10 questions on sexual therapy
Sexual therapy is a relatively recent yet thriving discipline. The profession and practice however, remain cloaked in mystery. Doctissimo takes you under the covers for a look.
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Who are these sexual professionals? What do they offer? How successful can their proposed treatments be? Read on to understand more about sexual therapy and what it could perhaps do for you.
1. What is a sexual therapist?
A sexual therapist is a professionally trained specialist of sexual disorders. The majority of them are either doctors or psychologists, some with extra training in sexual problems. Yet there are also sham sexologists out there, so watch out. Doctors and psychologists who propose sexual therapy should preferably have received specific training provided by a private institute or university.
2. What kinds of disorders can a sexual therapist treat?
Any sexually related issues are within a sexologist’s purview, from the better known conditions such as erectile and ejaculation dysfunction, lack of sexual desire and anorgasmia, through to the more subtly identifiable disorders, such as sexual dissatisfaction and conflict. At any rate, if the problem for which you seek advice isn’t within the therapist’s ability to treat, they will be able to refer you on to the appropriate person.
3. Should my partner and I go to the sexual therapist together?
As a rule yes, it’s always better to talk about your problems together. If you’re uncertain of the benefits of shared consultation, or if you feel apprehensive about it, go alone the first time. The sex therapist will ask you about your issues and help you decide whether it’s worth coming with your partner the next time around.
4. Do all sex therapists work in one and the same way?
No, sex therapy is a relatively new discipline and no consensus has yet been reached as to the best treatments for each type of pathology. This decision depends on the therapist’s training, experience and personal convictions regarding the efficacy of the method involved. Some practice hypnosis, others prefer relaxation, while others will use psychoanalysis. Most methods for treatment of psychological disorders are to be found in sexology as well. Doctors who offer sexologist consultations can also prescribe medication.
5. Does sex therapy deliver good results?
Yes, the overall results are good. For one thing, being able to discuss one’s issues and verbalize what is often regarded as a ‘shameful ‘disorder helps to take the heat out of the situation. For another, the sex therapist possesses expert knowledge about sexual physiology and can therefore challenge your preconceived ideas and direct your attention to a side of the problem you may not have previously considered. Studies have demonstrated that between 60 and 70% of those pursuing sexual therapy treatment were successful in sorting out their problem. And even in cases where the outcome isn’t entirely satisfactory, patients report improvement in the way they view and live their sexuality following sex therapy.
6. Does the sex therapist have more to offer than a regular psychotherapist?
It depends on the problem and where it’s coming from. If your problem is connected with profound psychic issues, psychotherapy combined with self-analysis will be the optimal way to resolve it. However, if the interaction between you and your partner is at fault, or if your problem is attributable to insufficient sexual knowledge or practice, the sexologist will suggest that you try couple’s sex therapy and will provide information on sexual physiology. Other methods can also be employed, such as relaxation and hypnosis.
7. Is it better to see a doctor who doubles as a sex therapist?
As is also the case with various other disciplines, the therapist’s personality, his or her ability to listen and availability to you matter just as much as his or her degree(s). Depending on your problem and expectations, a psychologist or a doctor can also be the right choice for you. To avoid charlatans, reserve your trust for professionals with a medical or paramedical degree.
8. How do I find the address of a sex therapist?
The best way to find out about a sexual therapist in your area is to visit the COSRT website, as they keep a listing of UK therapists. You can also make enquiries during a regular medical consultation with your GP, or you can search through the NHS website or any online medical directories.
9. How much does a sexual therapy consultation cost?
Always check what the costs will be before booking yourself in. In Britain, you are likely to pay anything from around £45 to over £100.
10. Who should I turn to if there is no dedicated sex therapist in my area?
You should go to a GP, psychologist or counsellor who is qualified to treat sex-related disorders. Gynaecologists and urologists focus on sexology as well, and can also treat some disorders and help you to find the right practitioner for your particular problem.
Copyright © 2010 Doctissimo
Posted 15.09.2011
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