Expressing your sexuality and having a healthy sex life are essential to quality of life. When someone experiences sexual problems, these can create negativity that affects many other areas of life.
While some sexual problems stem from physical issues, many have a basis in stress or anxiety. Because of that, understanding that sex is an experience, not a performance, is critical to a full and healthy sex life.
Also, there is a significant impact that one’s religion or culture can have on sexuality. This includes decisions about what is an appropriate sexual behavior, which partner(s) are suitable, and who is allowed to decide what is appropriate.
Traditional values that restrict access to understanding about sex or limit or restrict sexual behaviors can impact sexuality and performance. In addition, they can contribute to sexual shame, anxiety, and guilt that can cause or exacerbate sexual problems.
Because sexual problems are so diverse and multi-faceted, I often work with clients’ medical teams to develop strategies for those issues that originate from a physical source.
For other issues, I provide a sex-positive environment where we can use one of my many modality choices — from talk therapy and expressive arts to bodywork or a combination of all — to understand all facets of the issue and create actionable ways to move toward sexual fulfillment.
For those that come from a restrictive traditional cultural or religious background, I use my experience as a woman of Middle Eastern descent to help move past sexually repressive biases, reduce sexual shame and guilt, and repair lowered self esteem and confidence.
I treat clients on the individual level and with partner(s), depending on needs and preference.
Sandra is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of Texas and founder of Instilling Hope Counseling Services. With a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish and Arabic Literature from The University of Texas at Austin and her Master of Science in Counseling from Southern Methodist University, Sandra sees individuals ages 13 and up, couples, and families.
As a therapist, Sandra's personal goal is to help eliminate the negative stigma that surrounds mental health and to encourage inclusivity and positivity across a wide range of personal relationship choices.
