The Difference Between Sex Therapy and Couples Counseling

Y’all, maintaining a healthy relationship is not for the faint of heart, so it’s not uncommon or shameful to seek guidance from (licensed, certified) therapists from time to time. Spoiler alert: two of the most commonly sought after therapeutic services for relationships are sex therapy and couples counseling. 

The question is: when do you need couples counseling and when do you need sex therapy? Often, couples will instantly opt for couples counseling without giving sex therapy a second thought. There’s something about the term “sex therapy” that can be off-putting to many. Heck, couples counseling can be a hurdle. 

So, how do you really know the differences between the two and when it may be worth your proverbial while to opt for sex therapy? Don’t worry, I’ve got you. Let’s dive in. 

What is Sex Therapy?

Sex therapy is a specialized form of talk therapy that’s designed to help individuals and couples achieve greater sexual satisfaction and address any issues that might inhibit sexual satisfaction and function. This might include erectile dysfunction, sexual pain, performance anxiety, or sexual trauma. But more commonly, sex therapy can help address infidelity, the differences in how each partner approaches sex, discrepancies in how often each partner wants to have sex, the impacts of body dysmorphia, sex after baby, and so much more. 

Essentially, sex therapy helps address intimacy issues whether they are deeply rooted in trauma or otherwise. 

What is Couples Counseling?

Couples counseling, a.k.a. marriage or relationship counseling, addresses a broader range of issues to enhance the quality and dynamics of a romantic relationship. It’s designed to help couples understand each other on a deeper level by solving issues related to communication, conflicting values, emotional disconnection and/or trust. 

Similarities Between the Two

Sex therapy and couples counseling boast quite the thin line and have a heck of a lot in common with each other because issues related to sex, intimacy, or desire are often the underlying cause of relationship struggles. 

For example, let’s say a couple is trying to overcome an incident of infidelity. Trust has been breached but it’s more than just emotional, it is also physical trust that has been violated. In this case, sex therapy may be a more effective solution as it can address both the physical and the emotional impacts of the affair. 

Sex Therapy is Not Just for Couples

While couples counseling is designed for two romantic partners, sex therapy is designed for couples as well as individuals. After all, you don’t have to be in a relationship for things like body image issues or pornography addiction to inhibit your sex life. 

Sex Therapy is More Action-Oriented 

Another key difference is that sex therapy often involves an action-oriented approach that may include “homework assignments,” or behavioral exercises for understanding the root of sexual issues. Couples therapy, on the other hand, tends to focus more on techniques related to communication and conflict resolution.

Sex Therapy is More of a Short-Term Experience

Lastly, since sex therapy is typically sought to address specific sexual issues, it’s often more of a short-term, solution-focused experience. Sometimes, a person just needs a few sessions to find an effective solution to the issue at hand. 

If you’re interested in learning more about sex therapy, let’s connect. As a board-certified sex therapist, I am here to help you navigate the path ahead. When you’re ready, get in touch to schedule your FREE consultation. Your sex life plays a huge role in your overall well-being, so you’re doing yourself a huge favor by seeking help.