Why Physicians Should Refer Their Patients to Tri Health Clinic for Sexual Dysfunction Treatment
Let’s be honest: sexual health isn’t something people love to talk about. Many patients are experiencing sexual dysfunction in silence, often feeling too embarrassed or unsure of where to turn. As their healthcare provider, you are on the frontlines, the first person they confide in when things aren’t working the way they want down there. And that’s where we come in.
At Tri Health Clinic, we’re one of the largest sex therapy clinics in Ontario, and we’re experts in tackling these challenges head-on. We use evidence-based sex therapy treatments to help your patients live healthier, happier intimate lives. In this post, we’ll walk through why sexual dysfunction needs to be treated by a sex therapist, the types of issues we treat, and—importantly—how simple we’ve made it for you to refer your patients to us.
Why Sexual Dysfunction Needs to Be Treated by a Sex Therapist
Sexual dysfunction isn’t just a “personal problem”—it’s a legitimate and serious health concern that can affect everything from physical health to mental and emotional well-being. If left untreated, sexual issues can lead to strained relationships, reduced mental wellbeing, anxiety, depression, and even worse physical health outcomes. And yet, sexual health often falls by the wayside in clinical practice. Did you know that up to 43% of women and 31% of men experience some form of sexual dysfunction in their lifetime? That’s dangerously close to half of your patients!
And while it might be tempting to write a prescription for something like Viagra or Cialis (we get it—quick fixes are appealing), medications don’t address the real reasons behind sexual dysfunction. Research shows that up to 50% of men discontinue PDE5 inhibitors like Viagra within 6 months, even when they work. Why? Because sexual dysfunction usually involves a mix of psychological, emotional, and relationship factors that medications can’t fix on their own.
That’s where specialized sex therapy becomes essential. Our sex therapists at Tri Health Clinic are trained to understand the complex interplay between mind, body, and relationships that contribute to sexual dysfunction. Using evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Mindfulness-Based Interventions, we get to the root of these issues and provide comprehensive, long-lasting solutions.
What We Treat at The Tri Health Clinic
At the Tri Health Clinic, we see a wide range of sexual health issues. Here’s just a taste of what we specialize in:
•Erectile Dysfunction (ED): We tackle both the psychological and physical aspects, helping patients overcome performance anxiety, relationship stress, and addressing cardiovascular health.
•Premature Ejaculation: We use evidence-based techniques to manage anxiety, improve communication, and teach physical strategies for control.
•Low Libido and Arousal Disorders: We work with patients to explore underlying causes like stress, trauma, and relationship issues. And more often than not, we work with people to recognize that there is nothing wrong with their desire at all! The problem stems from unrealistic expectations about sex and intimacy.
•Vaginismus and Dyspareunia (Painful Intercourse): Our approach combines psychological therapies with pelvic floor therapy for a treatment plan inline with gold standard treatments.
•Genital Pain Syndromes (e.g., Vulvodynia, Provoked Vestibulodynia): These are complex, and we address both the psychological impact and refer for physiotherapy when needed.
•Sexual Trauma Recovery: We offer trauma-informed care to help patients navigate their sexual health post-trauma.
•Desire Discrepancies in Couples: We work with couples to address differences in sexual desire and find a path forward that satisfies both partners.
•Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity: We provide a supportive space for patients to explore and embrace their sexual orientation or gender identity, while also addressing how these impact their relationships and sexual health.
And this is just the beginning. Every patient is unique, and we tailor our care to each individual’s needs.
How to Refer Your Patients to Tri Health Clinic
We know your time is valuable. So, we’ve streamlined our referral process to make it as easy as possible. Here are 3 simple ways to refer your patients to us:
1. OceanMD: Use the Ocean eReferral Network to securely send a referral our way.
2. Our Website: Head to trihealthclinic.com/referral and complete a simple, PHIPA-compliant referral form.
3. Fax: Good old-fashioned fax works too! Send it to 613-929-1117.
Once we receive your referral, our team commits to responding within 2 business days, and we’ll have your patient booked for an intake within 1 week. In fact, it’s usually within 2 days. Your patients won’t be left waiting, and they’ll get the help they need—fast.
Important to Note: Fees and Insurance Coverage
It’s worth mentioning that services at Tri Health Clinic aren’t covered by OHIP, so we recommend communicating this to your patients upfront. Many extended health insurance plans do cover psychological services, including sex therapy, so we advise your patients to check their coverage details.
Why Refer to Tri Health Clinic?
1. Specialized, Evidence-Based Care:
We’re not just therapists—we’re experts in sex therapy. With our focus on evidence-based treatments, you can trust that your patients are receiving top-tier care.
2. Comprehensive Approach:
We don’t just address the physical side of sexual dysfunction. Our bio-psycho-social model means that we’re treating the whole person—mind, body, and relationships. When sexual health improves, so do mental health, relationships, and overall well-being.
3. Easy, Hassle-Free Referrals:
Our referral process is a breeze. We take the stress off your plate, allowing you to continue doing what you do best—caring for your patients.
Referring Physicians: Be a Part of the Solution
Sexual health concerns are common, but they’re often left untreated. As a healthcare provider, you’re in a position to make sure your patients get the help they need. By referring them to Tri Health Clinic, you’re giving them access to specialized, compassionate, and evidence-based care that will improve their sexual health and overall quality of life.
We accept referrals from all healthcare providers, including General Practitioners, Family Doctors, Nurse Practitioners, Pelvic Floor Physiotherapists, Naturopaths, and Chiropractors.
The Bottom Line
Your patients deserve the best care for their sexual health concerns. By referring them to Tri Health Clinic, you’re helping them get the specialized, evidence-based treatment they need. Remember, 1 in 3 people will experience some form of sexual difficulty during their lifetime. Be their first line of support and refer them today.
For more information, visit our referral page at trihealthclinic.com/referral-information, and let’s help your patients start their journey to better sexual health together.