One of the most common questions I hear is “what does a sexologist actually do?”
Typically, many people haven’t even heard of a sexologist. In answer to the “what do you do?” question, people often mishear me when I say “I’m a sexologist” and think I’ve said psychologist. After I repeat myself and they realise I said sexologist, they then want to know what that is and what I do. So here I’ll answer the most common questions I get about what a sexologist is and does.
So what is a sexologist?
Sexologists are professionals specialising in human sexuality.
Human sexuality isn’t just what happens between the sheets. It includes sexual health, how our bodies function sexually, our sexual and gender identity, sexual development, relational sexuality and intimacy, and the emotional and psychological aspects of sex and sexuality.
Sexology combines elements from medicine, biology, sociology, psychology, epidemiology, anthropology and education to create a holistic and well-rounded view of human sexuality.
The peak body for sexologists in Australia, the Society for Australian Sexologists (SAS) also acts as an accreditation and registration body. Registered sexologists adhere to a strict code of conduct and ethical framework.
Clinical sexologists are health professionals and do not engage in sexual contact of any kind with their clients. Sessions are conducted similarly to a mental health professional, as talking sessions.
So is it the same as a sex therapist?
The term sexologist is often used interchangeably with sex therapist and while there is overlap, they are not the same profession.
A sex therapist is a licensed mental health practitioner who has additional training in sexology.
A sexologist is a professional that specialises in human sexuality and may use that across a range of settings including clinical sexology.
What does a sexologist actually do?
Sexologists work in a variety of settings including clinically, as educators, in policy, as researchers or consultants.
In clinical practice, sexologists can treat/support people with:
- low or mismatched sexual desire
- navigating sexual or gender identity
- relational sexuality including communication
- consent
- sexual anxiety or avoidance
- body image and sexuality
- life transitions such as postpartum, menopause, ageing related changes
- navigating the impact on sex and sexuality of illnesses and injuries and different abilities
- navigating neurodiversity and sex
- sexual function concerns such as orgasm challenges, erectile challenges, painful intercourse
- sex education
- navigating sexual trauma
- sexual compulsivity
In clinical settings, sexologists work with individuals or couples to address sexual and relational concerns and questions. These may include getting to know themselves sexually, understanding their libido, clearing barriers, identifying desires, and creating the kind of sex life they actually desire. Sexologists consider cultural and familial influences, thoughts and beliefs about sex and sexuality as well as sexual behaviour and function and engage in appropriate re-education for each person.
Many people seek sessions with a clinical sexologist because they want to understand themselves and their sexuality more fully, not just because there is a ‘problem’. By examining their past experiences, beliefs and desires they can come to understand their sexual selves more comprehensively, improve communication patterns and learn to make more sexually aligned choices.
If you’re considering receiving support for sexual concerns or questions, Emma can support you. You can book a free online 15 minute introductory call here