Many clients refer themselves, or are referred by their GPs, for difficulties they are experiencing in their sex lives. Their concerns may include low sexual interest, arousal difficulties for men and women, pain during intercourse or orgasmic difficulties.
These problems are usually quite distressing for the individual and, more often than not, their partner also. If left untreated sexual problems may lead to loss of confidence and self-esteem. Very often stress develops in their relationship.
Many people do not seek help because they find it uncomfortable and embarrassing talking about problems of such an intimate nature. At DSA Psychologists, we have a team of caring and empathic psychologists who are trained in the area of sex therapy and can help their clients relax and resolve many of their sexual problems.
The first step in the counselling process is to take a detailed sexual history of the client. This includes the nature and the development of the problem and what outcomes and goals the client would like from counselling. It is also important to explore other questions relating to the client's attitude towards sex in general and their own sexuality.
• What knowledge do they have about their bodies and their sexual responses?
• Are they happy with their appearance and their bodies?
• What were their family attitudes to sexuality?
• Who taught them about sex and how was this information passed on?
• What have their sexual experiences been like to date?
• What is their relationship history and how is their current relationship?
• What stresses are currently occurring in their lives?
After looking at all the different areas, it is often found that the sexual difficulty is more about anxiety, fatigue, poor body image, lack of confidence, unrealistic expectations and performance anxiety, poor sexual education, or relationship problems than sexual dysfunction.
Clients can be helped to gain a satisfying sex life with relaxation training, hypnotherapy, assistance in changing their attitudes and thinking and by healing their relationships.
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