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Debunking Sex Therapy Myths
Sex therapy is often misunderstood, surrounded by myths and misconceptions that can deter people from seeking help. Whether you’re experiencing sexual issues or simply looking to enhance your intimacy and relationship satisfaction, understanding the truths about sex therapy can be enlightening and empowering. Here, we will be debunking sex therapy myths and highlight the importance of choosing a certified professional.
Myth 1: Sex Therapy is Only for People with Serious Sexual Problems
Reality: Sex therapy is for anyone interested in improving their sexual health and intimacy, regardless of the severity of their issues. While it’s true that sex therapists often work with individuals and couples facing significant challenges, they also support those seeking to enhance their sexual experiences, better understand their desires, or navigate changes in their sexual relationships. From improving communication about sexual needs to exploring new dimensions of intimacy, sex therapy can benefit a wide range of clients.
Myth 2: All Sex Therapists are the Same
Reality: This myth can be particularly misleading and potentially harmful. The term “sex therapist” isn’t regulated, meaning anyone can call themselves a sex therapist without specialized training. However, certified sex therapists, especially those certified by the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT), have completed rigorous training in human sexuality. This certification ensures they are well-equipped to address various sexual issues and distinguish between normal and abnormal sexual behavior, which may be influenced by medical or mental health conditions. AASECT-certified therapists undergo extensive education and ongoing professional development, making them the gold standard in the field.
Myth 3: Sex Therapy is Just About Sex
Reality: While sex is a primary focus, sex therapy often addresses a wide array of emotional, psychological, and relational factors that influence sexual health and intimacy. Issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship dynamics, and communication challenges frequently arise in sessions. A certified sex therapist helps clients explore these areas, offering strategies to enhance overall well-being and intimacy beyond the physical aspects of sex.
Myth 4: Sex Therapy Involves Physical Contact
Reality: Sex therapy is a talk-based therapy. There is no physical contact or sexual activity between the therapist and the client during sessions. Instead, sessions focus on open dialogue, education, and developing strategies to improve sexual health and relationships. The safe, professional environment allows clients to discuss their concerns and goals without fear of judgment or inappropriate behavior.
Myth 5: You Need a Medical Problem to See a Sex Therapist
Reality: Sex therapy isn’t limited to addressing medical or physical issues. It also encompasses emotional and psychological aspects of sexual well-being, including relationship dynamics, communication, self-esteem, and sexual identity. Whether dealing with stress, relationship conflicts, or exploring alternative relationship styles, sex therapy can provide valuable support and guidance.
Myth 6: Sex Therapists Only See Clients with Sexual Issues
Reality: Sex therapists also work with individuals and couples exploring alternative relationship styles and those with sexual interests outside societal norms. This includes consensually non-monogamous relationships, polyamorous arrangements, kink-related interests, and LGBTQIA+ concerns. Certified sex therapists can help clients understand and accept their sexual interests, maintain physical and sexual safety in potentially risky situations, and determine the best relationship styles for their needs.
Myth 7: Sex Therapy Can Fix Any Sexual Issue
Reality: While sex therapy can address many issues, it is not a guaranteed fix for every problem. Some sexual issues may require a combination of medical, psychological, and relational interventions. A certified sex therapist can work collaboratively with other healthcare providers to create a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to each client’s unique needs.
Choosing the Right Sex Therapist
Given the unregulated use of the term “sex therapist,” it’s crucial to choose a certified professional. AASECT certification is a mark of excellence, indicating that the therapist has met high standards of education and training in human sexuality. This certification provides clients with confidence that they are working with a knowledgeable and ethical professional.
When selecting a sex therapist, consider the following:
1. Credentials: Look for AASECT certification or certification from other reputable organizations.
2. Experience: Seek a therapist with experience addressing your specific concerns or interests.
3. Comfort: Choose someone with whom you feel comfortable discussing intimate topics.
4. Approach: Ensure their therapeutic approach aligns with your values and goals.
Finding Support With Northside Mental Health
In conclusion, sex therapy is a valuable resource for anyone looking to enhance their sexual health and intimacy. By debunking common myths and emphasizing the importance of certification, we hope to encourage more individuals to seek the support they need. Whether facing significant challenges or simply looking to explore new dimensions of your sexuality, a certified sex therapist can provide the guidance and support necessary for a fulfilling and healthy sexual life.
For those seeking professional help, Northside Mental Health offers experienced and certified sex therapists who can assist you in navigating your sexual health and relationship needs with compassion and expertise. Reach out to Northside Mental Health to start your journey towards better sexual health and intimacy here today!
by Lauren Harding, Eating Recovery Coach and Counseling Intern
The holiday season can bring a significant amount of joy; however, it also presents its fair share of challenges. There is an expectation that the next few months are the best time of the year, which can be especially daunting for those who struggle with mental health issues.
For individuals who struggle with eating disorders or disordered eating, the holidays pose unique difficulties. Between the strong emphasis on food, diet talk, and that uncle who comments on your weight each year, the holiday season may be something that you are dreading. The “busy-ness” of this time of year, lack of routine, social experiences, and painful memories can further exacerbate disordered eating, anxiety, or depressive symptoms.
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One of my favorite things to tell my therapy clients is this: starting to date individuals who are healthy for you is kind of like getting used to adding more vegetables to your diet. At first, it may seem a little bit boring. After all, you are used to eating “fast food”; it’s addictive, tasty, quick, and convenient. Fast food is much like relationships where there is a high amount of chemistry. However, just in the way that we know fast food is not good for us, we also know that those addictive relationships are not good for us either. Why is it that some of us are most attracted to those chaotic, “fast food” relationships, while others seem to have no problem loving “vegetables”?
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In yoga there is this concept of full range of motion. It is why we push ourselves to be able to reach certain poses and lean in a little bit further. Many people never get to their full range of bodily motion because it takes years of dedicated practice, and the willingness to be constantly be leaning into your physical pain. Not to mention attending trainings and buying the equipment needed can be costly—ouch! However, with dedication, consistency, willingness to learn, and maybe spend a little, people can get close—if not completely—reach their full range of motion. Little by little, if you stick with your daily practice, you will begin to notice more ease in your daily movements. This is a place I have gotten to with yoga before; however, many barriers came up along the way, and eventually I lost the dedication and inspiration. Needless to say, I am back to having back pain and general discomfort as I move about.
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Do you want to participate in New Years’ Eve parties and family gatherings during the holidays, but the thought of being yourself around other people stresses you out? Do you clam up or feel unsure of what to say during social situations? Do your negative thoughts about yourself and how you are perceived run wild? Or–perhaps this is a familiar scenario: you go to family gatherings and friend get-togethers, but feel as if you have to put on a false front in order to fit in. At the end of the day, you are exhausted and you don’t feel any more connected to the people you just spent time with. You feel as if you are on the outside looking in. Everyone else but you seems to connect. For those of us who struggle in the social realm, the holidays have a way of highlighting this perceived deficiency. In fact, social anxiety is the highest diagnosed form of anxiety disorders, so there are probably many of us walking around feeling socially defective at this time of year.
Thankfully, the dawning of the new year can also spark hope. At this time of year, we are driven to reflect on our past and make resolutions for a better future. Perhaps you have not been as involved as you have wanted to be in your social life. Or perhaps you have not wanted to be involved socially, but something in your life seems to be amiss. If you are looking for a New Years’ Resolution, here are the top 5 ways to tackle social exclusion and anxiety in 2020:
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