The Dark Side of Self-Proclaimed Sex Coaches: 3 Dangers You Need to Know

As a sexologist, I have seen an alarming trend in recent years: the rise of self-proclaimed sex coaches and tantra coaches who lack the proper training and expertise to provide safe and effective guidance on sexuality. While coaching can be a valuable tool for personal growth and development, it is essential to seek out qualified professionals with specialized training in sexuality to avoid potential harm.

The dangers of going to self-proclaimed sex coaches, tantra coaches, or individuals with only coaching certifications but not sexuality-specific training are numerous. These individuals may lack the knowledge and skills necessary to address complex sexual issues, leading to ineffective or even harmful advice. They may also promote harmful or inaccurate beliefs about sexuality, such as the idea that certain sexual practices are inherently “good” or “bad.”

Additionally, these individuals may not have the necessary ethical standards or professional boundaries in place to protect their clients’ well-being. Without proper training in areas such as informed consent, confidentiality, and boundaries, they may inadvertently cross ethical lines or put their clients at risk.

1. One of the dangers of going to self-proclaimed sex coaches is that they may lack the knowledge and skills necessary to address complex sexual issues. For example, if you are experiencing sexual dysfunction or have a history of trauma, you need a practitioner who has specialized training in these areas. To avoid this danger, it is important to seek out practitioners who have completed rigorous training programs in sexuality or who hold advanced degrees in related fields such as psychology or social work. In the United States, individuals can find qualified sexologists through organizations such as the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT) or the Society for the Scientific Study of Sexuality (SSSS). In Singapore, individuals can find qualified sexologists through organizations such as the Singapore Association for Sexual Health (SASH) or the Asia Pacific Society of Sexual Medicine (APSSM).
2. Another danger of going to self-proclaimed sex coaches is that they may promote harmful or inaccurate beliefs about sexuality. For example, some coaches may believe that certain sexual practices are inherently “good” or “bad,” leading to shame or guilt around certain behaviors. To avoid this danger, it is important to seek out practitioners who provide evidence-based guidance on topics such as sexual health, communication, and pleasure. Look for professionals who have a non-judgmental and sex-positive approach to sexuality.
3. A third danger of going to self-proclaimed sex coaches is that they may not have the necessary ethical standards or professional boundaries in place to protect their clients’ well-being. For example, they may not have clear policies around informed consent or confidentiality. To avoid this danger, it is important to seek out practitioners who adhere to ethical standards and have clear boundaries in place to protect their clients’ well-being.

In conclusion, while coaching can be a valuable tool for personal growth and development, it is essential to seek out qualified professionals with specialized training in sexuality to avoid potential harm. By working with a sexologist or other qualified sexuality professional, you can receive safe and effective guidance on sexual issues and achieve greater sexual health and well-being. Remember to always ask about their qualifications and experience, and look for professionals who adhere to ethical standards and have clear boundaries in place to protect their clients’ well-being.

I am running a Professional Certificate in Sexuality Educator for qualified counselors starting 10 Aug 2023. Please check it out here.