What is Sex Therapy?
Sex therapy is a specialised form of counselling tailored to address both individual and relationship concerns and challenges related to sexuality. This inclusive approach recognises and respects diverse experiences, fostering a safe space for individuals and partners to explore and enhance their sexual well-being.
Lara's Approach
Utilising her background in Functional Medicine, Lara conducts a comprehensive bio-psycho-social-sexual assessment. This involves an exploration of your unique experiences, concerns, and aspirations. Lara collaborates with you and you partner(s) to create personalised treatment plans that prioritise individual and shared needs and goals.
Lara is dedicated to creating a therapeutic space that celebrates diversity and fosters an inclusive environment for individuals and relationships of all backgrounds and identities. Whether addressing concerns related to self-discovery, compulsive behaviours, or shared intimacy challenges, Lara is committed to providing personalised and compassionate support on your journey to sexual health and fulfilment.
Inclusive Individual Therapy
In one-on-one sessions, Lara employs various sex therapy styles to create a supportive environment:
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Sensate Focus: Emphasising mindfulness and sensory awareness to enhance intimacy.
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The Good Enough Sex Model: Encouraging self-acceptance and embracing a realistic view of sexual experiences.
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Integrative Sexual Health Counseling: Addressing physical, emotional, and relational aspects of sexual health.
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Cognitive Behavioral Techniques: Identifying and modifying thoughts and behaviors contributing to sexual concerns.
Relationship-Focused Work:
Understanding that shared concerns require unique attention, Lara's approach involves:
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A joint session for partners (usually 90 minutes) to identify shared concerns.
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Separate individual sessions (60 minutes each) providing an opportunity to explore each partner's history and unique needs.
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Rejoining sessions (60 minutes onwards) to consolidate information and collaboratively work towards resolving shared issues.
Multidisciplinary Approach:
Recognising that sexual concerns may have various underlying factors, Lara may recommend referrals to other services. This could involve collaborating with healthcare providers or specialists to address physical aspects like heart disease, diabetes, or pelvic floor issues. Your privacy remains a top priority, with all external contacts made only with explicit consent.
The Process:
Sessions typically span 60-75 minutes, with the frequency and number determined by individual or relationship circumstances. Lara provides flexibility in session planning, recognising the importance of accommodating relapse prevention and maintenance considerations.
Homework and Guided Exercises:
The majority of the therapeutic work happens between sessions through guided homework exercises. Lara empowers individuals and partners with practical tools and exercises to promote self-discovery, personal growth, and positive changes in sexual well-being.
"I believe our sexuality is a unique and integral part of who we are, and deeply connected to our sense of well-being. My approach to Sex Therapy is rooted in ethical principles, combining a comprehensive understanding of integrative health, sexual function and relational psychology. I firmly believe that a healthy sex life is a fundamental human right, and I know for many of us, traditional sex education has been non-existent or misleading. Unfortunately, difficulties in this area can have a profound negative impact on our self-esteem, relationships, and overall well-being. However, it doesn't have to be this way. Sex does not need to be shrouded in secrecy, burdened with shame, or tainted by guilt. Instead, our sexuality and pleasure is something to be celebrated and embraced."
- Lara Maree
