Sexuality has long been a complex and multifaceted aspect of human identity, deeply intertwined with cultural, societal, and personal histories. In the realm of therapy, exploring sexuality enriches our understanding of individuals but also unveils broader patterns of societal change, acceptance, and repression.
In contemporary therapy, discussions around sexuality are increasingly nuanced and intersectional. Intersectionality explores how clients may be part of more than one identity group concurrently, such as gender and race, and how the intersection of those experiences shapes their lives. Therapists study to understand the diverse ways in which sexuality shapes individuals’ experiences and mental health. Issues such as coming out, navigating relationships, managing stigma, and exploring sexual identity are common topics in therapeutic settings. We work closely with our clients to affirm their identities and attractions. Sometimes, we work from a strongly feminist viewpoint to explore how patriarchal society expectations differ from lived or felt experiences.
Stigma and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender continue to affect mental health outcomes for many individuals and couples.
Therapy serves as a space for healing, identity exploration, and affirmation. Through therapeutic techniques such as sexual therapy, narrative therapy, emotionally focused, and cognitive approaches, individuals can explore their sexual identities, resolve conflicts, and build resilience against societal pressures.
Moreover, therapy can empower individuals to advocate for systemic changes that promote inclusivity and equality.
In all types of therapy, my clients frequently start with where they are now. We explore and work toward where they want to be. Sex therapy proceeds in the same way, with the added component of ‘where were they.’ We develop our sense of sexual self internally, as part of our genetics, and we receive messages from our parents and religious leaders on what an “ideal” sexual person is. We receive messages from the medical field about what we “should be” in an ideal world, and we receive messages through media of what we might be like at “peak performance” levels. Some of this messaging is highly contradictory or can set unrealistic expectations for individuals, couples, and even young people participating in activities but receiving the messages nonetheless. One goal of sex therapy is to take these varying messages and create a cohesive whole of who the client wants to be. We challenge the expectations of others to determine who we are or will be.
Sexuality in therapy is a dynamic and evolving field that reflects broader societal attitudes and historical shifts. Your therapist plays a crucial role in supporting you as you navigate these complexities, fostering self-acceptance, resilience, and empowerment.
By integrating your personal history, current status, and future goals, we can offer more comprehensive and compassionate care that honors the richness of human sexual diversity. This richness includes the intersectionality and the history of various backgrounds that affect your path. Ultimately, the goal is to heal individual wounds and create new strengths.
To schedule and discuss your sexuality with Emily Clark or any of our other phenomenal therapists, click here.
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