Question 1

What happens during a session?

Accepted Answer

People new to therapy often don’t know what to expect in terms of structure, communication, or what they need to do.

During a therapy session, we typically start by discussing what’s brought you to therapy and what you hope to achieve. The structure of sessions can vary, but generally, we’ll explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours to understand underlying issues. In psychosexual therapy, we may also discuss your sexual health and relationships in a respectful, non-judgemental way. Sessions are interactive, and you can guide the conversation with your concerns. Over time, we’ll develop strategies to help you manage or resolve these issues. This also applies when working with couple or relationship needs.

Question 2

How much should I share?

Accepted Answer

Clients can feel unsure about how much personal information to disclose and whether they need to share everything to get the most out of therapy.

In therapy, the amount you share is entirely up to you. You don’t need to disclose everything at once or share more than you’re comfortable with. Therapy is a space for gradual exploration. The more you open up, the more effective therapy can be, but it’s important to go at your own pace. As a psychosexual therapist, I respect your boundaries and encourage you to share at a level that feels safe and beneficial for you.

Question 3

Therapy goals vs. expectations?

Accepted Answer

Clients might be unclear about how to set realistic goals for therapy and whether their expectations for outcomes are achievable within the timeframe they imagine.

Therapy is a journey, not a quick fix. Setting clear, achievable goals is important, but it’s also essential to be realistic about the time it may take. People often expect immediate results, but it’s normal for progress to be gradual. In my practice, we’ll work together to set goals and regularly assess your progress, ensuring we’re on track. Some changes, particularly in deep emotional or relational work, take time, but every step forward is progress.

Question 4

Is “couples therapy” the same as “marriage counselling”?

Accepted Answer

Not exactly, but you’re in the right place. While I’m not a marriage counsellor by title, I’m a qualified and accredited sex, relationship and couples therapist. That means I’m trained to support people through a wide range of relationship challenges, including those that come up in marriage.

A lot of people search for “marriage counselling” when what they’re really looking for is help with communication, trust, intimacy, or navigating big life transitions as a couple — all of which are part of couples and relationship therapy. So even if the language is different, the support you’re looking for is very much available. I work with individuals and couples — whether you’re married, living together, or in a different kind of relationship — to help you move forward with more clarity and connection.

Question 5

Is online therapy therapy as effective as in-person?

Accepted Answer

People may struggle to understand the benefits of online therapy compared to traditional face-to-face sessions, and which option is more effective for them.

Online therapy offers flexibility and convenience, making it an excellent choice for those with busy schedules or those who can’t access in-person sessions. It also offers the ability to access therapy whilst still remaining in the familiar and safe environment of one's own home.

However, some individuals may find in-person therapy offers a deeper sense of connection. The choice depends on your preferences and comfort level. Both methods are effective, but if you're unsure, book your free 30-minute no-obligation introductory session and see how it feels for you.

Question 6

How do I determine if a therapist is a good fit for me?

Accepted Answer

People often struggle to gauge whether a therapist’s personality, style, and expertise align with their needs.

A good fit in therapy goes beyond qualifications; it’s about comfort and trust. The therapist’s style should feel supportive and non-judgemental. You may want to ask about their experience with the issues you’re facing and their therapeutic approach.

In my practice, I ensure a collaborative, empathetic environment where you can feel safe to explore your concerns. I also like my clients to feel like they're speaking with a real person and not just talking to a professional hidden behind a screen. If, after a few sessions, you don’t feel heard or understood, it’s okay to look for a different therapist who aligns more with your needs.

Question 7

What do all the titles for professionals mean?

Accepted Answer

The variety of professional titles (e.g., counsellor, psychotherapist, psychologist, psychiatrist) can confuse clients about who to choose.

Therapists can have various titles, which can be confusing. Here's a quick summary to help you;

Psychotherapists, like me, are trained to provide in-depth therapy for emotional and relational concerns. 
Counsellors, have less training and typically offer shorter-term, more solution-focused support. 
Psychologists have advanced degrees in mental health and may conduct assessments. 
Psychiatrists are medical doctors who can prescribe medication.

It’s important to check the therapist’s credentials and whether they are registered with a recognised body, such as COSRT for psychosexual therapy, to ensure they have the appropriate training and expertise for your needs.

Question 8

How do I evaluate my progress in therapy?

Accepted Answer

People may not understand how to measure if therapy is “working” or what signs indicate progress versus stagnation in their sessions.

Progress in therapy is not always linear, but there are signs to look for. You may notice you’re becoming more self-aware, managing your emotions better, or making positive changes in your behaviour. It’s important to check in with your therapist regularly to assess progress. In psychosexual therapy, you might notice improvements in intimacy, communication, or sexual health. If you feel stuck, we can re-evaluate the approach or goals to ensure therapy continues to be beneficial.

Marie-Lou Therapy

Stronger Relationships, Greater Intimacy, Real Progress

Marie-Lou Steul Expert Psychosexual & Relationship Therapist

Something in your relationship or sex life isn’t quite where you want it to be.

Who Am I & How I Can Help You

What I Offer

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Issues I Can Help You With

These are the typical issues I can help you manage and resolve, either as an individual or as partners.

Sexual Dysfunction Issues

Unreliable Erections

Premature Ejaculation

Delayed Ejaculation

Painful Sex

Difficulty Achieving Orgasm

Low Desire

Compulsive Sexual Behaviour

Couples, Relationship and Intimacy Issues

Differences in Sex Drives

Dealing with Infidelity

Sexual Trauma

Working with Kinks and Fetishes

Neurodiversity and Relationship Issues

Intimacy After Childbirth or Menopause

Intimacy in Old Age

Gender, Sexual, and Relationship Diversity

Navigating gender identity and transition with sex

LGBTQIA+ relationship and intimacy support

Polyamory and consensual non-monogamy

Managing stigma and rejection

Aligning preferences with relationship diversity

How It Works

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Step 1: Book Your Free 30-minute Introductory Call

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Step 2: Complete Your Assessment Session

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Step 3: Begin Your Regular Therapy

Book Your FREE 30-Minute Introductory Session Today

What We'll Cover:

Explore What’s Really Going On

Identify What You Want to Focus On

Start Your Journey

How You Can Benefit From Therapy

Performance anxiety reduces, allowing you to relax into sex and notice your own pleasure

Painful intercourse is addressed, so sex no longer feels like something that might hurt

You learn the communication tools to ask for what you really want and discuss your needs openly with your partner

You find ways to bridge differences in desired levels of intimacy, so both partners feel fulfilled without pressure

You can explore kinks and new areas of sex, and understand what you truly want

You develop a sexual template that works for you as a couple, rather than following assumptions or expectations

Intimacy becomes something enjoyable and fun again, rather than something to worry about

Real People. Real Progress.

Client: H.

Client: C.

Fees

£99

£119

Your Investment & What's Included:

Why now is the best time to start therapy:

FAQs

What happens during a session?

How much should I share?

Therapy goals vs. expectations?

Is “couples therapy” the same as “marriage counselling”?

Is online therapy therapy as effective as in-person?

How do I determine if a therapist is a good fit for me?

What do all the titles for professionals mean?

How do I evaluate my progress in therapy?

You don't have to keep doing this alone.

Contact Me

Stronger Relationships, Greater Intimacy,
Real Progress

Marie-Lou Steul
Expert Psychosexual & Relationship Therapist

Real People.
Real Progress.