The UK Kink GuideEvidence-led glossaryA form of talking and behavioural therapy addressing sexual wellbeing, function, pain, desire, relationships or distress. It may involve individual or relationship work and structured exercises completed privately outside sessions.
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Clinical literacy
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In brief
Psychosexual therapy is not sexual contact with a therapist. A competent practitioner explains their qualifications, formulation, goals, methods, confidentiality, fees and complaint route. Therapy should distinguish health or relationship concerns from identity and consensual variation, referring for medical assessment when symptoms require it.
Sessions may cover history, beliefs, communication, response, pain, trauma and relationship context. Agreed home exercises can involve attention, touch or communication alone or with a chosen partner.
The therapist does not observe or participate in sexual activity. A client can decline any exercise and discuss alternatives.
Therapeutic assessment and intervention focused on sexual wellbeing and function.
Work on communication and relationship patterns, which may overlap with sexual concerns.
Diagnosis and treatment of physical causes; often complementary rather than interchangeable with therapy.
A distinct and controversial practice not implied by ordinary psychosexual therapy.
In the UK, titles and regulatory routes vary. Check a relevant professional register, accredited training, supervision, insurance, safeguarding and complaint arrangements.
A therapist should recognise medical red flags and refer appropriately. They should not prescribe medicine unless separately qualified and authorised.
Therapy should not aim to change sexual orientation, gender identity or consensual kink. It can explore uncertainty, values, distress and behaviour without a predetermined identity outcome.
Goals should be personally chosen, such as reducing pain or pressure, improving communication or regaining desired function—not enforcing penetration or orgasm.
Confidentiality and its safeguarding or legal limits should be explained at the start. Relationship work must allow private disclosure routes where coercion or abuse may be present.
Sexualised comments, touch, nudity demands or pressure from the therapist are boundary violations. Clients can stop, complain and seek independent advice.
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These prompts do not replace assessment and do not imply that every reader needs professional care.
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