As part of my post qualification CPD I am undertaking a Diploma in Psychosexual and Relationship Therapy with the Contemporary Institute of Clinical Sexology (CICS).
CICS takes a bio-psycho-social theoretical approach which combines organic, socio-cultural and psychological dimensions of sexual and relationship health and wellbeing.
The Diploma is accredited by the College of Sexual Relationship Therapists (COSRT) as well as being Pink Therapy Endorsed. This means I am working with clients in the Gender, Sexuality and Relationship Diversity space.
Psychosexual
Specifically, I am looking to work with clients presenting with these disorders as listed below, according to the DSM V:
Erection Problems
Premature/Early Ejaculation
Delayed Ejaculation
Low Desire
Pain and Penetration Problems
Orgasm problems
Looking at these disorders through a bio-psycho-social lens can help to turn the focus from the specific issue to what may be the underlying causes.
As an example, a common difficulty for men presenting for psychosexual therapy is erection problems. Does diet and exercise support optimal functioning of cardiovascular and respiratory systems aiding the mechanics of an erection? Are there distractions around arousal or performance such as stress or body image concerns? Are there expectations that a man should be able to perform when expected to in the form of virile masculinity? Managing these elements can shift the main focus away from erections to more manageable aspects that in turn increase their reliability.
Of course, sometimes there are no specific difficulties, but a range of experiences or interests that you may want to unravel in therapy, all of which are welcome:
Concerns relating to sexuality or gender identity
Concerns with kinks and fetishes
Compulsive Sexual Behaviour
Sexual health-related concerns
Fertility-related concerns
Childhood Sexual Abuse
Intimate Partner Violence
Sexual Violence