Sensate Focus Therapy
Reconnecting Through Touch and Presence
Sensate Focus Therapy is a gentle, structured approach to enhancing physical and emotional intimacy between partners. Developed by pioneering sex therapists Masters and Johnson, this method focuses on rebuilding connection, reducing anxiety around sexual performance, and restoring trust and pleasure in touch—without pressure or expectation.
It’s not about fixing problems overnight, but about slowing down, tuning in, and learning to experience closeness in a new, mindful way.
What Is Sensate Focus?
At its core, Sensate Focus is a series of guided touch exercises that help couples:
Reconnect through non-demand, non-goal-oriented physical intimacy
Reduce anxiety related to sex or performance
Deepen emotional and physical connection
Explore comfort, pleasure, and boundaries in a safe space
Rather than aiming for intercourse or climax, Sensate Focus encourages partners to simply notice sensations—pressure, warmth, texture—while touching or being touched. This removes expectations and creates room for genuine connection to emerge.
Who Can Benefit?
Sensate Focus Therapy can be helpful for individuals or couples experiencing:
Low sexual desire or mismatched libidos
Sexual pain or discomfort (e.g., vaginismus, erectile difficulties)
Performance anxiety or avoidance
Past sexual trauma impacting intimacy
A sense of disconnection or routine in the relationship
It is often integrated into sex therapy or couples counseling and adapted to fit each couple’s unique needs and comfort level.
What to Expect
Working with a therapist trained in Sensate Focus, you’ll receive clear, compassionate guidance through the process. You’ll learn exercises to practice at home—beginning with simple, non-sexual touch—and gradually move at your own pace. Each step is designed to build trust, emotional safety, and attunement between partners.
Sessions may include:
Education about the body's sexual response and nervous system
Processing emotions or blocks that arise during the exercises
Individual or couples check-ins to support progress and comfort
Sensate Focus Therapy isn’t about “doing more”—it’s about experiencing more. Whether you're healing from past pain, navigating a new stage in your relationship, or simply looking to reignite connection, this approach offers a path forward with patience, curiosity, and care.
If you’re ready to rediscover intimacy and connection, I’m here to help guide the journey. Contact me to learn more or schedule a consultation.