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 New Zealand
Public health system · Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora
Free short-term mental health and wellbeing support for mild to moderate distress is offered in many general practices through the Access and Choice programme, delivered by Health Improvement Practitioners and health coaches. Depending on the region you can book directly or be referred by your GP or practice nurse, often on the same day. Availability depends on the practice; people with more severe needs are referred by their GP to specialist mental health services. More information
How to check that a professional is licensed
- New Zealand Psychologists Board (Te Poari Kaimātai Hinengaro o Aotearoa). Psychologist is a protected title: only people registered with the Board may use it, and they also need a current practising certificate. Check the register for their scope of practice (Psychologist or Clinical Psychologist) and practising certificate. Search the official register
- Medical Council of New Zealand. Doctors, including psychiatrists, must be registered with the Medical Council. The public register shows scope of practice and whether the doctor holds a current annual practising certificate. Search the official register
- Psychotherapists Board of Aotearoa New Zealand (PBANZ). Psychotherapists are regulated under the Health Practitioners Competence Assurance Act 2003 and are listed on the Board's public register. Counsellor is not a protected title.
Urgent help in New Zealand
If your life or someone else's is in danger, call the emergency number now. These services can help at any time:
- 111 · Emergency (111)
- 1737 · 1737 Need to talk?
- 0800 543 354 · Lifeline Aotearoa
- 0508 828 865 · Suicide Crisis Helpline (0508 TAUTOKO)
Information reviewed in November 2026 · Sources: psychologistsboard.org.nz, mcnz.org.nz, tewhatuora.govt.nz, mentalhealth.org.nz
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 New Zealand cover psychological care?
Free short-term mental health and wellbeing support for mild to moderate distress is offered in many general practices through the Access and Choice programme, delivered by Health Improvement Practitioners and health coaches. Depending on the region you can book directly or be referred by your GP or practice nurse, often on the same day. Availability depends on the practice; people with more severe needs are referred by their GP to specialist mental health services.
How do I check that a sex therapist is licensed in New Zealand?
New Zealand Psychologists Board (Te Poari Kaimātai Hinengaro o Aotearoa): Psychologist is a protected title: only people registered with the Board may use it, and they also need a current practising certificate. Check the register for their scope of practice (Psychologist or Clinical Psychologist) and practising certificate.