by Allison Hope

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

What is Sex Therapy?

Sex therapy offers help to individuals and couples experiencing sexual problems whether they are physical, psychological or may be a mixture of both. Therapists specialising in sexual problems are usually trained medical professionals or counsellors who have taken extended training to include the physical and psychological issues associated with sexual dysfunction.

What Problems Can be Helped?

Most sexual related problems which are not sorting themselves out can be helped, whether they are caused by a physical aspect, a psychological aspect or caused by relationship difficulties that are not resolving themselves naturally. Sometimes they may be caused by a combination of these problems but mainly show through a physical difficulty.

Below are some of the problems that can be helped successfully:

* Painful intercourse
* Premature ejaculation
* Erection Problems
* No interest in sex
* Being addicted to sex

What Kind Of People Seek Help for these Problems?

The people who seek help for sexual problems are normal, everyday people from all walks of life, who just happen to have a problem they need guidance and help with. Sexual problems can appear in a relationship at any time and like any other problem there are usually solutions but sometimes a little help is needed to gain an understanding of what may be causing the problem. Counselling can help with this.

What Can I Expect?

Through discussion about the problem the therapist will help you to identify what the main cause or causes of the problem are. Sexual problems, like any other, tend to get worse unless they are addressed and understood and the therapist will work with you both to help you to move through these problems. She will help to identify if the cause is purely physical, psychological or caused by tension, anger or anxieties. You may be given some exercises to do at home with your partner. These will be aimed at your specific problems and will help you both to grow in self awareness, communication and sexual skills. This will be done in a non-threatening manner and care will be taken to ensure you will both benefit from the sessions.

How do I Find a Therapist?

If you want to be seen quickly you may want to try a private therapist, the charges vary but can start from $35 upwards per session. Unfortunately Sexual Therapy is not federal regulated so always check they are fully qualified in this particular field. Try these websites for a list of professional accredited therapists and for further information:

American Association of Sex Educators, Counselors and Therapists; www.aasect.org/
American Board of Sexologists; www.americanboardofsexologists.com/

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