Resolving sexual problems through talking therapy
Professional • Experienced • Inclusive
In-person or online sex therapy from Oxford, Oxfordshire
Welcome and thank you for visiting my website.
I am an experienced, COSRT accredited, sex and relationship (psychosexual) therapist based in Oxfordshire. I provide a supportive, sex positive, non-judgemental service to adults of all ages, sexualities and genders. I aim to work in partnership with you to help understanding and enhance your sexual function, sexual health and sexual wellbeing
I have over 20 years experience of supporting a diverse range of people with their sexual lives and wellbeing. Starting my career as a sexual health adviser, I became aware that sexual wellbeing is so much more than testing and managing sexual infections. I found myself regularly supporting people with feelings about their sexual selves, sexual lives and their sexual relationships.
I qualified as a sex and relationship therapist in 2016, attaining COSRT accreditation in 2019. I have delivered over 2000 hours of sex and relationship therapy. I continue to work, within a number of NHS sexual health services.
I work within professional standards stipulated by COSRT’s Code of Ethics. My work is supervised by a COSRT accredited supervisor.
I keep up to date with a commitment to regular professional development.
Sex therapy for individuals and relationships
Sex therapy is a specialist therapeutic approach helpful, for a range of sexual problems including; desire differences (low libido), erection problems (erectile dysfunction), rapid and delayed ejaculation (premature ejaculation) , problems with orgasm , sexual pain, pain with penetration (vaginismus , vulval pain) and sexual anxiety.
Sexual problems come up for most of us at sometime in our lives. A fulfilling, healthy sexual life, can be a key part of general health and wellbeing.
Sexual issues usually involve elements of our body, mind and brain. As social beings, our sexual lives are also influenced by the relationships, communities and societies we live within.
Sex therapy is a talking approach that shares common principles with cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). These principles intrinsically link our thoughts (cognitions), emotions, behaviours and physical responses. Exploring these parts of us and how they inter connect with our relationships and environments, can lead to changes in how we perceive, behave and experience our sexual lives.
Negative, unhelpful and confusing messages about sex, surround us. Understanding and reflecting on our expectations and beliefs, leaves space for conscious choices towards a sexual life that works for you.
I use a range of techniques and approaches including, negotiated practice exercises for you to try in-between sessions.
My Approach
Concern about our sexual lives as an individual or within relationships, is very common. Despite this, people often feel isolated and find sexual problems difficult to talk about. Reaching out for support is a first step towards understanding your unique sexual life.
I provide a non judgemental , safe and relaxed space. Using a comfortable pace , together we can explore your concerns and consider changes you may want to make. My work is influenced by concepts and interventions from different approaches, including: medical treatments, cognitive behavioural therapy, Bader & Pearson’s development model, attachment theory, systemic and psychodynamic theories.
I offer both in-person (Oxfordshire OX5 ) and online sessions (to people living in the UK).
Understanding and improving sexual problems such as:
Painful sex (vaginismus, vulval pain)
Concerns about desire (low libido)
Erection difficulties (Erectile dysfunction, ED)
Orgasm difficulties (Anorgasmia)
Ejaculation difficulties (premature / delayed / absent)
Anxiety about sex
Sexual changes associated with menopause
Sexual changes associated with getting older
Sexual changes associated with illness
Concerns about sexual health, sexual pleasure and sexual wellbeing
Testimonials
Frequently asked questions
Initially, we will explore your specific sexual issues. Looking at when the problem started and considering the situations that it occurs. This helps us to identify what might maintain the problem. Following sessions, focus on reducing or getting round these factors.
Sessions may include; sex education, identifying unhelpful beliefs and thinking, changing behaviours, improving communication, developing and practicing skills.
We will consider if there is a physical element to your problem. I have a good understanding of medical approaches to sexual problems and may suggest a referral to a medical practitioner or service if appropriate.
Sex therapy is a talking therapy and never involves touch between therapist and clients. I work within a strict ethical code stipulated by COSRT.
These are negotiated exercises that aim to provide learning and / or skill development to help overcome things that may be keeping you stuck. We discuss your experience of the practce in sessions.
Examples include:
- Practising effective communication skills.
- monitoring negative thoughts you experience about sex and intimacy.
It's important to get a good fit between what a therapist can offer and the primary needs of the person seeking sex therapy. I offer a free short introductory call to help us to decide if my skills are likely to be helpful for the changes you want to make. If needed, I can signpost you to other services and resources.
I fully appreciate that you will be sharing sensitive personal information with me.
*The information shared is kept confidential within limits associated with safeguarding. These are clearly stipulated within a working contract.
I am registered with the Information Commissioner Office. Further information about how I store and process personal data can be found in my privacy statement.
This is a common sexual concern that benefits from working with therapists that have specific training.
Whilst I don’t offer this work, I can signpost you to appropriate services and resources.
My Location
Based in Oxford, Oxfordshire, I offer in person and online psychosexual sessions to individuals and couples across the UK.
Sessions and Fees
- £65 for individuals
- £75 for relationships (for two people, please discuss if your relationship involves more than two).
I request that fees are paid by bank transfer at least 48hrs before your scheduled session.
I charge the full fee for cancellations that are less than 48hrs notice prior to the scheduled session.
I review fees on an annual basis.
Working With Me
Down to earth
I have a supportive, pragmatic approach with a working knowledge of medical approaches to sexual issues.
Tailored to You
The first few sessions will include an assessment of your concerns.
Together we can be curious about what may be keeping you stuck.
Non Judgemental
I’ve developed a broad - minded, flexible approach from training, self - reflection and extensive experience of supporting varied and unique individuals , relationships and sexual lives.
Get in touch
Contact me directly by email at marinahopkinspsy@gmail.com.
Alternatively, submit your details in the contact form.
A free introductory call is available on Mondays and some weekends.
Lets see if my skills and approach are a good fit for the changes you want to make.
I will endeavour to get back to you within 2 working days.
All enquires are usually answered within 2 working days. Contact is strictly confidential* and uses secure phone and email services.