Sex therapy covers a wide range of sexual and relationship issues for both men and women. Therapy may involve education, cognitive behaviourial therapy, relationship counselling and individual support.
Women's Sexual Problems
Female sexual problems are common, affecting about 43% of women at any one time. Many women find it embarrassing to discuss issues relating to sexual problems, often feeling very alone and inadequate. Women are often surprised to hear that so many women experience sexual difficulty at some time in their lives.
What are the common problems?
- loss of libido (lack of desire for sex)
- lack of sexual enjoyment
- inability to achieve orgasm
- painful sex
- vaginismus (the inability to engage in intercourse)
These sexual issues can often cause distress and conflict in relationships. Problems may start in younger years and, if left without treatment, can result in anxiety, frustration and fear about sexual encounters.
What causes women's sexual problems?
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Men's Sexual Problems
Sexual problems in men are common and are often associated with difficulty with sexual performance. Several factors can adversely affect a man’s response during sexual activity including:
What are the common problems?
- depression
- performance anxiety
- general anxiety & stress
- drugs & alcohol
- general health concerns
- relationship problems
- impact of sexually transmitted diseases
What are the common concerns for men?
- erectile dysfunction (the inability to achieve and maintain an erection)
- premature /rapid ejaculation (coming too quickly)
- delayed ejaculation (difficulty climaxing during intercourse)
- loss of libido (lack of sexual desire)
Problems can have a psychological or a physical basis.
Men often find it difficult to talk about sexual matters and have a tendency to delay seeking help. It is advisable to seek help early - before problems become overwhelming or even permanent. Men with sexual problems often become sexually and emotionally avoidant, distancing themselves from their partners to avoid embarrassment and feelings of failure.
How can counselling help?
Counselling can be of assistance in helping men to better understand how their bodies work and how they can improve their sexual performance and reduce their anxiety. Counselling can help to improve communication between couples and create more functional relationships.
Relationship Issues
Many couples encounter problems in their relationships at some stage. Some couples have the skills to deal with these problems constructively. However, many couples suffer ongoing conflict and unhappiness which can lead to separation. Common areas of conflict include:
- communication and intimacy issues
- commitment, trust and jealousy issues
- arguing and resentment
- lack of romance, companionship and fun
- issues around boundaries and intrusions into the relationship
- infidelity
Sexual problems can impact on relationships, affecting both partners’ enjoyment of sex and intimacy.
Counselling often assists in the re-kindling of relationships by enhancing communication, and through offering help in dealing with intimacy difficulties and conflict resolution.
Gay & Lesbian Issues
Counselling may assist you in coming to terms with and accepting your sexuality and related issues (family, work and social). Counselling can also help in dealing with discrimination, homophobia and the consequent stress and anxiety. Relationship and sexual counselling can enhance your sexual satisfaction and relationship, as well as providing education in relation to safer sex practices (HIV/AIDS, STDs).
Depression
Depression is one of the most common psychological conditions affecting the general population. Many people experience significant depression at some point in their lives and even more people experience milder forms of depression. One in four women and one in six men will, over their lifetime, experience an episode of clinical depression.
Symptoms of depression may include:
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If you are having suicidal thoughts, it is extremely important to seek help immediately. Phone your general practitioner, mental health practitioner or local hospital.
Depression may also be related to other difficulties such as alcohol problems, sexual problems, anxieties, relationship problems, social problems, etc. Again, depression is a treatable condition through both psychological and medical approaches.
Anxiety
Anxiety is a normal human experience. Some anxiety can be beneficial by way of providing energy and focus. However, when anxiety becomes extreme and out of proportion to the situation, it can interfere with a person’s ability to enjoy life and reach their full potential.
Common anxiety-related problems include:
- generalised anxiety (excessive worry)
- social anxiety (excessive shyness)
- stress
- panic attacks
- post-traumatic reactions
- fears and phobias
- obsessional thoughts and compulsive behaviours
All of which are treatable.
Generalised Anxiety
When a person suffers from generalised anxiety, they tend to over-worry about little things, as well as big things. Usually uncomfortable physical symptoms can be felt most of the day.
Common concerns include:
- arriving on time
- the ability to perform at work and at school
- health and wellbeing of self and family
- financial and family problems
Physical symptoms of anxiety may include:
Gastrointestinal system
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Cardiovascular system
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Central nervous system
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Musculoskeletal system
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Respiratory system
- hyperventilation symptoms (over-breathing)