Chapter : Selena, the sex therapist.

<SELENA'S POV>

My therapy office stood as an island of serenity within the cacophonous city of New York. The time was just 7:30am.

Golden sunlight streamed gently through the curtains of my self-contained office, casting a warm embrace over the room's furnishings. Two plush armchairs faced one another, separated by a small coffee table adorned with a fresh bouquet of fragrant flowers, poised to bear witness to the stories they would hear.

Seated in these inviting chairs were my first clients for today, Mr. Mark and his wife, Sarah, a palpable unease etched upon their faces. Nervously, they exchanged glances, fingers entwined with uncertainty.

I, Selena, a seasoned therapist with a comforting presence, leaned forward in my own chair, my attention wholly focused on my clients.

"Thank you both for joining me today," I began in a voice that exuded reassurance. "This space is your sanctuary, where we can explore your feelings and work together through any challenges."

Sarah, a woman in her early thirties with chestnut locks and expressive emerald eyes, glanced at her husband Mark. "I think we should start with... us," she said hesitantly.

Mark, a tall man in his late thirties, rugged and earnest, nodded in agreement. "Yeah, Em, things have taken a difficult turn lately, and we've reached a point where we need help."

I leaned back slightly, granting them the room to share their thoughts. "Let's begin by discussing what led you to seek help. Take all the time you need."

Sarah cleared her throat, her gaze drifting momentarily to a painting of serene landscapes on the wall. "Mark and I have been married for eight years, and, well, things have grown increasingly complicated. We argue frequently, and it's affecting us, as well as our children."

Mark's eyes welled with emotion as he continued. "We love each other deeply, Em, but sometimes it feels like we're worlds apart."

I nodded, my empathy palpable. "Challenges are a natural part of relationships. Let's delve into these issues. Sarah, would you like to elaborate on what's been troubling you?"

Sarah inhaled deeply, her fingers intertwined nervously. "It's... our intimacy, or rather, the lack of it. We used to be so close, but now it's as though we're strangers."

Mark's gaze softened as he looked at his wife. "I've noticed it too. There's an invisible wall that's grown between us."

I was a master at creating a safe space for my clients so I maintained a neutral expression. "Intimacy issues can be multifaceted. It's essential to uncover the root causes. Have you attempted to communicate your feelings with each other?"

Sarah nodded slowly. "We've tried talking about it, but more often than not, it ends in an argument."

Mark chimed in, frustration lacing his voice. "We're both so worn down, Em, and it feels like we're trapped in an endless loop."

I leaned forward, her eyes radiating genuine concern. "Your honesty is valued. Remember, you're here to collaborate, not to work against each other. Let's explore a different approach to communication. What if you shared your needs and desires without fear of judgment? This can lay the foundation for rebuilding your connection."

As the session progressed, I gently guided Sarah and Mark through a process of open and empathetic communication. We began to peel back the layers of their relationship's complexities, sharing vulnerabilities and raw emotions. With each revelation, the atmosphere in the room transformed from one of tension to one brimming with hope.

"Mr Mark," the first step to having a good intimacy with your wife is by active listening and empathy when discussing desires and boundaries with your partner. Use "I" statements to express your needs and desires, such as "I would love it if we could try..." or "I feel more connected when we..."Encourage your partner to do the same and create a safe space for honest and non-judgmental conversations. Do you understand?"

"Yes. I understand." He remarked with a nod of his head.

"Mr Mark, If premature ejaculation is one of the problems you're facing in your sexual life, then you have to start practising the "start-stop" method by pausing stimulation when you feel close to climax and resuming when the urge subsides. Alternatively, try the "squeeze technique," where your partner Mrs. Sarah, gently squeezes the base of the penis to delay ejaculation. Is that clear?"

"Yes." They both nodded.

Engage in mindfulness exercises to increase awareness of your body's responses and gain better control over arousal.

"Also, Collaborate with your partner to create a list of activities or fantasies you'd like to explore together. Set aside dedicated time for these activities and approach them with curiosity and enthusiasm. Reflect on your experiences and discuss what worked well and what you'd like to try in the future."

"Okay." They nodded, paying rapt attention to everything I was saying.

"Another way to strengthen you sexual life is by engaging in Kegel exercises and pelvic floor training." I said, and paused briefly for a dramatic effec before continuing. "Learn how to correctly perform Kegel exercises, which involve contracting and relaxing the pelvic floor muscles."

"And remember, consistency is key; perform these exercises regularly to strengthen pelvic muscles. Consider consulting a physical therapist or specialist for guidance on these pelvic exercised." I added, and the couples nodded in agreement.

As the session concluded, Sarah and Mark exchanged a glance imbued with newfound understanding.

I offered them a warm, reassuring smile. "Remember, change takes time and effort. With continued communication and the support you've found here, you can rebuild the intimacy and connection you both yearn for."

With a renewed sense of purpose and the guidance of their skilled therapist, Mr. Mark and his wife exited the tranquil therapy office, hand in hand, ready to embark on the journey of healing and rediscovery together, their hearts filled with newfound hope.

After the intense therapy session with them, I felt a mixture of emotions. I sat back in my comfortable office chair, my thoughts lingering on the progress they had made together. I couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction and hope for their future.

As the early morning sunlight streamed through my office window, I decided to take a break and connect with my own life. I reached for her phone, a small smile playing on my lips as I thought about calling my boyfriend, Danny. We have been together for over a year, and I cherished our moments together.

I dialed Danny's number, my heart fluttering with anticipation. The phone rang, and finally, he picked up.

"Hey, Danny," I greeted warmly, "How's your day going?"

Danny's response was a little too casual, lacking his usual enthusiasm. "Oh, hey, Emily. It's been busy. Lots of work stuff."

Emily furrowed her brow, sensing that something might be amiss. "Is everything okay? You sound a bit off."

Danny hesitated for a moment, then let out a sigh. "Well, Emily, I was actually about to tell you. I've got a work dinner tonight. I know we had plans, but it's a last-minute thing, and I can't really skip it."

Disappointment washed over me. I had been looking forward to spending quality time with Danny, especially after the emotional session with Mr. Mark and his wife. "Oh, I see," I replied, trying to hide my disappointment. "That's okay, Danny. Work comes first sometimes."

There was a pause on the other end of the line, and I couldn't help but wonder if Danny was being entirely truthful. So I decided to push a bit further. "Are you sure you can't make it?"

Danny's response was vague. "Yeah, it's a big client, Emily, and my boss is really counting on me to be there."

Despite his explanation, I couldn't shake the feeling that something wasn't right. It seemed like Danny was giving me excuses rather than genuine reasons.

As we wrapped up the call, I couldn't help but feel a twinge of doubt. I knew that trust was the foundation of any healthy relationship, but lately, it felt like Danny was becoming more distant. I hoped it was just a phase and not a sign of something deeper.

With a sigh, I returned to her work, my mind divided between my clients' progress and my own concerns about my relationship with Danny. For now, I needed to recharge and prepare for the challenges and triumphs that each new day in her therapy office would bring.