Coming out of the sex therapy closet: Using experiential psychotherapy with sexual problems and concerns

Abstract

Mahrer's Experiential Psychotherapy provides a valuable alternative to conventional sex therapy with individuals and couples. Experiential Psychotherapy uses the sexual complaint as it would any situation or scene described at the outset of therapy, as an entry point to the client's deeper experiencing. Several of the advantages of the methods employed are listed. Specifically, the ways in which Experiential Psychotherapy is ideally suited to dealing with forbidden, haunting, and disturbing sexual feelings, fantasies, and urges are highlighted. Clinical illustrations are presented of experiential dream work with a sexual assault survivor and of a couple referred for treatment of his erectile dysfunction and her low sexual desire. Experiential Psychotherapy effects profound changes in the person(s), connections within and with others, and in bodily phenomena. These outcomes, including freer choices, heightened pleasure and embodiment, extend beyond the predominant treatment paradigm's amelioration of sexual symptoms and disorder.