«Sexuality is a central aspect of being human throughout life and encompasses sex, gender identities and roles, sexual orientation, eroticism, pleasure, intimacy and reproduction. Sexuality is experienced and expressed in thoughts, fantasies, desires, beliefs, attitudes, values, behaviours, practices, roles and relationships, and is influenced by the interaction of biological, psychological, social and cultural factors.»
World Health Organization (WHO, 2006)
Sexuality is an integral part of human experience and is linked to physical and mental health, self-image, emotions and interpersonal relationships. Difficulties that may arise in this area do not have a single cause; they often emerge from the interaction of biological, psychological, emotional and relational factors.
Psychosexual psychotherapy is addressed to individuals and couples experiencing difficulties with sexual desire, arousal, orgasm or sexual function, as well as pain or discomfort during sexual contact. It also offers a space of exploration and support for questions of sexual identity, gender identity and the psychological and emotional processes that may accompany gender transition.
My professional training in Psychosexual Health includes specialised training at the Psychosexual Disorders Unit of Eginition Hospital, Athens, focused on the interdisciplinary approach to psychosexual difficulties.
The psychotherapeutic process
Within the psychotherapeutic process we explore personal experiences, emotional difficulties, beliefs and relational patterns that affect a person’s relationship with their body, sexuality and intimacy. The aim is a deeper understanding of the difficulties and a more functional and meaningful relationship with oneself and with the other.
The approach takes into account the biopsychosocial dimension of sexuality. Where appropriate, psychotherapeutic work may be complemented by collaboration with specialised health professionals, such as endocrinologists, psychiatrists, gynaecologists or urologists, to investigate and address possible organic, hormonal or other factors.
Psychosexual psychotherapy may take place individually or within the couple relationship, depending on needs and the request.