Erectile dysfunction (ED) is one of the most common sexual concerns men experience, yet it’s also one of the most difficult to talk about. At Rhode Island Sex Therapy, our team provides compassionate, confidential, and judgment-free support for men struggling with ED.

Whether the condition is rooted in physical causes, emotional stressors, or a combination of both, we are here to help men regain sexual confidence and satisfaction. Therapy for erectile dysfunction in Rhode Island can be an effective step toward reclaiming connection, pleasure, and control.

Why Do Men Avoid Treatment for Erectile Dysfunction?

It can be difficult for men to ask for help, even when it comes to common health issues. Unfortunately, when those issues involve sexual function or are perceived as threatening to masculinity, men are even more reluctant to seek support. This is often the case with erectile dysfunction. Rather than reaching out, many men live with feelings of embarrassment, frustration, and diminished self-esteem.

However, ED is not something to be ashamed of. It affects millions of men and is a valid medical and psychological concern. In many cases, medication helps improve symptoms, particularly when the cause is physical. But when erectile dysfunction is linked to emotional factors like stress, anxiety, or relationship challenges, therapy can be the most effective path forward.

What Is Erectile Dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction is a sexual dysfunction characterized by the inability to either get or maintain an erection before and during sex and a general decrease in sexual drive. This can happen periodically for men, and it isn’t necessarily a cause for concern. However, when ED becomes the rule rather than the exception, it can have a negative impact on a man’s ability to sustain healthy and satisfying sexual relationships.

What Causes Erectile Dysfunction?

ED can stem from both physical and psychological causes. Physical contributors include:

• Heart disease
• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Obesity
• Neurological conditions like Parkinson’s disease
• Sleep disorders
• Certain prescription medications
• Alcohol or tobacco use

Psychological factors are also common when it comes to erectile dysfunction and include:

• Anxiety and performance pressure
• Depression or emotional numbness
• Stress (work, family, or personal)
• Low self-esteem or body image concerns
• Relationship conflict or lack of emotional connection

In many cases, ED is caused by a combination of physical and emotional factors.

How Common Is Erectile Dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction is more common than many people realize. It affects an estimated 30 million men in the United States. While it can occur at any age, it becomes increasingly common with age:

• About 40% of men experience ED by age 40
• Around 50–60% by age 50
• Nearly 70% by age 70

Still, ED is not an inevitable part of aging. Many younger men also experience symptoms, especially when psychological or relational factors are at play.

Is It Normal to Have Trouble Getting an Erection Sometimes?

Yes. Nearly all men experience difficulty getting or maintaining an erection at some point. Occasional ED can be caused by stress, fatigue, or alcohol and is generally not cause for concern. However, when these difficulties become frequent or start to impact quality of life or relationships, it’s time to get professional help.

How Does Therapy Help With ED?

Therapy offers a holistic, evidence-based approach to treating erectile dysfunction, especially when emotional, relational, or psychological factors are involved. At Rhode Island Sex Therapy, treatment is tailored to each client’s unique needs, helping men move beyond shame and regain a sense of control in their sexual lives. Whether ED is tied to stress, anxiety, past experiences, or even physical conditions, therapy provides tools to better understand the problem, reduce distress, and improve intimacy and performance.

Therapy supports lasting change by:

Addressing Emotional and Cognitive Causes

When ED stems from emotional or psychological concerns, sex therapy can be a powerful tool. Therapy for erectile dysfunction helps men identify and process the underlying issues, such as performance anxiety, past trauma, or relationship tension, that may be interfering with arousal or desire.

Supporting Physical Treatment

Even when ED has physical roots, therapy can still play a critical role. Men who take medications may still experience anxiety, avoidance behaviors, or a loss of confidence. Therapy helps rebuild self-esteem and emotional intimacy, which supports the effectiveness of medical treatment.

Individual or Couples Therapy

Men can attend therapy individually or with a partner. In couples’ sessions, therapy may focus on rebuilding trust, improving communication, and working through shared experiences of frustration or disappointment.

Specialized Support for ED at Rhode Island Sex Therapy

Rhode Island Sex Therapy is a leading provider of sex-positive, shame-free support for men dealing with erectile dysfunction and other sexual health concerns. Led by Dr. Michael Stoke, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and AASECT Certified Sex Therapist, our team works with clients in a welcoming, confidential, online setting.

Every therapy plan is also tailored to the individual’s needs and circumstances, with a focus on restoring confidence, strengthening relationships, and enhancing sexual satisfaction. Whether ED is newly occurring or has been a long-standing issue, clients receive the tools and strategies to better understand their sexual health and take actionable steps toward improvement.

Start Therapy for Erectile Dysfunction in Rhode Island

Getting help for erectile dysfunction can feel intimidating but taking that first step is a sign of strength. The team at Rhode Island Sex Therapy is here to make the process simple.

To get started, call (401) 236-5021, email DrMichaelStokes@gmail.com, or complete the secure contact form on the website. A team member will respond promptly to answer questions, discuss appointment options, and schedule your initial consultation.

You don’t have to face this alone. Support is available and your path to a more satisfying and connected sex life can start today.