Frequently Asked Questions

Practical Information

The most convenient and straightforward method to obtain a clear overview of the available timeslots that align with your own schedule is to visit the internet page doctena.lu. On my profile, Laura Hendriks, you can easily book your session using your personal account at a time that is most convenient for you.

You can access my agenda for booking sessions on this internet page, which will conveniently redirect you to my profile on doctena.lu. Please look for the button labeled “make an appointment.”

If you encounter any difficulties in booking an appointment through the aforementioned method, please feel free to reach out to me using the “contact me” button.

For those who prefer an in-person consultations at the practice, this is possible and will be held at my practice located at 1 rue des Glacis L-1628 Luxembourg Limpertsberg (subject to the stability of the COVID situation and recommendations and restrictions). Please use the main entrance, which is the glass door at the corner of Rue des Glacis and Avenue du Bois. (Golden boards displaying the names of the practitioners of the practice are located to the right of the entrance.) Upon entering, please take a seat in the waiting room located just after the main entrance door and await my invitation to begin your session. 

For those who prefer video consultations, this option will continue to be available. I utilize the official Doctena videocall software, ensuring a secure and reliable platform for our virtual consultations.

In any case while I strive to minimize any delays, I appreciate your understanding and patience. Rest assured, I will be with you shortly, regardless of any unforeseen circumstances. Thank you for your understanding.

You can conveniently book your appointment(s), whether for in-person or video consultations, through my agenda on the website doctena.lu.

Main entrance of the practice : the glass door at the corner of Rue des Glacis and Avenue du Bois (Golden boards displaying the names of the practitioners of the practice are located to the right of the entrance.)

Upon entering, please take a seat in the waiting room located just after the main entrance door and await my invitation to begin your session. 

While I strive to minimize any delays, I appreciate your understanding and patience. Rest assured, I will be with you shortly, regardless of any unforeseen circumstances. Thank you for your understanding.

Car
Should you opt to arrive by car, parking spaces are expected to be available in front of the practice near the green square, or alternatively, at the theater parking located at the glacis. Remember to display your parking disc or make the necessary payment for a valid parking ticket in order to avoid a fine

Public transport
The practice can be easily accessed by any Bus or Tram that stops around “Glacis” or “Rond Point Schuman.”

In the event of arriving by plane, you will have the option to take a direct bus that halts at the “Pescator” bus stop, conveniently situated adjacent to the “Rond Point Schuman.” This arrangement ensures effortless accessibility to the practice. Please not that the Tram is going to ensure this route aswell in the near future.

You are welcome to bring your baby or dog to therapy sessions if it enables you to attend and concentrate effectively. I understand that accommodating their presence can be helpful. However, it’s important to consider the impact it may have on the dynamics of the session and your ability to fully engage. Together, we can discuss the feasibility and make any necessary adjustments to ensure a productive therapeutic environment. Our goal is to prioritize your accessibility and comfort throughout the sessions.

Yes, sessions can also be done digitally. You can conveniently book your appointment(s), whether for in-person or video consultations, through my agenda on the website doctena.lu. For online sessions, I utilize the official Doctena videocall software, ensuring a secure and reliable platform for our virtual consultations.

While I strive to minimize any delays, I appreciate your understanding and patience. Rest assured, I will be with you shortly, regardless of any unforeseen circumstances. Thank you for your understanding.

All you need for a session is a stable internet connection and a spot where you feel free to talk openly. This flexibility enables you to participate from different locations, whether it’s in your car, at a park, on a bench, or while walking.

If you initially opted for in-person sessions or online sessions, you can seamlessly continue your sessions from abroad through the online video consultation option. In case there is a timezone difference, please ensure to select a timeslot that aligns with your own timezon

Growing up in Luxembourg, I am proficient in conducting our sessions in four languages: Luxembourgish, French, German, and English. The key is to ensure that you can express yourself comfortably in any of these languages. 

Please note: Luxembourg is a multicultural country, and it has a diverse range of caregivers who may speak different languages. Some may speak languages that are not spoken by Luxembourgish people, or only one or two of them but not all of them. It is crucial to determine in advance the language in which you will be able to communicate with them effectively, as effective communication is vital when working with a therapist and sexologist.

This situation is quite common in capital cities, larger urban areas, and particularly in Luxembourg. 

As long as both of you can communicate with me in at least one of the languages I speak, and/or if your can communicate together in a language that I am proficient in as well, even if it differs from the language you use during your individual sessions, it is absolutely fine with me. I am accustomed to seamlessly switching between these languages in my daily practice. The utmost priority is that you can express yourself comfortably in the language in which you feel most at ease.

Time is limited, and the primary goal of the session is to create a comfortable environment. Whether it is an online session or a session at my practice, you are allowed to eat or drink as long as it does not distract you from your own session. You are more than welcome to do so.

As a general clinical sexologist and couple therapist, I specialize in addressing sexual addictions and situations involving non-consensual sexual activity, both for individuals who engage in such behaviors and those who have been affected by them. Whether you seek help voluntarily or have been referred by the justice system, I will make every effort to provide you with care as soon as possible. I am committed to ensuring regular follow-up sessions that are necessary and required, either with myself or by referring you to another appropriate professional if needed.

 

Emergency situations (e.g., sexual addictions, pedophilia, child pornography, deep and intense anxiety states) where you are unsure how to handle your distress, I will guide you to obtain appropriate care as quickly as possible, either with me or where it is possible the soonest.

In my capacity as a comprehensive clinical sexologist and couples therapist, my expertise lies in effectively addressing scenarios encompassing non-consensual sexual activities. This encompasses individuals who may be engaging in such behaviors as well as those who have experienced their impact. The chronological aspect of these events holds no bearing on the provision of care, with the ultimate goal being to assist you in accessing the necessary support today, thereby facilitating a path towards a more fulfilling and content life, while maintaining equilibrium for the times ahead.

If you are a student conducting research on topics related to sexuality and/or relationships and would like to discuss it with me as an expert in the field, I am more than willing to provide you with some dedicated time in a scheduled appointment, free of charge. As a teacher and professor for midwife students, medical students, and thesis supervision, I am accustomed to supporting and contributing to raising awareness in my professional journey. Helping students in their research is a part of my mission and I am happy to assist you in any way I can.

If you are a journalist, writer, or researcher working on topics related to sexuality and/or relationships for the purpose of publishing or broadcasting, and you would like to interview me as an expert in the field, I am available to allocate some time for an arranged appointment, free of charge. I am accustomed to such requests and I am eager to contribute to raising self-awareness as part of my mission in my professional journey. I understand the importance of sharing knowledge and insights to enhance understanding in these areas, and I am pleased to offer my expertise for your project.

Cost and duration

The cost per session is 155 euros.

The pricing for sexology sessions is non-negotiable. It remains consistent for all clients, irrespective of any additional privileges or preferences. Such as booking sessions at earlier dates and willing to pay me a higher price for that.

Payments can be done via Cash, Bank Transfer, or Payconiq/Digicash.

No, Sexology sessions are not covered by the National Health Fund (CNS) of Luxembourg.

Members of the European Investment Bank (EIB) may be eligible for reimbursement.

Through our busy schedules, there may be reasons why you can not attend your appointment. 

Out of respect for mine, thank you kindly for informing me. 

A cancellation will be free of charge if done 48 hours in advance and you will be able to cancel it yourself via your own profile and bookings on doctena.lu. A cancellation less than 48hrs will be charged no matter the reason and therefore you won’t be able to cancel anymore via your own profile and bookings on doctena.lu. 

Thank you for your understanding.

A session typically lasts around 50 minutes, which is considered to be the perfect timing to delve into the day’s discussion without becoming overly exhausted for the remainder of the day. It’s crucial not to underestimate the demands of working on oneself and the importance of maintaining a balanced schedule.

The duration of a session is designed to be respectful of everyone’s time. Under no circumstances will it extend beyond the allocated 50 minutes. This practice ensures that we honor the schedules of all participants, including other patients who may have appointments after you, as well as my own schedule and yours. By adhering to this predictable timeframe, we create a sense of reliability and structure for everyone involved.

You have the flexibility to make adjustments to your appointment up to 48 hours prior to your scheduled session. During this time frame, you can easily modify your appointment through your account on doctena.lu. However, please note that due to practical organization reasons, changes cannot be made within 48 hours of your appointment. Nevertheless, you are still welcome to book the following session as a video consultation if that is your preference.

Yes, it is absolutely possible to participate in any booked session via video, even at the last minute. Simply inform me through a short text message, and I will adjust accordingly. This way, I will know whether to wait for you in the waiting room at the practice or initiate the video consultation and provide you with access to the session online. Your preference will be accommodated to ensure a smooth and seamless experience.

Yes, if you feel comfortable to held the session, but won’t make it to the office, we can still have the session per video consultation. Simply inform me through a short text message, and I will adjust accordingly. This way, I will know whether to wait for you in the waiting room at the practice or initiate the video consultation and provide you with access to the session online. Your preference will be accommodated to ensure a smooth and seamless experience.

Yes, there is no need to worry about how to join a video consultation session. Once you have booked a video consultation through your account on doctena.lu, you will receive a confirmation email. This email will contain a document outlining the exact procedure to access the session.

The content you will find in every confirmation message for each video consultation booked is as follows:

  1. Session Date and Time: The specific date and time of your scheduled video consultation.
  2. Access Instructions: Step-by-step instructions on how to join the video consultation by a document attached to the confirmation e-mail.
  3. Meeting Link or ID: The link or identification code that you will need to enter to access the session.
  4. Technical Requirements: Any specific technical requirements or recommendations to ensure a successful video consultation experience.
  5. Support Contact: Contact information in case you encounter any difficulties or need further assistance.

Please refer to the confirmation email and the attached document for detailed instructions on how to access your video consultation session.

Yes, there is no need to worry about how to join a video consultation session. Once you have booked a video consultation through your account on doctena.lu, you will receive a confirmation email. This email will contain a document outlining the exact procedure to access the session.

The content you will find in every confirmation message for each video consultation booked is as follows:

  1. Session Date and Time: The specific date and time of your scheduled video consultation.
  2. Access Instructions: Step-by-step instructions on how to join the video consultation by a document attached to the confirmation e-mail.
  3. Meeting Link or ID: The link or identification code that you will need to enter to access the session.
  4. Technical Requirements: Any specific technical requirements or recommendations to ensure a successful video consultation experience.
  5. Support Contact: Contact information in case you encounter any difficulties or need further assistance.

Please refer to the confirmation email and the attached document for detailed instructions on how to access your video consultation session.

First session and number of sessions

In the first session with a sexologist, the primary goal is to gain a comprehensive understanding of the patient’s concerns and expectations. This session provides an opportunity to create a safe and supportive environment for open communication. The sexologist listens attentively, empathizes with the patient, and encourages them to discuss their experiences and difficulties. Together, they define realistic goals and expectations for therapy. A follow-up plan is established, outlining the course of therapy, including session frequency and duration, as well as any additional activities or assignments. Throughout subsequent sessions, the sexologist utilizes tailored therapeutic approaches to address the patient’s needs and monitor progress. The goal is to foster a collaborative and non-judgmental environment where the patient can actively participate in their healing and growth.

Determining the number of sessions required for sexology therapy is a complex matter that requires careful consideration. It is important to strike a balance between avoiding undue pressure by suggesting too few sessions and not demoralizing individuals with an overwhelming number of sessions at the outset. The duration of therapy can vary depending on individual circumstances and the specific concerns being addressed.

In general, it is often observed that individuals may begin to experience improvements in their well-being after approximately six sessions, with sessions spaced out monthly. This initial progress can provide a sense of relief and encouragement. On average, around ten sessions may be needed to address a range of topics and problematic areas effectively.

However, it is crucial to recognize that every person and issue is unique. For some individuals seeking answers to specific questions, these concerns may be resolved in just one or two sessions. On the other hand, some people and problematics may require an extended period of therapeutic exchange to achieve the desired outcomes. It is essential to approach each situation with patience, flexibility, and an open mind.

It is also worth noting that the length of therapy cannot always be predetermined. As individuals work through their issues, it is possible that new areas of concern may emerge, requiring additional attention and exploration. The therapeutic process is dynamic, and the duration of therapy can be influenced by various factors, including the complexity of the issues, the level of commitment and engagement from the individual, and the collaborative nature of the therapeutic relationship.

Ultimately, the number of sessions needed for sexology therapy will be determined through ongoing assessment, feedback, and dialogue between the sexologist and the individual. By providing a supportive and understanding environment, the aim is to assist individuals in achieving their goals and resolving their concerns in a timeframe that is most beneficial for their unique circumstances.

It is essential for me to have a clear understanding of what we will be focusing on during our sessions. Typically, addressing any kind of difficulty requires multiple sessions. Initially, we may need to meet more frequently in order to make progress, and then gradually space out the sessions. However, it is also possible that the frequency of sessions may increase again based on the patient’s needs, such as significant life events or specific topics that arise.

Given my busy schedule and limited availability, I would advise you to consider booking multiple sessions in advance. This way, we can ensure that you have reserved spots that align with your preferences, whether it’s from once a week to once a month. Nevertheless, we can still be flexible and assess if any sessions need to be adjusted or canceled based on your current needs. A maximum of 4 sessions can be booked at once.

Please note that there is no requirement to pay for multiple sessions in advance or commit to a package of sessions in order to secure one. Therapy sessions are not like loyalty cards. In order to foster a healthy therapeutic relationship based on trust, with the patient’s well-being at the core, both the patient and therapist should always have the freedom to discontinue sessions if there is an observed discrepancy between the patient’s needs or expectations and the possibilities of the provided care.

When you transition to a new sexologist after previously seeing a psychologist, psychotherapist, or psychiatrist, or even another sexologist, you may find yourself answering questions you have already addressed in the past. Although this may feel repetitive, it serves an important purpose. By revisiting these previously discussed topics, I can gain valuable insights into your history, the progress you have made, and identify areas that may require further attention or rework. This process ensures continuity of care and allows the therapy to build upon the work you have already done, tailoring the approach to your specific needs and goals. Answering these questions helps me develop a comprehensive understanding of your journey, facilitating a seamless transition and enabling us to engage in effective and focused therapy moving forward.

Single or relationship session?

Single individuals can greatly benefit from seeking the support of a sexologist to improve their sex lives, regardless of whether they currently face specific challenges. Working with a sexologist offers a safe and non-judgmental space to explore and understand one’s sexuality, fostering self-awareness and confidence, by using tools and specific exercises that should be done by themselves in the first place anyways. It also provides an opportunity to enhance sexual knowledge, skills, and communication, leading to increased satisfaction in future sexual experiences. Additionally, sexologists can address past trauma, sexual dysfunctions, body image concerns, and self-esteem issues, helping individuals heal and develop healthy coping strategies. Embracing the importance of sexual well-being as a single person contributes to personal growth and overall well-being.

Couples in committed relationships can greatly benefit from seeking the support of a sexologist to enhance their sexual experiences and overall relationship satisfaction. Working with a sexologist provides a safe and non-judgmental space for couples to explore and understand their unique sexual dynamics. It offers guidance on communication, desire, intimacy, and addressing any challenges that may arise. A sexologist can also assist with healing from past traumas, navigating conflicts, and strengthening emotional bonds. Seeking the expertise of a sexologist demonstrates a common commitment to investing in the relationship and prioritizing sexual well-being, leading to a healthier and more fulfilling sexual and general relationship.

Couples in committed relationships are encouraged to attend the first session with a sexologist together, or alternatively, they can choose to attend separate individual sessions before starting the therapy together. While individual sessions provide an opportunity for each partner to express their personal concerns and expectations, seeing them together in subsequent sessions is ideal. This allows for a comprehensive understanding of the couple’s dynamics and facilitates open communication within the therapeutic space. The sexologist can address individual needs while also exploring the relational dynamics and working towards shared goals. Ultimately, the goal is to foster a strong foundation for the couple to engage in the therapy together, promoting a healthier and more fulfilling sexual relationship.

As a sexologist and/or couple therapist, the practitioner will collaborate with patients on their specific requests and areas of distress. It might happen that some individuals experience fulfillment in their personal or relationship lives while simultaneously facing challenges in their sexual life, or vice versa. But it is more common that these two aspects are interconnected, even if the patient may not initially recognize it. While the central focus of the sessions may revolve around the initially addressed problem, working on one area can naturally lead to addressing the other. Thus, throughout the therapeutic journey, discussions may extend to encompass both aspects, providing a comprehensive approach to the patient’s well-being.

Yes, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is widely recognized as the most efficient method for addressing sexual problems and relationship matters. This therapeutic approach focuses on restructuring perspectives and adopting new lifestyle habits. Therapists carefully analyze the situation and provide patients with the appropriate tools, enabling them to practice at home. The ultimate goal of CBT is to empower patients, allowing them to become independent in managing their new knowledge and skills. 

Do not forget: By keeping the same views and keeping having the same habits, you will keep getting the same results ; By changing certain views and adapting certain behaviors, you will end up having different results, aiming the ones you wished for !

One fundamental aspect of being a sexologist is the commitment to never judge individuals, regardless of their concerns or problems. Sexologists understand the importance of setting aside personal beliefs and life experiences in order to provide unbiased and non-judgmental support to those in need. This ability to put aside personal biases allows sexologists to fully dedicate themselves to helping individuals who are suffering and require assistance.

Confidentiality

Luxembourg may be a small country, but patients should not be concerned about the confidentiality protocol followed by sexologists. Confidentiality is a fundamental aspect of the therapeutic relationship, regardless of the size of the location. Sexologists in Luxembourg adhere to strict ethical guidelines and professional standards to ensure that patient information remains private and confidential.

Patients can trust that their personal information, concerns, and experiences shared during therapy sessions will be treated with the utmost respect and confidentiality. Sexologists prioritize the well-being and privacy of their patients, creating a safe and trusting environment for open and honest discussions.

Regardless of the size of the community, sexologists in Luxembourg are committed to upholding the confidentiality of their patients. This allows individuals to seek the help they need, knowing that their information will be protected and that their privacy is of the utmost importance throughout their therapeutic journey.

When a patient has a connection to a sexologist through acquaintances or mutual contacts, they can still be reassured that attending therapy sessions and their personal information will remain completely confidential. Sexologists are bound by professional ethical guidelines and legal obligations to maintain the privacy and confidentiality of their patients.

Regardless of how the patient knows the sexologist, whether through a personal connection or a referral, the sexologist is committed to upholding confidentiality. They understand the importance of creating a safe and trustworthy environment where patients can freely express their thoughts, concerns, and experiences without fear of judgment or breach of confidentiality.

The sexologist will handle the patient’s information with the utmost care, ensuring that it remains strictly confidential. They prioritize the well-being and privacy of their patients, fostering an atmosphere of trust and confidentiality throughout the therapeutic process.

Patients can feel confident that their personal information and the content of their therapy sessions will be kept private, allowing them to openly engage in therapy and receive the support they need to improve their well-being.

When a patient has a connection to a sexologist through acquaintances or mutual contacts, they can still be reassured that attending therapy sessions does not change anything to the rules and protocols. The care provided will be exactly the same as that given to a patient who is not related to or connected with the therapist, without any variation in quality or standard.

When a couple attends couple therapy and each individual has sensitive information they are hesitant to share with their partner, such as infidelity or childhood trauma for example, they should not worry about the therapist revealing this information to their partner during either couple or individual sessions. Confidentiality is a fundamental principle upheld by therapists, and they are not there to act as a messenger between the couple.

Instead, the therapist’s role is to understand the underlying reasons behind the reluctance to share and to foster healthy communication within the couple. They create a safe space where both individuals can express their concerns openly. Together, the therapist and the couple can discuss the benefits and limitations of honesty, considering the context of their relationship.
It is important for the individuals to know that they have the final say in what information is shared and when it is shared with their partner. The therapist respects their autonomy and supports their decision-making process. The therapist’s goal is to help the couple navigate the complexities of their relationship, facilitate understanding, and promote effective communication that contributes to their overall growth and well-being.

Yes, in most cases, therapists are ethically and legally obligated to respect your confidentiality and privacy. However, upon your request and with your consent, they can facilitate the transfer of relevant information to your new therapist. This process ensures continuity of care and enables the new therapist to have a comprehensive understanding of your therapeutic journey and the progress you have made. It’s important to discuss your preferences and concerns regarding the sharing of information with both your old and new therapists, so they can work together to ensure a smooth transition and provide you with the best possible care.

Please note that under any circumstances, direct transfer of your healthcare records from one healthcare provider to another will not occur, unless they are affiliated with the same hospital institution. However, after a common discussion, you may receive the information about your session that you can subsequently provide to your new healthcare provider for their reference.

Even in the waiting room, your name will remain confidential. If you have never met me before, I will come to the waiting room and announce my own name, “Hendriks,” so that you will recognize me as your designated therapist and can accompany me to my office room for your session.

Confidentiality is of utmost importance in the therapeutic relationship for two primary reasons. 

Firstly, it is crucial for respecting the patient’s privacy and maintaining their trust. Patients need a safe space to share their thoughts, emotions, and personal experiences without the fear of judgment or their information being disclosed to others. Confidentiality ensures that their confidentiality and privacy are protected.

Secondly, confidentiality has legal implications for the therapist and their practice. Breaking confidentiality can have severe consequences, including legal and ethical ramifications. Therapists are bound by professional codes of ethics and regulations that mandate the preservation of patient confidentiality. Breaching confidentiality not only undermines the trust between therapist and patient but also jeopardizes the therapist’s professional standing and their ability to help others.

By upholding strict confidentiality standards, therapists create an environment where patients can openly and honestly explore their concerns, allowing for more effective therapy. Confidentiality is not only a moral and ethical obligation but also a legal requirement that supports the therapeutic process and ensures the therapist’s ability to continue assisting and supporting individuals seeking help.

Sexology and Sexologist

Sexology is the scientific study of human sexuality, encompassing various aspects related to sexual matters. It is a multidisciplinary field that combines and incorporates elements from disciplines such as sociology, physiology, medicine, law, and history. A specialized sexologist should possess knowledge in all these fields, taking into consideration the complex dynamics of relationships and family matters.

In summary, sexology is a multidisciplinary field that explores and addresses various aspects of human sexuality. While it is essential to be cautious of individuals claiming to be sexologists, seeking out qualified professionals and recognized members of sexology societies ensures that you receive support from experts who are knowledgeable, trained, and committed to providing non-judgmental assistance in navigating sexual concerns and improving overall sexual well-being.

More detailed information about what sexology is can be found on the different pages on this website.

A sexologist typically specializes in sexology, but they may also have expertise in couple therapy and/or family dynamics, as these areas are often interconnected, allowing them to work effectively across these domains.

By specializing in these areas, sexologists offer comprehensive assistance to individuals and couples, promoting healthier and more fulfilling sexual relationships while addressing and overcoming challenges related to sexual matters, trauma, and relationship dynamics.

A sexologist is a professional who dedicates their expertise to creating a safe and non-judgmental environment where individuals or couples can address their sexual concerns, explore their identities, and enhance their overall sexual well-being. By combining their knowledge of sexology, couples therapy, and family relations, sexologists aim to help individuals and couples lead fulfilling and satisfying sexual lives.

More detailed information about what a sexologist is can be found on the different pages on this website.

A sexologist is not necessarily a psychologist, psychotherapist, or psychiatrist by default. While some sexologists may have backgrounds in psychology or counseling, it is not a requirement for the profession. To become a clinical sexologist a post-bachelor education is required, typically consisting of a sexology master’s degree at university. In order to practice clinical sexology and work with patients on a one-to-one basis, additional university certifications are often required. 

The master’s degree in sexology deepens the understanding of human sexuality within the scientific fields of psychology, sociology, medicine and law, allowing the sexologist to become an expert in the various aspects of sexual health, sexual dysfunctions, relationships, and sexual education. This multidisciplinary background equips sexologists with a comprehensive understanding of human sexuality.

There might be psychologists, psychotherapists or psychiatrists that have training in order to get some tools to address sexual matters with their patients, but that does not necessarily mean that they are clinical sexologists.

Sexologists may collaborate with psychologists, psychotherapists, or psychiatrists as needed, referring patients to these professionals for additional support or specialized psychological and psychiatric interventions. 

However, it is important to recognize that the qualifications and background of a sexologist can vary. Therefore, it is always advisable to verify the individual credentials and qualifications of a sexologist to ensure their specific expertise aligns with the needs of the patient.

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specializes in psychiatry. As a doctor of medicine, they have the authority to prescribe medication to their patients. Additionally, their sessions with patients are reimbursed by the CNS (Caisse Nationale de Santé) in Luxembourg.

On the other hand, a psychotherapist is a psychologist who has undergone specialized training in psychotherapy. In Luxembourg, the title of psychotherapist is protected, meaning that individuals must fulfill specific conditions defined by the state of Luxembourg to call themselves psychotherapists. Starting from 2023, psychotherapy sessions are partially reimbursed by the CNS.

While a clinical sexologist may appear similar in practice, they are not necessarily psychiatrists or psychotherapists. The field of expertise in sexology varies, and although psychiatrists and psychotherapists may have some training and tools to address sexual matters briefly with their patients, they are not typically considered clinical sexologists.

It’s worth noting that sexology is not yet a protected title in Luxembourg, meaning that anyone can call themselves a sexologist. As a result, sessions with sexologists are not reimbursed by the CNS. However, EIB (European Investment Bank) patients can be reimbursed for these sessions after verifying the practitioner’s education and work experience. In any case, it is always advisable to verify the individual credentials and qualifications of a sexologist to ensure their specific expertise aligns with the needs of the patient.

A sexologist or any kind of mental health professional can address a wide range of issues using various tools, but certain problems may require a multidisciplinary approach involving collaboration with other practitioners. In such cases, the sexologist will refer the patient to professionals with complementary expertise. This ensures a comprehensive and holistic approach to address complex issues. The referral process allows patients to receive specialized care and benefit from diverse perspectives. By embracing a multidisciplinary approach, individuals receive tailored treatment plans and support from a team of professionals, promoting their overall well-being.

The answer to whether a sexologist can prescribe medication depends on their background and qualifications. Sexology being a masters degree is typically pursued as a post-bachelor degree, which means that in theory, a sexologist could have a prior background degree in medicine and be entitled to prescribe medication. However, in practice, most clinical sexologists do not have a background degree in medicine and therefore do not have the authority to prescribe medication.

It is important to note that a well-educated clinical sexologist is knowledgeable in the field of medicine related to sexual problems. They should have an understanding of medication used for addressing sexual dysfunction, allowing them to guide patients towards the most appropriate approach. If they deem medication necessary, they may refer patients to a medical doctor to complement the treatment with medication or provide guidance on how to take the medication until the patient becomes empowered in their own sexual function and no longer requires it.

It is crucial to emphasize that a sexologist will never question or interfere with the medical advice and authorization given by a doctor regarding the patient’s medication. The sexologist’s role is to complement the treatment process, offering expertise in sexual matters while respecting the decisions and recommendations made by the patient’s medical doctor considering his physical health risks.

It is important to note that sexology is not a regulated profession in all jurisdictions, meaning that anyone can claim to be a sexologist. The level of training and expertise can vary greatly, ranging from short weekend courses to comprehensive university studies. When seeking assistance from a sexologist, it is crucial to consider their qualifications and credentials. Look for recognized members of reputable sexology societies or organizations, as they often adhere to professional standards and ethical guidelines. 

You can find my name as a member of the SSUB (Belgian Society of University Sexologists).

A sexologist is not a sex worker, and under no circumstances do they engage in sexual practices. A sexologist is a trained professional specializing in the scientific field of sexology. Their role is to assist individuals in resolving sexual or relationship difficulties by guiding them through exercises and interventions that can be practiced either individually or within their relationships.

 

In order to maintain a professional and ethical environment, the following rules apply:

  1. No Touching or Showing of Genitals: During sessions, neither the sexologist nor the patient should engage in any touching or showing of genitals. Boundaries should be respected to ensure a safe and appropriate therapeutic setting.
  2. No Undressing, Except for Medical Checks with a doctor in medicine (ex: gynecologist, urologist) unless it is necessary for a specific medical examina

 

By adhering to these rules, a professional and respectful environment can be maintained during sexology sessions. It is important for both the sexologist and the patient to uphold these guidelines to ensure a safe and effective therapeutic experience.