How to Get Over Your Fear of Intimacy and Try Sex Therapy

Erectile dysfunction (ED) occurs when a man has difficulty getting or maintaining an erection. This can happen occasionally or all the time. If it occurs frequently, it may affect your self-esteem and relationship, and oftentimes cause anxiety. Many men are afraid to talk about ED because they feel embarrassed or ashamed. But there's no need to feel this way. ED is a common problem, and there are many effective treatments available. One of these treatments is sex therapy.

What is Sex Therapy?

Sex therapy is a type of therapy that helps people overcome sexual difficulties. It can help with a wide range of issues, including erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, and low libido. The goal of sex therapy is to improve sexual functioning and satisfaction.

Sex therapy usually consists of talking with a therapist about your sexual difficulties and how they're impacting your life. This can be done individually or with your partner. Your therapist may also give you homework assignments to help you practice what you've learned in sessions.

How Does It Work?

For men with erectile dysfunction, sex therapy can help by:
- exploring psychological and emotional factors that may be contributing to the problem
- increasing communication with your partner
- developing new intimacy techniques

Where Can I Find a Sex Therapist?

You can start with therapist directories like:

• Therapy Den
• Inclusive Therapists
• Psychology Today

If you live in California, you're welcome to contact our therapy center, Rouse Relational Wellness, to set up an intake for in person or virtual therapy. 

What can help erectile dysfunction?

It's important first to get checked by a physician to make sure there's no other issues related to heart or lung health. It's also useful to have your doctor check your medication for sexual side effects.

Talk therapy and modalities like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) can be incredibly useful to identify how certain narratives, traumatic experiences, and anxieties can interrupt sexual functioning. 

Educational workshops or books can be useful to learn new skills to address your anxiety and create more comfort with sexual intimacy. 

Sex therapy can be an effective treatment for erectile dysfunction. If you're experiencing ED, talk to your doctor about whether sex therapy would be right for you. There's no need to feel ashamed or embarrassed about seeking help for this common problem. With the help of a qualified therapist, you can overcome your sexual difficulties and improve your overall satisfaction with your sex life.

If you'd like you get started now, check out our course catalog at Rouse Academy