Sex and sexuality are big parts of the human experience. Unfortunately, complications can sometimes arise. If you're experiencing issues due to your sex life, a sex therapist can help. Here are four tips you can use to choose a sex therapist that can help you overcome your challenges:

1. Find a therapist who makes you feel comfortable.

The therapeutic relationship is an intimate one that requires a high degree of trust. This is particularly true when discussing a topic as sensitive and fraught as sex. In order to benefit from sex therapy, you need to feel comfortable being open and honest. This type of productive therapeutic relationship can only exist when you feel comfortable with your counselor. Look for a sex therapist who makes you feel comfortable. Be rigorous in your search. Even if a therapist has great credentials, don't be afraid to keep searching if your personalities don't click.

2. Look for a therapist who specializes in the issues you're facing. 

People see sex therapists for all sorts of reasons. Some people need therapy to deal with sexual shame caused by a repressive upbringing. Other people have physiological problems that are partially mental in nature, such as erectile dysfunction or vaginismus. Sex therapists have their own specialties, just like therapists in other fields. When searching for a therapist, find one that has a lot of experience talking to people who face the same challenges that you do.

3. Figure out if you need individual or couples counseling.

Sex therapists can help couples who are experiencing difficulties due to their sex lives. Communicating about sex can be difficult. Having a therapist to facilitate the conversation can help couples work toward a resolution together. However, sex therapists can work with individuals as well. If you have sexual issues that you'd like to heal, seeing a sex therapist alone is a valid choice.

4. Consider a therapist who has experience working with people of your background.

Each person has had a unique set of experiences that has shaped them into the person they are. Your race, gender, sexual orientation, and religion can all affect the way you see the world and as a result, the way you view your sexuality. Sex therapists are nonjudgmental. They're able to work with people from all walks of life, but you may find value in being treated by a therapist experienced in treating people with your background. If you're gay, lesbian, or bisexual, a sex therapist who is familiar with the LGBT community may be able to serve you best. People with strong religious convictions may want to see a sex therapist who belongs to the same religious organization.

For more information, contact a sex therapist like Gretchen Mattox near you.