Inclusive sex therapy practices: a qualitative study of the techniques sex therapists use when working with diverse sexual populations

ABSTRACT

Attention to the clinical needs of diverse client populations, including lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans* and queer (LGBTQ) clients, openly non-monogamous clients, and bondage and discipline, sadism and masochism (BDSM) lifestyle clients, has grown in recent years. This study reports interview-based qualitative research findings, from a sample of sex therapy specialists and subject-matter experts (n = 34), on key clinical principles and practices used in the treatment of such diverse client groups. Three clinical principles are identified: therapist self-reflection, client-affirmation, and normalizing. Core clinical techniques to support these overarching principles are then described and discussed. The utility of such techniques, and relevant treatment considerations in inclusive sex therapy practice with diverse clients, are evaluated in relation to interview data.

KEYWORDS:

• Sex therapy
• LGBTQ
• inclusive psychotherapy
• diversity
• minority clients

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Michael D. Berry

Michael D. Berry, PhD, is a research associate in the laboratory for the Biopsychosocial Study of Sexuality at McGill University. He also serves as the manager of clinic operations for the Sex and Couple Therapy Service at the McGill University Health Centre. His primary interests include: the application of empirical research to advance clinical practice, and the use of fair and empowering clinical practices with diverse communities.

Anastasia Natasha Lezos

Anastasia Natasha Lezos, MA, is a graduate of the counselling psychology postgraduate program at McGill University in Montreal, Canada. She has a strong research interest in human sexuality, and a clinical interest in counselling and psychotherapy within a social justice framework.