Understanding the Difference Between Sex Therapy and Sex Coaching

Are you curious about the difference between sex therapy and sex coaching? 

You're not alone. As a licensed professional counselor specializing in sex therapy and a certified sex and intimacy coach, I often get asked this question. While both professions aim to improve sexual health and intimacy, they do so through different approaches. 

Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you understand these differences and decide which might be right for you.

What is Sex Therapy?

Licensing and Education:

Sex therapists are licensed professionals. To become a licensed sex therapist, one must complete an undergraduate degree, a master's degree, supervised clinical hours, and additional years of practice. Therapists must adhere to state regulations and engage in continuous education to maintain their licenses.

Therapeutic Approach:

Sex therapy often involves delving into past experiences to address current issues. It's about unpacking emotional baggage, healing from trauma, and understanding how past events influence present behavior. Therapy sessions are client-specific and often involve developing a treatment plan based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM).

Insurance and Payment:

Therapists can bill insurance for their services, making therapy more accessible to those with coverage. Self-pay options are also available.

Long-Term Support:

Sex therapy can be a long-term process, offering a safe space to navigate life’s transitions and challenges. Clients may return to therapy during times of significant change or stress to gain support and coping strategies.

What is Sex Coaching?

Certification and Training:

Unlike therapists, sex coaches do not require licensure or certification. However, many, like myself, choose to get certified to enhance their knowledge and credibility. 

Coaching Approach:

Sex coaching is goal-oriented and focuses on achieving specific outcomes in the present and future. It's about creating actionable plans and supporting clients as they work towards their goals. For example, a client might want to experience an orgasm within 30 days, and a coach would help them develop a plan to achieve this.

Payment and Insurance:

Sex coaching is typically self-pay, as insurance companies do not cover these services. It’s essential to check with your FSA or HSA provider to see if coaching might be reimbursable.

Short-Term Focus:

Coaching is generally short-term and intensive. Clients often achieve their goals within a few sessions and may not need ongoing support. 

Key Differences Summarized

1. Licensing and Education:

   - Therapists: Must be licensed and continuously educated.

   - Coaches: No license required, though certification is beneficial.

2. Approach:

   - Therapists: Address past trauma and its impact on the present.

   - Coaches: Focus on the present to future goals and actionable plans.

3. Payment:

   - Therapists: Can bill insurance and offer self-pay.

   - Coaches: Typically self-pay only.

4. Duration:

   - Therapists: Can be long-term.

   - Coaches: Usually short-term.

5. Focus:

   - Therapists: Process and heal emotional and psychological issues.

   - Coaches: Motivate and guide towards specific sexual goals.

Choosing the Right Support

If you're unsure whether you need a sex therapist or a sex coach, consider your current needs:

-Therapist: Ideal if you need to heal from past trauma or emotional issues affecting your sexual health.

-Coach: Suitable if you have specific sexual goals and need guidance on achieving them.

Get Started Today

Understanding your needs is the first step towards improving your sexual health and intimacy.

Whether you require the depth of therapy or the goal-oriented approach of coaching, professional support can make a significant difference.

Contact us today to schedule a free 15-minute consultation. We'll discuss your needs and help you determine the best path forward towards a fulfilling and empowered sexual life.