Sexual problems are common, and people can experience them at any stage of life but may feel embarrassed about seeking help. These issues and problems are also referred to as psychosexual. These issues and problems are caused by psychological barriers and blocks; however, sometimes, it is also caused by physical issues. Psychosexual therapy is the journey towards sexual well-being that extends beyond gender. It is also known as sex therapy, which treats a diverse range of sexual concerns experienced by both men and women.
Psychosexual therapy is a powerful tool for couples and individuals seeking to improve their sexual well-being that affects their relationships. Couples and individuals can overcome sexual difficulties and enhance intimacy that they are unable to resolve by themselves through psychosexual counselling or therapy. It includes issues and concerns related to sexual function, desire, communication, and overall satisfaction. Psychosexual therapy focuses on the psychological and emotional aspects of sexual problems, which can arise from various factors such as physical, psychological, emotional, or situational.
What is Psychosexual Therapy?
Psychosexual sex therapy aims to help to improve the physical intimacy between you and your partner. It also helps to overcome or manage any sexual difficulties you may be experiencing. Psychosexual therapyis designed to help support you to feel more comfortable when having sex. It addresses the root cause that makes you feel uncomfortable during sex or having to reduce sexual desires (libido). Psychosexual therapy involves exploring these issues, providing education and guidance, and often includes homework exercises to be practised at home. It helps to understand the physical and emotional factors that can sometimes cause sexual difficulty. Psychosexual therapy is a talking therapy that uses history and examination to explore unconscious thoughts and feelings.
Why do People Need Psychosexual Therapy?
Many people can sometimes experience issues when having sex in their life. Some people manage to overcome the difficulties easily themselves, but others may need help to resolve sexual issues. This will cause a lot of unhappiness and distress. Both males and females may need psychosexual therapy to overcome their sexual issues or problems. Women may have issues like painful sex (dyspareunia), loss of interest or desire, lack of arousal (lubrication), or difficulty having an orgasm. However, men may suffer from ejaculating (cumming) too quickly, difficulty getting or maintaining an erection (Erectile dysfunction), loss of interest or desire (libido), or difficulty having an orgasm.
What are the Common Causes of Sexual Problems?
Psychosexual therapy can be used to identify and treat various causes of sexual difficulties and identify them. The various causes of sexual problems may be:
Psychological
Mental health issues such as depression, stress, anxiety or other mental health conditions can impact sexual performance and desire. A person with past trauma related to sexual abuse or assault can also suffer from sexual problems. It can produce long-lasting effects on a person’s sexual health, and they are unable to enjoy sex. However, a person who has a distorted or negative body image in mind has low confidence and willingness to engage in sexual activity.
Physical
As people age, their bodies and sexual function naturally change due to hormonal changes. These changes can make it difficult to maintain a healthy sex life. Mostly, women go through these changes, events like childbirth and menopause, which can affect their sexual health. Certain medical conditions and medications can also affect sexual function, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, neurological disorders, or alcohol or drug addiction. The person may suffer from painful sex, erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, and difficulty achieving orgasm. Only medication and health issues are not the root cause of sexual problems. Sometimes, they occur after having surgery or an accident.
Emotional
Unresolved conflicts, lack of trust, or emotional distance can negatively affect a couple’s sex life. The couples do not communicate openly about their sexual desires with their partners. It is more often a big issue when one partner desires sex more frequently than the other.
Situational
These factors can include social, environmental, and personal circumstances that affect an individual’s decisions and sex-related actions. In some cultures, sex is taboo, and many traditions and beliefs related to sex can affect sexual function. The environment where sexual activity takes place can also influence sexual function and satisfaction. Sometimes, personal factors such as age differences between partners, sexual orientation and the nature of the relationship can impact sexual experiences.
What can Psychosexual Therapy be Used to Treat?
Low Sexual Desire
Many people struggle with a decreased interest or desire in sexual activities, which often causes stress in relationships. Psychosexual therapy helps to identify and treat underlying factors ranging from hormonal imbalances to psychological stressors. It helps people to regain a healthier sense of desire and enjoy a healthy sex life.
Painful Sex or Vaginismus
Many women suffer from Vaginismus, which makes sexual intercourse painful or impossible. In this condition, involuntary contractions of the vaginal muscle occur and make it tighten when you try to insert something into it. Psychosexual therapists can help women to identify emotional triggers and psychological factors causing this condition. They can teach relaxation techniques to overcome physical discomfort and support a positive image related to having sex. Therapists guide women with gradual exposure and emotional support.
Orgasm Difficulties in Women
Some women may face a struggle to achieve orgasm caused by many reasons, like psychological, physical, or emotional. Psychosexual therapy helps women to identify any psychological issues that block their ability to reach orgasm. Women can explore their bodies and discover what brings pleasure in a safe environment.
Erectile Dysfunction and Performance Anxiety
Erectile dysfunction is one of the main concerns addressed by psychosexual therapists. It is often tied to performance anxiety. Therapists work with men to alleviate the mental and emotional pressures that can cause this issue.
Orgasm Difficulties in Men
Psychosexual therapy can treat orgasm difficulties in men such as:
Premature Ejaculation
It is one of the most common sexual disorders in men. In this case, ejaculation occurs too quickly, often before or shortly after penetration. This may cause feelings of frustration, embarrassment, and anxiety. Psychosexual therapy can help men learn techniques that help to manage their arousal levels, develop better control over ejaculation, and increase awareness of their sensations.
Delayed Ejaculation
It is also known as inhibited ejaculation. This condition happens when a man has difficulty reaching orgasm despite adequate sexual stimulation. It is more distressing for both the person and their partner. Psychosexual therapy focuses on identifying any psychological or emotional factors that cause this issue. It provides strategies and techniques such as sensate focus exercises, improving communication, and addressing psychological issues.
Anorgasmia
It is an inability to reach orgasm, even with sufficient sexual stimulation. This condition can caused by various factors, such as physical, psychological, medical conditions, and medication side effects. Psychosexual therapy can help men identify any psychological barriers, performance anxiety, or relationship issues that may cause anorgasmia. To address these concerns, therapists can use cognitive-behavioural therapy(CBT), mindfulness, and desensitisation exercises.
Past Trauma and Sexual Abuse
Many people who have experienced past trauma or sexual abuse may have sexual problems. Psychosexual therapy can help those people and provide a safe space to heal their emotional scars and reclaim control over their sexual lives.
Communication Breakdown
A healthy and satisfying sexual relationship needs effective communication. Couples with unsolved grief, conflicts, and emotional grudges may face sexual issues. Psychosexual therapists can help couples to talk openly about their sexual needs, desires, and concerns.
Poor Body Image and Self-Esteem
Some people may have poor body image issues, and self-esteem can impact sexual satisfaction. Psychosexual therapy helps people create a
positive self-image and provide an environment where they feel comfortable and confident in their bodies.
What Happens in a Psychosexual Therapy Session?
In psychosexual therapy, a therapist will carefully listen to your problems and assess whether the cause isphysical, psychologicalor both. Each therapy session is confidential, so you can easily express your concerns. You can alone see a sex therapist or with your partner, but it may be better for you if both attend it. Sessions usually last for 30 – 50 minutes. In the session, you may talk about your experiences, which will help you better understand your situation. The therapist may also give you tasks and exercises to do with your partner in your own time. Depending on your issues and conditions, you may be advised to have weekly sessions or to see your therapist less frequently, such as once a month.
What Does Psychosexual Therapy Involve?
Assessment
The first step involves a thorough assessment of your or the couple’s sexual history, concerns, and goals. In this process, a therapist may interview you and assess the nature of the problem together and its impact on your life. This will followed by a round table session where the therapist will give feedback and tell the possible causes of your sexual dysfunction and also how you can overcome it. It helps the therapist to make your treatment plan, including its approximate duration and prerequisites for success.
Education
In this step, the therapist may tell you about anatomy, sexual function, and the psychological factors that influence sexual experiences. This will help you understand better your bodies and emotions.
Skill-Building
Therapists can help you learn techniques to improve your sexual experiences. It includes relaxation exercises, communication strategies, and mindfulness practices. No sexual exercises are required to be done in the clinic.
Exploration and Reflection
Therapists may use many techniques, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), solution-focused therapy, Eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR), neuro-linguistic programming, Hypnotherapy, and Emotional freedom technique (EFT). This will help you explore your thoughts, feelings, and beliefs in a nonjudgmental and supportive environment. You can uncover deep-seated concerns that may affect your sexual life.
Homework and Practice
The therapist may ask you to do homework exercises in between sessions. It is for both couples and individuals. Homework assignments encourage you to practice new skills and approaches in your personal life.
This active engagement boosts progress and facilitates lasting change. A weekly feedback session will describe the outcome of the therapy. This weekly feedback session can last up to an hour. The therapist will further guide you on how you can overcome any difficulties that arise with the homework exercises.
