What is Sex Therapy

Sex Therapy is a methodology developed after scientific knowledge was gained of human sexual behaviour, function and dysfunction. At the basis of sex therapy is an understanding that sex is a normal human function and people have the right to healthy sexual expression. When people experience difficulties with their sexuality or sexual expression they also have the right to seek expert advice and assistance to address their sexual difficulties. Sex Therapy is thus professional and ethical treatment of the sexual difficulties a person may experience.

Why is it important to address sexual difficulty?

Sexuality and an individual’s ability to express their sexuality are often very closely linked with a person’s perception of themselves and their self identity. When a person experiences difficulty in the sexual domain, it causes emotional distress and challenges the person’s perception of themselves. Furthermore, it has the potential to influence other aspects of the person’s life negatively, for example, their role definition in their family context and their close intimate relationships. Sexual interaction is often an expression of intimacy and an expression of caring. It has the potential to cement intimate relationships and provide a forum for self expression and appreciation. However, sexual difficulties between couple’s could have a detrimental impact on the relationship. Sexual difficulties should never be ignored because it could also alert a clinician to other underlying physical or psychological problems. For example, erectile dysfunction is often the first symptom to alert a clinician to a potentially dangerous heart condition.