Question 1

What is psychosexual therapy?

Accepted Answer

Psychosexual therapy is a specialist form of talking therapy that addresses sexual difficulties and concerns. It explores the psychological, emotional, and relational factors that can affect sexual wellbeing-such as anxiety, past experiences, body image, or relationship dynamics. Sessions provide a safe, non-judgmental space to understand what's happening and develop practical strategies for change.

Question 2

What qualifications should I look for in a psychosexual therapist?

Accepted Answer

Look for a therapist registered or accredited with a professional body such as COSRT (College of Sexual and Relationship Therapists) and also accredited with UKCP, BACP, BPS of another professional body that establishes high standards of experience and training in order to become a member. This ensures professional training and adherence to ethical standards.

Question 3

What happens in a psychosexual therapy session?

Accepted Answer

Sessions are confidential conversations. In the first appointment, I'll ask about your concerns, relevant history, and what you hope to achieve. Subsequent sessions involve exploring thoughts, feelings, and patterns. Any practical exercises I suggest are for you to try privately, at your own pace, between sessions. You're always in control of what you do or don't do.

Question 4

How is psychosexual therapy different from sex therapy or couples counselling?

Accepted Answer

Psychosexual therapy specifically focuses on sexual concerns and their psychological roots, whereas general couples counselling addresses broader relationship issues. The terms ‘psychosexual therapy’" and ‘sex therapy’ are often used interchangeably. In the UK
psychosexual therapists typically have specialist training in both psychological and sexual health. If your main concern is sexual, a psychosexual therapist offers targeted expertise.

Question 5

What psychosexual therapy issues do you work with?

Accepted Answer

I specialise in working with compulsive sexual behaviour and sex addiction, problematic pornography use and porn addiction including compulsive sexual use of AI, fetishes, problematic sexual fantasies, and supporting partners who become aware of these patterns.  Within that, other psychosexual issues often arise and I support clients with relationship issues, mismatched sexual desire, intimacy issues, difficulties with orgasm or erection, painful sex, sexual anxiety or performance concerns, and navigating sexual identity and erotic orientation.

Therapy can help whether the cause is primarily physical, psychological, or a combination of both.

Question 6

Do I need a referral from my GP to see a psychosexual therapist?

Accepted Answer

No referral is necessary to book a private appointment. You can contact me directly. However, if your concerns might have a medical component (such as pain or erectile difficulties), it's worth seeing your GP alongside therapy to rule out or address any physical causes.

Question 7

Will you judge me for my sexual interests?

Accepted Answer

No. I've worked with a wide range of sexual interests and presentations. My role is to help you understand and navigate your sexuality, not to impose my values on it. If something is consensual, legal, and not causing distress or problems, then you may be engaging in a healthy, positive sexual expression.." If it is causing questions, distress, or problems, we'll work on that together-without shame, and with compassion and understanding.

Frequently asked questions