Sex Therapy
Many therapists do not have training to treat sex-related concerns. At Calm in Chaos Therapy, you can expect a sex-positive approach to therapy regardless of the type of therapy you pursue. Although sex is a natural need and can be a central aspect of one’s identity, sex negativity is rampant in our culture. It is not uncommon for clients to experience discomfort when discussing sensitive sex-related topics and concerns. As humans, we absorb messages about “normal” sex, and when our preferences deviate from this norm, it is not uncommon for us to experience internalized shame and confusion.
Relevant training: Sex Therapy Certification in progress through the Sexual Health Alliance
Common issues addressed in sex therapy:
Erectile Difficulties
Eager or Delayed Ejaculation
Performance Anxiety
Sexual desire differences
Anorgasmia (i.e., inability to orgasm)
Body image
Pain during sex
Kink or BDSM issues
Kink incompatibility in relationships
Sexuality as a single person
Aging and sexuality
Self pleasure
Sexual abuse and trauma
Religious trauma (i.e., the impact of purity culture ideals)
Ethical/consensual nonmonogamy (ENM/CNM)
Polyamory, open relationships, swingers/lifestyle, friends with benefits, random hookups, etc.
Erotic conflicts
Out-of-control sexual behavior (i.e., sex/porn “addiction”)
Asexuality, demisexuality, and graysexuality
Sex Therapy
FAQs
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Sex therapy begins with an in-depth sexual history assessment and attachment relationship history. The therapist will engage the client in exploration of earliest memories of sex, messages and narratives regarding sexuality (.e., familial, cultural, religious etc.), sex preferences and fantasies, previous and current sexual functioning, and past and current relationships. For any sexual concerns that would benefit from other types of support (i.e., urologist or other physician, pelvic floor physical therapy, etc.), the therapist will provide appropriate referrals.
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Sex-positive therapy encourages clients to explore their sexuality without judgment or shame and promotes sexual health. It focuses on assisting clients to rewrite their sexual narratives without the influence of sex-negative ideals.
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Many therapists do not receive specialized training to address sex-related issues, which does a great disservice to individuals and relationships because sex is an inherent need and important aspect of individual and relational identity.
Know that you matter, your feelings matter, your sexual needs and wants matter, your sexual boundaries and sexual health matter - that is the definition of sexual empowerment.”
- Miya Yamanouchi
