can help you:

• Address Sexual Dysfunctions: This can include issues such as low desire, difficulty achieving orgasm, and painful intercourse (including vaginismus and vulvodynia), as well as erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation.

• Explore Relationship Issues: We help couples navigate intimacy challenges, communication breakdowns, and mismatched sexual desires.

• Heal from Sexual Trauma: We provide support and guidance for individuals who have experienced sexual abuse or other forms of trauma.

• Navigate Life Transitions: We find that sex therapy can be beneficial during periods of change, such as pregnancy, menopause, or aging, which can impact sexual function and desire.

• Explore Sexual Identity and Orientation: We offer a safe space for individuals to explore their sexual identity and orientation, as well as relationship styles.

• Improve Sexual Communication: A large portion of our work is centered around improving communication between partners.

What We Do as AASECT Certified Sex Therapists:

As AASECT Certified Sex Therapists, we are licensed mental health professionals who have undergone rigorous specialized training in human sexuality. AASECT (the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists) is widely recognized as the gold standard in sexuality education, counseling, and therapy. This certification ensures that we possess a deep understanding of the psychological, emotional, and physical factors that can influence sexual health. We work to:

• Provide Education: We offer accurate and reliable information about sexual anatomy, function, and behavior.

• Assess and Diagnose: We conduct thorough assessments to identify the underlying causes of sexual concerns.

• Develop Treatment Plans: We create personalized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs.

• Facilitate Communication: We help individuals and couples improve their communication skills related to sex and intimacy.

• Promote Sexual Wellness: We empower you to embrace your sexuality and cultivate a healthy and fulfilling sex life.

Our Approach:

Here are some key aspects of how we approach sex therapy:

• Holistic Approach:

  • We emphasize a holistic approach, considering the interconnectedness of physical, emotional, and relational factors.

  • We often address the impact of past experiences, cultural influences, and personal beliefs on sexual health.

• Emphasis on Communication:

  • Improving communication between partners is a core focus, helping couples express their needs and desires.

  • We help to create safe spaces, for open and honest conversations.

• Trauma-Informed Care:

  • We provide trauma-informed care, recognizing the impact of past trauma on sexual function and well-being.

• Sex-Positive Approach:

  • We maintain a sex-positive approach, that supports the wide range of empowered sexual expression.

• Individualized Treatment:

  • We work to create individualized goals to help you achieve a pleasure-filled life.

When to Seek Our Help:

If you are experiencing any of the following, sex therapy with us may be beneficial:

• Persistent sexual difficulties

• Relationship challenges related to intimacy

• Concerns about sexual identity or orientation

• Difficulty communicating about sex

We provide valuable tools and support for individuals and couples seeking to improve their sexual health and well-being. We are here to help.

Please note: Dr. Ashley Sweet and Dr. Danielle Armour see clients in their private practices for psychotherapy services. Attending the WISE retreats does not constitute individual or couples psychotherapy. Reach out to them directly for information about how to work with them in a psychotherapy capacity.