Addressing Intimacy Issues Through Couples Therapy
Medically Reviewed by Mark Hrymoc, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, double-board certified in General & Addiction Psychiatry Intimacy is a cornerstone of healthy relationships, yet it’s one of the most common areas where couples struggle. Whether due to emotional disconnection, stress, past trauma, or evolving relationship dynamics, intimacy issues can significantly impact satisfaction and closeness between partners. Fortunately, couples therapy—and in some cases, sex therapy—can provide effective pathways to healing. These therapeutic approaches help couples understand the root causes of their challenges, improve communication, and rebuild trust and connection. Understanding Intimacy: More Than Just Physical Connection Intimacy encompasses emotional closeness, physical affection, vulnerability, and shared trust. When intimacy breaks down, it can manifest as a lack of sexual connection, emotional withdrawal, or persistent conflict. Research by Johnson et al. (2021) found that emotional and physical intimacy are deeply interconnected, and difficulties in one area often influence the other. While intimacy issues …