How is Sex Therapy Different Than Couples Therapy?
- Sade Jovanne
- Sep 14
- 3 min read
The difference between sex therapy and couples therapy mainly rests in (a) the focus/goal for your therapy sessions, (b) the training of the therapist and (c) the type of homework involved.
The Goal for Sex Therapy
In sex therapy, the goal is typically to improve a sexual dysfunction or an issue with communication around sexual intimacy. Dysfunctions may include vaginismus (pain during sex), delayed ejaculation, premature ejaculation, low libido, anorgasmia (the inability to experience orgasm)...the list goes on. Likely, sexual dysfunctions like these may put pressure on - or be the result of - issues in the relationship dynamic itself. Sex therapy will focus on sifting through all of these layers in order to improve your intimate life.
What it Means to Be a Sex Therapist
In my practice, sex therapy is couples therapy. This is because I am trained as a systemic therapist, meaning that I do not see mental health or relationship issues as operating in a vacuum. I always look at the systems surrounding an individual or a couple - such as their work environment, their family of origin and the relationship itself - in order to understand how/why a problem exists. It would be impossible for me to do sex therapy without the foundation of couples therapy.
However, I also made sure to pursue advanced certification and continuing education related to evidence-based protocols for treating and caring for sex therapy. Still, sex therapy is a vast field in and of itself. My specialization is in working with couples who have issues with low libido, vaginismus (pain during sex) - and who also have a faith background that influences their view of intimacy.
Sex Therapy Homework and Assignments
I prefer to call these "invitations" (so as to avoid the feeling of dread that may be associated with your homework assignments in school). Treatment for sexual dysfunctions will include tasks outside of session that will help further your physical, emotional, or relational progress. For example, interventions for vaginismus may include a visit to your pelvic floor therapist or use of dilators outside of session. Interventions for tension and anxiety around touch may include mild versions of exposure therapy, where you practice sitting closer to your spouse on the couch or being naked in the same space.
Assignments like these are always catered to the pace of our therapeutic work (and this is certainly not one-size-fits all). However, this component is a major part of the sex therapy process - whereas couples therapy may need less of this type of structure.
I Live in Atlanta and I Need Sex Therapy... What Next?
The first step is a 15-minute phone consultation. Because my practice is focused in my area of specialty, I would love to chat with you to make sure I'd be the best match for your therapeutic needs. We would also be working together, talking through very intimate details of your personal life. I want to make sure you feel comfortable with me before diving all-in!
Should we both agree that we are a good match, we will schedule your first session at my office in Atlanta, GA (North Midtown/near Atlantic Station) or online if you live out of driving distance. From there, sessions will move from weekly frequency, to biweekly, then eventually to monthly or quarterly check-ins once we have reached your goals and are in our maintenance phase.
a b o u t t h e a u t h o r
Hi, there! I'm Sade. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist in North Midtown, Atlanta specializing in couples and sex therapy. I also am the voice behind the My Intimacy Therapist Podcast, and date nights for couples in the Atlanta area.
