Sexuality
Sexuality can have biological, physical, emotional and spiritual aspects. The biological aspects of sexuality include reproductive functions and the basic biological drive that exists in all species. The physical or emotional aspects of sexuality include the bond that exists between individuals, and is expressed through profound feelings or physical manifestations of emotions of love, trust, and caring. Spiritual aspects of sexuality concern an individual's spiritual connection with others. Sexuality additionally impacts and is impacted by cultural, political, legal, and philosophical aspects of life.
Anna Freud famously wrote that “sex is something you do, sexuality is something you are.” This way of understanding sex highlights the difference between sexual activity and the individual experience of sexuality or sexual expression, which is an intrinsic part of who we are, one that can’t be separated out of ourselves any more than our ethnicity or religious/spiritual beliefs.
Couples therapy related to sexual issues addresses problems with arousal, lack of intimacy, sexual satisfaction, and differences in the desire for sex. Sexual problems can leave a couple feeling dissatisfied and stuck.This often leads to constant disagreement about anything related to their realtionship, leading to a cycle of blame, shame, hurt and avoidance of intimacy and sex.
Here are some reasons couples seek therapy for sexual issues:
- body image/self esteem issues
- conflict with religious beliefs or values
- confusion about sexual orientation
- difficulty experiencing orgasm
- difficulty maintaining erection
- disproportioned sexual desires between partners
- erectile dysfunction
- lack of sexual desire
- negative attitude or fear towards sex due to previous trauma
- premature ejaculation
- painful intercourse
- sexual addiction, compulsive masturbation
- stress and/or anxiety regarding sexual performance
Treatment:
The process of couple’s sex therapy begins with an in-depth assessment. The therapist will ask questions about both partners’ personal, physical, and sexual histories. Taken both partner's sexual history gives the sex therapist insight into each person’s experience. This lays the groundwork to explore the heart of the matter.
The goal of sex therapy is to help the couple heal from sexual problems. In sexual-marital therapy the therapist helps repair communication problems and heals the hurt of the past, helps resolve trauma and childhood issues, all of which can shape a relationship and impact the couple.
Goals of sex therapy for couples:
- improving communication about sex
- reducing co-dependency
- assisting each partner in developing a solid sense of self
- gaining clarity about who each partner is
- deepening intimacy between partners
- increasing sexual satisfaction for both partners
To schedule a confidential consultation in person or by phone email us or call at 212.665.7352
Phone consultations are available from the convenience of your home. Call the number below or email us to schedule an appointment.
