what type of therapist deals with this issue...

[shaynaatl]

My otherwise-healthy DH has been dealing with erectile dysfunction since last year.  He's been to see a urologist and was prescribed some ED drugs like Cialis.  They work great during foreplay but he can't maintain it through completion.  The Dr. doesn't think it's mental but I really believe performance anxiety is the issue (or at least part of it).  We are also TTC so I think that added pressure is not helping either (DH is the one who badly wants to TTC so it may be self-pressure).

His company offers free relationship therapist sessions through their Employee Assistance Program.  However, do you think it's better for him to see an accredited sex therapist?  I'm not sure if normal therapists would help with this situation (the marriage is otherwise great).  Unfortunately we'd have to pay the full rate for the sex therapist since it's not covered.  But fixing this issue soon is more important than the money. 

Thoughts?

[partiallysunny]

Does your H want to do therapy? I think I'd go with what he wanted/ would feel the most comfortable with. If one isn't working out well, he can always switch to the other.

[Deleted]

I don't see why a "normal" therapist couldn't also help you with these types of issues. I talk with my therapist about this subject.

[Muddled]

I would start with just a regular talk therapist. IME, an EAP will give you a few numbers and then you can talk to each therapist about the issue you need help with and see what they say before you book an appt.

[fussbucket]

I agree to start with what the EAP can offer and go from there. You may find it is helpful, or you may decide that more targeted, specialized help is needed and hence worth paying out of pocket for. The determining factor, however, is the openness and willingness that your H brings to the whole process.

Regardless of the kind of provider you end up with, there may not be a quick fix or simple solution in store for you, so you both should be prepared for some hard work with no guarantee of payoff.

Good luck. Approached with an open mind, it could still help your relationship either way.

[tiramisu]

I'd start with a "regular" therapist too, and only proceed to a sex therapist or some other specialist if that does not help.

[Deleted]

"Regular" therapists have training in this field (depending on the requirements in your state - I'm going to guess for the most part, most states require it). I'd suggest you go in to the EAP therapist and bring up the subject and see if you feel that the therapist is a good fit for you for this particular issue. If not, see if they can refer you out for that particular matter but stay with them for couples issues, as they frequently overlap and the two therapists can work together if you sign a release. Good luck!

[tiramisu]

Oh, I forgot to say, the EAP will usually give you a list of providers. You can ask them if this is something they're comfortable treating/discussing as part of how you screen them. If you don't find any you like, you can call and ask for a new list of referrals.