Psychosexual Therapy Information
What is Psychosexual Therapy?
Psychosexual Therapy is a psychological treatment (talking therapy) that provides help for specific sexual problems
The clinic is staffed by psychosexual therapists who are qualified in Psychosexual Therapy. We also offer opportunities for trainee psychosexual therapists. All of our clinicians are members of College of Sex and Relationship Therapy (COSRT).
The clinic provides assessment and psychosexual therapy for individuals and couples. Appointments are limited to 16.
This is a psychological treatment and you may need to attend several appointments at weekly or fortnightly intervals for 2-6 months, although some people may only be seen once or twice depending on the complexity of their problem. Ideally it is preferable to attend with your sexual partner(s) if you are in a relationship. Between appointments you may be given exercises/homework to do on a regular basis at home. It is very important that you engage with these exercises in order to achieve your goals for therapy.
What sexual problems do we provide therapy for?
We provide psychosexual therapy for:
People with a vulva who are experiencing difficulties with:
- Painful sex (vaginismus, dyspareunia or Genito-Pelvic Pain/Penetration disorder (GPPPD))
- Loss of libido (low desire for sex)
- Sexual arousal and orgasm
People with a penis who are experiencing difficulties with:
- Erections
- Premature ejaculation
- Delayed ejaculation
- Loss of libido (low desire for sex)
As it is usual for people to experience difficulties with sex at some point in their lives it is not generally considered sensible to diagnose a sexual problem unless it has been present for 6 months or more and happens on most occasions that sex is attempted. It must also be causing you significant distress.
There is no ‘normal’ as desire, arousal and sexual function and preferences are different for each person and each couple. If you are finding it difficult to be relaxed or enjoy sexual activity on your own or with other(s) then you may want to consider if your sexual health and wellbeing needs are being met. Sexual Health and Wellbeing.
How do I get an appointment?
It is important that you discuss your problem with your GP who can refer you if they feel psychosexual therapy is the right option for you. There can be many reasons for sexual difficulties and your GP can rule out physical causes and will know whether any recent or past illnesses or medications may be contributing to the problem and can offer treatments that may help while you are waiting.
Sexual problems can have quite straightforward causes which tests or simple treatments can identify or solve and your GP can help to decide on the best type of specialist help required. This may be psychosexual therapy but couple counselling, personal therapy, or referral to other specialist medical or psychological services may be more appropriate.
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