Sensate Focus
Sensate focus is a structured set of touch-based exercises used in sex therapy in which partners take turns giving and receiving touch while setting aside pressure to perform. It is used to rebuild comfort, communication, and connection.
Related terms
Adaptive intimacy is the practice of adjusting how you approach closeness, touch, and sexual activity so it stays comfortable and pleasurable when your body changes due to illness, injury, disability, aging, or medical treatment. It focuses on finding what works for your body now rather than returning to how things were before.
The PLISSIT model is a framework clinicians use to talk about sexual health at increasing levels of support: Permission, Limited Information, Specific Suggestions, and Intensive Therapy. It helps providers meet people where they are when discussing intimacy.
This definition is provided for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider about your specific situation.