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Couples Sex Therapy

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Counseling and treatment for couples facing sexual issues

Many people experience sexual difficulties at some point in their lives. These challenges can lead to significant distress and impact a person’s self-esteem, relationships, and general wellbeing. Whether you are struggling to understand your own body or connect intimately with a partner, addressing sexual issues can feel daunting. While it takes courage to take that first step, discussing these issues with an expert sex therapist can be the path to more confidence, fulfilment, and intimacy in your relationship. 

At Union Square Practice, we offer approachable, judgment-free sex therapy for couples dealing with all types of sexual problems. Counseling is available at our offices in the Chelsea neighborhood of Manhattan, as well as by telehealth across New York State.

What are common reasons to go to sex therapy?

  • There are many experiences and situations that bring couples to sex therapy, including:

    • Decreased sexual desire or arousal
    • Difficulty achieving orgasm
    • Painful intercourse
    • Erectile dysfunction
    • Premature or delayed ejaculation
    • Relationship conflicts related to sexual intimacy
    • Body image concerns affecting sexual confidence
    • Past sexual trauma impacting current experiences
    • Desire to enhance sexual communication and intimacy

    A lot of people feel embarrassed about sexual issues and hesitant about seeking sex therapy, but these problems are far more common than you might suspect. Facing them honestly with an expert therapist can help alleviate feelings of isolation and embarrassment and empower you to discover real solutions.

What causes sexual dysfunctions?

Human sexuality is complex, and the underlying causes of sexual difficulties vary greatly. Common contributors are psychological factors such as stress, depression, past trauma, body image concerns, and performance anxiety. Physical causes of sexual issues include medical conditions, hormonal imbalances, medication side effects, and chronic pain.

Relationship dynamics can also come into play, including communication problems, intimacy issues, and unresolved emotional conflicts. Societal pressures, cultural or religious beliefs, and a lack of sexual education can also affect sexual functioning. 

Often, it is a combination of various factors, and expert facilitation in sex therapy can be the key to putting the pieces together. Your sex therapist will help you examine the issues and identify underlying causes in order to determine a treatment approach that makes sense for you.

What techniques are used in sex therapy?

There are many ways to approach sex therapy, depending on the nature and causes of the sexual issues. We draw from a range of evidence-based practices we’ve seen work for other couples. After carefully assessing your experience, we recommend whichever tools are most relevant and collaborate with you on a personalized treatment plan:

  • Communication exercises help partners develop more effective communication skills to enhance intimacy and understanding.
  • Intimacy exercises offer helpful pathways to exploring physical and emotional connection.
  • Sensate Focus Therapy involves gradually increasing physical intimacy and pleasure through non-demanding touch.
  • The Gottman Method of couples therapy addresses roadblocks to communication and intimacy in order to enhance empathy and understanding between partners.
  • Mindfulness and relaxation techniques help reduce anxiety and allow you to be present and embodied in the moment.
  • Body image and self-esteem work enhances self-acceptance and confidence, removing mental barriers that hinder intimacy.
  • Sexual education provides accurate information about sexual anatomy, function, and pleasure.

 

Effective sex therapy empowers you with new perspectives and actionable steps. We take a solution-focused and strength-based approach, so you leave the session with a clear sense of progress and practices to take home and incorporate into daily life.

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Couples sex therapy

in New York

Seeking professional help for sexual difficulties is a courageous step towards discovering, or rediscovering, relational intimacy and sexual fulfillment. With open and honest communication, we collaborate with you and your partner to address sexual issues without shame or embarrassment and develop a practical, personalized treatment plan. Reach out today for a confidential consultation and start your journey towards a more fulfilling sexual experience.

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