Sex

Intimacy can play a big role in relationships. If sex is becoming a problem for you or you and your partner. We can help.

My partner and I are having trouble with sex – what could be wrong?

Sometimes you and your partner’s sexual desires just aren’t in sync. However, if this problem has been going on for a while, it may be time to examine why this may be happening. The following reasons may contribute to you or your partner’s lower desire for sex:

Frequent arguing or hurt feelings
Poor hygiene
Differing viewpoints on having children
Specific sexual preferences such as position, outfit, etc.
Lack of preparation for sex
Hormones
Paraphilia

If you feel that you and your partner are experiencing trouble with sex due to one of these reasons, talk about it. Remaining silent may further elevate the problem, and communication is an integral part of any relationship. If you want to talk about it, but don’t know how, it might be worth seeing a therapist who can help mediate these discussions. Click here to schedule an appointment at CARE with a therapist who specializes in this area.

If you feel like these reasons don’t quite encapsulate what you or you and your partner are experiencing in terms of sexual troubles, there may be something else going on. Sexuality varies quite a bit, and everyone has different preferences and quirks that are normal for them. If you feel that something is off, changed, or you are unhappy with your current sex life, reach out to a healthcare provider. You may be experiencing a sexual disorder or dysfunction if you are experiencing distress relating to your sex life, sexual compulsions, or feel you may harm another person sexually. Click here to read more about sexual dysfunctions. If you feel like sexual issues with your partner stem from another aspect of your relationship, click here to read about relationship issues.

Do I have a sexual addiction?

A person with a sex addiction may feel an uncontrollable need to behavior in a sexual manner in order to satisfy their compulsion. Sexual addictions can affect your physical and mental health and cause distress in relationships and your daily life. If you feel that you may have a sexual addiction, click here to read more.

Meet Clinicians

We’re united by our commitment to providing effective, relevant, and innovative mental health support at all stages of your journey. Click Here to find out more about who we are, where we come from, and how we live out CARE’s mission every day.

Resources

The professionals at CARE are actively collecting and creating resources to help with what you need. We’re Here for You.

The Influence of Caregivers on Attachment Styles

May 17, 2023

As we celebrate caregivers in our lives, now is an appropriate time to reflect on the influence of significant caregivers, attachment styles, parenting practices, and how this impacts adult attachment.

Help, My Life Feels Empty!

April 27, 2023

Does your life feel like it is dull, and boring, with nothing to look forward to?

Sex After 40

February 20, 2023

Sex drive changes through various ages in addition to the quality and quantity of sexual encounters.

Understanding BPD

January 10, 2023

One thing that distinguishes borderline personality disorder from the other areas is that BPD is a personality-disorder.

Different Kinds of Relationships

October 19, 2021

As humans, we are wired for connection. As infants, we relied on our caregiver(s) to provide safety, stability, and love. Through attachment, children and adults develop trust and learn to regulate emotions. As children, we learned to socialize through interactions with siblings and other children.

How to Have Difficult Conversations: A Lesson from Non-Violent Communication

October 19, 2021

Can you think of a recent conversation in which you felt judged, bullied, blamed, or criticized by your partner? Do you find yourself becoming defensive within communication or reacting in anger during difficult conversations, only to feel more disconnected and dissatisfied in your relationship(s)?

Identity & Therapy at CARE Counseling

June 2, 2021

CARE is “outside the box” to eliminate boxes as gender does not fit neatly into an either-or checkbox.

Caring for Relationship Clutter

May 19, 2021

Just like we can hold onto physical items that clutter our life, so can we hold onto relationship clutter.

Sexual Assault Awareness + Local Resources

Sexual Assault Awareness and Local Resources: The Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN)

April 28, 2021

I would like to highlight the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN) for Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month. RAINN is the nation’s largest anti-sexual violence organization.

One Year Anniversary of COVID-19: Reflections of a Therapist

March 16, 2021

“We are powerful because we have survived, and that it what it is all about- survival and growth.” –Audre Lorde.

Tune Into Your Body To Increase Resiliency and Happiness

February 18, 2021

Rather than just focusing on the neck up, therapists are incorporating body work by taking a more holistic approach and integrating the rest of the body!

Practicing Mindful Sex

February 11, 2021

You find yourself scrolling through social media and before you know it, you find yourself “doomsturbating“—doomscrolling while masturbating. This outcome is not too much different than other self-soothing activities we tend to find ourselves doing while stressed, anxious, depressed, lonely, or just plain old bored.

Being Mindful and Compassionate in Tough Conversations

January 15, 2021

Tough conversations often create discomfort and can lead to avoidance. There may be reluctance to speak up due to fear of consequences. What will people think? How do I manage my own anxiety? Consider for a moment that remaining silent during tough conversations also communicates a message. What message do you wish to convey?

Self-CARE Wheel

December 29, 2020

As we look toward 2021, many of us may take time to reflect on resolutions and intentions to carry into the upcoming new year. For those who struggle with disordered eating and poor body image, this time of year may be especially challenging due to the constant rhetoric and messages around programs designed for weight loss. If you are in recovery from an eating disorder, diet culture’s strong presence during this time may activate parts of you to feel ambivalent around your recovery goals. This is normal and this does not mean you are failing for having those thoughts. You are not alone!

Stress + Staying at Home: The Rise of Intimate Partner Violence

December 28, 2020

Violence within intimate relationships is on the rise. Increased stress + staying at home + social isolation has help create a “perfect storm” for violence within the home. Being familiar with the types of abuse that can occur within relationships is an important step to recognize “red flags” to help yourself and/ or others who are experiencing or have experienced abuse during quarantine.

Communicating with L.O.V.E.

November 18, 2020

As a follow up to the blog on CARE-ing for a Friend/ Family Member who is Misusing Drugs or Alcohol, I'd like to share some practical tools customized for parents and partners, the first tool being a 20minuteguide. It includes motivational techniques for behavioral change, worksheets, and examples of how to apply and practice CRAFT, or Community Reinforcement and Family Training strategies with your loved one

What Tools are in Your Toolbox?

July 20, 2020

A common reason why individuals, families, and couples seek counseling is to "fix" a problem. Imagine if you only had one tool in your toolbox. Would that tool be effective?

Dating During Distancing

April 28, 2020

Our culture tends to struggle with instant gratification (SWIPE), wanting our needs met immediately or relying on a partner for our own happiness or fulfillment of sexual needs and fantasies. Relationship issues are a very common presenting concern in therapy and dating is often included as a significant source of stress.

Sex