Sex Therapy For Psychosexual Issues

Psychosexual Counselling or Psychosexual Therapy, sometimes also referred to as Sex Therapy, is a talking therapy that helps resolve challenges and issues concerning sex. It might be a general loss of interest in sex or an obvious symptom such as premature ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, vaginismus, difficulty climaxing or post-surgery-related issues. Sometimes, it is just a more subtle dissatisfaction and not enjoying sex how you would like.

Sometimes, it can be challenging to talk about issues related to sex, so you must know that you are in safe hands with Leone Centre BACP and UKCP registered Counsellors. Our experienced psychosexual therapists work psychosexually and, as with all counselling, offer non-judgemental support to help resolve your issues.

Psychosexual Issues Include:

Psychosexual Therapy Involves No Physical Intimacy

Psychosexual counselling is a talking therapy, and it’s important to clarify that no physical acts of intimacy happen during the sessions. There are no demonstrations or performances involved. What happens instead is a thoughtful exploration of your feelings, thoughts, and concerns around intimacy. You may be given tasks to complete at home, in the privacy of your own space, allowing you to engage with your experiences in a safe and manageable way. This process is not about “getting things right” but creating opportunities for connection and understanding.

Stress and Life Pressures Affect Sexual Well-being

Daily stress, life pressures, and anxieties can weigh heavily on intimate relationships. These factors can influence your sense of sexual connection and contribute to feelings of unease or frustration. In therapy, there’s space to talk through how external pressures and inner worries impact your intimacy experience. With time, this reflection can help ease the tension of navigating intimacy in today’s busy world.

Who is Psychosexual Counselling for?

Psychosexual counselling is for anyone who wants to access it, regardless of age, sexual orientation, gender, relationship status, or cultural or religious background.

Working with a psychosexual therapist involves exploring the various physical, psychological, emotional and environmental causes that are contributing to your sexual issues.

AdobeStock 222786938 — Issues around sex can be challenging to talk about

Sexual problems are common, and the best way to deal with them is through talking.

Addressing sexual issues is an important part of well-being, whether it’s via individual counselling or couples or relationship counselling. If the root problem is psychological and emotional, resolving the root cause will resolve the physical symptoms.

The Importance of Seeking Help Early

It’s natural to feel hesitant about talking to someone about your sex life, particularly when things aren’t going as you’d hoped. Yet, leaving these concerns unspoken can have a far-reaching impact, not just on how you feel day-to-day but also on your relationships and sense of self. Talking about these challenges in a therapeutic space can help bring relief and clarity, allowing you to move forward in a way that feels right.

Sexual Well-being Is for Everyone, No Matter Your Age

Psychosexual challenges can affect anyone, regardless of age. While it’s often thought that sexual difficulties primarily affect older generations, younger people are increasingly seeking support, too. The pressures of modern life, along with expectations about sex, intimacy, and relationships, can affect us all at different stages. Whatever your age or background, addressing these issues can help you gain clarity and a better understanding of what’s going on.

What to expect

An assessment appointment is booked initially as an opportunity for you to understand how the therapist works, ask any questions you have, discuss how best to work going forward, and for the therapist to understand your needs and goals.

You will discuss the therapeutic boundaries and contract, which lays out what you can expect from Leone Centre, your therapist, and what we ask of you as a client.

If you choose to continue, further sessions will be booked in a block of 6, for example, or with an ongoing frame.

Who You Work With Matters

Psychosexual therapy isn’t just about addressing sexual concerns – it’s about working with someone who understands both the emotional and physical sides of intimacy. Our counsellors are experienced in working with a range of sexual challenges, taking into account the mind, body, and emotional experiences that shape your intimate life. You can expect your therapist to be knowledgeable in these areas, guiding you through the conversations that may feel difficult at first.

Addressing Misconceptions About Psychosexual Counselling

There are many misconceptions about psychosexual therapy, including the idea that it involves intimacy during sessions. It’s helpful to understand that all therapy happens through conversation. The time spent with your therapist focuses on unpacking your feelings, concerns, and how past or present experiences impact you. This process can help open the door to deeper connections with yourself or a partner in ways you may not have thought possible.

Reassurance and Encouragement to Take the First Step

Reaching out for support can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to deeply personal areas like intimacy. It’s understandable to feel nervous about starting a conversation about something that feels so private. But once the conversation begins, it often brings a sense of relief, and many people feel lighter for having shared what’s been on their minds. Whether you’re coming to therapy alone or with a partner, this is a space to explore, reflect, and reconnect.

Addressing Both Physical and Emotional Aspects

Sexual issues are rarely just about the physical side of things. The emotional, psychological, and environmental factors often play a huge role in how we experience intimacy. Our therapists take the time to explore all aspects of your experience, helping to uncover the underlying causes that may be contributing to what’s going on. By looking at the bigger picture, we create space to understand how all these elements come together and how they can be worked through in a supportive way.

Creating Space for Intimacy

One of the goals of psychosexual counselling is to create an environment where intimacy can be rekindled or rediscovered. It’s not uncommon for people to feel disconnected from their partner or even from themselves. In counselling, there’s time and room to talk about the things that may be getting in the way, whether that’s stress, fear, or other emotions. Over time, these conversations can help you develop a new relationship with intimacy that feels more aligned with who you are.