Psychosexual Therapy Brighton

Sexual problems are very common

Problems with sex can be a source of great shame and embarrassment, so people rarely talk about them. If they did, it would become apparent just how common they are.

Sexual problems can be caused by all sorts of things, including traumatic sexual experiences, illnesses, hormonal changes resulting from ageing and poor sexual education. Typically they then get reinforced by a cycle of anxiety around sex.

Psychosexual therapy is effective

Thankfully, sexual problems can be effectively treated with psychosexual therapy. Clients are given a series of exercises to do at home between sessions, which gradually rebuild their sexual behaviour and knowledge, until they can enjoy sex without anxiety.

In the therapy sessions, we talk. The therapist hears how the exercises are going and adapts the next step accordingly. They help clients to resolve underlying issues in their past or in their current relationship, and provide sexual education where needed.

What can psychosexual therapy treat?

The problems that can be addressed through psychosexual therapy include:

• difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection
• vaginismus (involuntary tightening of the vaginalmuscles)
• early or delayed ejaculation
• dyspareunia (painful sex)
• loss of sexual desire
• inability to achieve orgasM
• different levels of sexual desire in a couple relationship
• compulsive sexual behaviours.

Psychosexual therapy or couples therapy?

When sexual problems arise in a couple relationship, it can be hard to know whether to choose psychosexual therapy or couples therapy. Our psychosexual therapists are also trained in couples therapy, so you don’t need to make that decision. Make an appointment with a psychosexual therapist, and they will be able to work with any broader issues in the couple relationship too.

Psychosexual therapy is available for couples and for individuals. If you have a partner, it is usually more effective for you to come to therapy together. If you don’t have a partner or don’t feel comfortable involving them, we are happy to see you on your own.

Taking the first step

Embarking on psychosexual therapy can be daunting; many people put it off for years. Our Brighton psychosexual therapists will help you to feel at ease.They are warm, understanding and non-judgemental. They are also very experienced in helping people to talk about sex.

At your initial consultation, you will be able to discuss any concerns or questions you may have. You will get a feel for how you and the therapist might work together and decide whether to go ahead. All your sessions will be confidential.