Understanding Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile Dysfunction, also known as ED, occurs when a person is unable to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for sexual activity. ED impacts 20-40% of males in the United States and prevalence increases with age.
Erectile dysfunction can arise from psychogenic causes (e.g., anxiety or relationship issues) or physiological causes (e.g., vascular and cardiovascular issues, medical illness, and injuries). Arousal difficulties such as Delayed Ejaculation or Premature Ejaculation are also common with ED. Possible reasons ED can present include:
Performance Anxiety or Fear of Losing an Erection
Insecurities About Self-Image or Masculinity
Emotional Disconnection + Relationship Conflict
Past Sexual Trauma
Unrealistic Standards About Sex
Complications from Illness and Aging
ED can have a significant impact on individuals’ self-esteem as well as their relationship and sexual satisfaction. Treatment for ED can include working with a sex therapist and a urologist. In fact, results from a 2020 study found that men who participated in sex therapy reported and improvement in their erections and a reduction in the severity of their ED throughout the course of the study. Sex therapy can be very helpful in addressing the emotional, relational and psychological causes of ED.
Psychological Aspects of Erectile Dysfunction
How Sex Therapy Works
Sex therapy can be helpful in treating the psychological components related to ED. The sex therapy process typically involves several stages including assessment, goal setting, intervention, homework and self-practice, progress review, and closure and maintenance. Sex therapists may recommend behavioral or mindfulness based exercises for you to practice outside of sessions to alleviate performance anxiety and increase sexual satisfaction.
Recognizing that sex therapy is working involves improvements in communication, comfort, and sexual satisfaction. If you're experiencing sexual issues or are simply looking to enhance your sexual well-being, don’t hesitate to seek the guidance of a qualified sex therapist. It can be the first step toward a more fulfilling and satisfying sex life.
Expert Sex Therapy for Erectile Dysfunction in Chicago
If you are struggling with erectile dysfunction (ED) in Chicago, you’re not alone. At Embrace Sexual Wellness, we provide sex therapy in Chicago to help individuals address the emotional, psychological, and relational components of ED. Our experienced therapists specialize in creating personalized treatment plans that support you in overcoming ED and improving your sexual well-being.
Erectile dysfunction can stem from various causes, including performance anxiety, stress, and emotional disconnection within relationships. Chicago residents trust Embrace Sexual Wellness to provide a safe and confidential space where you can explore the root causes of your ED and begin the healing process.
Couples Counseling for Erectile Dysfunction in Chicago
For couples in Chicago, erectile dysfunction can sometimes lead to emotional strain or disconnect. Our couples counseling services are designed to help partners navigate the challenges ED presents, working together to rebuild trust, communication, and intimacy. Whether you are experiencing tension or frustration due to ED, our therapists can guide you through effective communication strategies and intimacy-building exercises that promote a deeper emotional and sexual connection.
With couples counseling in Chicago, we focus on restoring sexual satisfaction, reducing anxiety, and enhancing relationship dynamics so you and your partner can work together to overcome ED.
Serving Chicagoland with Comprehensive ED Support
Embrace Sexual Wellness proudly serves individuals and couples throughout Chicago, offering sex therapy and couples counseling specifically tailored for those struggling with erectile dysfunction. Our trauma-informed approach ensures that each treatment plan is individualized, addressing both psychological and relational aspects of ED for a holistic healing experience.
Whether you're dealing with performance anxiety, past trauma, or other factors contributing to ED, our team is here to support you in improving your sexual health and relationship satisfaction. If you’re located in the Chicago area, contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward overcoming ED.
How do I begin sex therapy for erectile dysfunction?
You may feel uncomfortable or embarrassed about seeking therapy to cope with erectile dysfunction, however, beginning therapy is an investment in your own health and wellbeing. Whether you are starting therapy alone or with a partner, reaching out for support can help you increase awareness and learn skills to improve erectile dysfunction.
If you are ready to begin sex therapy, the team at Embrace Sexual Wellness can help. For more information on how Embrace Sexual Wellness can help with erectile dysfunction, feel free to request a free 10-minute phone consultation. A clinician will be able to answer any questions and help you get started.
FAQs
How can sex therapy help with erectile dysfunction?
Sex therapy addresses the psychological and emotional factors that contribute to erectile dysfunction, such as performance anxiety, stress, and relationship challenges. It helps you understand and manage these issues, often improving sexual function without medication.
What are the benefits of sex therapy compared to medication for ED?
While medication can improve physical symptoms, sex therapy helps resolve underlying emotional and relational causes of ED. Therapy can improve communication, reduce anxiety, and promote a healthier sexual relationship for long-term benefits.
Can sex therapy help if my ED is caused by anxiety or stress?
Absolutely. Sex therapists specialize in cognitive behavioral and mindfulness techniques to reduce performance anxiety, build confidence, and develop coping skills to manage stress that impacts sexual function. Our team will collaborate with any of your additional healthcare providers including urologists or primary therapists to ensure we’re providing you the best care possible.
How does sex therapy improve intimacy in relationships affected by ED?
Sex therapy encourages open communication between partners, helps rebuild trust and intimacy, and explores new ways to connect sexually that aren’t solely focused on erections.
Is sex therapy effective for men who have tried medications but still experience ED?
Yes, therapy can complement medical treatment by addressing emotional barriers and relationship dynamics that medications alone cannot resolve. Many sex therapy clients may choose to take medication in addition to pursuing sex therapy.
How long does sex therapy for erectile dysfunction typically take?
There is no set number of sessions, but many of our clients notice improvements within a few sessions and reach their goals within a few months of ongoing therapy. The process focuses on developing skills and insights to sustain sexual wellness over time.
Can sex therapy be done virtually?
Yes, telehealth sex therapy offers privacy and convenience, making it easier to access specialized support for erectile dysfunction from anywhere where our clinicians are licensed.
Why choose a certified sex therapist for erectile dysfunction?
Our certified sex therapists have specialized training to address the complex psychological and relational aspects of ED, providing a safe space to explore and resolve issues affecting sexual health.
