Sexuality

Healthy expression of sexuality comes in many forms. People with non-normative sexuality or gender may feel alienated from society. These feelings may cause mental health issues that bring them to therapy. These concerns can profoundly affect a person’s mood, thoughts, and well-being.

People may fear others will think their sexual concerns are inappropriate. They may not wish to talk to partners, family, and friends about these issues. This can cause anxiety, frustration, and shame. These feelings may lead to further distress. Finding the right therapist can offer a person a safe place to share.

SEXUAL ISSUES TREATED IN THERAPY

Therapists can help people find the source of their sexual concerns. In talk therapy, a therapist may help someone explore their gender or sexual orientation. They may also address emotional barriers in relationships. Doing so can enhance sexual experiences. Therapy for issues related to sexuality may help with:

• Gender dysphoria

• Sexual trauma/abuse

• Sex addiction

• Transitioning

• LGBTQIA identity

• Porn addiction

• Conflict or confusion over sexual orientation

Worry about sexual orientation may cause someone to seek therapy. Family members worried about a loved one's identity might try to seek therapy for them. They may do this to "fix" their loved one's thoughts or behavior. But therapy that seeks to change a person's orientation is not seen as healthy. Therapy for sexual orientation should help people accept their sexuality. An affirming therapist will help that person process their feelings. They may help the person come to terms with their feelings about sex.