by Peter Degen-Portnoy

Created on: February 25, 2009   Last Updated: March 19, 2009

When we have specialized problems, we seek out specialized experts to help us. Experts, whether they rebuild automotive transmission, repair antique furniture or help us with estate documents posses unique training, skills and experiences. They can provide a perspective on problems that is not available through other sources. The rising field of sex therapy offers hope and aid to a growing number of adult individuals and couples that find they have issues and problems centered around their intimacy and sexual expression.

Sex therapy is a special form of counseling. Typically, individuals or couples who are experiencing issues or problems with sexual trauma, low arousal, lack of orgasm, issues arising from infidelities, or differing levels of satisfaction are likely to benefit from working with a sex therapist. In general, if the issues being faced are very sexual in nature, working with a sex therapist instead of a traditional practitioner such as a psychiatrist, psychologist or a psychotherapist is an excellent choice.

There are a growing number of online resources to help individuals and couples locate a qualified sex therapist. The American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists (www.aasect.org) provides an online search tool. The American Board of Sexology (americanboardofsexology.com) also has an online listing of sex therapists by state. Both organizations provide certification to mental health practitioners to become sex therapists. However, it is important to acknowledge that sex therapy is not regulated as other mental health practitioners are. Using certified practitioners helps to reduce the risk that the provider may not provide acceptable service and is strongly recommended.

Sex therapy is typically very solution focused, generally involving between five and twenty sessions either weekly or every other week. Patients will find that the therapy is often quite direct with the therapist asking questions, providing suggestions and information, assigning exercises and even homework. As in any form of therapy, it is important to commit to work with the therapist through a full treatment plan. If the issues center around a couple relationship, it is generally helpful for both partners to participate in the therapy sessions.

One growing sign of acceptance of the practice of sex therapy is the increasing number of health insurance plans that will cover sex therapy. Most practitioners will work with patients to obtain coverage from insurance

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