Surrogates

Few people understand that the true role of a sexual surrogate is as much about communication and trust building as it as about sex.

Clients who are in therapy need to deal with problems that usually are years in the making. Such problems are devastating to self-confidence and self-esteem. Recovery is complex and difficult. It takes sensitivity, empathy and understanding on the part of the surrogate to help the client work through sexual dysfunction and the negative emotions that accompany it. Through patience, encouragement, instruction and practice, a qualified surrogate can help the client make significant progress, speeding the healing process.

Historically, the concept of sexual surrogates goes back to the early 1960s and the pioneering work of Masters and Johnson. Dr. Dauw adopted the surrogate concept shortly after beginning his practice in 1965—and was the first sex therapist in the United States to vigorously promote their use in the treatment of patients without spouses.

Long after Masters and Johnson abandoned the surrogate concept, Dr. Dauw continued to apply this highly-effective form of therapy. He still uses it in his practice today.