Sexual Health Therapy
Sexual Health Services at JLS Consulting Associates
“Sexual health is a state of physical, emotional, mental, and social well being in relation to sexuality; it is not merely the absence of disease, dysfunction, or infirmity. Sexual health requires a positive and respectful approach to sexuality and sexual relationships, as well as the possibility of having pleasurable and safe sexual experiences, free of coercion, discrimination, and violence. For sexual health to be attained and maintained, the sexual rights of all persons must be respected, protected, and fulfilled.”
At JLS Consulting Associates in the Twin Cities, we understand that sexual health is an important component of overall well being. Our experienced therapists provide compassionate, confidential services for individuals and couples facing challenges related to sexual health, including sexual addiction and hypoactive sexual desire disorder.
Sexual Addiction Treatment
Sexual addiction is a psychological condition in which an individual has difficulty managing their sexual behavior. It can take many forms, from sexual acting out with others to compulsive masturbation and use of pornography. Some clinicians prefer terms like sexual dependency or sexual compulsivity to describe this condition.
A conservative estimate suggests that about 3-5% of the United States population could meet the criteria for sexual addiction and compulsivity. This estimate is likely conservative since these numbers are based on individuals who seek treatment.
Signs of Sexual Addiction
Dr. Patrick Carnes, a pioneer in sexual addiction treatment, proposed the following criteria:
- Recurrent failure to resist impulses to engage in acts of sex
- Frequently engaging in sexual behaviors to a greater extent or over a longer period than intended
- Persistent desire or unsuccessful efforts to stop, reduce, or control those behaviors
- Inordinate amount of time spent obtaining sex, being sexual, or recovering from sexual experience
- Preoccupation with sexual behavior or preparatory activities
- Frequently engaging in sexual behavior when expected to fulfill occupational, academic, domestic, or social obligations
- Continuation of the behavior despite knowledge of persistent or recurrent problems caused or exacerbated by the behavior
- Need to increase intensity, frequency, number, or risk of behaviors to achieve the desired effect
- Giving up or limiting social, occupational, or recreational activities because of the behavior
- Experiencing distress, anxiety, restlessness, or violence if unable to engage in the behavior
Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD)
Hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) is recognized as a sexual dysfunction in the DSM-5. It’s characterized by a lack or absence of sexual fantasies and desire for sexual activity for some period of time and affects both men and women. For this to be considered a disorder, it must cause marked distress or interpersonal difficulties and not be better explained by another mental disorder, medication effects, or medical condition.
Types of HSDD
HSDD can be:
- General (general lack of sexual desire) or situational (still has sexual desire, but lacks sexual desire for current partner)
- Acquired (HSDD started after a period of normal sexual functioning) or life-long (the person has always had no/low sexual desire)
Treatment Approaches
At JLS Consulting Associates in Minnesota, our approach to treating HSDD includes:
- Addressing the condition in the context of relationships, when applicable
- Investigating potential psychological or biological causes
- Making appropriate referrals to specialized treatment professionals when necessary
- Focusing on relationship and communication issues
- Working on non-sexual intimacy
- Challenging negative beliefs about sexuality
- Providing education about healthy sexuality
- Teaching effective stress management techniques when relevant