Relationship and Sex Therapy
I specialise in couple therapy and help couples, sometimes also individuals, navigating difficult moments in their relationship. It is the regular time dedicated to the process of therapy combined with the expertise of an independent third mind that enables people to work through whatever issues, however difficult, they bring to the sessions.
The reasons why people come and see me are many and varied:
- recurring arguments & bickering
- misunderstandings & communication
- transition to family life
- lack of trust and commitment
- loss of an emotional connection
- the aftermath of an affair
- retirement
- empty nest
- separation or divorce
- sex problems or psychosexual issues
- sexuality issues & gender identity
Relationship and sex therapy with Delia Schumacher
How I work based on a psychodynamic approach
I view psychotherapy as a process of self-exploration that aims to gain a better understanding of one’s own behaviour and how it impacts not only on the behaviour of the person we are in a relationship with, but also the quality of the relationship itself.
To begin with I support clients to understand their relationship dynamic and its main drivers, what makes the relationship work, but also what are the negative drivers, the catalyst of friction and unhappiness.
Following on from this, I encourage my clients to jointly think and talk about possible changes in behaviour. The question is, what needs to be changed, what could that look like, how can both partners actively contribute to this change, and finally acknowledging what cannot be changed and needs to be tolerated as limitations?
Whilst most of my clients are couples or divorcing couples, I also see those in other forms of relationship such as siblings, or parents and their adult children, or business partners who want to improve their relationships.
Sex therapy & counselling for sexual difficulties
Another part of my work is psychosexual therapy that focusses on resolving sexual dysfunctions such as a lack of desire, painful sex e.g. vaginismus, premature or delayed ejaculation, erectile difficulties or compulsive porn or sex use etc.
Sex therapy often entails an additional behavioural component where I set clients very specific exercises that they do at home. The exercises follow a tailored programme and are designed to bring about improvements and ultimately resolution.
Who I work with in therapy
I see a wide range of people from different cultural and ethnic backgrounds, covering straight and gay couples and individuals.
I offer short- and long-term therapy in German and English.
Areas I work with:
- Abuse
- Addictions
- Anger Management / Passive aggressive behaviour
- Anxiety
- Bereavement, Grief and Loss
- Couples & Marriage Counselling
- Depression
- Dissociation
- HIV & AIDS
- Family relationships and conflict
- Infertility
- Low self-confidence / low self-esteem
- Miscarriage
- Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Pregnancy & birth
- Redundancy
- Relationship Difficulties
- Self harm
- Sex Anxiety & Sexual Problems
- Sexuality
- Stress and feeling overwhelmed
- Suicidal thoughts
- Trauma
- Work related stress
Psychotherapy Qualifications, Training & Background:
I did both my rigorous trainings, couple therapy and sex therapy, at the Tavistock. To enhance my clinical experience, I also worked in the NHS at the sex clinic at 56 Dean Street.
I am a member of the BACP (British Association of Psychotherapy and Counselling) and COSRT (College of Sexual and Relationship Therapists) and abide by their code of ethics.
Contact:
Please send an email or call to arrange an initial meeting. The aim of the first meeting is to discuss your particular situation and think together about the best way forward. It is also an opportunity for getting a feel of how I work and clarifying any questions you may have.
Rates and Practical Information:
I charge £100 (individuals) and £130 (couples) for a 50 minute session.
Sessions:
Psychotherapy sessions at City Therapy Space:
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday
