What is the difference between a certified sex therapist and a “regular therapist?”
As an official certified sex therapist, an additional 90 hours of training and education in human sexuality is required through a program that is approved through AASECT (American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapist).
Sex therapists are required to demonstrate a deep understanding of human sexuality, sexual disorders, anatomy, and sexual health.
“Regular Therapists” typically only have the opportunity take one course in human sexuality in their graduate program as that is all that most university programs require. Many therapists choose to further their education and training in specialty fields.
Compare this to an Obstetrician. They are initially trained as a medical doctor but then continue into the specialized area of obstetrics.
What is the difference between a sex therapist and a sex counselor?
The difference is in how the two experts address sexual concerns. Sex therapists use psychotherapy (talk therapy) to help people with sexual issues — whether they're simple or more complex.
Sex counselors take more of an action-based approach by offering education and techniques to address short-term problems
What does it mean to be a sex positive therapist?
To become a sex-positive therapist, one must undergo specialized training and embrace a non-judgmental, inclusive approach to sexuality. This involves understanding diverse sexual orientations, identities, relationship dynamics, and practices as well as create a safe space where clients can freely explore their sexual experiences.
Who sees a sex therapist?
Anybody can see a sex therapist for any sexual difficulties/issues they might be experiencing. There are no small or big sexual problems or dysfunctions.
What a Sex Therapist – Is Not
Many people think that sex therapy is having sexual intimacy with the clients to help them improve their sexual abilities. While I support sex work and sex workers, this is separate from sex therapy. In fact, sexual intimacy or any physical contact (outside of a regular handshake) is NEVER ethical or legal to have between a therapist and client.
Sex therapy is NOT sexual surrogacy — the act of physical intervention to help clients learn and practice intimacy and sex — this is the way sex therapy is often portrayed in popular culture and the media.
How long does therapy take?
Therapy is completely individualized for each client or clients in the case of couple’s therapy. Together we will explore your needs and create a treatment plan that will address your goals and track your progress. You always have the option to stop, pause or continue treatment at any point.
Why do you not take insurance?
First and foremost, it’s important to understand that insurance companies have their own rules and regulations when it comes to mental health coverage. They may limit the number of sessions you can have, require specific diagnoses to be made, or dictate the type of therapy that can be used. This can be challenging for therapists who want to provide the best possible care for their clients without being restricted by these requirements. Insurance companies are less interested in what treatment modalities, meeting frequencies, or extra collaboration is helpful to the client and more interested in what is most helpful for their company wallet. Sometimes, what the insurance company wants to pay for just isn’t what’s in the best interest of you as the client.
Another important factor to consider is the issue of confidentiality. When you use insurance to pay for therapy, your insurance company has access to your diagnosis and treatment plan. This means that your personal information could potentially be shared with others, such as your employer or other healthcare providers. This can put many clients in an uncomfortable position.
So, what does this mean for clients who want to work with a therapist who doesn’t take insurance? Usually, it means paying out of pocket for sessions. While this can be a financial strain, it also means that you have more control over your treatment. However, I will provide you with a superbill per your request that you can submit to your insurance company for out-of-network providers.
Without an insurance company’s involvement, you have the power to choose a therapist who specializes in the issues you’re facing, choose the type of therapy you want, have a greater say in how many sessions you have, and you have the option to decline receiving an official diagnosis. Many clients don’t need a diagnosis to come to therapy just so they have a trained professional to talk to!
