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Definition
By Mayo Clinic staffSex therapy is a type of psychotherapy. Through sex therapy, you can address concerns about sexual function, sexual feelings and intimacy — either in individual therapy or in therapy with a partner. Sex therapy can be an effective resource for adults of any age, gender or sexual orientation.
Sex therapy is usually provided by psychologists, physicians or licensed therapists who have special training in issues related to sex and relationships. Certified sex therapists have graduate degrees and can demonstrate their competence in sex therapy by becoming credentialed by the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists (AASECT).
Sex therapy is usually short term. The specific treatment plan depends on the issues to be addressed.
Certified sex therapists do not have sexual contact with clients, in the office or anywhere else. Sexual coaching that involves physical contact isn't considered part of mainstream sex therapy.
- Giommi R, et al. The therapeutic dilemma: How to use psychotherapy. International Journal of Andrology. 2005;28:81.
- Bhasin S, et al. Sexual dysfunction in men and women. In: Kronenberg H. Williams Textbook of Endocrinology. 11th ed. Philadelphia Pa.: Saunders Elsevier; 2008. http://www.mdconsult.com/das/book/body/199243331-3/992322664/1555/124.html. Accessed June 15, 2010.
- Frequently asked questions. American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists. http://www.aasect.org/faqs.asp. Accessed June 15, 2010.
- Crowe M. Managing couple relationship and individual psychological problems in psychosexual therapy. Psychiatry. 2006;6:95.
- Al-Azzawi F, et al. Therapeutic options for postmenopausal female sexual dysfunction. Climacteric. 2010;13:103.
- Kedde H, et al. Efficacy of sexological healthcare for people with chronic diseases and physical disabilities. Journal of Sex and Marital Therapy. 2010;36:282.
- Althof SE. What's new in sex therapy. Journal of Sexual Medicine. 2010;7:5.
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