Sensory Focusing I

Restricted body scanning

The first practical phase of treatment, known as Sensory Focusing I, consists of a series of structured encounters where the couple takes turns exploring each other's bodies by touch.

The golden rule at this stage is that genitals and breasts are off-limits.

The goal is to rediscover the body as a map of pleasurable sensations beyond the obvious erogenous zones.

The one who receives the touch is encouraged to concentrate exclusively on his or her own sensations, without feeling the obligation to return the pleasure immediately or to become sexually aroused.

The one who touches does so with exploratory curiosity, trying different pressures and textures.

Sometimes the use of blindfolds or closing the eyes is suggested to enhance tactile acuity and eliminate visual distractions, allowing total immersion in the sensory experience.

The prohibition of intercourse as an anxiety reliever.

During this phase, intercourse is strictly forbidden. This restriction is therapeutic in itself, as it ensures psychological safety.

Knowing that the encounter will not lead to penetration, the person with dysfunction (e.g., erectile dysfunction or vaginismus) can relax completely, knowing that he or she will not be "asked" to perform sexually at the end. This "no demand guarantee" breaks the cycle of avoidance.

The partner can enjoy physical intimacy, cuddling and caressing without the underlying fear that "this has to lead to something more."

It transforms physical contact from being a stressful prelude to being a pleasurable and valid activity in its own right.

Nonverbal and verbal communication of preferences.

Although the emphasis is on the sensory, this stage also serves to train communication.

The couple is instructed to have the receiver guide the giver, indicating what he or she likes and dislikes.

However, small talk or intellectual talk is discouraged; communication should focus on immediate feedback about sensation ("a little softer," "there I like it," "that tickles/bothers me").

The goal is for the partner to learn to ask for what he/she needs and to reject what doesn't please without guilt.

By verbalizing (or guiding with the hand) what kind of touch is pleasurable and what is not, wrong assumptions ("I thought you