What’s it all about?
For a lot of people sex is difficult to talk about. For some people, religious beliefs and an upbringing in the church make sex really difficult to talk about. It may be tough to talk about because of purity culture, lack of education, not talking about it in your family growing up, and/or abstaining from sex or sexual thought. Sex has always been a popular topic, it is a fundamental aspect of human life, and for many, it plays a significant role in their relationships and overall well-being. In this blog post, we will delve into what Christian sex therapy is, what sets it apart from conventional therapy, what to expect from it, and how to prepare for this unique therapeutic journey. Additionally, we’ll provide you with five helpful tips to ensure you get the most out of your Christian sex therapy experience.
So what is Christian Sex Therapy?
Christian Sex Therapy is just like sex therapy EXCEPT your therapist also has a theological approach that strengthens and focuses the work you do in the room. It is guided by the belief that God designed sex to be a beautiful and sacred part of a committed relationship, and it seeks to promote healthy and fulfilling sexual intimacy and eroticism within the boundaries of the Christian faith.
What Makes Christian Sex Therapy Different?
It is a therapist’s role to be curious and non-judgemental. Not all Christian sex therapist pray or quote the Bible, but that may be something your therapist will do
What Can You Expect from Christian Sex Therapy?
Safe and Judgment-Free Space: You can expect a non-judgmental and empathetic environment where you can openly discuss your sexual concerns, fears, and desires. Your therapist will also spend time understanding what this means about your faith.
Faith Integration: Your therapist will incorporate Christian values and principles by incorporating an understanding of biblical teachings and values into the therapeutic process. This means addressing sexual concerns in the context of faith, spirituality, and moral beliefs.
Practical Techniques: Therapists may provide practical guidance and exercises to address specific sexual issues, such as performance anxiety or lack of desire.
Theoretical orientation: Just like with secular therapies, your therapist will use theoretical orientation to help form a framework for what is going on.
What Christian Sex Therapy is Not:
Proselytizing: Christian sex therapy is not about converting or imposing beliefs on you. It respects your individual faith journey and does not seek to force religious convictions.
Quick Fix: It’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Like any form of therapy, it requires time, commitment, and effort from both partners.
How to Best Prepare for Christian Sex Therapy:
- Open Communication: Be ready to discuss your concerns, desires, and fears openly with your therapist and your partner. Honesty is crucial for progress.
- Set Realistic Expectations: Understand that change may take time. Be patient with yourself and your partner as you work through your sexual issues.
- Commitment: Make a commitment to engage fully in the therapy process. Attend weekly sessions and come to therapy focused and ready to work.
- Faith Exploration: Reflect on your personal faith journey and how it relates to your sexuality. This can help you better articulate your values and expectations.
- Choose a Qualified Therapist: Ensure your therapist is not only trained in counseling but also knowledgeable about Christian sex therapy principles.
What to Know Before You Start:
Before embarking on your Christian sex therapy journey, it’s essential to understand that healing and growth take time. Be prepared for ups and downs, but remember that seeking help is a positive step towards improving your sexual and emotional well-being.
In conclusion, Christian sex therapy provides a faith-based approach to addressing sexual issues.. It can be a valuable resource for couples seeking to strengthen their intimacy and align their sexual lives with their Christian values. By preparing yourself with open communication, realistic expectations, and a commitment to the process, you can make the most of your Christian sex therapy experience and enhance your relationship’s overall health and well-being.