Breaking Down What is a Sex-Positive Therapist and Sex-Positive Therapy
What is a sex-positive therapist? A sex-positive therapist is a mental health professional who actively promotes a positive and open attitude towards human sexuality. They create a safe, non-judgmental environment for clients to explore their sexual feelings, desires, and experiences. These therapists often specialize in addressing a wide range of concerns related to sexual health, including but not limited to issues within relationships, matters of consent, and the exploration of self. They also emphasize the importance of informed decision-making and effective Communication in sexual interactions.
Now, what is sex-positive therapy? In my opinion, sex-positive therapy aims to empower individuals and couples by helping them understand their sexuality without shame or stigma. The process may involve addressing concerns related to sexual performance, navigating intimacy issues, processing past sexual trauma, or exploring questions about sexual identity. Ultimately, a sex-positive therapist advocates for healthy sexual expression within sex-positive therapy and supports clients in building a more fulfilling and positive relationship with their sexuality.
When establishing a sex-positive therapy model, I look at the following ten essential areas:
1. Creating a Safe Haven: My primary focus is nurturing a safe and nonjudgmental environment, allowing individuals to explore and discuss their feelings and experiences about sexuality openly.
2. Addressing Sexual Well-Being: I provide support, knowledge, and practical solutions to clients dealing with sexual health issues, including STIs, sexual function, and reproductive health concerns.
3. Journey of Self-Discovery: I am committed to assisting clients in understanding and embracing their sexual orientation, gender identity, and related self-explorations.
4. Improving Communication: I work on coaching clients to effectively communicate their needs, boundaries, and desires within and beyond intimate settings.
5. Healing from Past Wounds: My goal is to guide clients as they navigate and recover from past sexual trauma or negative experiences related to their sexuality.
6. Deepening Intimacy: I guide individuals and couples in nurturing deep emotional and physical intimacy through various techniques and exercises, which I have extensive training.
7. Navigating Relationship Dynamics: I work with clients on managing their relationships, whether traditional or unconventional, to assist them in understanding and establishing their needs and boundaries.
8. Championing Healthy Sexuality: I aim to empower clients with knowledge about healthy sexual practices, consent, and respect, enabling them to make informed choices.
9. Overcoming Performance Anxiety: I help clients address anxieties related to sexual performance, body image, and self-esteem, fostering a healthier mindset.
10. Encouraging Exploration: With a sex-positive approach, I encourage clients to explore their sexuality, desires, fantasies, and preferences in a secure and knowledgeable manner.
Remember, a sex-positive therapist will validate your sexuality and experiences, so it's essential to trust your instincts!
Many sex-positive therapists provide free 20-minute consultations, allowing you to discuss their views on sexuality and their approach.
Talking with them about your concerns is also an opportunity to assess how comfortable you feel talking to them and how at ease they make you feel. Additionally, don't hesitate to inquire about their qualifications and expertise in sex and sexuality so you know they have the skills to guide you.
My name is Julia Schiffman, and I am a Certified Sex Therapist with a Sex-Positive Online Therapy Practice. If you have any remaining questions about creating a sex-positive practice or finding a sex-positive therapist, please do not hesitate to email me at therapy@juliaschiffmanmsw.com.
