Martina Bador has worked as a therapist for over 15 years. Her work has an integrative approach, with person-centred foundations. In this question-and-answer session, she discusses her background and the inspirations for her work.
Why did you become a Therapist?
I used to work in speech and language, primarily this involved working with parents. I noticed it was very solution-focused, and there was little help for parents who were struggling. This seemed unhelpful, and I wondered if there was another way of working. I am very inquisitive, so I became very interested in this area.
How does your background contribute to your role as a Therapist?
My early life experiences left me vigilant to the needs of others. My inquisitive nature means I love the detective element of counselling – working out how to meet the needs of clients and creating the right environment to help them move forward.
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Also, my background in speech and language has proved to be really helpful – I learned how catastrophic communication difficulties can be, for individuals and their relationships.
Why did you decide to specialise in Psychosexual Therapy?
I’m fascinated by sex, it’s clearly an interesting subject. Sex is intimacy in action. In addition, I like working with couples and taking them from troubled to empowered.
It’s important to me that those I work with come out of therapy feeling that it was a success.
Which particular area are you most passionate about and why?
There are a lot of studies focussing on sex between young, white, straight people. But I want people who might consider themselves to fall outside the mainstream (however one chooses to define that), to feel comfortable coming for Psychosexual Therapy.
What is a common misconception about Psychosexual Therapy?
That sex is only for young, able-bodied people. Also, that it is scary and embarrassing – it isn’t!
Are there any particular subjects which people don’t talk about enough?
Sex for older people, sex for people in relationships that aren’t straight and white. People are also reluctant to talk about the fact that if orgasm is your goal, you might not have as much fun as if pleasure was your goal.
Do you have a favourite therapy-related quote from someone famous or of your own?
Sex is intimacy in action.
What would you say to people who are considering Psychosexual Therapy?
Don’t wait for things to get better – if whatever is happening is bothering you, don’t suffer in silence, get some help; that’s what we’re here for.
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Co-founder and director of Leone Centre, 20+ years of experience supporting people, and offering valuable knowledge through Couples Counselling and Individual Counselling. Before becoming a therapist, I worked in the financial sector.