What can clients expect?

Sex is the most significant form of interpersonal expression and communication is a primary theme of Surrogate Partner Therapy. A course with a sexual surrogate usually takes several months and is designed to increase one’s knowledge, skills, and comfort. Therapeutic experiences include partner work in the following:

• Relaxation
• Effective communication
• Social skills training
• Sensual and sexual touching

The involvement of the team therapist, a licensed and/or certified professional with an advanced degree, is a cornerstone of this therapy process. Sessions with the therapist are interwoven with surrogate partner sessions in order to facilitate understanding and change.

Clients often experience apprehension as they begin therapy and when they begin to experience changes. The team therapist assists the client with these and other emotional issues. As the days pass, clients find themselves becoming more relaxed, more open to feelings, and more comfortable with physical and emotional intimacy. Every client advances at her or his own pace.

The IPSA website (www.surrogatetherapy.org) contains a wealth of information about surrogate therapy and has links to many resources.