A sex counselor, also known as a sexuality counselor, is a health professional with specialized training in sexuality from the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists (AASECT). They provide a confidential space to discuss sexual health issues and focus on practical solutions.
Individuals are encouraged to see a sex counselor if they face concerns affecting their sexual life and wish to enhance their sexual experience. Common reasons for seeking counseling include low libido, pain during sex, arousal problems, difficulties achieving orgasm, and vaginal dryness.
The initial visit with a sex counselor typically lasts about 40 minutes. During this session, the counselor will inquire about the patient’s sexual health concerns, review medical history, and collect sexual history. “The first visit is used mostly for talking,” said Byars. If the issue is physical in nature, an exam may be conducted; for example, pelvic exams or lab tests might be recommended for pain-related issues. Follow-up appointments depend on individual concerns.
Sex counselors provide personalized care plans that may include physical exercises, medications, behavioral recommendations for patients and their partners, and tools like vibrators. Byars emphasizes education on various aspects of sexuality: “There has to be a willingness to be flexible and try some new things, especially as we age and our bodies change.” Treatments vary based on specific concerns; menopause-related low libido might require medication while painful intercourse could involve vaginal estrogen or lubricants.
In cases where at-home exercises and tools are insufficient due to underlying causes such as pelvic floor dysfunction or psychological factors from past trauma, referrals are made to specialized providers like pelvic floor physical therapists or sex therapists—a mental health professional focusing on psychological causes of sexual dysfunction.
No doctor’s referral is necessary to schedule an appointment with a sex counselor. Services are available at Duke Women’s Health Associates Arringdon or Durham Obstetrics and Gynecology (OB-GYN) South Durham.
