What is sex therapy?
Sex therapy is talk therapy. It does not involve touch or removal of clothing. We can discuss and problem-solve around a variety of concerns related to sexuality, relationships, and anything about your psychological well-being.
Sex therapy is often active, goal-oriented, and may be completed within a few months depending on the wishes and circumstances of the client or couple. Longer-term psychotherapy is also available for clients wishing to explore deeper emotional issues or personal growth enrichment.
If you are seeking help for a problem concerning a partner, couples therapy is often recommended unless you need individual time in therapy to work on your own issues.
How can therapy help me?
A number of benefits are available from participating in psychotherapy. Therapists can provide support, education, problem-solving skills, and enhanced coping strategies for issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship troubles, concerns about sex, body image, grief, and stress management. Therapists can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem or point you in the direction of a solution. The benefits you obtain from therapy depend on how well you use the process and put into practice what you learn. Some of the benefits available from therapy include:
- Attaining a better understanding of yourself, your goals, and your values
- Developing skills for improving your relationships
- Learning new ways to cope with stress and anxiety
- Managing anger, grief, depression, and other emotional pressures
- Improving communication and listening skills
- Changing old behavior patterns and developing new ones
- Discovering new ways to solve problems in your family or partnership
- Improving your self-esteem and boosting your self-confidence
What is therapy like?
It is common to schedule weekly sessions especially at the start of therapy, where each session lasts around 55 to 60 minutes. Longer sessions may be available depending upon your circumstances. There may be times when you are asked to take certain actions outside of the therapy sessions, such as reading a relevant book or keeping records to track certain behaviors. It is important to process what has been discussed and integrate it into your life between sessions. For therapy to be most effective you must be an active participant, both during and between the sessions. People seeking psychotherapy are willing to take responsibility for their actions, work towards self-change, and create greater awareness in their lives. Here are some things you can expect out of therapy:
- Compassion, respect, and understanding
- Perspectives to illuminate persistent patterns and negative feelings
- Real strategies for enacting positive change
- Effective and proven techniques along with practical guidance
Is medication a substitute for therapy?
In some cases a combination of medication and therapy is the right course of action. Consulting with your medical provider can help determine what's best for you. It is well established that the long-term solution to mental, emotional, and often sexual problems and the pain they cause cannot be solved solely by medication. Instead of just treating the symptom, therapy addresses the cause of our distress and the behavior patterns that curb our progress. You can best achieve sustainable growth and a greater sense of well-being with an integrative approach to wellness.
Do you accept insurance?
I accept Blue Cross/Blue Shield PPO plans, Blue Cross/Blue Shield Traditional, and Blue Care Network. For other plans, I can provide a receipt/ statement of service that you can send to your insurance company for possible reimbursement. I also see clients on a sliding scale fee depending on ability to pay.
Is therapy confidential?
In general, the law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and psychotherapist. No information is disclosed without prior written permission from the client.
However, there are some exceptions required by law to this rule. Exceptions include:
- Suspected child abuse, dependent adult abuse, or elder abuse. The therapist is required to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
- If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person. The therapist is required to notify the police.
- If a client intends to harm himself or herself. The therapist will make every effort to work with the individual to ensure their safety. However, if an individual does not cooperate, additional measures may need to be taken.