Seattle Sex Therapy

Intimacy and sex therapy for couples

Sex Therapists integrate aspects of couples therapy and sex therapy to increase awareness of relationship dynamics that impact desire and arousal and support clients in creating chance that promotes satisfaction individually and as partners. Therapists may discuss a persons knowledge of sexuality, relationship history, sexual health, and personal factors such as self-esteem, identity, and connection.

Therapy can support partners who tend to both sexual dysfunctions and the quality of the relationship to better understand the influences that contribute to sexual self-esteem and beliefs about sex. The couple therapy modality is recommended for partnered folks, as partners can sometimes contribute to sexual difficulties in unconscious ways.

What is sex therapy?

Sex therapy is a form of talk therapy focused on specific concerns related to sex and intimacy. There are many reasons couples and individuals seek sex therapy. Among these are feelings of anxiety that may result from dissatisfaction in physical intimacy or relationship problems that limit desire, pleasure, and passionate exchanges with their partners. Individual reasons such as exploring sex and gender identity, coping with medical diagnoses that impact sexual health, and working through shame or sexual trauma.

Sex therapy can be conducted by a trained mental health professional like an AASECT certified sex therapist, mental health counselor, and couple and family therapist. These clinicians may be trained in couples work, individual therapy, and sexual functioning and intimacy issues. Therapy sessions can be conducted in person or through online therapy within our practice. Our therapists are trained to work with various sexual orientations and sexual issues.

Why do people use sex therapy?

People use sex therapy to address and resolve specific sexual issues and improve intimacy in their relationships. It offers a safe space for individuals and couples to explore their feelings, beliefs, and behaviors related to sex, under the guidance of a trained professional. This therapeutic process helps in identifying and overcoming barriers to sexual satisfaction, whether they stem from psychological, physical, or relational factors. By engaging in sex therapy, many find pathways to healthier and more fulfilling sexual experiences, fostering stronger connections with their partners. It’s a proactive step towards enhancing personal well-being and relationship quality.

How does sex therapy work?

Sex therapy works through a combination of talk therapy techniques, education, and personalized exercises, all tailored to the individual’s or couple’s specific concerns. Initially, the therapist will conduct a comprehensive assessment to understand the nature of the sexual difficulties and the factors contributing to them. This collaborative process helps in setting realistic goals and developing a treatment plan that addresses both psychological and physical aspects of sexual health. Throughout therapy, clients may receive resources, participate in guided discussions, and complete homework assignments designed to foster intimacy and improve sexual function. By focusing on open communication and practical strategies, sex therapy empowers individuals and couples to overcome obstacles to sexual satisfaction, leading to improved relationships and well-being.

Issues & Sexual Concerns We Can Discuss

Relationship Healing:

• Problematic Sexual Behaviors
• Infidelity
• Couples Therapy
• Infertility Related Relationship Issues
• Desire & Libido Discrepancy
• Erotic Conflicts

Seattle Sex Therapists

Sex Therapy Articles

Benefits of sex therapy

The benefits of sex therapy extend far beyond the bedroom, offering profound improvements in both personal and relational aspects of life. It equips individuals and couples with the tools and understanding needed to navigate sexual issues, enhancing intimacy and strengthening bonds. Through sex therapy, many experience increased sexual satisfaction, improved communication skills, and a deeper connection with their partners. It also provides a supportive space to explore and resolve feelings of shame or guilt associated with sexuality, fostering a healthier sexual self-esteem. Ultimately, sex therapy promotes a more fulfilling and joyous sexual life, contributing to overall mental and emotional well-being.

How do I prepare for sex therapy?

Preparing for sex therapy involves a few thoughtful steps to ensure you’re ready to engage in the process. First, reflect on your goals and what you hope to achieve through therapy, whether it’s addressing specific issues or enhancing intimacy. Being open and honest with yourself about your feelings, experiences, and concerns is crucial. It’s also helpful to gather any relevant medical information or history that might be pertinent to your therapy sessions. Familiarizing yourself with the therapist’s policies and approach can ease any initial anxiety. Remember, the willingness to be vulnerable and an open-minded attitude are key components in making the most out of your sex therapy experience.

What to expect in sessions

The sex therapy process is similar to other psychotherapy practices. The initial therapy session will involve taking an extensive history of the concerns that brought you in. The sex therapist will evaluate both the psychological and physical components to form a diagnosis. At this stage, collaboration with the client(s) is key in developing a treatment plan. In some cases, the sex therapist may work closely with the client’s physician, nurse, or other therapist or counselor to establish the best quality of care.

When needed, the sex therapist may suggest a regular schedule of appointments. More specific or intensive therapy may involve homework exercises to be practiced in the privacy of the clients home. This can range from general communication exercises or specific sexual suggestions, depending on the progress of therapy and the client’s level of comfort.

In no instances and under no circumstances will the sex therapist observe a therapy client having sex nor engage in any kind of sexual activity with the client inside or outside the office.

What does a sex therapist do?

A sex therapist helps individuals and couples address and resolve sexual issues through professional counseling. They provide a safe and non-judgmental space to explore sexual concerns, including difficulties with intimacy, desire, arousal, and performance. Employing a range of therapeutic techniques, the therapist works to identify underlying problems, whether psychological, physical, or relational, that may be impacting sexual health and satisfaction. They offer guidance, education, and support to foster healthier sexual attitudes and practices. Additionally, a sex therapist collaborates with clients to develop personalized strategies and exercises designed to enhance sexual function and intimacy, ensuring a holistic approach to improving sexual well-being.

Types of sex therapy

There are several types of sex therapy, each tailored to address specific aspects of sexual health and intimacy:

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on identifying and changing negative thoughts and behaviors that affect sexual function and satisfaction. It’s effective in treating issues like premature ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, and low sexual desire.

Psychodynamic Therapy delves into how past experiences and unconscious processes influence current sexual behavior and feelings. It’s particularly useful for individuals dealing with sexual trauma or deep-rooted psychological issues affecting their sexual health.

Mindfulness-Based Sex Therapy emphasizes present-moment awareness and acceptance of one’s sexual experience, helping individuals overcome anxiety and increase enjoyment during sexual activity. This approach is beneficial for those struggling with performance anxiety or body image issues.

Somatic Sex Therapy involves body-oriented therapies, including breathwork and touch (with consent), to help clients reconnect with their bodies and overcome sexual dysfunction. It’s particularly helpful for individuals experiencing sexual pain or disconnection from their bodies.

Educational Interventions provide individuals and couples with information on anatomy, sexual functioning, and healthy sexual practices. This type of therapy is valuable for those lacking accurate sexual knowledge or wanting to explore new aspects of their sexuality.

PLISSIT Model

Sex therapy integrates the PLISSIT model with the therapist’s therapeutic approach to support the best treatment possible. The PLISSIT model stands for Permission, Limited Information, Specific Suggestion, and Intensive Therapy. Depending on the diagnosis, the sex therapist will educate about the issue and discuss possible options for change. This is typically supported by suggested reading material, educational audio-visuals, discussion with the therapist, attending workshops, or all of these processes. Sometimes having more information will allow the problem to resolve. Sometimes more specific or intensive therapy is needed.

Improve your sexual desire

Partner and individuals struggling with low sexual desire can seek sex therapy to explore barriers to sexual intimacy. Research indicates desire can be dependent on the emotional connection to one’s partner or self, levels of stress in the environment, and physiological factors.

Therapeutic work considers these factors to educate new clients, normalize their experiences, and help define and create what a healthy sex life looks like for them. It is normal for desire to change throughout the lifespan, throughout the history of the relationship, and differ from person to person.

In session and out of session work may involve mindfulness practices, communication skills, self-esteem work, and exploring beliefs about sex or sexuality that may restrict ones ability to experience greater desire.

How much does a sex therapist cost?

Therapy creates a space for you to experience healing and progress in a way that can change your life. But of course, it’s also an investment of both time and finances. When you’re ready to commit to healing and transformation, here is what you can expect.

Standard individual session
(50 minutes) $190

Insurance

We do not participate with any insurance panels. Anchor Light Therapy Collective is considered an out-of-network provider.

As a courtesy to any individual clients who wish to utilize their insurance benefits, We are happy to verify your out-of-network plan benefits to tell you what portion, if any, may be covered by your health insurance provider.

Out of Network Insurance Options