The types of intimacy problems that can potentially be solved with online sex therapy are when partners have a different level of desire than others, if the couple has problems with intimacy or simply wants to expand their sexual pleasure. Issues that may arise in relation to sexual dysfunction and what impact it has on the relationship and sexual commitment of partners. This includes, but is not limited to, erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, if you experience pain during sex, when you face infertility challenges, struggles to achieve orgasm, sexual shame, sexual identity, religious or cultural influences on your sex life, sexual trauma, intimacy consent issues after infidelity, issues after out-of-control sexual behavior, intimacy after having children, difficulty connecting with yourself sexually or getting to know yourself sexually, low sex drive, and various other issues. It can also be for couples who struggle to connect and feel more like roommates than a couple and wish to have more intimacy with each other, or for those who want to learn more about what each partner wants, needs or wants in their relationship with each other , exploring romantic fantasies, exploring relationship agreements, whether they want an open relationship, or a loving relationship, they would like to explore kink or bdsm. Some couples just want to have better sex, and that’s a great reason to come to sex therapy! There are other topics, but these are some that come up frequently in our office.
Benefits
When you think about the pros and cons of online vs. in-person sex therapy, it’s honestly just a matter of preference. Since sex therapy is still talking therapy, the work is still valuable in any case, and to be honest, most couples feel more comfortable talking about intimacy at home. Some of the advantages that come to mind are convenience, not having to deal with traffic, nor time spent commuting, parking problems. Other benefits include the convenience of doing it in your home or office and not necessarily disrupting the rest of your schedule, as well as anonymity, accessibility for those who may have difficulty commuting to and from an office location, confidentiality and non- limited to one therapist in your area.
Disadvantages
Disadvantages of online therapy include: the lack of human contact which for some can be an important factor (but if you do this with a partner, hopefully you can touch them), some online therapy sites limit their services to text only, rather than the ability to see a live person, and let’s be honest, it can feel more like discussing your sexual struggles with a bot than a human. Not all therapists have the adequate software or knowledge to use telehealth services, so if you find a therapist you really want to work with, they may not offer the option of online sex therapy. If you live in a small rural area, you may not have access to someone trained in sex therapy within your city limits and are therefore geographically limited to the availability of therapists who live in your area.
What is sex therapy?
Sex therapy is talk therapy, but certain exercises may be encouraged to try between sessions and discussed in sessions. These exercises are encouraged and can give you some direction on where to start. Making sure that both you and your partner are ready to engage in treatment together is an important part of the process and will determine your success in how you feel about moving towards your goals. Allowing someone to guide you into intimacy puts you in a vulnerable space. Therefore, comfort with your therapist and environment is critical to your success. Most clients find that being at home increases their ability to be vulnerable and open, as opposed to being in an office environment. Discussing what factors would allow you to feel open and emotionally and physically present can be the biggest factors in how you feel about your treatment, relationship, and work.
Sex therapy, when done effectively and comprehensively, can positively impact the psychological, emotional, and sexual health of an individual or couple in therapy, even after a short period of time. The effectiveness of sex therapy, like any therapy, depends on the willingness of the individual or couple to accept the concepts presented to them and make a conscious effort to apply them to their relationships.
Relationships Redefined specializes in helping couples and individuals find fulfillment, connection, trust and healthy communication in their relationships and offerings online counseling focused on couples therapy & marriage counseling, individual therapy, premarital counseling and intimacy and sexual therapy in San Diego and throughout California. Book a free 15-minute online consultation with us here! Make Intimacy a Reality!
