A Confidential Space To Talk About Sex
Sex, Intimacy and Sexual Difficulties
Talking about sex can feel difficult, particularly when something isn't working as you'd hoped or you're worried about how it is affecting your relationship.
Psychosexual therapy gives you a confidential, supportive and non-judgemental space to talk about sexual difficulties, intimacy and concerns about your sex life. You can explore what's happening, understand more about the factors that may be affecting you, and work towards positive changes at a pace that feels comfortable.
You don't need to feel embarrassed, and you don't need to know exactly what's wrong before you get in touch. Our experienced therapist will help you explore your concerns and decide what support might be helpful.
What can psychosexual therapy help with?
People come to psychosexual therapy for many different reasons. You might be experiencing:
- Differences in sexual desire between partners
- Low sexual desire or difficulty becoming aroused
- Difficulty reaching orgasm
- Premature or delayed ejaculation
- Pain or discomfort during sex
- Concerns about the frequency of sex
- Difficulty enjoying sex or feeling connected during intimacy
- Changes in your sex life following a major life event or relationship change
- Sexual behaviours that feel difficult to control
- Concerns about how sexual difficulties are affecting your relationship
These are just some examples. Every person and relationship is different, and you don't need to fit neatly into one of these categories to ask for help.
When sex becomes difficult, relationships can be affected too
Sexual difficulties don't always stay in the bedroom.
You may find yourself avoiding intimacy, feeling rejected or frustrated, worrying about what your partner thinks, or finding it increasingly difficult to talk about what's happening.
Sometimes couples can get caught in a cycle where the more difficult sex becomes, the harder it is to talk about it and the harder it is to reconnect.
Psychosexual therapy can provide a safe space to understand these patterns and explore ways of improving communication, intimacy and your sexual relationship.
Is this for couples or individuals?
Psychosexual therapy can be helpful for individuals and couples.
If you're in a relationship, you may choose to attend together, particularly when sexual difficulties are affecting both of you. However, you can also have psychosexual therapy on your own.
Your therapist will discuss your circumstances with you and help you decide what approach is most appropriate.
What happens in psychosexual therapy?
Your Initial Appointment
Your first appointment is an opportunity to talk about what's brought you to therapy and what you'd like help with.
Your therapist will ask questions about your concerns, your sexual relationship and anything else that may be relevant. You can ask questions too, and there is no expectation that you will immediately have all the answers.
If you are attending as a couple, your therapist will also explore how the issue is affecting your relationship.
Working Together
If psychosexual therapy is appropriate for you, you'll agree with your therapist what you'd like to work towards.
Sessions provide an opportunity to explore the factors that may be contributing to your difficulties and to develop practical ways of making changes.
Your therapist may suggest exercises or activities for you to try between sessions. These are discussed with you and are designed to be completed privately and at a pace that feels comfortable.
There is no expectation that you will have sexual contact with your therapist. Therapy takes place through conversation and agreed exercises that you can choose to work on in your own time.
Will I Have to Talk About Things I'm Uncomfortable With?
Psychosexual therapy involves talking openly about sex and intimacy, so you may be asked questions that feel personal.
However, you are always able to discuss your concerns with your therapist and ask questions about why something is being explored.
Our aim is to provide a space where you can talk honestly without feeling judged or embarrassed.
How much does psychosexual therapy cost?
Psychosexual therapy costs £80 per session.
If you're concerned about the cost of counselling or therapy, please get in touch. We may be able to discuss whether any reduced-cost support is available, depending on your circumstances and available funding.
Why choose Relationships Sussex?
Relationships Sussex is a not-for-profit counselling charity with more than 60 years experience of supporting individuals, couples and families.
Our therapists provide a professional, confidential and non-judgemental service, with your wellbeing and privacy at the heart of the work.
As a charity, the fees you pay help us continue providing counselling and relationship support within our communities.