Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsJob DescriptionDuring a SessionFinding One You LikeProfessional BackgroundCoping Strategies
Table of ContentsView All
View All
Table of Contents
Job Description
During a Session
Finding One You Like
Professional Background
Coping Strategies
A sex therapist is a licensed mental health professional with specialized training in navigating sexual issues and concerns. Individuals and couples might work with a sex therapist to overcome challenges related to sexual trauma,arousaland orgasm, intimacy, and sexual function. Sex therapists provide a safe and supportive space to understand and work through short- and long-term problems related to sex and intimacy.
This article explains the multifaceted role of a sex therapist, including who and what they treat and what to expect from asex therapysession. It also provides tips on finding a sex therapist and getting the most out of your therapy sessions.
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Job Description: What Is a Sex Therapist?
A sex therapist is a licensed and trained mental health professional who providestalk therapy(psychotherapy) to individuals and couples to address concerns about their sexual health, intimacy, and relationships.A sex therapist helps people navigate and resolve challenges related to sex and intimacy using different psychotherapy techniques, including:
A sex therapist works within ethical guidelines and respects boundaries, focusing on verbal communication and therapeutic interventions in a safe and supportive environment. They do notengage in physical contact or sexual activities with their clients.
Though sex therapists have a comprehensive understanding of sexual health, they are not medical doctors and cannot diagnose or treat medical conditions related tosexual dysfunctionor physical pain. However, most sex therapists collaborate with healthcare providers to offer comprehensive care.
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Sex Therapist vs. Sexologist
Though “sex therapist” and “sexologist” are sometimes used interchangeably, they are two distinct roles with different areas of expertise and training. A sex therapist provides psychotherapy and counseling to individuals and couples dealing with the emotional, psychological, and relationship aspects of their sexual lives.
A sexologist is an expert in the scientific study of human sexuality.They may have an academic or research-oriented background, provide education and public health services, or conduct research on sexual behavior, relationships, and sexual health. Though some clinical sexologists may offer sex therapy services, most sexologists focus primarily on researching human sexuality.
During a Sex Therapist (Talk) Session
When you meet with a sex therapist, you can expect a safe, confidential environment where you can freely discuss your sexual concerns and experiences, either on your own or with a partner. Your therapist will listen attentively and without judgment to gain a comprehensive understanding of your unique situation.
In an individual sex therapy session, the therapist may ask about your sexual history, relationships, and any emotional or psychological factors contributing to your current challenges. You and the sex therapist will work collaboratively to identify goals and develop strategies to address your needs.
In a couple’s sex therapy session, the focus is on the dynamics between partners and their shared sexual experiences. The therapist will encourage open communication, helping you and your partner express your feelings, desires, and concerns related to intimacy.
The goal is to foster understanding and empathy between partners, paving the way for more fulfilling and satisfying sexual interactions. Couples may be encouraged to engage in exercises and activities that promote intimacy and strengthen their emotional connection.
Who Needs to See a Sex Therapist?People from all walks of life may benefit from sex therapy, including those with:Pastsexual traumaPost-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)Difficulties with arousal or orgasmsErectile dysfunctionVaginismusLoss oflibidoAnxiety around sexor sexual activitiesFear of sexIntimacy issues and communication problemsIssues related to sexual orgender identitySexual incompatibility (couples)Navigating life transitions that impact sex (e.g., childbirth,menopause)
Who Needs to See a Sex Therapist?
People from all walks of life may benefit from sex therapy, including those with:Pastsexual traumaPost-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)Difficulties with arousal or orgasmsErectile dysfunctionVaginismusLoss oflibidoAnxiety around sexor sexual activitiesFear of sexIntimacy issues and communication problemsIssues related to sexual orgender identitySexual incompatibility (couples)Navigating life transitions that impact sex (e.g., childbirth,menopause)
People from all walks of life may benefit from sex therapy, including those with:
How Do You Find a Sex Therapist You Like?
Finding a sex therapist you feel comfortable and compatible with can help ensure a successful therapeutic experience. Here are some steps to help you find a qualified sex therapist you like:
After narrowing down your choices, contact the sex therapists who interest you. Many therapists offer a free initial consultation or a brief phone call to discuss your concerns and see if you feel comfortable with their approach.
Trust your instincts during the consultation or first session. Pay attention to your feelings when talking to the therapist and whether you feel heard and understood. A good therapeutic relationship is built on mutual trust and respect.
Sex Therapist Professional Background
Sex therapists must have a master’s or doctorate degree and have specific training in sex therapy to become licensed through the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists.They may hold various professional titles and credentials, such as:
Using Coping Strategies Outside of Sex Therapy
Sex therapy equips individuals andcoupleswith coping strategies to address their unique sexual concerns. Your sex therapist will help you develop coping strategies to:
Depending on the specific issues addressed, these coping techniques can be practical, cognitive, emotional, or behavioral.
To help you implement changes and use the strategies you learn in therapy, sex therapists frequently assign “homework,” which involves tasks or exercises designed to complement the therapeutic process.Homework assignments are personalized and tailored to each individual or couple’s needs and goals.
The assignments provide opportunities for practical application, self-reflection, and communication practice. By completing these tasks, you’ll better understand your sexual concerns and relationships while actively engaging in your therapeutic journey.
For example, if a couple is working on improving emotional intimacy, they might set aside specific times during the week to engage in deep conversations and active listening without distractions.
Other coping strategies may involve:
By consistently applying these techniques outside of therapy, you can foster positive habits, strengthen emotional bonds, and cultivate healthier and more fulfilling sexual relationships.
Summary
Sex therapists are specialized mental health professionals who offer talk-based therapy to help individuals and couples navigate various sexual challenges, including trauma, sexual dysfunction, sexual fears or anxieties, and relationship issues. Sex therapists provide a safe, judgment-free environment for helping people overcome sex issues and concerns. They may assign personalized “homework” to help you integrate what you learn in therapy into your everyday life. Sex therapy can help you cultivate positive changes in your sexual life, foster emotional bonds, and enhance your overall sexual well-being.
12 SourcesVerywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Sexual Health Alliance.What is the difference between sex therapy, sex coaching, and sex counseling?American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists.Certification types: Distinguishing sexuality educators, counselors, and therapists.International Society for Sexual Medicine.What happens during sex therapy?American Psychological Association.Sexology.American Board of Sexology.Becoming a sex professional.Ramanathan V, Redelman M.Sexual dysfunctions and sex therapy: the role of a general practitioner.Aust J Gen Pract. 2020;49(7):412-415. doi:10.31128/AJGP-02-20-5230Sexual Medicine Society of North America.What is sex therapy like?American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists.AASECT requirements for sex therapist certification.University of Michigan School of Social Work.Sex therapy.Vaishnav M, Saha G, Mukherji A, Vaishnav P.Principles of marital therapies and behavior therapy of sexual dysfunction.Indian J Psychiatry. 2020;62(Suppl 2):S213-S222. doi:10.4103/psychiatry.IndianJPsychiatry_19_20Sexual Health Alliance.Do your homework: couples sex therapy exercises to do at home.Imanpour Barough S, Riazi H, Keshavarz Z, Nasiri M, Montazeri A.The relationship between coping strategies with sexual satisfaction and sexual intimacy in women with multiple sclerosis.Ann Gen Psychiatry. 2023;22(1):22. doi:10.1186/s12991-023-00451-4
12 Sources
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Sexual Health Alliance.What is the difference between sex therapy, sex coaching, and sex counseling?American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists.Certification types: Distinguishing sexuality educators, counselors, and therapists.International Society for Sexual Medicine.What happens during sex therapy?American Psychological Association.Sexology.American Board of Sexology.Becoming a sex professional.Ramanathan V, Redelman M.Sexual dysfunctions and sex therapy: the role of a general practitioner.Aust J Gen Pract. 2020;49(7):412-415. doi:10.31128/AJGP-02-20-5230Sexual Medicine Society of North America.What is sex therapy like?American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists.AASECT requirements for sex therapist certification.University of Michigan School of Social Work.Sex therapy.Vaishnav M, Saha G, Mukherji A, Vaishnav P.Principles of marital therapies and behavior therapy of sexual dysfunction.Indian J Psychiatry. 2020;62(Suppl 2):S213-S222. doi:10.4103/psychiatry.IndianJPsychiatry_19_20Sexual Health Alliance.Do your homework: couples sex therapy exercises to do at home.Imanpour Barough S, Riazi H, Keshavarz Z, Nasiri M, Montazeri A.The relationship between coping strategies with sexual satisfaction and sexual intimacy in women with multiple sclerosis.Ann Gen Psychiatry. 2023;22(1):22. doi:10.1186/s12991-023-00451-4
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
Sexual Health Alliance.What is the difference between sex therapy, sex coaching, and sex counseling?American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists.Certification types: Distinguishing sexuality educators, counselors, and therapists.International Society for Sexual Medicine.What happens during sex therapy?American Psychological Association.Sexology.American Board of Sexology.Becoming a sex professional.Ramanathan V, Redelman M.Sexual dysfunctions and sex therapy: the role of a general practitioner.Aust J Gen Pract. 2020;49(7):412-415. doi:10.31128/AJGP-02-20-5230Sexual Medicine Society of North America.What is sex therapy like?American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists.AASECT requirements for sex therapist certification.University of Michigan School of Social Work.Sex therapy.Vaishnav M, Saha G, Mukherji A, Vaishnav P.Principles of marital therapies and behavior therapy of sexual dysfunction.Indian J Psychiatry. 2020;62(Suppl 2):S213-S222. doi:10.4103/psychiatry.IndianJPsychiatry_19_20Sexual Health Alliance.Do your homework: couples sex therapy exercises to do at home.Imanpour Barough S, Riazi H, Keshavarz Z, Nasiri M, Montazeri A.The relationship between coping strategies with sexual satisfaction and sexual intimacy in women with multiple sclerosis.Ann Gen Psychiatry. 2023;22(1):22. doi:10.1186/s12991-023-00451-4
Sexual Health Alliance.What is the difference between sex therapy, sex coaching, and sex counseling?
American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists.Certification types: Distinguishing sexuality educators, counselors, and therapists.
International Society for Sexual Medicine.What happens during sex therapy?
American Psychological Association.Sexology.
American Board of Sexology.Becoming a sex professional.
Ramanathan V, Redelman M.Sexual dysfunctions and sex therapy: the role of a general practitioner.Aust J Gen Pract. 2020;49(7):412-415. doi:10.31128/AJGP-02-20-5230
Sexual Medicine Society of North America.What is sex therapy like?
American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists.AASECT requirements for sex therapist certification.
University of Michigan School of Social Work.Sex therapy.
Vaishnav M, Saha G, Mukherji A, Vaishnav P.Principles of marital therapies and behavior therapy of sexual dysfunction.Indian J Psychiatry. 2020;62(Suppl 2):S213-S222. doi:10.4103/psychiatry.IndianJPsychiatry_19_20
Sexual Health Alliance.Do your homework: couples sex therapy exercises to do at home.
Imanpour Barough S, Riazi H, Keshavarz Z, Nasiri M, Montazeri A.The relationship between coping strategies with sexual satisfaction and sexual intimacy in women with multiple sclerosis.Ann Gen Psychiatry. 2023;22(1):22. doi:10.1186/s12991-023-00451-4
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