Who is a professional licensed to provide sex therapy services?

A sex therapist is a professional specifically trained to address sexual issues and provide therapeutic support related to sexual health, intimacy, and relationships. This specialization usually requires additional certification beyond a foundational degree in a related field, such as psychology or social work.

Sex therapists are equipped to handle a variety of issues, such as sexual dysfunction, communication problems within intimate relationships, and understanding sexual orientation or preferences. They focus on the emotional, psychological, and relational aspects of sexual health, often employing a range of therapeutic techniques tailored to their clients' needs.

Other professionals, such as clinical psychologists and marriage counselors, may also work with sexual issues but do so within a broader context of overall mental health or relationship counseling. They may not have the specific training and credentials in sexuality that a qualified sex therapist possesses. Similarly, a sex educator focuses primarily on imparting knowledge and information about sex, sexual health, and relationships, rather than providing therapeutic support. Therefore, the designation of a sex therapist distinctly identifies a professional whose primary focus and training are in providing sex therapy services.