Sensate focus

Sensate focus is a foundational technique in sex therapy developed by Masters and Johnson. It involves a series of structured, non-demand touch exercises that help individuals and couples reconnect with physical sensation and reduce performance pressure during intimacy.

Instead of focusing on orgasm or intercourse,

sensate focus encourages partners to explore touch, pleasure, and presence without any specific goal. It helps clients become more aware of their bodily sensations, lower anxiety, and improve communication and intimacy.

This technique is considered foundational because it shifts the focus from “performance” to mindful, pressure-free connection, making it especially effective in treating issues like anxiety, low desire, erectile dysfunction, or pain during sex. It builds safety, trust, and body awareness—core elements in healing and enhancing sexual well-being.