Questions - Andreya Jones Counseling | Sex Therapy | Couples

How do I know if I need a therapist?

Therapy is for anyone looking to make a change, develop insight, or achieve personal growth. Oftentimes people seek therapy for stressful life events such as the loss of a loved one, relationship difficulties, or life transitions.

What is sex therapy?

Sex therapy is an evidence-based subspecialty of psychotherapy that focuses specifically on concerns related to sexuality. Sex therapists treat individuals and/or couples who are experiencing problems with desire, arousal, performance, satisfaction, or pain with sex. Therapists can also treat individuals and couples who have a history of sexual trauma or abuse, individuals facing sexual orientation issues, and/or sexual behaviors that are causing distress.

What can I expect in sex therapy? Do I have to have a partner? Do I have to bring my partner?

First, we want to stress: no sexual activity of any kind happens during sex therapy sessions!

Sex therapy sessions are very similar to other mental health counseling sessions. First, we get to know you either by yourself or with your partner (if you have one). If you have a partner, you don’t have to bring them along, but it can often be helpful to include both partners! we can also help you if you want to engage your partner but aren’t sure how.

we will work on a treatment plan with you and will suggest a schedule of regular therapy appointments. At your appointments, you’ll receive “homework” exercises to practice alone and/or with your partner outside of your sessions. Homework may be general (e.g. activities for working on communication with your partner) or may involve more specific instructions and exercises.

Will my insurance cover sex therapy?

At this time, most insurance plans don’t cover sex therapy.

Do you prescribe medication? Is medication a substitute for sex therapy?

Licensed Clinical Social Workers do not prescribe medication. For a medication evaluation, you need to see a physician. We can assist you with a referral to connect you with a physician that can evaluate your medical needs.

While there are some medications that have been found to assist people with their sexual functioning, if the presenting issue is psychological, then sex therapy can be just as effective as medication. For some sexual issues, there are no medications available, so sex therapy is the recommended form of treatment.

What is the difference between a sex therapist and a “regular therapist”?

Sex therapists are first trained as “regular therapists” (Andreya has been trained as a licensed clinical social worker) and then as sex therapists. Much like a cardiologist is a doctor who specializes in working with hearts, a Sex Therapist is a therapist who specializes in working with sexual issues.

What are common sex issues that can benefit from therapy?

Pain during sex
Lack of sexual desire
Reduced Libido
Lack of lubrication
Difficulty or inability to orgasm
Premature ejaculation
Erectile dysfunction or inability to maintain an erection
Sexual abuse or trauma
Sexual identity questions
Unequal sex drives between partners
Lack of sex between partners
Difficulty communicating around sexual matters

Does a sex therapist provide couples/marriage counseling?

Absolutely! Prior to becoming a sex therapist, Andreya practiced for many years as a couples/marriage/relationship therapist.

I’ve never been to a counselor or talked to anyone about my problem before. How do I start?

Asking for help takes courage. If you have found yourself on this site, you are already taking the first positive step towards change. Please call to schedule an initial consultation. At that consultation, we’ll discuss if therapy is a good fit for you at this time.

Frequently Asked Questions