Sensate Focus Therapy

Two people holding hands outdoors near a lake with a large tree in the background.

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.