Psychosexual therapy
For many people a sexual relationship is the most fulfilling, exciting and intimate encounter they have with another person. When the sexual relationship is not going well, the pleasure of giving and receiving sexual enjoyment very often becomes a source of conflict, loss of confidence, distress and sadness.
The aim of psychosexual therapy is to help you get from where you are in your relationship with your sexuality to where you want to be. I am a sex-positive psychologist who believes that healthy and expansive sexual health is closely related to a person's vitality and engagement with life.
I work with adults of all ages and all sexual orientations and gender identities. I provide therapy and support to individuals, couples, throuples and other arrangements, in monogamous or ethically non-monogamous relationships.
How the work is done
The therapy process may involve needs assessment, behaviour evaluation, sexual relationship therapy, risk assessment and coaching. In practice the work involves dream exploration, homework and coaching assignments, sensate focus and intimacy training.
Over the years I have found that people prefer different approaches, and the approach that suits you best depends on a range of factors. We decide on it together.
Issues that get in the way of sex and intimacy
- Body image
- Anxiety
- Beliefs about sexual acts
- Religious beliefs
- Alcohol or drug use
- Unrealistic expectations about how your body or your partner's body works
- Unrealistic or too many conditions for sexual intimacy
- Pregnancy and childbirth
- Stress at work
- Tiredness
- Ageing
- Medications for psychiatric or physical health issues (SSRIs, heart medication and others)
- Unresolved conflict in the marriage
- Anger and resentment
- No longer finding your partner attractive
- Issues of power
- Past unpleasant experiences
- Childhood trauma
- Vaginismus
- Lack of desire and libido
- Impotence
- Stress
- Illness
- Premature or delayed ejaculation
- Lack of emotional intimacy
"I am a sex-positive psychologist who believes that healthy and expansive sexual health is closely related to a person's vitality and engagement with life."