ABSTRACT

“Sex is a natural function” was the cornerstone of the Masters and Johnson model for treating sexual dysfunction and dissatisfaction (Masters & Johnson, 1966, 1970). Through the pioneering efforts of William Masters and Virginia Johnson, their students took the message of sexual health around the world. With the introduction of Viagra (sildenafil citrate) and effective medical procedures to treat erectile dysfunction and other sexual difficulties, some “overmedicalization” of sexual treatment has occurred (Bancroft, 2002; Sigusch, 1998; Tiefer, 2001). However, cases of sexual healing point to the significance of the couple's relationship and the promises of genuine intimacy. Sexual counseling involves combining the techniques of sex therapy with selected methods of marital or couples counseling. Although a generic sexual counseling approach can facilitate sexual health across cultures, outcomes for Latino couples may be improved by attending to specific strengths and needs associated with Hispanic or Latino relationships.