Of course, if the therapist suspects that there is a physical cause for your sexual dysfunction, you’ll be referred to a physician. At that point, the therapist and physician will work together to help you.
Apart from the work that’s done inside the office, a sex therapist may also suggest some helpful exercises or assignments for you to do at home. The aim of these activities is to reinforce what you’re learning during the therapy sessions. Some possible exercises are:
- Taking a pleasure-based approach to intimacy
- Expanding foreplay
- Learning how both persons express love
- Learning what you and your partner like during sex
- Making intimacy a priority
- Establishing limitations for each other
- Becoming more playful while being intimate
Finding The Right Therapist
If you’re looking for a sex therapist, it’s ideal to start with an official organization such as the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT). When meeting with a therapist, it’s good to work with someone with whom you’re compatible. As you’re discussing a potential treatment plan, ensure that you understand what is expected of you and that you’re on board with the suggested plan.
Depending on your circumstances, you’ll also need to decide between the couple or individual therapy sessions. In some cases, couples decide to start therapy as individuals then have joint sessions after certain issues have been addressed.
As an African American, it might be helpful to find a sex therapist who is familiar with the culture. That’s because there is still some hesitation to discuss sexual intimacy and dysfunction in the black community. While the steps involved in helping you improve your sex life will be similar, the approach might be different.
Problems with sexual intimacy are not rare.
Still, persons don’t always seek out the help they need to make things better. Sex therapists are well-equipped to assess and treat the different types of sexual dysfunction that exist. Everyone should have the sex life they deserve.