Sexual Mental Health
Sexual health and our mental health are synonymous. In a previous article, we discussed how women are taught to distrust themselves, they are told what sex acts are holy and unholy -- all while they are expected to fall in line with all of the other dogma. Shame and fear-based cultures around sex can purvey lifelong insecurities, anti-hedonism, and even self-loathing for having natural human desires. Rape, sexual harassment, and other trauma can also make enjoying sex and having healthy attitudes towards sex near impossible. Not dismissing these realities, sex therapy is a pathway to finding more hedonism and empowerment when it comes to our own sexuality.
Sex Therapy
Invest in your sexual mental health. Do you need help challenging old beliefs? Do you want to learn about science-based sexuality? Sex therapy can make life-changing impacts towards your overall wellbeing. You can overcome culture and media brainwashing, and find healing from trauma. Keep in mind, not all sex therapists are created equal. Being a licensed sex therapist actually doesn’t mean a whole lot in the way of education. Did you know most sex therapist certification programs are completely unregulated? Basically, anyone can call themselves a sex therapist. When searching for a qualified sex therapist do your homework. Finding the right therapist for you is imperative so that additional trauma is not incurred.
Here are some general questions to guide you:
What is their education background?
Do they have more than just a bachelor’s degree?
Where did they go to school?
Do they have religious bias?
Are they biased against fetishes and the variety of ways one can express themselves sexually?
Are they empathetic and compassionate?
Do they have a blog or podcast so you can get a sense of their knowledge?
Do an initial consultation with the therapist and ask lots of questions. Keep an open heart and mind, but trust your intuition.
Sex therapy resources
An incredible resource for finding an amazing sex therapist is Symmetry Solutions. Symmetry Solutions is described as “offering several licensed therapists who specialize in several areas of expertise and services -- from individual, couples & family therapy, ecclesiastical consultations to professional supervision of other professionals. Symmetry Mental Health is committed to finding you the best provider which will fit your scheduling, budgeting, and topical needs. All providers receive monthly supervision and colleague collaboration opportunities so that they can be best supported in offering you high-quality, best-care services.” This company is based in Murray, Utah and also offers remote therapy.
Sexual mental health is just as important as the food we put into our bodies, getting enough sleep, self-actualization, our livelihood, and our self-care routines. Sexual mental health should be on the top of our self-care routines. Years of sexual trauma can take lots of work to rise above. Be committed to your journey, be patient and self-forgiving, and keep challenging yourself.
Most importantly, remember that investing in yourself is worth it and benefits all aspects of your life.