When searching for a therapist, it’s important to do your research to ensure that you are getting a therapist who will meet your needs. If you and your partner are experiencing difficulties in your relationship, a couples counselor might be the right call. However, if you and your partner are dealing specifically with intimacy issues, a sex therapist might be the right one for you.
Defining the Difference
Couples counseling doesn’t always address what a sex therapist does. A couples counselor typically focuses on helping couples improve their relationship. This would include things like communication, premarital counseling, issues of infidelity or betrayal. A couples counselor also has different training than a sex therapist.
A sex therapist specifically focuses on sex, whether it’s between couples or with an individual. For example, when working with an individual, it could be a male who is experiencing erectile dysfunction or a female who can’t reach orgasm. Not only do sex therapists receive education in general counseling, but they go a step further to receive particular education and training in this niche.
Without question, most couples at some point have issues with their sex life at some point or another. It could be disagreeing on the frequency. Or preferences during intimacy. Sometimes an argument earlier in the day that left some feelings of resentment later affect sexual performance. The question to be answered is whether your issues need conflict resolution or focused sex therapy. Some couples need both.
Contact Us
If you are still unsure if you would benefit from a sex therapist or a couples counselor, contact our courteous staff at Garrett Counseling today. Our team is standing by to help. Click here to complete a brief online form, or call (256) 239-5662 today.