This modality is used to address obstacles to physical and emotional intimacy that a client is unable to resolve through traditional therapy and requires the involvement of a partner.
Clients' presenting issues have commonly included sexual dysfunctions, lack of healthy intimate experiences, or traumatic history.
Unpartnered subjects were paired with "surrogates" who would take the place of a partner, work under the direction of a trained therapist, and act as a form of mentor for the client.
Since then, the therapy's popularity has declined but reentered social consciousness after the 2012 film The Sessions, which depicts one surrogate partner's work with a disabled man.
The methodology of this therapy is described to have four phases to achieve a successful treatment: The first step in surrogate partner therapy is for the surrogate to verbally create an emotional connection and bond with the client, to create a safe environment and address any boundaries and expectations.
This first step is essential in making the client feel comfortable in pursuing this new type of therapy and laying a good foundation for practicing emotional intimacy.
These may include, but are not limited to relaxation techniques, sensate focusing, communication, establishing healthy body image, teaching social skills, sex education, as well as sensual and some sexual touching.
The surrogate partner therapist engages in education, often intimate physical contact, and only very rarely sexual activity with clients to achieve a therapeutic goal.