I have never been in therapy before, what can I expect?
We understand how difficult it can be to make the first step and schedule a session. Therefore, no matter which modality you choose (individual, couples or sex therapy), the initial session will always be the same.
After scheduling an appointment, you will be sent the initial paperwork via e-mail in preparation for the first meeting. During your first session, we will gather information and history to help create a treatment plan that will guide our work together.
Why do people choose therapy?
There are a number of reasons that lead couples and individuals into therapy.
Some may be looking for information and techniques to help better themselves or overcome maladaptive behaviors, others may be looking to process a difficult time in their lives or learn to manage issues such as anxiety, depression, stress, etc. Also, some may see therapy as a beneficial outlet; while others may use couples therapy as a way to improve their relationship with their partner or address difficult issues together.
There are also a number of reasons why an individual or couple would choose sex therapy and some attend because they are looking for techniques and education to help overcome sexual complications such as low libido, pain during sex, erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, trauma and desire discrepancies. Others attend because they want to process their views/beliefs about sex or sexual identity in a non- judgmental, safe environment. There are also individuals who are hoping to explore non-traditional relationship and are looking for support and assistance in how to do so. And finally, there are also those who already feel confident about their relationship and their sexuality but are looking to make it even better.
I am having marital issues with my partner, but when should I seek out a marriage and couples therapist vs. a sex therapist?
If the issue that you are experiencing in your marriage or relationship is a sexual problem, then it would be best to seek out a sex therapist. However, I am licensed as a marriage and family therapist first with a specialization in sex therapy. That means that I am trained to work with individuals and couples who may present with a variety of different issues, but my specialty is utilized when some of those issues begin to impact an individual or couples sexual health.
What is sex therapy and how is it different from traditional therapy?
Sex therapy is a specialty in the field of psychotherapy. I am trained as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist first, with an expertise in relationship dynamics. Sex therapy has a focus on sexual concerns and sexual topics, but all sex therapists are trained as “therapists” first prior to completing extensive training and supervision in sex therapy.
What are some issues that sex therapy can help with?
Some of the most common themes that sex therapy can address are:
- Pain during sex
- Desire discrepancy
- Reduced Libido or decreased desire
- Lack of lubrication
- Erectile dysfunction
- Premature ejaculation
- Lack of sex between partners
- Difficulty with orgasm
- Sex after trauma or abuse
- Sex identity
- Communication issues around the topic of sex
My partner does not want to be intimate and is not willing to attend therapy with me. What should I do?
Although there are times where couples therapy can be extremely beneficial, we understand that not all individuals are ready for therapy at the same time. Therefore, attending individual therapy alone can be valuable to help navigate the number of emotions being experienced as well as being able to obtain useful tools, techniques and communication to utilize in the relationship.
Do I have to be in a relationship to begin sex therapy?
No. Both individuals and couples can benefit from working with a sex therapist. Sex therapy can cover a multitude of topics such as pain disorders, desire discrepancies, sex after trauma, rebuilding after an infidelity/affair, performance issues, out of control sexual behaviors and more.
I have never had sex, but I am anxious about everything I've read online about sex. Could I make an appointment?
Yes, of course. A lot of the information about sex that is provided through the Internet and films may not always be accurate. Sex therapy can be beneficial in helping individuals explore and process their own feelings, beliefs and expectations about sex, as well as provide education and tools to help manage any anxiety that has developed.
Will I need to get naked or do a live demonstration during sex therapy?
No. Sex therapy is a form of psychotherapy, where we talk about the different sexual issues that you may be experiencing and create a treatment plan to help overcome it. You will never be asked to undress, do a live demonstration or engage in physical touch.
Can I use my insurance?
Synergy Relational Therapy does not accept insurance, however many clients receive reimbursement from their out-of-network benefits. It is advised that you call your insurance company to verify out-of-network coverage for outpatient mental health services in order to obtain partial reimbursement.
Do you offer a sliding scale fee for therapy?
Yes. A sliding scale is provided for individual, couples and sex therapy. A sliding scale fee is available on a limited basis. Please contact us for more information.
How long is each session?
Each session is 50 minutes long, unless otherwise discussed.
What should I do if I need to cancel or reschedule my
scheduled appointment?
If you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment, you can contact the therapist directly via e-mail or phone. You can email us at info@synergyrelational.com or 773-530-1354. Cancellations or Rescheduled Sessions require a 24-hour notice; otherwise the client will be responsible for the full amount of the session.