What Actually Happens in Sex Therapy?

When most people hear "sex therapy," they assume it's about technique or performance. It's not. Sex therapy is about understanding how your nervous system, past experiences, and attachment patterns show up in intimacy.For years, I only associated sex with pressure and duty. I sabotaged a relationship I cared about because my body was screaming no, and I had no idea how to restore safety after my own trauma. That experience is why I do this work, and why I never separate trauma from sexual healing.In this episode of The RISE to Intimacy, I walk you through what actually happens in a sex therapy session, who it's for, and why so many people struggle to stay present during physical intimacy. If you've ever felt disconnected from your body during sex, this episode will show you why healing starts with safety, not performance.1:26 – ​​What sex therapy actually looks like behind closed doors2:57 – Who sex therapy is for and the common issue of desire discrepancy4:08 – How my childhood trauma led to a career as a sex therapist5:22 – Why sex therapy and trauma therapy are connected6:25 – Example of how trauma can quietly reshape desire, safety, and connection7:41 – Reframe of sex as something that can heal, not harmMentioned In What Actually Happens in Sex Therapy? Dr. Vicki Van Cleave, PSCRise to Intimacy Free 30-Minute ConsultLeave a rating and review