What actually happens in a psychosexual therapy session?
In my psychosexual therapy practice here in Hertfordshire, I see people reaching out for many different reasons—often after trying to manage things on their own for a long time. Whether you are experiencing a specific sexual difficulty or simply feel that intimacy and connection don’t feel quite right, you don’t need the 'perfect' words or a clear goal to start. In our sessions, we work gently at your own pace to understand what is happening for you, creating a space where you don't have to perform or apologise.
Sexual Difficulties and Sexual Function
Some people seek support for sexual difficulties that are affecting their confidence, well-being, or relationships. This may include difficulties with erections, rapid or delayed ejaculation, pain during sex, vaginismus, difficulty reaching orgasm, or a low level of sexual desire. For others, sexual function is affected by stress, anxiety, pressure to perform, or changes in physical or emotional health. We work gently to understand what may be contributing to these experiences and explore ways to reduce distress and improve comfort, confidence, and connection.
Identity, Body Image, and Emotional Well-being
Sex therapy can also be a space to explore questions around sexual identity or orientation, as well as concerns about body image. Some people come to therapy carrying feelings of sexual shame or guilt, often shaped by past experiences, relationships, or messages they’ve grown up with. For those who have experienced sexual trauma or abuse, therapy offers a safe and paced approach to healing, with your sense of control and safety always prioritised. Emotional well-being, stress, and anxiety can all influence how we experience sex and intimacy, and these factors are explored with care and compassion.
Desire, Confidence, and Sexual Exploration
You might come to therapy because you feel disconnected from desire, are avoiding intimacy, or want to feel more confident and at ease with sex. Some people want space to talk about pornography use, fetishes, or sexual behaviours that feel confusing, unwanted, or difficult to manage. Sex therapy can also support sexual education and exploration, helping you better understand your body, your responses, and what brings you pleasure, whether that involves exploring kink, BDSM, or alternative sexual practices in a thoughtful and informed way.
Relationships, Intimacy, and Connection
I work with individuals and couples across a wide range of relationship styles and identities, including LGBTQ+ clients, monogamous relationships, open relationships, consensual non-monogamy, and polyamory. Therapy can support communication about sex, boundaries, consent, and differences in desire or expectations. Relationship and intimacy concerns may include feeling emotionally or physically disconnected, mismatched sexual preferences, sexual boredom, trust issues, or the impact of infidelity. Therapy offers space to slow down, understand what’s happening between you, and begin rebuilding closeness and understanding.
Life Changes, Health, and Sexuality
Sexuality often changes alongside life circumstances and physical health. I work with people adjusting to parenthood, menopause, andropause, ageing, illness or disability, fertility challenges, hormonal changes, medication side effects, chronic illness, or changes following surgery. These experiences can affect desire, intimacy, and how you feel about your body, and they deserve to be met with understanding rather than pressure or judgment.
Culture, Beliefs, and Background
Cultural and religious backgrounds can strongly shape how we experience sex and relationships. Some people come to therapy to explore expectations or beliefs that now feel limiting, confusing, or shaming. Therapy can help you reflect on what feels right for you today and support you in redefining your relationship with sex in a way that feels authentic and compassionate.
What to Expect from Sex Therapy
Psychosexual therapy is a talking therapy. There is no physical contact or sexual activity involved. My role is to offer a confidential, calm, and non-judgemental space where you can speak openly, feel listened to, and develop a clearer understanding of yourself, your relationships, and your sexual wellbeing. From there, we work together towards changes that feel gentle, meaningful, and sustainable, supporting you in building a more comfortable and connected relationship with yourself and others.
Further Support Options
Should you need something beyond these, don’t hesitate to get in touch, and we can talk it through.
Schedule a Session
I offer a complimentary 15-minute Zoom call for our new clients, a simple, no-pressure conversation.
When you’re ready to take the next step, you can schedule a session using the Let’s Connect form.



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