SERVICING INDIVIDUALS & COUPLES IN NEW YORK CITY AND MARYLAND
Sex Therapy
Ignite Desire. Restore Connections.
Explore Possibilities.
When two become one—connection can no longer happen. There is no one to connect with. Thus separateness is a precondition for connection; this is the essential paradox of intimacy and sex.
- Esther Perel
The Power of Sexuality
Sexuality is such an important part of who we are, yet, so often, it is the first thing to take a back seat to whatever else is happening in our lives. Sometimes it’s work, kids, time, or other responsibilities getting in the way. Sometimes it’s feeling so comfortable and familiar with our partners that sex becomes awkward or uncomfortable. Whatever it is, it is completely natural to find yourself disconnected from your partner(s). You may even find yourselves incredibly connected, but not quite aligned in the bedroom, or want to explore new areas. In couples sex therapy, everything is normal – even your most intimate of fantasies.
Sex therapy can allow you to meet your emotional and physical needs by helping you explore new areas and desires, as well as creating a space for you to discuss topics you might be uncomfortable with.
What is Sex Therapy?
Sex therapy is a specialized type of psychotherapy. Through sex therapy, you can address concerns about sexual function, sexual feelings, and intimacy, Sex therapy can be effective for individuals of any age, gender, or sexual orientation, either in individual therapy or couple therapy.
Sex therapy is usually provided by licensed psychologists, social workers, physicians, or licensed therapists who have advanced training in issues related to sexual and relationship health. Certified sex therapists have graduate degrees and can demonstrate their competence in sex therapy by becoming credentialed by the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT).
Sex therapists do not have sexual contact with our clients, in the office, or anywhere else.
Is Sex Therapy for Me?
In sex therapy, there is no normal. Sex therapy can help you resolve various sexual issues, from concerns about sexual functioning to difficulties in your sexual relationship. You can discuss many topics, including, but not limited to:
Bridging different desire levels
Improving satisfaction and deepening orgasms
Overcoming challenges around arousal and erection
Opening up to sexual fantasies, play, and exploration
Rekindling sex after kids
Exploring non-monogamy, polyamory, or other relationship formats
Dealing with sexual trauma
Increasing your sexual confidence and know-how
Learning to pleasure each other
The Process
You'll begin sex therapy by describing your specific sexual concerns. Sexual issues can be complicated, and your therapist will want to get a clear idea of all the factors involved. This involves an initial in-depth assessment of your background and presenting sexual or relationship concerns. Next, we will discuss ways to resolve your concerns and improve your communication and intimacy.
If you're in a relationship, it's usually most helpful to involve your partner in our meetings. You and your partner will likely be assigned a series of homework exercises, such as:
Communication exercises with your partner
Slowing down and focusing on what you're sensing during intimate encounters, for example, mindfulness techniques
Reading or watching educational videos about sexual health
Changing the way you interact with your partner both sexually and non-sexually
As sex therapy progresses, you can use your home experiences to further identify and refine the issues you'd like to work on. Remember, sexual coaching that involves physical contact is not part of mainstream sex therapy and is against the ethics of licensed mental health professionals.
Keep in mind that concerns about sex and intimacy are often linked to other underlying issues, such as stress, anxiety, or depression. In other cases, sexual function is affected by chronic illness, medication side effects, surgery, or aging. These are just some examples of factors that may impact the duration of the treatment.