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Healthy Sex Life

How Erectile Dysfunction Can Affect You Psychologically

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common issue that affects the lives of both men and women. While it can be distressing physically, men can also experience psychological issues when dealing with erectile dysfunction.

Strain on their sex life, lack of communication, and emotional issues on each party’s end can create strain and conflict. Therefore, it’s important to discuss these sensitive issues and be open with each other.

Psychological Issues with ED

Men who struggle with impotency are dealing with more than just the physical condition, but also psychological and emotional distress. Coping with ED can be difficult because many men identify themselves with their ability to perform sexually.

It can be a huge insult to their self-esteem, their masculinity, and their self-confidence. Some men even start to feel depressed.

For their partner, there can be a disconnect of emotion and vulnerability. The partner may interpret certain behaviors incorrectly and feel rejected or unattractive. This can lead to arguments and even break-ups.

Dealing with ED Diagnosis and Treatment

Communication is very important when dealing with ED. Most men avoid talking about erectile dysfunction, especially in the moment in which it happens.

However, not talking about ED can negatively impact a couple’s sexual and personal relationship. Communication allows both partners to confront their feelings about ED and work together to overcome the emotional and psychological traumas, as well as work toward a solution.

One successful solution that has worked for many couples is having a proactive attitude toward erectile dysfunction. Confronting it directly makes both partners feel empowered.

Many professionals will suggest focusing on the moment and connecting with each other during lovemaking – fixating on the intimacy rather than fixating on the physical performance.

Another great tool is sex therapy.

Benefits of Sexual Therapy

In order to have a healthy relationship, couples should address the issue of ED together. Speaking with a therapist can work wonders to help couples get past their problems and improve the couple’s sexual and overall relationship.

Many men, and couples in general, are under the impression that erectile dysfunction is something that can be treated simply by taking a pill. However, meeting with a therapist who is trained in sex therapy can assist men and women in resolving the emotional, psychological, and physical issues that could be the cause of erectile dysfunction.

Sexual counseling can provide crucial assistance in recommending erotic and intimate practices for couples who are dealing with erectile dysfunction to eventually overcome the obstacle.

Sex Therapy in New Jersey

For great sexual health for yourself and your partner, it’s important to have clear communication – even with embarrassing topics like erectile dysfunction.

With the help of professionals at Advanced Psychology Partners, you and your partner can discuss your issues with erectile dysfunction in a therapeutic, safe, comfortable environment.

Our therapists will treat your issue with respect and compassion. Call our offices today at (973) 534-5333 to schedule an appointment, or complete our online appointment request form now. We look forward to helping you enjoy intimacy once again.

Polyamory vs. Open Marriage: What Does Each Relationship Type Mean?

Contrary to what many people believe, monogamy isn’t the only type of marital or committed relationship that people participate in. There are several types of modern-day relationships that cater to different people’s unique preferences.

Flexible ways of living in a non-monogamous relationship are being brought to light. Some people are gravitating to two kinds of non-monogamy – polyamory and open marriage – as a non-traditional way to live. Let’s discuss these two lifestyles.

What Is Open Marriage?

Open marriage is a blanket term for all kinds of consensual non-monogamy that could include swinging, polyamory, and condoned affairs. The key similarity among all of these is consent of all adults involved.

While some participants engage in this practice within their own religious affiliation, such as Muslims or Mormons practicing polygyny (whereby one male has multiple wives or female partners), others fall into the more progressive category for personal preferences.

Swingers

Swinging is the most well-known and most popular form of non-monogamy in marriage relationships. Broadly, it involves the consensual switching of partners for sexual purposes, usually at parties. It involves two or more couples getting together as a group and sharing each other’s spouses.

BDSM

Another type of practice that has gained notoriety through the book and movie Fifty Shades of Grey is BDSM (bondage, domination, sadism, and masochism). BDSM often involves mainly bondage and domination, but contrary to popular belief, this practice doesn’t always include sex.

BDSM is more about exploring boundaries, emotions, and fantasies. Sado-masochism involves deriving sexual enjoyment while experiencing pain, and/or of inflicting pain or humiliation on another person.

What Is Polyamory?

There has been a recent influx of shows featuring unconventional relationships that include more than one person. These relationships notably display polyamory, which is being committed to and in love with two or more people at the same time.

Polyamory derives its meaning from the Greek word poly meaning many, and the Latin word amare meaning love – therefore, many loves. This is quite different from hidden, secretive affairs – polyamory implies full knowledge and consent of all partners involved.

Contrast this with an open marriage relationship, which mostly centers around lighthearted sex with others outside the marriage. Polyamory means actually being in love with more than one person.

For some people participating in polyamory, there’s a certain misunderstanding of their dynamic. In many cases, polyamorous people will have one “anchor” family that they live with, and other relationships outside of that core group. It can be seen as a way to reduce the restrictions of a more traditional marriage.

However, open relationships should not be used as a way to soften the blow of someone who actually wants to break up or divorce, or to transition out of a committed situation – or, conversely, to keep such a relationship alive. Being open and honest with all adults involved is of utmost importance in all sexual and romantic relationships.

Sex Therapists in New Jersey

A sex-positive and sex-affirming sex and relationship therapy practice, Advanced Psychology Partners is your source for mental health, couples therapy, and sex therapy services. Our therapy sessions are completely confidential, and we’re open to talk about anything you want to talk about.

Whether you have concerns or questions regarding sexual preferences, or you are hoping to resolve couple conflicts or to eradicate sexual problems, we are here for you. For more information, call us at (973) 534-5333, or request a complimentary meet-and-greet with a therapist. We look forward to hearing from you.

How Erectile Dysfunction Can Affect You Psychologically

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common issue that affects the lives of both men and women. While it can be distressing physically, men can also experience psychological issues when dealing with erectile dysfunction.

Strain on their sex life, lack of communication, and emotional issues on each party’s end can create strain and conflict. Therefore, it’s important to discuss these sensitive issues and be open with each other.

Psychological Issues with ED

Men who struggle with impotency are dealing with more than just the physical condition, but also psychological and emotional distress. Coping with ED can be difficult because many men identify themselves with their ability to perform sexually.

It can be a huge insult to their self-esteem, their masculinity, and their self-confidence. Some men even start to feel depressed.

For their partner, there can be a disconnect of emotion and vulnerability. The partner may interpret certain behaviors incorrectly and feel rejected or unattractive. This can lead to arguments and even break-ups.

Dealing with ED Diagnosis and Treatment

Communication is very important when dealing with ED. Most men avoid talking about erectile dysfunction, especially in the moment in which it happens.

However, not talking about ED can negatively impact a couple’s sexual and personal relationship. Communication allows both partners to confront their feelings about ED and work together to overcome the emotional and psychological traumas, as well as work toward a solution.

One successful solution that has worked for many couples is having a proactive attitude toward erectile dysfunction. Confronting it directly makes both partners feel empowered.

Many professionals will suggest focusing on the moment and connecting with each other during lovemaking – fixating on the intimacy rather than fixating on the physical performance.

Another great tool is sex therapy.

Benefits of Sexual Therapy

In order to have a healthy relationship, couples should address the issue of ED together. Speaking with a therapist can work wonders to help couples get past their problems and improve the couple’s sexual and overall relationship.

Many men, and couples in general, are under the impression that erectile dysfunction is something that can be treated simply by taking a pill. However, meeting with a therapist who is trained in sex therapy can assist men and women in resolving the emotional, psychological, and physical issues that could be the cause of erectile dysfunction.

Sexual counseling can provide crucial assistance in recommending erotic and intimate practices for couples who are dealing with erectile dysfunction to eventually overcome the obstacle.

Sex Therapy in New Jersey

For great sexual health for yourself and your partner, it’s important to have clear communication – even with embarrassing topics like erectile dysfunction.

With the help of professionals at Advanced Psychology Partners, you and your partner can discuss your issues with erectile dysfunction in a therapeutic, safe, comfortable environment.

Our therapists will treat your issue with respect and compassion. Call our offices today at (973) 534-5333 to schedule an appointment, or complete our online appointment request form now. We look forward to helping you enjoy intimacy once again.

Sex Therapy: What Men and Women Should Know

Sexual health is an essential component of any individual’s physical and emotional well-being; more so when two individuals are in a sexual relationship such as dating or married. If you or your loved one is experiencing trouble in that department, it can be an extreme stressor to the relationship, as well as to the individuals involved. Unfortunately, many people think that something is wrong with them, and are ashamed or embarrassed to reach out for guidance or assistance. While it’s clear something might not be right, it doesn’t mean there’s anything inherently wrong. Sex therapy is a safe and open environment where a professional focused on achieving sexual health in a relationship and the people involved.  Here are some things you should know about sex therapy.

What to Expect

When you find a sexual psychologist you want to work with, you’ll be doing a lot of talking and introspection. You definitely won’t be “practicing” anything during your sex therapy sessions, though your psychologist will more than likely give you some “homework” to do before you meet again.  The main topics of discussion will vary between individuals and couples, though there are some core factors that are integral for sexual health.

Put It All Out There

Emotions play a huge role when it comes to sex. It’s not simply a matter of being “turned on.” Low confidence from a physical incapacity, a desire think may be deemed inappropriate or embarrassing, or simply something weighing heavily on their mind are just some of the reasons that may be getting in the way of having the best sex of your lives. There’s no need to feel afraid or self-conscious about your sexuality when talking to a sex therapist. They have heard it all. Be as honest and clear as possible in your conversations. They want to help you achieve comfort and confidence in your sexuality. If you can’t be open with a sexual psychologist, who can you be open with?

Body Talk

Not to be confused with body language, talking about your physical capabilities is a major component to helping you have a sexuality breakthrough. We’re not just talking libido. Physical issues, such as vulvodynia or impotence, pain or soreness; even concern about taste or odors are important discussions to have with your therapist. They will be able to refer you to a medical specialist and the two professionals will work together to get you to your “happy ending.”

It Takes Two to Tango

Sex therapists can, and often do, work with couples. Though not necessary, it can be helpful to bring your partner to discuss their sexual concerns and needs. Being mindful of your partner makes for a rounded relationship overall, not just sexually. You may even make some surprising discoveries about your partner, and yourself.

Get healthy, get happy, and get it on. Achieve sexual health with the professionals at Advanced Psychology Partners. Serving patients of all sexual orientation, Advanced Psychology Partners offers personalized, results-oriented therapy in a comfortable, private environment. Choose the therapist you wish to confide in and you will be treated with the utmost discretion, compassion, and respect. To take the first step to sexual satisfaction, contact us today.  Call 973-534-5333 for Donna LoBiondo or 973-980-0409 for Eric K. Larsen.

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