Psychosexual Issues

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Psychosexual issues can affect people of all genders, orientations, and life stages. These concerns may involve desire, arousal, intimacy, sexual functioning, or emotional responses to sex. Such difficulties are often linked with psychological, relational, or emotional factors—not just physical ones—and can be distressing, isolating, or confusing.

 

When to Seek Support
Psychological support may be helpful if you are experiencing:

• Low or fluctuating sexual desire

• Difficulties with arousal or orgasm

• Pain during sexual activity

• Erectile difficulties or premature ejaculation

• Anxiety about sex, intimacy, or performance

• Impacts of trauma, shame, or cultural/religious messages around sexuality

• Relationship concerns linked to sexual connection or identity

 

How a Clinical Psychologist Can Help
Psychosexual therapy offers a safe, confidential space to explore these issues with empathy and without judgment. As psychologists, we work collaboratively to:

• Understand the psychological, relational, and emotional factors contributing to difficulties

• Address unhelpful beliefs, anxieties, or past experiences affecting sexual wellbeing

• Explore identity, desire, and sexual expression with openness and respect

• Improve communication around intimacy and emotional connection

• Rebuild confidence and comfort in one’s sexual self

 

Therapeutic Approaches May Include:

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for sexual anxiety and performance concerns

• Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) for shame or self-criticism

• Trauma-informed approaches, including EMDR if appropriate

• Mindfulness-based strategies for body awareness and presence

• Psychoeducation on sexual health and emotional intimacy