Amanda E Smith

Hi, I understand that sexual / relationship problems can be complicated, worrying and embarrassing to talk about.
I aim to create a relaxed, safe, confidential environment to put people at ease and give the time and space needed to explore difficulties and find ways to resolve them.
I work at my clients’ pace so they don’t feel rushed or pressured to come back unnecessarily.
All the work is based on talking, however I may give clients exercises to do in privacy at home.
My integrative approach means I use a range of validated therapies (psychodynamic, cognitive, behavioural, mindfulness) to respond to clients’ specific circumstances.
I will encourage those in a relationship to attend with their partner because problems hardly ever belong to any one partner. However I also see clients not currently in a relationship or those who prefer to see a therapist on their own.
How to contact me:
I can be contacted by email, phone or text. For those considering in-person therapy, I offer an initial free 10 minute telephone discussion to discuss your needs. For those considering online therapy, I offer an initial free 10-20 minute video consultation to try out the video software and discuss your needs.

What to expect:
The first few sessions are called an assessment when I will ask clients questions about their problems and how it is affecting their relationship and life. I might also ask about other aspects of clients lives now and in the past. Its also an opportunity for clients to decide if we can work positively together (the therapeutic relationship).
At the end of the assessment I will discuss treatment options tailored to clients particular circumstances. Clients will be fully involved in deciding management options and there is no obligation to continue.
Therapy programmes typically last 6-12 sessions but can take longer for more complex problems.
Therapy sessions are either weekly or fortnightly (depending on clients schedules and appointment availability) and usually last about 50 minutes.
A fulfilling sex life is an enjoyable and important part of healthy human life and relationships. However many people experience relationship / sexual concerns at some point in their lives. There are many emotional, social, cultural and physical reasons why this can happen. Examples of possible factors include relationship difficulties, stress, anxiety, depression, bereavement, gender identity, sexual orientation, illness, disability and medication.
Some of the problems clients raise include the following:
Loss of interest or enjoyment in sex
Reduced libido
Problems with erections
Ejaculation earlier or later than wanted
Difficulty reaching climax/orgasm
Pain associated with sex
Problems with penetration

Relationship difficulties
Problems associated with infertility, menopause, PMS, pregnancy, childbirth, sexually transmitted infections
Problems associated with bereavement, cultural, religious issues
Gender identity, sexuality, sexual orientation
Concerns about ones own or partner’s sexual practices, sexual behaviour