Services
Sex Therapy
Sex therapy is a specialized form of talk therapy focused on addressing concerns related to sexuality, sexual health, and intimate relationships. It involves working with a trained and licensed sex therapist who has expertise in helping individuals, couples, and sometimes groups navigate various issues related to sex and intimacy.
Sex therapy in Tampa & St. Petersburg
The goal of sex therapy is to help individuals and couples overcome challenges, and experience satisfying relationships with a pleasurable sex life. Sexual dysfunction is common and can include:
Low libido
Erectile dysfunction
Lack of interest
Performance anxiety
Excessive libido
Inability to reach orgasm
Distressing sexual thoughts
Sexual dysfunctions can be medical, mental, emotional, or psychological in nature. Our therapists are also trained in trauma therapy.
What does a sex therapist do?
A certified sex therapist is a licensed mental health professional who specializes in addressing concerns and emotional health, related to human sexuality and intimate relationships. Sex therapists provide a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals and couples to: discuss their concerns openly, explore their feelings and desires, and develop strategies to overcome challenges.
Common issues that sex therapy can address:
Sexual dysfunctions: Helping individuals and couples create a healthy sex life, and address concerns such as erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, orgasmic difficulties, and low libido
Relationship issues: Assisting couples in improving communication, resolving conflicts, and enhancing their sex lives within their relationships
Sexual identity and orientation: Providing support and guidance to individuals who are questioning their sexual orientation or struggling with issues related to unwanted sexual fetishes
Trauma and abuse: Helping individuals cope with and heal from past experiences of sexual trauma or abuse
Sexual education and empowerment: Offering sex education and resources to help individuals and couples understand their bodies, desires, and boundaries while empowering them to make informed choices about their sex lives and well-being
What to expect during a sex therapy session
Sessions can be very diverse depending on the individual and specific situation. Your experience will depend on your specific physical and emotional concerns and challenges. Here at It Begins Within, we provide tailored treatment plans that are designed to help each individual and couple meet their unique goals. Generally, most treatment plans will include:
Initial Assessment:
Your therapist will likely begin by asking questions to understand your background, relationship dynamics, sexual history, sexual challenges, and specific concerns and goals.
Education:
Your therapist may provide you with information about sexual anatomy and physiology, as well as common sexual issues and concerns. This can help you gain a better understanding of your own body and sexuality.
Discussing Concerns & Challenges:
You'll have the opportunity to discuss any sexual difficulties, sexual problems, concerns, or challenges you're experiencing.
Developing Communication skills:
Sex therapy often involves learning and practicing effective communication skills, both within the therapy session and with your partner. This may include expressing your needs and desires, setting boundaries, and resolving conflicts.
Exercises and Homework:
Your therapist may assign you exercises or homework to do between sessions, such as communication exercises, sensate focus exercises, or sexual activities to try with your partner.
Exploration of Values and Beliefs:
Sex therapy may involve exploring your values and beliefs about sexuality, intimacy, and relationships. These underlying core beliefs can influence your sexual experiences and behaviors.
Behavioral Techniques:
Your therapist may teach you behavioral techniques to address issues such as techniques for managing anxiety or overcoming sexual dysfunction.
Support and Validation:
Throughout the therapy process, our certified sex therapists here will offer support, validation, and encouragement as you work toward your goals. They'll help you feel empowered and confident in addressing your sexual concerns and creating a fulfilling sex life.
Can an individual see a sex therapist?
Individuals can absolutely see a sex therapist on their own. Sex therapy is not exclusively for couples, it is also available for individuals who may be experiencing sexual difficulties or have concerns related to their own sexuality.
Individuals seek sex therapy for a variety of reasons which can include:
Addressing sexual dysfunction, such as erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, or difficulty reaching orgasm
Exploring questions or concerns related to sexual orientation or sexual behavior
Coping with past experiences of trauma or abuse
Managing feelings of low sexual desire or dissatisfaction with one's sex life
Improving body image and self-esteem related to sexuality
Learning skills and techniques for enhancing sexual pleasure and satisfaction
During individual sex therapy sessions, the focus is on addressing the specific concerns and goals of the individual. A certified sex therapist provides a supportive and non-judgmental environment where clients can explore their feelings, thoughts, and experiences related to sexuality and work towards achieving a pleasurable sex life.
While sex therapy for couples typically involves addressing issues within the context of the relationship, individual sex therapy allows individuals to focus on their own needs and experiences without the presence of a partner. However, in some cases, an individual may choose to involve their partner in therapy sessions, particularly if their concerns have implications for the relationship or if couples therapy is deemed beneficial.
Couples sex therapy
Many couples find that going together for their sex therapy sessions can be more successful. Many sexual issues may actually stem from deeper issues within the relationship, and can be best addressed together rather than alone. Couples sex therapy can assist with the solution of sexual issues in relationships which have negatively affected intimacy.
When should a couple see a sex therapist?
Couples may benefit from seeing a sex therapist if they are encountering challenges or difficulties in their sexual relationship that they find difficult to resolve on their own, especially over a prolonged period of time. From my personal and professional experience, happy couples have a very fulfilling sex life.
8 signs that may indicate your relationship may benefit from sex therapy
Struggling with communication challenges
Difficulty communicating openly and effectively about sexual desires, preferences, or concerns can lead to misunderstandings, frustration, and decreased intimacy
Significant mismatch in libido
Significant differences in sexual desire or frequency of sexual activity between partners can create tension and dissatisfaction within the relationship
One or both partners are experiencing sexual dysfunction
Persistent issues such as erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, difficulty reaching orgasm, or pain during sex can affect sexual satisfaction and confidence, both individually and as a couple
Lack of sexual satisfaction
If one or both partners consistently feel unsatisfied or unfulfilled with their sexual experiences, it may indicate underlying issues that could benefit from professional intervention
Challenges with intimacy
Difficulty connecting emotionally or feeling emotionally distant from your partner during sexual interactions may indicate deeper issues within the relationship that could be addressed through therapy
Suffering from past trauma or abuse
Previous experiences of sexual trauma or abuse can have lasting effects on an individual's ability to engage in healthy and satisfying sexual relationships. Seeking support from a trained sex therapist can help in coping with and healing from these experiences
Life transitions:
Significant life changes like childbirth, menopause, illness, and aging can all impact sexual functioning and satisfaction. Sex therapy can provide support and guidance in navigating these transitions and adjusting to changes in sexual intimacy
New or changing of sexual preferences or sexual identity
If one or both partners are questioning their sexual orientation, gender identity, or exploring alternative sexual practices, therapy can provide a safe and supportive environment for exploration and self-discovery
Can couples therapy help with sex?
Couples talk therapy can significantly improve a couple's sex life by addressing underlying relationship issues, improving communication, and fostering intimacy. In therapy, couples have the opportunity to explore and resolve conflicts, build trust, and strengthen their emotional connection, creating a supportive foundation for their sexual relationship. Effective communication is crucial for a satisfying sex life, and therapy helps partners learn to express their desires, preferences, and concerns openly and honestly.
In therapy, couples are able to have a safe space to explore their sexual dynamics and identify behaviors or patterns that may be contributing to sexual difficulties. Therapy can also help to uncover and address individual issues that may be impacting the relationship such as stress, anxiety, or past traumas. For these reasons, we strongly believe in the power of in-person therapy (over a virtual option) for couples in our Tampa & St. Petersburg offices.
Through increased intimacy, understanding, and connection, partners can achieve a more fulfilling and satisfying sexual relationship. By working together with a trained therapist, couples can navigate challenges, strengthen their bond, and cultivate a healthier and more vibrant partnership.
Sex therapy exercises to do at home
Sex therapy exercises aim to enhance communication, intimacy, and sexual satisfaction for individuals and couples. These exercises are tailored to meet the unique needs and goals of each client. It's crucial to approach these exercises with openness, honesty, and a willingness to engage in self-exploration and communication. Working closely with a qualified sex therapist ensures exercises are tailored to individual needs, leading to increased intimacy, satisfaction, and overall relationship well-being.
Sensate focus is a common exercise involving non-sexual touch to foster relaxation and intimacy without the pressure of sexual performance.
Communication exercises help partners express desires, preferences, and boundaries openly and constructively, strengthening the foundation of the relationship.
Fantasy exploration encourages partners to share and explore sexual fantasies in a safe and supportive environment, fostering deeper intimacy and understanding.
Behavioral experimentation allows partners to gradually explore new sexual activities or techniques, overcoming barriers and expanding their sexual repertoire.
Homework assignments between sessions reinforce learning and practice, such as journaling about experiences or practicing communication skills.
Mindfulness and relaxation techniques are employed to reduce stress and anxiety during sexual encounters, enhancing awareness and pleasure.
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We offer comprehensive mental health services for individuals and couples. We are dedicated to the best outcome for our clients. Please reach out to us today to start your healing journey.