About sex therapists
Sexologists help with sexual difficulties, desire, communication about sexuality, and sexual and gender identity, individually or as a couple, in a respectful and confidential setting.
Getting mental health care in Guinea
Public health system · Public health system - Psychiatry department, CHU Donka (Conakry)
Guinea has a single public psychiatry department, at Donka hospital in Conakry, and only about five psychiatrists; no psychologists work in the public sector. Some health centres, notably those supported by Fraternité Médicale Guinée, offer basic mental health care by trained general practitioners. Care and medicines are paid out of pocket.
How to check that a professional is licensed
- Ordre National des Médecins de Guinée. Doctors are governed by the Order and the 1996 code of medical ethics, which prohibits illegal practice of medicine. Ask for proof of registration with the Order.
Insurance and coverage
Only about 5% of the population has health insurance, and psychiatric care and medicines are not covered by any national insurance or state scheme.
Urgent help in Guinea
If your life or someone else's is in danger, call the emergency number now. These services can help at any time:
- 122 · Gendarmerie nationale – numéro vert d'urgence
Information reviewed in November 2026 · Sources: osar.ch, panafrican-med-journal.com, extranet.who.int, guineenews.org
What does a sex therapist do?
A sex therapist helps individuals and couples with concerns about sexuality in a respectful, confidential space. Day to day they talk about desire, arousal, pain, orgasm, sexual communication, body image, identity and orientation, and the impact of illness, ageing or past experiences. They use psychoeducation, talking therapy and practical exercises, and coordinate with doctors when a physical cause needs to be checked.
When to see a sex therapist
Seeing a sex therapist makes sense when a sexual difficulty causes distress or tension, when desire differs a lot within a couple, when there is pain or anxiety around sex, after illness, childbirth or menopause, or when you have questions about identity or orientation. A medical check-up is advisable first for pain or sudden changes; trauma may need trauma-focused therapy.
How is it different from other professionals?
A sex therapist specialises in sexuality, while a couples therapist works on the relationship as a whole, including communication, conflict and commitment; many professionals combine both. A gynaecologist, urologist or other doctor checks physical causes and can prescribe treatment. A psychologist or psychotherapist with training in sexology can address sexual concerns alongside anxiety, mood or self-esteem.
What happens in the first session
The first session focuses on understanding the concern, its history and how it affects you or your relationship. You will not be asked to do anything you are uncomfortable with, and you can go at your own pace. Bring any relevant medical information and questions about the professional’s training, how sessions work and whether they see people individually, as couples or both.
How long does the process take?
Sessions usually last around 50 to 60 minutes, often weekly or fortnightly, sometimes with exercises to practise at home between sessions. Some specific difficulties improve in a relatively short process; others linked to relationship dynamics, anxiety or past experiences take longer. Length depends on the concern, whether one or both partners attend, and coordination with any medical treatment.
Online or in person?
Online sessions often work very well in sex therapy, because many people find it easier to talk about intimate topics from home. It also widens the choice of specialists. In-person sessions may suit those who lack privacy at home or prefer a neutral space. Any physical examination must be done in person by a doctor, not by the therapist.
How to check their qualifications
Sexology is not a regulated profession in many countries, so titles can vary. Check the professional’s base qualification, ideally in psychology, medicine or a health field, and whether they hold that registration. Then ask about their specific sexology training, membership of recognised sexology associations, supervision, and experience with concerns like yours. Be cautious with anyone promising quick fixes.
What affects the price?
Fees depend on the professional’s base qualification and experience, whether sessions are individual or for couples, the city, the modality and session length. Couples sessions are often priced differently. Some therapists offer packages or a free first call. Ask about cancellation policy and whether insurance might reimburse sessions, which often depends on the professional being a registered health practitioner.
How to choose
When choosing, check the licence and training, the approach they use and whether they have experience with what you need. Consider practical aspects too: language, price, location or online sessions and availability. The relationship with the professional matters a great deal; if after a few sessions it does not feel right, it is fine to change.
Frequently asked questions
Does the public health system in Guinea cover psychological care?
Guinea has a single public psychiatry department, at Donka hospital in Conakry, and only about five psychiatrists; no psychologists work in the public sector. Some health centres, notably those supported by Fraternité Médicale Guinée, offer basic mental health care by trained general practitioners. Care and medicines are paid out of pocket.
How do I check that a sex therapist is licensed in Guinea?
Ordre National des Médecins de Guinée: Doctors are governed by the Order and the 1996 code of medical ethics, which prohibits illegal practice of medicine. Ask for proof of registration with the Order.