Jason's undergraduate thesis was on male sexuality and addressed the issues confronting men both within society, individually, and in relationships.

Additionally, Jason has experience working with sex offenders, pedophiles, sexual abuse victims, and paraphilias, and works with some of the deviations from sexual "norms" either in a male or couples context. He obtained his Bachelor of Science degree with honors in Psychology from the University of Alberta and has a Masters in Counselling Psychology from the University of Calgary, and is a Canadian Certified Counsellor and Registered Provisional Psychologist.

Erectile dysfunction can be caused by several factors, which include drug use, neurogenic disorders, low testosterone, therapy such as colon surgery or radiation therapy, anxiety, depression, relationship problems, and ageing. Men at their 60s are more likely to be impotent than those in their 40s.

Men experience arousal difficulties in the form of erectile dysfunction or male impotence. This is defined by the inability to have or keep an erection while having sex. Male impotence can be treated by making easy lifestyle changes or changes to the way they relate to their partner. Men who smoke should quit and include more exercise in their regimen. It is also important that they feel less stress from their work or personal life.

Couples can also engage in sex therapy sessions. This allows the couple to discuss their problems face to face with a professional. These sessions are usually scheduled for about an hour a week, so be patient and diligent with your treatment. During therapy, the counsellor gives assignments such as reading books on improving sexuality, practicing better ways to communicate sexually, and touching exercises that will relieve the man of the pressure to perform during intercourse and/or help him become stronger within himself.

It is also recommended that you see a doctor before therapy as they can help identify any physical causes of erectile dysfunction. Be as honest as possible with your doctor since he or she will ask about your difficulties in getting an erection and if it can be maintained until your partner has an orgasm.

During therapy, the therapist will also ask about the medicines you are taking, surgeries in the past, and any other experiences or conditions relevant to your medical and life history and your relationship. Be sure to answer all these questions so that your therapist can properly assess and treat your condition.

Research has shown that pedophiles usually stop abusing children once they develop characteristics of adulthood but in other homes, it can go on for years.

Sexual abuse is a serious and traumatic issue to deal with. Most of the children who deal with sexual abuse are between the ages of seven and 18. Apart from trauma, sexual abuse has a number of serious effects, such as drug abuse, likelihood of depression, and lower IQ. There is also a high probability that sexually abused children will refuse to follow teachers and have an angry disposition. As these children grow older, they may develop antisocial behavior, post-traumatic stress disorder, low self-esteem, eating disorders, and anxiety.

Amnesia or traumatic dissociation is a common response to sexual abuse. The tendency is to block out the memory of abuse and separate it from their other memories. Children do this to protect themselves from the trauma of the experience. Depression, anger, and antisocial behavior arise from the traumatic dissociation. The child has to confront the memory in order to know the reason for their depression and anger.

Types of Therapy

People undergo different kinds of therapy to deal with the trauma of sexual abuse. They can go through group and family therapy, as well as individual therapy. Children’s therapy often involves the parents as they need figures to guide them through their experience. Teenagers can go through more individual therapy and find support through group therapy.

Adults who have gone through sexual abuse usually get treatment for other mental disorders, such as depression and eating disorders. The treatment will depend on the person’s mental disorder and how the abuse could have caused it. EMDR has also been found to be very effective for working with sexual abuse survivors.

Defining Sexual Incompatibility

Sexual incompatibility is defined as the inability of the couple to understand each other’s sexual needs. This is due to the varying, and sometimes opposing desires between men and women. In order to overcome the situation, couples have to confront each other’s sexual needs and adjust accordingly. Incompatibility issues usually involve each partner’s preferences in the frequency, emotional investment, and variety with regards to sex. All these can be confronted as the couples discuss these differences to improve their intimacy through the process of differentiation. In order to be sexually compatible, the couple must invest time and practice into strengthening their marriage. Since both parties are in a committed relationship, then you must also commit to becoming sexually compatible.

Getting help.

Couples can see a sex therapist to work on their sexual compatibility. The therapist will involve one or both partners in actively and thoroughly discussing all aspects of the sexual relationship. These issues can include arousal disorders, problems with orgasms, and desire disorders. Desire disorders occur when one partner is no longer interested in being intimate with the other. Orgasm difficulties occur when the woman cannot have an orgasm, or the man is unable to reach the same state or cannot control their orgasm (known as premature ejaculation). Emotional needs of each partner will also be covered to see how these feelings affect your sex life.

Therapy requires a full commitment. It will be hard work, but both of you will be rewarded. Your marriage will enjoy a healthy sex life, and both of you can build a lasting relationship that can strengthen the marriage.

If you or your partner is experiencing other sexual difficulties, then you can also see a doctor to assess the physical cause. Sometimes men experience erectile dysfunction not from a lack of desire, but from a physical problem such as diabetes, alcohol abuse, or high blood pressure.

Understanding Sexual Offending Behavior

Child abuse also includes instances of rape, when the person forces the child to perform sexual acts. Statutory rape applies to those below the age of legal consent to the sexual behavior, referring to adults who have sex with minors below the age of consent.

Sexual harassment or manipulation, on the other hand, is an intimidation or coercion that is sexual in nature. It is also manifested in offering certain rewards that will only be given after fulfilling a sexual favor. Sexual harassment is deemed illegal in most employment settings, as it is considered a form of sexual abuse.

Other sexual offending behaviors include exhibitionism, voyeurism, incest, and frotteurism. Exhibitionism, voyeurism, and frotteurism are paraphilia’s which are issues focused on unusual or deviant sexual acts. Exhibitionism is the act of exposing body parts in public, while voyeurism is the non-consensual viewing of another sexual act. Frotteurism is when a man rubs his body (particularly the genital area) on a woman in a public area. Other paraphilia’s include fetishism and enjoying sex with animals.

Taking action.

Individuals who have suffered from any of these acts should seek legal, medical, and professional help as soon as possible. Therapy sessions will allow the victim to come to terms with the abuse and resolve the trauma effects.

Getting specialized help

Counselling is a broad field and many counsellors are experts in their respective areas of specialization. There are counsellors who specialize in marriage counselling, domestic violence, teenage issues, alcohol and substance abuse, among many others. Simply put, not all counsellors are well-trained in sex education and sexual therapy. If you expect to get quality sex education or sex therapy services, you need to be able to get them from qualified individuals who have had vast experience and have acquired expert knowledge in the field.

Talking to someone with valuable experience

A qualified counselor is one who has had a wealth of valuable experiences in dealing with sex-related issues. With their background in sex counselling and vast experience in dealing with individuals, couples, families, and even teens who are experiencing sexual problems and issues, a competent counselor can easily get to the bottom of the issue at hand, thereby, creating concrete and effective solutions.

Quality solutions from professionals with the right accreditation

A qualified sex education counsellor also has the right professional accreditation under his or her belt. An accredited counselor has the right certifications and is licensed to perform professional work among his or her clients. Qualified counsellors need to have accreditation from the AASECT or the American Association of Sexuality Educators Counselors and Therapists.

Choosing qualified sex educators and therapists

Sexual education and sexual counselling are both very sensitive topics and, therefore, require specialized attention from professionally-trained and well-experienced individuals. With such highly-confidential and sensitive issues, such as sex in general, sex in marriage, or the issue of sex among adolescence, it is not enough to simply get help from various sources. A qualified sex counselor will help you understand the root causes of the problems, thereby, bringing about long-term and successful results.

We're proud to offer Edmonton and area residents a wide variety of specialized counselling.

Learn more about by visiting the profiles below:

Mr. Cory Hrushka - Registered psychologist, and sits at the helm of Insight Psychological Inc. as he works on finishing his PhD in Psychology while having had more than 20 years experience - Read the full Bio on Cory Here

Melodie Sanford - Masters level Registered Psychologist with outstanding academic training and quality clinical experience providing direct psychotherapy treatment services to individuals, couples, and families.  She also has extensive experience working with GLBT issues as well as sexual abuse - Read Melodie's Full Bio Here

Forest Maridas -  Whether you have an identifying name for how you see yourself, such as Sexual orientation terms, LGBQOP:  lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, questioning, omnisexual, and pansexual and/or Personal gender identity terms, GTIA:  genderqueer, transsexual, transgender, two-spirit, intersex, intergender, and asexual, or prefer to be fluid and unlabelled, you can trust you will be respected -  Read more on Forrest Here

Jason Jones - Jason specializes in male and couples sexuality issues, including desire issues, premature ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, negotiating a healthy and balanced sex-life in a relationship, as well as general masculinity and couples counselling issues - Read more on Jason Here

Melodie has worked with a variety of clients of different cultures, abilities and ages experiencing a range of difficulties including, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, trauma, sexual assault/sexual abuse, self-esteem, substance abuse/recovery, domestic violence, crisis, suicide, anger management, sexuality, gay/lesbian/bisexual/transgender issues, career development, life transitions, grief and loss, and relationship issues.

Her background has also included focused work with survivors of sexual assault and psychoeducation.

Forest has completed Post Master’s Specialized Training with Sexual and Gender Orientation, equivalent to the Sexual Minority Counselor Specialist Designation in the United States.  Whether you have an identifying name for how you see yourself, such as Sexual orientation terms, LGBQOP:  lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, questioning, omnisexual, and pansexual and/or Personal gender identity terms, GTIA:  genderqueer, transsexual, transgender, two-spirit, intersex, intergender, and asexual, or prefer to be fluid and unlabelled, you can trust you will be respected.

Through Forrest’s knowledge and participation in the sexual & gender minority communities, clients can explore needs, issues, a successful positive self esteem, participation in our subculture community, and integration into wider society. 

Support people, partners, family members and friends of people identifying as a gender or sexual minority at times require an outside, educated perspective to assist their process of integrating new information about their loved one, as well.

Many individuals feel tension between their participation in the LGBQOPTIA community and additional multiple identities, such as ethnicity, faith, gender, socio-economic status, nationality, different (dis) ability, mental & physical health issues, etc.  Internalized –ism phobias can be a long standing setback for life goal achievement.  The personal effects of this tension can be explored with Forrest and resolved, using anti-oppression theory as well as other psychological interventions.

Coming into your own strength can be possible as a true self emerges with support.  This can be a greater challenge for people who feel they are Gender Variant, Gender Diverse, or Gender Non-Conforming.  Forrest again has received post graduate training to assist people who have been diagnosed with Gender Identity Disorder, are transitioning, are living their life as their correct sex, and are participating in the steps of gender reassignment (confirming) surgery.    

Finally Forrest has also counseled sexual and gender minority youth and young adults, coordinating sensitivity and deeper understanding for families and schools.

Should you tell?

Telling someone you are in counselling can be helpful, as hiding this kind of information can be stressful for some. You may find that informing your family will take the burden off your shoulders. Telling ones family is also a way for the family to get involved in the whole process. In some cases, information from the family and family counselling can help in the process. Telling a partner is important since relationships should be structured on openness and trust. By telling a partner, the person is showing that his or her partner is trusted enough to be told this kind of information. This takes the relationship to a new level and fosters openness and honesty in the relationship.

Steps in telling someone you are in counselling

The three most important things to remember if you are about to tell someone you are in counseling include preparing yourself for the outcome, knowing what to say, and setting the time and place. Writing things down may be useful if you tend to forget what you want to say during emotional situations. The person you are telling may also have some questions so be prepared with your answer. Having the support of friends or your counsellor during this time is also crucial. Some may not receive the reaction they were hoping to get. If you are telling a potential employer, this will most likely happen during the interview process. While most employers have no problem hiring people who are in counselling, it is better to prepare yourself in case the employer has qualms about hiring someone in therapy.

Why you should tell your partner

In most cases, serious partners will be grateful that their partner chose to tell them. Therapy is a serious issue and revealing the information can mean that the relationship is progressing into a deeper level. Trust is one of the most fundamental components in any relationship, so you should be able to trust your partner with information such as this.

Steps in telling your partner you are in therapy

When it comes to any kind of therapy, you need to prepare yourself and your partner. He or she may not show the reaction you are hoping for. Prepare yourself by asking yourself a couple of questions. What can you gain or lose if you tell? Can you accept whatever your partners reaction is after you tell him or her? Do you want him or her to be a part of the therapy? Next, consider the right time and perfect location. The important thing to remember is that you should choose a time where you have at least an hour or two of uninterrupted conversation. Choose a location where both of you are relaxed and at ease. Finally, plan what to tell. Start with the reasons you are seeking counselling and other details like how long the counselling has been going on as well as your progress. Your partner will have questions so be prepared to answer them. Some may find that writing down what they want to say is helpful. Emotions can cloud ones thinking, and this can become an emotional moment for both parties involved. Writing things down will help avoid veering from the topic and will help you remember all the things you want to say.

Your sex therapist is certified.

Professional organizations provide licensing and certification to their members, and it is one way to ensure professionalism in their field of work. Certification is only given to those who have completed the studies and other requirements in order to become a sex therapist.

You feel comfortable with your sex therapist.

You should feel at ease when talking to your therapist. A therapist should know your innermost thoughts and feelings, and you cannot do this if you hide something from your therapist because you do not trust him or her.

You can contact your sex therapist whenever the need arises.

Some therapists give patients an emergency number where they can be reached at all hours of the day. This is useful when you encounter triggering or sensitive effects. If you feel that you will need the help of your counsellor at certain times in the day, look for one who leaves emergency numbers.

Tips on finding the right sex therapist

In order to find a professional, it is important to look at accrediting organizations and professional organizations of sex therapists in order to get a list of licensed, certified members. Sex therapy is a sensitive subject so asking for referrals from family or friends may not be anyone�s first option. You can, however, ask for referrals from your doctor. Ask questions when looking for a therapist. Ask where he or she got his or her credentials from, the kind of hours he or she keeps, if the therapist can be reached at any time of the day, what kind of program is used, and if cancellations of appointments are possible.

When it comes to couples therapy, the main thing to remember is that both partners must be involved for the therapy to be a success. There are many variations to couples therapy. Short-term counseling can last up to three (3) sessions, while long-term sessions can last up to 24 sessions. The length of the session depends on the problems encountered by the couple.

Responsibilities of the relationship counsellor

The relationship counsellor is the person responsible for facilitating discussions in a couples counseling session. The counsellor's responsibilities include listening to both sides, providing a confidential and relaxed environment where both parties can air out their feelings, sharing relevant and helpful information, as well as identifying negative patterns in the relationship and facilitating a shift into more positive forms of interaction. The counsellor is there to make sure that one partner hears the other, and vice versa. The counsellor is also tasked with identifying the potential actions and directions for positive change. Relationship counsellors are certified and licensed to practice in this field of therapy. Couples who are in the process of choosing a counsellor should look for credentials and chose one whom they are comfortable working with.

Getting the most out of therapy

To get the most out of this kind of therapy, the person needs to acknowledge the problem first. Acceptance is the first step in getting a patient who is willing to do what it takes to overcome a particular problem. When a patient is excited about the positive effects that therapy can bring, this makes the process a little easier for both the therapist and the patient. The patient should open up to the therapist, be truthful about his or her feelings and be able to assess his or her progress and give feedback.

How to choose the right therapist

Working with the right person is essential for the therapy to succeed. When it comes to individual therapy, you need to work with a therapist who has the right credentials, who specializes in your kind of problem, and whom you are comfortable with. Therapists work according to specialties. Look for one who specializes in the kind of problem or condition you have and look for certification proving that he or she does specialize in this area.

When to seek individual therapy

Individual therapy is needed when personal problems, anxieties, or trauma stemming from abuse arise. Individual therapy is required for those who are suffering from clinical disorders or conditions. This kind of therapy is even more necessary if the conditions are strong enough to cripple the individual�s relationships. For clinical disorders, individual therapy can play an important role, aside from the use of medications and group or family therapy.

Choose by specialty.

Choose a therapist who specializes in the field you are having trouble with. Therapists usually focus on specific issues such as eating disorders, anxiety disorders, control issues, and the like. Choose a therapist who focuses his or her practice on your condition so you can be assured that you are working with a professional who has lots of experience in dealing with individuals with your condition.

Narrow down your options.

When searching for a therapist, choose between three of your best options and determine who can serve your needs the best. Looking around for therapists is always a good idea, especially since they do not charge cheaply for their fees.

Prepare a list of questions.

Ask your therapist about the kind of hours he or she keeps, if calls beyond office hours are allowed, what kind of credentials he or she has, and what kinds of methods are used. Different therapists use various methods of treatment. Some use cognitive behavior therapy, some prefer to listen while the patient talks, while others use therapies where they actively work with the patient to resolve issues. Make sure you are comfortable with the method of therapy used by your therapist.

When to seek therapy

Therapy is often the last resort for some people because it comes with a certain stigma. However, more and more people are now turning to therapists when they feel overwhelmed by various stressors in their lives. If a particular problem is interfering with the way you are living your life, working with a therapist may help you resolve these issues.

Problems that can affect sexual health in seniors

Impotence is a common problem among seniors. The ability to attain and maintain an erection declines with age, but this can be remedied with the use of erectile dysfunction drugs. Fatigue, chronic illness, and the need to avoid stress and too much excitement can also prevent seniors from enjoying the benefits of sex with their partners. In women, one of the major roadblocks that prevent them from enjoying senior sex have a lot do with menopause and declining levels of estrogen. This can result in less vaginal lubrication, which can make intercourse painful. Declining levels of estrogen can also affect a womans libido. These problems can be remedied by prolonging foreplay during sexual intercourse to promote the release of natural lubricants and by hormone therapy, either with the use of hormone rings or pills. Having regular intercourse will stretch taut vaginal muscles and promote the release of natural vaginal lubrication.

Men may have more problems getting an erection as they get older. Some may notice that their erections are not as firm as when they were younger. Penis pumps, surgery and other therapies may prove useful in helping older men maintain an erection.

Common sexual concerns

Children develop concerns more often as they approach or are experiencing puberty. In female, concerns arise when they start to see changes in their bodies. Boys may have concerns when they start having nocturnal emissions or experience the first moments of sexual arousal. Most kids are curious about where babies come from and may feel anxiety about a coming baby.

How to address childrens concerns about sex

When children start to ask questions about certain body parts, the best thing to do would be to give a matter-of-fact, age-appropriate answer. Children may explore by touching or rubbing body parts. Tell your child that masturbation is a normal but private activity. Also observe for frequent masturbation because this could be a sign of problems with the child and of sexual abuse. It is important to teach the child that no one can touch him or her in his or her private parts without permission.

Teaching the child about sexuality is a day-to-day activity, not something you can do in one sitting. Be prepared with the right answers since most children tend to pop up with questions when you least expect it. There are a lot of books and online resources on how you can approach the subject of sexuality according to the age of your child so you can provide your child with the age-appropriate answers.

Types of sexually transmitted infections

Sexually transmitted infections can be caused by bacteria, virus, fungi, protozoa and parasites. Sexual infections caused by bacteria include Chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis, while infections caused by fungi include jock itch and candidiasis or a yeast infection. Infections caused by a virus include viral hepatitis, herpes simplex, AIDS/HIV, and human papilloma virus. Crabs and scabies are caused by parasites.

Sexually transmitted enteric infections are another kind of infection that are caused by sharing unwashed sex toys of multiple-partner barebacking, which is one of the leading ways for anal-anal contamination to occur. Infections produce symptoms in the GI tract and produce symptoms such as vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, fever, abdominal pain, and bloating. Symptoms of sexual transmitted diseases include unusual vaginal or penile secretions, with a strange odor or a strange color, an itching and burning sensation, as well as redness or rashes in the affected areas. Some secretions indicate an infection when they have the greenish-yellow color of pus.

Prevention of sexually transmitted diseases

Having protected sex is one of the best ways to prevent sexually transmitted diseases. Another way is to have sex with only one partner and having both partners tested for sexually transmitted infections before engaging in sexual activities. Having sex without having physical contact, through cyber sex or phone sex is also another way to have sex safely and eliminate the risk of passing sexually transmitted infections. Vaccination also helps protect against viral hepatitis. Hepatitis B and some types of HPV are preventable through proper vaccination. Bacterial infections can be treated with antibiotics.

Why sexual inexperience can be an advantage

Most people are surprised to find out that their partners find this a great thing because this allows you to explore many 'firsts' with your partner. Some partners may prefer someone who is willing to learn what satisfies them the most sexually, as opposed to someone who knows all the tricks but is not willing to satisfy his or her partner in the way the partner wants. Knowing nothing at all also makes you less prone to develop certain bad habits that can turn off your partner.

How to solve problems related to sexual inexperience

When it comes to sexual inexperience, the best thing to do would be to talk about it with your partner. You will find that most partners understand the anxieties that come with sexual inexperience and are more than willing to help you gain more experience as the two of you explore your relationship.

Tips to overcome sexual inexperience

Although there is no better teacher than experience, there are some things you can do to make sure that you satisfy your partner the best way you can. Read books, look at tapes, ask for advice, ask your partner what she likes, and do not be afraid to try it with him or her. There are many resources on the web, such as reputable sex therapists with helpful information on how you can satisfy your partner with little experience. In some cases, it may not always be about sex. There are sexual partners who get turned on knowing that you are ready to learn if they have something to teach.

What to do when sexual orientation confusion arises

Experts advise that to determine what your sexual orientation is, look at your past experiences, if there are any involving same-sex partners, and see how you felt during these experiences. Look at your feelings toward friends of the same sex, if you have ever felt an attraction toward the opposite sex. Some may advise to compare your desire for the two sexes and see which weighs more. Therapy is a good way to solve the confusion, especially for those who have no one to talk to about issues such as these. A good therapist will help you figure out where your orientation lies by asking you helpful questions.

Problems

Confusion about ones sexual orientation can lead to several problems, especially when it comes to romantic relationships. Those who come from traditional upbringing may feel ashamed about the sexual confusion and may repress their urges instead of seeking help. There are those who enter into relationships with the opposite sex in an attempt to repress urges for the same sex. This can damage the person who is confused and his or her heterosexual partner as well.

Signs of low sex drive

Typical signs of low sex drive include less frequent sex thoughts and fantasies, reduced sexual desire, resistance to initiate sex with a partner, and reduction in the frequency or lack of masturbation.

Causes of low sex drive

Low sex drive can be caused by a number of factors. Medications, stress, injury, surgery and too much alcohol can all lead to a reduction in the sex drive of women and men. Stressors such as caring for aging parents or the demands of work can lead to a reduction in libido as well. Hormonal changes that happen during menopause and pregnancy can also lead to a reduction in sexual desire of women.

Treatment

Treatment for this condition depends on the cause. For example, low sex drive caused by hormonal changes can be reversed by hormone therapy. Recovery from illness or surgery can also result in the return of a normal sexual appetite. Lifestyle changes for those who are facing a number of stressors can be effective at reducing these stressors. This could perhaps improve libido if stressors were the cause of the problem. Alternative therapies such as acupuncture and herbal medications can also help relieve stress. Herbal medications can interfere with other drugs, however, so consultation with a doctor before therapy is important. For those with no apparent cause for low libido, counseling to determine the causing factors will help.

Behaviors related to sexual addiction

Typical behaviors linked to sexual addiction include multiple sex partners, anonymous sexual encounters, unsafe sex, use of pornography, prostitution, exhibitionism, obsessive dating, and voyeurism. There are two types of sexual addiction: addictive sex alone and addictive sex with someone else. Virgin sex addicts fall in the first category, where the most common acts are masturbation and looking at pornography. Addictive sex with someone else is commonly shown in promiscuity and sexual infidelity.

Treatment of sexual addiction

Treatment of sexual addiction depends on the persons acceptance of the problem and the willingness to seek help. Treatment involves counseling in order to teach the person how to control the urges and education about healthy sexuality. Family therapy may also be useful in cases like these. Fear of failure to overcome the addiction is one of the main obstacles to treatment. Fortunately, counseling is geared toward helping patients overcome this fear as they try to look for approaches that are effective at helping them overcome the addiction.

Causes of premature ejaculation

Most experts say that premature ejaculation is caused by early conditioning. Boys and young men often go through the stages of sexual build-up and release for short periods of time in order to avoid detection. Going through this frequently can condition the individual to ejaculate prematurely in his subsequent sexual contacts with his partner. In other cases, the condition is thought to be partly hereditary in nature. Nerves also play a large role in premature ejaculation. A man who is nervous is more likely to come quicker than a man who is relaxed. This is often the reason most men resort to drinking a small amount of alcohol before intercourse to relax themselves and reduce the risk of coming too soon.

Remedies for premature ejaculation

Therapy is the main solution to premature ejaculation, where men are taught how to prolong the erection with the use of several techniques. These include stop and start technique, a type of cognitive behavioral therapy that involves addressing what has been causing PE, self-hypnosis, and relaxation therapy. Other methods that can help cure premature ejaculation include the use of herbal pills and powder, and muscle contractions. The use of anti depressant drugs is also another way to treat severe premature ejaculation. This is because delaying male climax is one of the most common side effects of these drugs. Because anti depressant drugs come with a number of side effects, these are only used as last resort treatments for premature ejaculation.

Problems during pregnancy

Nausea is one of the most common problems in pregnancy and occurs in the first three months for most women. While some experience mild nausea when having a baby, the problem can be severe in most women. Anti-nausea medications are often prescribed for women who are experiencing severe nausea. Keeping a box of crackers and water is also another way to keep waves of nausea at bay.

Spotting is another problem. While it is normal to see light-brown colored discharges during pregnancy, appearance of heavy bleeding and clots is a reason to seek medical help right away.

Constipation is another problem in pregnancy. This is a result of rising hormone levels, which causes the digestive system to absorb less water from food, resulting in harder feces. Increasing water intake can reduce the risk of constipation when pregnant.

Another problem commonly encountered by most pregnant women are urinary tract infections. This happens because hormonal changes alter the bacterial population in the vagina and make it susceptible to infections. Early treatment with antibiotics is the remedy for urinary tract infections.

Heartburn occurs as a result of the softening of one end of the esophagus. The pressure on the food pipe caused by the swollen belly and hormonal changes is also another cause for heartburn. Avoiding spicy foods and sleeping propped up in bed can remedy the situation.

Backaches and fatigue are other problems of pregnancy. They occur as a result of the added weight of the baby and the softening of the tendons and joints as a result of hormonal changes. Bed rest and adequate exercise is necessary for preventing fatigue.

Causes of painful intercourse

The most common causes of painful intercourse include vaginismus, problems with the cervix such as fibroids and tumors, vestibulitis, presence of cysts in the ovary, and infections. Vaginismus is a condition characterized by a very tight vagina. In some women, the vaginal muscles, usually relaxed, begin to tighten during intercourse so that the penis cannot enter. In some cases, when the vaginal walls have been tight for too long, sore spots develop along the edge of the opening of the vagina, which becomes painful when it comes in contact with a mans penis. The condition, called vestibulitis, gets much worse during a womans monthly menstrual cycle.

A problem with the hymen is another cause of pain during intercourse. In some cases, women are born with a congenital defect where the hymen is made up of tissue that doesn't stretch. This causes pain during intercourse. Lack of lubrication in the vagina is also another reason intercourse becomes painful for a woman.

Remedies for painful intercourse

Reprogramming a very tight vagina is possible so that the vaginal muscles start to loosen up. This can be done by placing a tampon for several minutes during the day to gradually loosen the muscles. When it comes to intercourse, prolonging foreplay is also another way to provide adequate lubrication in the vagina so that the penis can easily penetrate. Artificial lubrication using KY Jelly if lubrication cannot be naturally produced is another effective alternative.

Orgasm problems for men

One of the most common orgasm problems for men is premature ejaculation. Stimulation is very important before ejaculation occurs. However, it is also important for men to use techniques to slow down their orgasm and pleasure their partners better. But due to increasing age, it can be difficult for men to control the precise moment when they ejaculate. Lesser semen amount is another problem as well, and this often results in less forceful ejaculation.

Another orgasm difficulty faced by men involves delayed ejaculation orgasm. Although a man is able to sustain an erection, he is unable to ejaculate. Prolonged stimulation is necessary before ejaculation occurs, causing vaginal discomfort in their partners.

Orgasm problems for women

There are women who have problems with achieving an orgasm, or having the inability to attain orgasm with their partners. This inability to achieve orgasm can stem from either a physical or psychological problem. Also, the relationship itself may play a role and even the sexual practices employed by both partners. Common physical problems that lead to orgasm troubles may include nerve damage from pelvic surgery, lack of sufficient hormone levels, depression, and vaginal pain. Psychological factors often play a role as well, and this is where sex therapy and counselling are highly needed. Some women who have problems reaching orgasm often had traumatic sexual experiences in the past or may have negative feelings about masturbation.

Orgasm difficulties are commonly experienced by some couples and could affect both men and women. Looking into the core of the issue can help prevent more serious relationship problems later on.

The negative effects of impotence

Impotence is defined as the constant inability to achieve a steady erection for the purpose of sexual intercourse. Men who are unable to sustain an erection long enough to please their partners often have feelings of inadequacy, shame, and other psychological issues. Some will end up having a distorted self-image, and such frustrated and depressed feelings can affect a relationship or marriage in more ways than one.

Coping effectively

It is possible, however, for couples to cope effectively on issues regarding impotence. Communication is an important aspect in coping, and couples need to be as honest with each others feelings as possible. Impotence does not only affect one partner, but affects both partners and the entire relationship as well. This is why couples need to have mutual understanding of one another and to admit to themselves that there is a problem.

It can be pretty difficult for couples to deal with such issues on their own however, as negative feelings, blame, and frustration can easily overwhelm their efforts at a compromise. This is why counselling and therapy play a major role when it comes to coping with erectile dysfunction. Speaking to a doctor or a psychologist will help couples shed more light on their predicament and to eliminate the negative feelings associated with erection difficulties.

Dealing with erectile dysfunction can be challenging in any relationship or marriage, but for couples who know where they can get the needed help on their predicament, successful coping is always a possibility.

The crisis on trying to get pregnant

When couples finally decide to have a baby, they often have high expectations of being able to conceive almost immediately. And although statistics show that about 85% of couples trying to conceive will be successful within the first year, some do end up having a more difficult and frustrating time. The months could stretch into years, and with the pressure and stressed involved in trying to conceive, couples may end up viewing sexual intercourse differently. What was once a pleasurable and exciting experience is now being viewed as routine task meant primarily for the sole purpose of conception.

Coping effectively

Both partners can feel the stress, frustration, and other negative feelings that arise due to infertility. However, there are effective ways to deal with infertility and it is possible for couples to strengthen their union while going through such a difficult and uncertain period in their lives.

First of all, it is important for couples to admit that there is a problem, and that it is in need of a solution. Secondly, both partners should work as a team and not independently of each other. Communication plays a very crucial role at this point. Finally, it is important to seek counselling and to get support from couples who are undergoing the same problems.

Infertility remains to be one of the most sensitive issues facing couples nowadays; however, there are effective methods that can help couples cope successfully and keep a solid partnership.

How impotence affects marriages

A partner suffering from erectile dysfunction can become withdrawn, causing more strain on a relationship that already lacks intimacy and sexual contact. Some men are totally unable to sustain an erection, while others can only maintain it for a short period of time. It is common for men suffering from impotence to feel devastated and to feel embarrassed to seek out the necessary treatment. If no assistance is sought, couples may drift further apart, and this may lead to serious marriage problems.

Erection difficulties can arise as a result of disruptions made on nerve impulses in the brain. However, these problems can also take place when there is damage to the nerves, arteries, and fibrous tissues, which occurs due to disease. About 70% of men who have erection problems are suffering from any of these illnesses or conditions: diabetes, chronic alcoholism, kidney disease, vascular disease, neurological disease, and multiple sclerosis.

Obtaining the needed treatment

Erectile dysfunction can be treated in different ways, and often, healthcare providers will use different approaches, according to the actual needs of the patient. Analyzing patient history is very crucial, as this will provide valuable information regarding the health of the patient as well as issues surrounding his sexuality. Physical and psychosocial examinations are also necessary to get to the very core of the problem.

Since many erection difficulties arise from anxiety, stress, and feelings of inadequacy, psychotherapy through extensive counselling are also often used by experts to treat erectile dysfunction not arising from physical causes.

Quality psychological services

With extensive experience in the field of family therapy and counselling, sex therapy, and sex education, Cory Hrushka is able to provide a wide range of psychological services to an even wider range of clients, including couples, families, adults, children, and adolescents. His counselling and therapy strategies are focused mainly on cognitive behavioral therapy, the procedures of which are tailored to suit the specific requirements of different clients.

However, Mr. Hrushka is also known to be flexible with his approaches, often using a variety of methods to secure optimal client success. He has also obtained valuable training on EDMR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Re-processing) techniques for clients continually experiencing traumatic images as well as post traumatic stress disorder.

Edmonton's Only Certified Sex Therapist

Not only is Mr. Cory Hrushka a registered psychologist, but he has also achieved several qualifications in the area of sexuality. He has an AASECT Diplomate in Sex Therapy, and is also an AASECT-certified sex therapist. Moreover, he is certified as an AASECT sex therapist supervisor, trained as a clinical sexologist and an Associate in Sex Education.

Internationally Renowned

The expertise and quality services of Mr. Cory Hrushka have already reached far and wide, due to his appearance in magazines, newspapers, and on Access/Help TV. Apart from his interviews in magazines and newspapers and Access/Help TV appearances, he has also made guest appearances on CBC Radio, A Channel, and CBC T.V.

With Mr. Cory Hrushka leading our entire team of professionals, clients are assured of competent, quality, and prompt counselling and therapy services, whenever needed.

More about our staff

With our diverse and highly trained staff, We are truly able to provide a vast range of therapy and counselling services to our clients.

Mr. Cory Hrushka is the Executive Director of Insight, and with his exceptional qualifications, training, and competency, he is able to provide a wide selection of supervision as well as psychological and counselling services. The rest of our staff is composed of registered psychologists, having attained higher studies either with MA or PhD qualifications. Their specializations of Marital Therapy, Clinical Psychology and Family Therapy and their vast experience in the field of counselling and therapy have equipped them with the knowledge and expertise to handle both couple issues as well as sexual related problems or sensitive family issues.

A quick look at Our Therapists

Mr. Cory Hrushka - Registered psychologist, and sits at the helm of Insight Psychological Inc. as he works on finishing his PhD in Psychology while having had more than 20 years experience - Read the full Bio on Cory Here

Melodie Sanford - Masters level Registered Psychologist with outstanding academic training and quality clinical experience providing direct psychotherapy treatment services to individuals, couples, and families.  She also has extensive experience working with GLBT issues as well as sexual abuse - Read Melodie's Full Bio Here

Forest Maridas -  Whether you have an identifying name for how you see yourself, such as Sexual orientation terms, LGBQOP:  lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, questioning, omnisexual, and pansexual and/or Personal gender identity terms, GTIA:  genderqueer, transsexual, transgender, two-spirit, intersex, intergender, and asexual, or prefer to be fluid and unlabelled, you can trust you will be respected -  Read more on Forrest Here

With the highly trained staff at Insight Psychological, families, individuals, and children can obtain the necessary counselling assistance and be assured of quality and effective solutions.

Without knowing the root of the problem, it would be almost impossible to sort things out and find a common ground. But by undergoing sex therapy and counselling, registered psychologists and trained professionals can help couples deal with certain situations and unexplained emotions that bother them. These help strengthen the bond and help couples understand why things are and what they can do about them. For years, our clinical sexologists, registered psychologists, and highly trained counsellors have helped individuals and couples alike find solutions to their problems.

Sex therapy and counselling services

Sexual problems remain to be a very sensitive issue even for couples who have been together for so many years. It is difficult for them to address such an issue and admit to themselves that there's a problem that's been causing a strain to their intimacy and relationship. Some of the sexual issues confronting couples today include sexual abuse, arousal difficulties, sexual incompatibility, sex addiction, and many others. With guidance from highly trained professionals in the field who have had years of experience handling such cases and helping clients cope with feelings of inadequacy, depression, and anxiety, we provide effective and prompt psychological services through sex therapy.

Our Experience

Insight recognizes the need to understand sexual dysfunctions that can interefere with the bond formed by couples, emotionally or physically. And with these, we offer different treatment alternatives and effective approaches for varied client situations. Despite the different kinds of techniques and approaches used, sexual education remains to be an essential part of the sex therapy and counselling services of Insight. Through sexual assessment and examination, troubled couples and individuals can identify the real source of the problem and come up with mutual decisions with the help of their counsellor or psychologist.

Many sexual issues can be helped through sexual therapy. Individuals and couples have achieved success with issues involving:

• Desire Issues
• Arousal or Erectile difficulties
• Sexual incompatibility
• Orgasm issues (Early, Delayed or Absent)
• Female Sexual Pain issues (Vulvodynia, Vaginismus, Vestibular Vaginitis etc.)
• Sexual addictions or out of control sexual Behaviours (OCSB)
• Children's sexual issues
• Questions surrounding Concerning sexual behaviours
• Sexual education

Additionally, we have AASECT certified therapists specialising in:

• Gender Dysphoria/Transgender issues
• Gay, Lesbian and Bisexual issues (GLBT)
• Poly-relationships
• BDSM (clinical and non clinical)

And specialists who are experienced with working in the forensic areas of:

• Sexual perpetration/Sexual offending behavior
• Incest and/or Sexual Abuse Issues
• Concerning para-philias, fetishes and phobias (including but not limited to (Zoophilia/beastiality, telephone scatologia, Necrophilia, Corprophilia, Klismaphilia, Urophilia, Exhibitionism, Frotteurism, Pedophilia, Sexual masochism, Sexual sadism, Voyeurism, and Transvestic fetishism, etc. ).

For a more complete list of paraphelias visit - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_paraphilias

We recognize the need for couples and individuals to connect on an intimate level to bring about a healthier and more fulfilling relationship with others, and themselves. Through sex therapy and education, individuals suffering from sexual issues will be provided with a safe, gradual, and effective means of dealing with their respective difficulties. It is typical for people suffering from sexual issues to have feelings of inadequacy. They may even suffer from physical problems due to stress and depression.

We are proudly headed by the only certified sex therapist currently based in Edmonton, Cory Hrushka. Having years of experience under his belt as a Diplomate and certified sex therapist as well as registered psychologist, Mr. Hrushka specializes in sexual therapy and has helped countless individuals and couples cope with their sexual issues successfully.