SEX THERAPY
Frequently Asked Questions

WHAT IS SEX THERAPY?

Sex Therapy involves a range of therapeutic processes and exercises which can be used to initiate, to restore and to enrich both the individual's sexuality and/or the sexual components of an intimate relationship.

Sex therapy is based on the guiding belief that: 

• sexuality can be a healthy, positive and rewarding part of life.
• emotional & physical intimacy are desirable goals.

Sex therapy takes place in a supportive atmosphere in which couples or individuals can talk about their sexual, emotional and relationship issues with a specially trained professional who is knowledgeable and comfortable with human sexuality.

Individuals and couples often encounter sexual problems and concerns at various times in their intimate relationships. Registered Sex Therapists have academic, clinical and supervised training and experience in sexual matters and in their treatment.

Sex Therapy helps people learn more about their body and feel at ease with the range of sexual feelings. Developing physical, sexual, mental, psychological, emotional and spiritual well being contributes to a healthy sexual functioning. Many people feel uninformed about how sexual responses can affect the enjoyment of sex.

Sexual Intimacy is more than physical sex. Sexual intimacy strengthens the closeness and caring bond between partners. Sexual intimacy is about being comfortable making sexual requests. This is especially important in today's pressured society.  Dissatisfaction with the sexual aspects of a couple relationship and the loss of shared intimacy and trust may lead to feelings which threaten the total relationship.

WHO SEEKS SEX THERAPY?

Heterosexual, gay, lesbian,bisexual and transgendered individuals are counselled by Registered Sex Therapists for concerns which include:

• absence of orgasm
• erection or ejaculation difficulties
• illness/surgery, and medications, diabetes, M.S., high blood pressure physical injury or difficulties
• sexual trauma (incest, sexual abuse/ assault)
• mismatched levels of sexual desire
• infertility
• fear, anxiety, depression, infidelity
• natural aging processes

Sex Therapists facilitate a person's ability to be creative in reaching his or her sexual potential.

SEX THERAPY IS APPROPRIATE FOR:

• couples wishing for more intimacy
• couples unable to talk about sex
• individuals with sexual inhibitions
• compulsive sexual behaviour
• sexual identity questions
• talking to children about sex
• fostering healthy sexual development
• individuals wanting to improve their sexual functioning
• sexual orientation issues

A QUALIFIED SEX THERAPIST:

• is knowledgeable
• is at ease talking about sexuality
• is sensitive to relationship issues
• is non-judgmental
• is respectful of your feelings, cultural beliefs, values and privacy.
• Never asks you to engage in any form of sexual activity with your therapist present.

WHAT HAPPENS IN SEX THERAPY?

At the initial meeting, you can identify your particular concerns, how and when the problems developed and what changes you would like to make. A personal history is taken, exploring your sexual feelings and behaviour. If you do not feel ready to talk about something, you can say so and your wish will be respected.

For some concerns, a medical assessment may be necessary. Only a physician can do this and a consultation with a medical specialist may need to be arranged.

Treatment plans vary with different therapists and the approach taken depends on the nature of the problem. Your therapist may use books, films or videos specifically designed for sex therapy treatment, as part of your therapy. Between appointments you, or you and your partner, may be asked to do some exercises at home to improve your communication and comfort with sex. Ask questions about anything you do not understand and talk to your therapist about things that make you feel hesitant.

SEX THERAPY CERTIFICATION:

Certification by BESTCO ensures the sex therapist has completed rigorous training.

Rarely does one single professional degree qualify a person to be a sex therapist. Entrance requirements for certification as a Registered Sex Therapist involves a minimum of one professional degree in a field such as marital and family therapy, medicine, nursing, psychology, pastoral counselling, social work or sexology.

The Board of Examiners in Sex Therapy and Counselling in Ontario (BESTCO) is comprised of professionals who have clinical expertise in human sexual concerns. Our membership is multidisciplinary and includes professionals from: the Ontario Psychological Association, the College of Physicians and Surgeons, the College of Nurses, the College of Certified Social Workers and The Registry of Marriage & Family Therapists in Canada (Clinical Member AAMFT).

Each BESTCO Registered Sex Therapist is accountable to a professional organization with a strict ethical code.

Look for a BESTCO certified sex therapist to ensure a high standard of clinical excellence in sex therapy. For information about BESTCO or help in finding a Registered Sex Therapist, please contact us.

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