Sex Therapists in Shanklin, ENG

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Online Therapists

Photo of Harriet Sheppard, Psychotherapist in Shanklin, England
Harriet Sheppard
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barnet EN5  (Online Only)
I offer a supportive, creative and honest environment to explore what it is like being you. Whether it's anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties or something you don't have a word for yet, what's really important in therapy is the relationship that we build together. We'll work collaboratively to find an approach works for you and supports you to move towards meaningful change. While I work with a wide range of conditions or concerns, I have particular experience working alongside clients with ADHD and autism, people with disabilities/ health conditions and gender, sexuality and relationship diversity.
I offer a supportive, creative and honest environment to explore what it is like being you. Whether it's anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties or something you don't have a word for yet, what's really important in therapy is the relationship that we build together. We'll work collaboratively to find an approach works for you and supports you to move towards meaningful change. While I work with a wide range of conditions or concerns, I have particular experience working alongside clients with ADHD and autism, people with disabilities/ health conditions and gender, sexuality and relationship diversity.
020 3835 4754 View 020 3835 4754
Photo of Alvaro Navarro Psychosexual/Relationship Therapy, Counsellor in Shanklin, England
Alvaro Navarro Psychosexual/Relationship Therapy
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
London WC1X  (Online Only)
Most of us will experience sexual and relationship difficulties at some point in our lives and yet it can still be very challenging and embarrassing discussing them. Talking to an experienced and qualified psychosexual and relationship therapist can help you identify the difficulties you are experiencing, understand and explore different ways you can overcome these challenges and move forward. I aim to create a confidential and safe place where you feel able to talk about these issues in a non-shaming way. I am a sex positive therapist and I am comfortable exploring alternative sexual interests.
Most of us will experience sexual and relationship difficulties at some point in our lives and yet it can still be very challenging and embarrassing discussing them. Talking to an experienced and qualified psychosexual and relationship therapist can help you identify the difficulties you are experiencing, understand and explore different ways you can overcome these challenges and move forward. I aim to create a confidential and safe place where you feel able to talk about these issues in a non-shaming way. I am a sex positive therapist and I am comfortable exploring alternative sexual interests.
01227 931733 View 01227 931733
Photo of Sarah Bolton-Locke, Counsellor in Shanklin, England
Sarah Bolton-Locke
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL51
Relationship & family difficulties, loss, and bereavement, and/or identity or sexuality issues.
I have a face to face and online counselling practice based in Cheltenham and Gloucester, offering warm and accepting therapy for adults and children. Having a non-judgmental and safe space will give you the opportunity to explore whatever you may be struggling with.
Relationship & family difficulties, loss, and bereavement, and/or identity or sexuality issues.
I have a face to face and online counselling practice based in Cheltenham and Gloucester, offering warm and accepting therapy for adults and children. Having a non-judgmental and safe space will give you the opportunity to explore whatever you may be struggling with.
01452 934579 View 01452 934579
Photo of Specialist Counselling, Psychologist in Shanklin, England
Specialist Counselling
Psychologist, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
Camberley GU15
I am a Psychologist and Counsellor with over 20 years full-time NHS experience and a further 8 years in private practice. I have helped thousands of clients (both individuals and couples) successfully overcome their difficulties. My areas of expertise cover all relationship issues and sexual matters including sexual addiction, sexuality and sexual disfunction. During my career I have taught medical students and GP's on specific areas within my field of expertise.
I am a Psychologist and Counsellor with over 20 years full-time NHS experience and a further 8 years in private practice. I have helped thousands of clients (both individuals and couples) successfully overcome their difficulties. My areas of expertise cover all relationship issues and sexual matters including sexual addiction, sexuality and sexual disfunction. During my career I have taught medical students and GP's on specific areas within my field of expertise.
01276 983911 View 01276 983911
Photo of Lottie Passell-Syms, Psychotherapist in Shanklin, England
Lottie Passell-Syms
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Winchester SO21
Sex & Intimacy Specialist I have been working as a Sex, Intimacy and Relationship Specialist for over 2 decades. Dedicated and focused on helping individuals and couples to find that part of themselves, the part of themselves that can get lost in a partnership. We explore all aspects of the relationship to bring back together a more loving and sexual connection. I am directive and challenging because I believe in creating a foundation for a resilient and thriving relationship. It is about exploring your strengths, celebrating the successes and working towards establishing a mutual awareness and intentional partnership.
Sex & Intimacy Specialist I have been working as a Sex, Intimacy and Relationship Specialist for over 2 decades. Dedicated and focused on helping individuals and couples to find that part of themselves, the part of themselves that can get lost in a partnership. We explore all aspects of the relationship to bring back together a more loving and sexual connection. I am directive and challenging because I believe in creating a foundation for a resilient and thriving relationship. It is about exploring your strengths, celebrating the successes and working towards establishing a mutual awareness and intentional partnership.
01962 670866 View 01962 670866
Photo of Jim Reynolds, Counsellor in Shanklin, England
Jim Reynolds
Counsellor
Verified Verified
London W1T
Sex and relationship therapy can help us to not only understand our difficulties, but also empower us to make better choices about being in the world. The challenges of psychosexual and/or relationship therapy are experienced differently by every individual client, and my practice has evolved to meet each client or relationship on their unique terms. My approach to working with clients blends principles from psychodynamic, gestalt, existential, and transpersonal modalities, into a whole-person approach, in partnership with the techniques of sex and relationship therapy. Rates: £100 (individual), £110-£130 (relationship clients).
Sex and relationship therapy can help us to not only understand our difficulties, but also empower us to make better choices about being in the world. The challenges of psychosexual and/or relationship therapy are experienced differently by every individual client, and my practice has evolved to meet each client or relationship on their unique terms. My approach to working with clients blends principles from psychodynamic, gestalt, existential, and transpersonal modalities, into a whole-person approach, in partnership with the techniques of sex and relationship therapy. Rates: £100 (individual), £110-£130 (relationship clients).
020 3929 3597 View 020 3929 3597
Photo of Elisabeth Marriner, Psychotherapist in Shanklin, England
Elisabeth Marriner
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
London SW7  (Online Only)
Feeling left behind? Is you partnership in trouble, resentments becoming unmanageable, fights getting worse and affecting your children. Are you missing the trust and intimacy you once had? Is a sexual difficulty preventing you from finding a partner or is sex a thing of the past in your relationship? I work with individuals and couples who want to thrive not just survive
Feeling left behind? Is you partnership in trouble, resentments becoming unmanageable, fights getting worse and affecting your children. Are you missing the trust and intimacy you once had? Is a sexual difficulty preventing you from finding a partner or is sex a thing of the past in your relationship? I work with individuals and couples who want to thrive not just survive
020 3095 4695 View 020 3095 4695
Photo of Sarah Free, Counsellor in Shanklin, England
Sarah Free
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gloucester GL4
I am experienced with working with a number of presenting issues, such as menopause, sexuality, bereavement, relationship breakdowns, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, depression, addictions and many more.
I am an Integrative Humanistic therapist who offers solo and couples counselling. I put the relationship between the therapist and the patient at the heart of the therapy, helping to create a space for you that feels safe to explore whatever you would like to work on at a pace that suits you.
I am experienced with working with a number of presenting issues, such as menopause, sexuality, bereavement, relationship breakdowns, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, depression, addictions and many more.
I am an Integrative Humanistic therapist who offers solo and couples counselling. I put the relationship between the therapist and the patient at the heart of the therapy, helping to create a space for you that feels safe to explore whatever you would like to work on at a pace that suits you.
01529 400799 View 01529 400799
Photo of Joanna Atkinson, Counsellor in Shanklin, England
Joanna Atkinson
Counsellor, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Bournemouth BH8
You may also feel overwhelmed by intrusive thoughts or unable to cope, questioning your sexuality or struggling in relationships.
We all go through life experiencing good and bad moments, but sometimes the bad experiences can become too overwhelming to manage them on our own. Sometimes they may be a result of sudden changes which life throws at us unexpectedly leaving us vulnerable and lost in a new reality and sometimes it may be that we want to change something in our lives, but don’t really know how, which leaves us feeling stuck and helpless. If this sounds familiar to how you feel why not try counselling? Talking to someone you can trust who can listen without any judgement can be very helpful especially in these challenging times.
You may also feel overwhelmed by intrusive thoughts or unable to cope, questioning your sexuality or struggling in relationships.
We all go through life experiencing good and bad moments, but sometimes the bad experiences can become too overwhelming to manage them on our own. Sometimes they may be a result of sudden changes which life throws at us unexpectedly leaving us vulnerable and lost in a new reality and sometimes it may be that we want to change something in our lives, but don’t really know how, which leaves us feeling stuck and helpless. If this sounds familiar to how you feel why not try counselling? Talking to someone you can trust who can listen without any judgement can be very helpful especially in these challenging times.
01202 125114 View 01202 125114
Photo of James Crossland, Counsellor in Shanklin, England
James Crossland
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London E8  (Online Only)
My integrative approach has helped clients deal with • Low self-esteem/insecurities • Anxiety/stress & depression • Mid-life crisis/life transitions • Relationship difficulties • Identity crisis • Family problems • Attachment issues, avoidant, anxious attachment • Issues from the past impacting the here and now • Addictions • Sexuality.
Firstly, I'd like to extend a warm welcome. I believe in the power of being heard and given the right conditions you can flourish and grow. I aim to provide those conditions and deliver the space for you to be heard. During our sessions, I promise to listen carefully without imposing any judgment or values and help you understand and make sense of your issues. Then working collaboratively, we can explore the strategies to help you navigate your problems, and help you move forward with your life.
My integrative approach has helped clients deal with • Low self-esteem/insecurities • Anxiety/stress & depression • Mid-life crisis/life transitions • Relationship difficulties • Identity crisis • Family problems • Attachment issues, avoidant, anxious attachment • Issues from the past impacting the here and now • Addictions • Sexuality.
Firstly, I'd like to extend a warm welcome. I believe in the power of being heard and given the right conditions you can flourish and grow. I aim to provide those conditions and deliver the space for you to be heard. During our sessions, I promise to listen carefully without imposing any judgment or values and help you understand and make sense of your issues. Then working collaboratively, we can explore the strategies to help you navigate your problems, and help you move forward with your life.
020 3826 8533 View 020 3826 8533
Photo of Dr Michele McCulley, Psychologist in Shanklin, England
Dr Michele McCulley
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
London SW6
Together, we will explore your challenges like depression, anxiety, compulsive behaviours, identity, self-esteem, relationship problems, sexuality and figure out why they exist, and thereafter support you as you experiment with trying to do things differently.
I am an integrative psychologist, psychotherapist and sexologist and my training has followed this route because I believe the way we come to understand ourselves develops dynamically in formative years in relationship with our parents, extended families and more broadly the cultures in which families are embedded. In short, we come to know who we are in relationship with other people. That also means that most of our difficulties and adaptive skills - which often cause difficulties later on are formed as we navigate the different demands of these environments too. Becoming aware of these challenge the way to improved mental health.
Together, we will explore your challenges like depression, anxiety, compulsive behaviours, identity, self-esteem, relationship problems, sexuality and figure out why they exist, and thereafter support you as you experiment with trying to do things differently.
I am an integrative psychologist, psychotherapist and sexologist and my training has followed this route because I believe the way we come to understand ourselves develops dynamically in formative years in relationship with our parents, extended families and more broadly the cultures in which families are embedded. In short, we come to know who we are in relationship with other people. That also means that most of our difficulties and adaptive skills - which often cause difficulties later on are formed as we navigate the different demands of these environments too. Becoming aware of these challenge the way to improved mental health.
020 3984 8247 View 020 3984 8247
Photo of Janet King, Counsellor in Shanklin, England
Janet King
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Christchurch BH23
If sex and internet pornography is problematic I can help you with your compulsive behaviours.
As a psychotherapist, supervisor and trainer with over 28years of experience I have been privileged to work with courageous people from all walks of life, cultures and backgrounds. From adults, to children, young people and couples, LGBGTQ+, kink and polyamorous communities . With the help of therapy they have been able to explore what has been troubling them and discover a way forward. I offer an environment that is supportive, warm, confidential and free from judgment. Together we can create a space in which you will be able to explore areas of your life you wish to understand, improve on or make changes to.
If sex and internet pornography is problematic I can help you with your compulsive behaviours.
As a psychotherapist, supervisor and trainer with over 28years of experience I have been privileged to work with courageous people from all walks of life, cultures and backgrounds. From adults, to children, young people and couples, LGBGTQ+, kink and polyamorous communities . With the help of therapy they have been able to explore what has been troubling them and discover a way forward. I offer an environment that is supportive, warm, confidential and free from judgment. Together we can create a space in which you will be able to explore areas of your life you wish to understand, improve on or make changes to.
01425 209099 View 01425 209099
Photo of Tegan Andrea Hecht, Psychotherapist in Shanklin, England
Tegan Andrea Hecht
Psychotherapist, COSRT General
Verified Verified
London SW1X  (Online Only)
When it comes to sex and relationships we have to understand whats happening in our bodies! I will facilitate you in discovering what your body wants and needs which will create a map in supporting you in getting from where you are now to where you'd most like to be.
Whether an individual or couple you'd benefit from working with me if you're ready for a lifestyle change that will open you to a more pleasurable and fulfilling relationship and sex life and therefore, expand your quality of life. “The quality of your life ultimately depends on the quality of your (sex &) relationships . ." Esther Perel
When it comes to sex and relationships we have to understand whats happening in our bodies! I will facilitate you in discovering what your body wants and needs which will create a map in supporting you in getting from where you are now to where you'd most like to be.
Whether an individual or couple you'd benefit from working with me if you're ready for a lifestyle change that will open you to a more pleasurable and fulfilling relationship and sex life and therefore, expand your quality of life. “The quality of your life ultimately depends on the quality of your (sex &) relationships . ." Esther Perel
020 3984 9539 View 020 3984 9539
Photo of Stephanie Jeans, Psychotherapist in Shanklin, England
Stephanie Jeans
Psychotherapist, MA, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bournemouth BH8  (Online Only)
Having noticed a growing number of clients struggling with compulsive sex and pornography behaviours, I have specialised in supporting recovery in this addiction.
I am an accredited Psychotherapist and Counsellor in private practice and work with non-judgment and compassion. You may be feeling anxious, stressed or depressed, and generally noticing yourself lacking motivation and not enjoying activities that used to bring you pleasure. You may be struggling in your relationships or overwhelmed at work, feeling angry a lot of the time. Your coping strategies may be increasingly unhelpful, and manifesting in unhealthy behaviours. I support my clients to facilitate change & growth to move forward to a place of recovery and hope.
Having noticed a growing number of clients struggling with compulsive sex and pornography behaviours, I have specialised in supporting recovery in this addiction.
I am an accredited Psychotherapist and Counsellor in private practice and work with non-judgment and compassion. You may be feeling anxious, stressed or depressed, and generally noticing yourself lacking motivation and not enjoying activities that used to bring you pleasure. You may be struggling in your relationships or overwhelmed at work, feeling angry a lot of the time. Your coping strategies may be increasingly unhelpful, and manifesting in unhealthy behaviours. I support my clients to facilitate change & growth to move forward to a place of recovery and hope.
01202 013885 View 01202 013885
Photo of Dr Pinar Marasli - Clinical Psychologist, Psychologist in Shanklin, England
Dr Pinar Marasli - Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London N8
I am a Clinical Psychologist, Chartered with the British Psychological Society (BPS) and Registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). I work with adults (18+) experiencing emotional, behavioural and mental health problems. I have a particular interest in working with people with longstanding psychological difficulties such as attachment issues and early childhood trauma. I am also highly interested in working with anxiety and depression; sexual health problems (e.g., erectile difficulties, painful vaginal sex); and relationship difficulties.
I am a Clinical Psychologist, Chartered with the British Psychological Society (BPS) and Registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). I work with adults (18+) experiencing emotional, behavioural and mental health problems. I have a particular interest in working with people with longstanding psychological difficulties such as attachment issues and early childhood trauma. I am also highly interested in working with anxiety and depression; sexual health problems (e.g., erectile difficulties, painful vaginal sex); and relationship difficulties.
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Photo of Carl Mojta, Psychotherapist in Shanklin, England
Carl Mojta
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
London N22
Some of my key areas of expertise and clinical/research interests are: sexuality/sexual health concerns, problematic sexual behaviour, substance abuse addiction and recovery, relationship/couples issues, individuals and couples who identify as LGBTQIA+/GSRD, masculinity and men's mental health and multiculturalism.
Welcome! I am a U.S. based psychotherapist and a Registered Member (MBACP) of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). I offer a person-centered, compassionate, and systemic approach to therapy. I consider working with each client to be a privilege and a collaborative therapeutic experience. One area of sexual health in which I specialise is Out of Control Sexual Behaviour (OCSB). OCSB is defined as “a sexual problem of consensual sexual urges, thoughts, or behaviours that feel out of control for the individual.” If you are interested in improving your sexual health and relations, please contact me.
Some of my key areas of expertise and clinical/research interests are: sexuality/sexual health concerns, problematic sexual behaviour, substance abuse addiction and recovery, relationship/couples issues, individuals and couples who identify as LGBTQIA+/GSRD, masculinity and men's mental health and multiculturalism.
Welcome! I am a U.S. based psychotherapist and a Registered Member (MBACP) of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). I offer a person-centered, compassionate, and systemic approach to therapy. I consider working with each client to be a privilege and a collaborative therapeutic experience. One area of sexual health in which I specialise is Out of Control Sexual Behaviour (OCSB). OCSB is defined as “a sexual problem of consensual sexual urges, thoughts, or behaviours that feel out of control for the individual.” If you are interested in improving your sexual health and relations, please contact me.
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Photo of Elizabeth Viney, Psychotherapist in Shanklin, England
Elizabeth Viney
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
London E10
My practice is non-judmental, sex-positive and kink-affirming.
I offer a calm, open and non-judgemental environment where I aim for you to feel supported, safe, accepted and heard. I am interested in getting to know you, hearing about your experiences, relationships and the views you hold of yourself and the world around you. We will work collaboratively to identify patterns in your life that may be unhelpful or causing you distress, whilst drawing links to your past to identify how it may be showing itself in the present. I see clients from all backgrounds however I have a keen interest in working with those who are kinky or engage in non-conformative sexual practices and relationships.
My practice is non-judmental, sex-positive and kink-affirming.
I offer a calm, open and non-judgemental environment where I aim for you to feel supported, safe, accepted and heard. I am interested in getting to know you, hearing about your experiences, relationships and the views you hold of yourself and the world around you. We will work collaboratively to identify patterns in your life that may be unhelpful or causing you distress, whilst drawing links to your past to identify how it may be showing itself in the present. I see clients from all backgrounds however I have a keen interest in working with those who are kinky or engage in non-conformative sexual practices and relationships.
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Photo of Justin David Duwe Bsc Ma Sac Dip Mbacp (Accred), Psychologist in Shanklin, England
Justin David Duwe Bsc Ma Sac Dip Dip Mbacp (Accred)
Psychologist, MA, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
London WC1X  (Online Only)
Abuse, Addictions, Alcoholism, Anger management, Anxiety Disorders, Personality Disorders, Bereavement, Body Image issues, Bipolar disorder/Manic depression, Body dysmorphic disorder, Depression, Eating disorders, Family issues, HIV/AIDS issues, Hoarding, Low self-esteem, Phobias, Relationship issues, Self-harm, Separation and divorce, Sex addiction, Sex problems, Sexual abuse, Sexuality, Stress, Trauma,.
My name is Justin Duwe, I am an award winning Psychologist, Sexologist, Columnist and Author working in private practice in Central London. I offer practical, tailored online counselling and psychotherapy for individuals, couples and groups. The main body of my work is in the areas of Addiction treatment, Sex/Relationship Matters, Chemsex, Self-Esteem, Body Image, Anxiety disorders, Depression, Existential issues and more.
Abuse, Addictions, Alcoholism, Anger management, Anxiety Disorders, Personality Disorders, Bereavement, Body Image issues, Bipolar disorder/Manic depression, Body dysmorphic disorder, Depression, Eating disorders, Family issues, HIV/AIDS issues, Hoarding, Low self-esteem, Phobias, Relationship issues, Self-harm, Separation and divorce, Sex addiction, Sex problems, Sexual abuse, Sexuality, Stress, Trauma,.
My name is Justin Duwe, I am an award winning Psychologist, Sexologist, Columnist and Author working in private practice in Central London. I offer practical, tailored online counselling and psychotherapy for individuals, couples and groups. The main body of my work is in the areas of Addiction treatment, Sex/Relationship Matters, Chemsex, Self-Esteem, Body Image, Anxiety disorders, Depression, Existential issues and more.
020 3962 0374 View 020 3962 0374
Photo of Cesar Azevedo - LGBTQ Counselling , Psychotherapist in Shanklin, England
Cesar Azevedo - LGBTQ Counselling
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
London W1B  (Online Only)
I have substantial experience working with individuals in a wide variety of areas such as: feeling insecure, sad or angry and unsure of the root cause; low self-esteem/low confidence; addiction; HIV and AIDS; trauma and abuse; loneliness; depression and anxiety; sexuality; seeking a fulfilling relationship; handling shame; looking for validation in others.
I’m a qualified therapist experienced in supporting individuals who identify as LGBT+ in addressing issues connected with self-esteem, self-worth and acceptance. I can help you address issues that are causing you emotional pain, giving you cause for concern, or making you feel uncomfortable. Whether you may be confronting difficult situations, facing challenging decisions, or healing from old wounds. My style is to encourage clients to speak in openness and confidence about difficult topics and emotions.
I have substantial experience working with individuals in a wide variety of areas such as: feeling insecure, sad or angry and unsure of the root cause; low self-esteem/low confidence; addiction; HIV and AIDS; trauma and abuse; loneliness; depression and anxiety; sexuality; seeking a fulfilling relationship; handling shame; looking for validation in others.
I’m a qualified therapist experienced in supporting individuals who identify as LGBT+ in addressing issues connected with self-esteem, self-worth and acceptance. I can help you address issues that are causing you emotional pain, giving you cause for concern, or making you feel uncomfortable. Whether you may be confronting difficult situations, facing challenging decisions, or healing from old wounds. My style is to encourage clients to speak in openness and confidence about difficult topics and emotions.
020 3974 2381 View 020 3974 2381
Photo of Rebecca Sparkes, Psychotherapist in Shanklin, England
Rebecca Sparkes
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MUKCP
Verified Verified
London W2
Rebecca is highly experienced addictions and eating disorders specialist psychotherapist. She works with all addictions, including drugs, alcohol, gambling as well as online addictions, sex/porn addictions She also works with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, phobias and early years' trauma (Complex PTSD). Rebecca is a trained Couples and Relationship Psychotherapist and works with couples or individuals looking at relationship or psychosexual issues. Appointments are face to face in Farringdon London EC1 or via Zoom
Rebecca is highly experienced addictions and eating disorders specialist psychotherapist. She works with all addictions, including drugs, alcohol, gambling as well as online addictions, sex/porn addictions She also works with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, phobias and early years' trauma (Complex PTSD). Rebecca is a trained Couples and Relationship Psychotherapist and works with couples or individuals looking at relationship or psychosexual issues. Appointments are face to face in Farringdon London EC1 or via Zoom
020 8103 6052 View 020 8103 6052
Sex Therapy Counsellors

Who is sex therapy for?

Sex problems are common in relationships. Many people want a better sex life and want to feel loved and desired by their partner. It is difficult for couples to resolve sexual problems on their own because people often feel ashamed to talk about their sexual desires fearing they are not normal, when in fact a very broad range of preferences and behaviors are normal. A sex therapist can help clarify this and other matters.

Why do people need sex therapy?

Many people do not know how to talk about their erotic needs or their emotional needs, both of which are addressed in sex therapy. Couples often live with sexual difficulties for years before seeking help, and in that time, partners may experience so much disappointment and alienation that they may fear their problems mean they are incompatible. Once people experience disappointment, it is difficult to find resolution without help.

What happens in sex therapy?

People have many misconceptions about what takes place in sex therapy. First, it is a form of talk therapy in which partners discuss their sexual concerns; it does not involve touching or physical exploration of any kind. Sex therapy typically helps couples get comfortable talking to each other about sex so that, in the privacy of their home life, they can openly discuss their sexual desires and make decisions about what they want to do. Couples are typically assigned activities to do at home that build intimacy skills.

What kinds of problems do sex therapists treat?

Very often, partners differ in their degree of sexual desire and struggle over how often to have sex. Or they may have fights about porn use or have difficulty connecting sexually after one partner is unfaithful. Men may have problems with premature ejaculation. Women may find themselves struggling to become aroused or to achieve an orgasm. Sometimes partners feel like they have lost the sense of attraction to their partner. These are all common issues dealt with in sex therapy.