Pleasuring Enhanced by Suggestive Therapy for Frigidity

Abstract

A comprehensive program derived from clinical experience combines positive suggestive therapy with the widely used pleasuring techniques of Masters and Johnson in treating lack of arousal in women. Complete steps for two hypnotic inductions per session incorporate the use of: (a) an integration of Hartland’s ego-strengthening suggestions with Stanton’s formulation of rational-emotive therapy in suggestion form; (b) ‘success imagery’ in being warm, spontaneous and responsive; (c) Wolberg’s suggestions paraphrased to remove limiting and inhibiting influences; (d) the author’s ‘direct positive suggestions’ to reawaken sensation and awareness; (e) instruction for seven ‘sensation awareness exercises’ adapted from Copelan, and (f) instruction in daily use of self-hypnosis to reinforce success imagery and release tension-related inhibiting influences. Progression is made from therapy focussed on the woman only to a ‘mutual pleasuring program’ involving her partner within 3–6 sessions. Prior to mutual pleasuring instruction is given in masturbation in accordance with the Masters and Johnson procedure. The value of self-awareness thus gained is indicated, but actual practice is left optional. Follow-up is maintained at treatment termination by telephone contact until both partners report satisfaction in the relationship.