Frequently Asked Questions
How is SPT different from sex therapy?
1
Sex therapy is a broad field that can help people understand and address sexual concerns through education, conversation, behavioral exercises, and other therapeutic approaches.
SPT is a more specialized approach in which a client works with a surrogate partner as part of a collaborative therapeutic process. The surrogate partner provides opportunities to practice skills in a real interpersonal setting.
SPT may complement sex therapy, but it is not required for everyone seeking help with sexual concerns.
Is Surrogate Partner Therapy suitable for trauma or PTSD?
2
Yes, some people explore SPT as part of broader work addressing difficulties with trust, vulnerability, body awareness, boundaries, or intimacy following adverse experiences.
However, SPT should not be presented as a stand-alone treatment for PTSD or complex PTSD, nor as a guaranteed way to resolve stored trauma. Suitability depends on individual circumstances, clinical assessment, and the availability of appropriate psychological support.
Where trauma is a concern, stabilization, pacing, and collaboration with a qualified mental health professional are especially important. A therapist can help determine whether this approach is appropriate or whether another intervention should come first.
SPT may involve physical and intimate experiences, but it does not automatically involve sexual contact.
The work is individualized and can include mindfulness, communication, relaxation, non-sexual touch, sensual exploration, and other mutually agreed activities where appropriate. Any progression into more intimate activities depends on the therapeutic goals, professional framework, boundaries, and explicit consent of those involved.
The purpose is not to provide a sexual service. It is to support therapeutic learning and the development of intimacy-related skills.
Does Surrogate Partner Therapy involve sex?
3
How long does Surrogate Partner Therapy take?
4
There is no single standard duration. The length of the process depends on your goals, the nature of the challenges you're exploring, your readiness, and the therapeutic framework being used.
Some people may focus on a small number of specific skills, while others need a longer period to build trust, practice new ways of relating, and integrate their experiences.
The expected duration, fees, session arrangements, and criteria for concluding the work should be discussed before beginning.