Therapy for Menopause
(How CBT Can Help!)

Menopause is a powerful and natural phase in every woman’s life, but it doesn’t always feel empowering. For many, it comes with unexpected challenges - hot flashes, mood changes, disrupted sleep, and something that’s talked about far too little: changes in sexual desire and intimacy.

If you’ve found yourself feeling disconnected from your body or struggling with your sex life during menopause or perimenopause, you’re not alone. Research shows that up to 87% of women experience some form of sexual concern during this transition. The good news? Therapy can help.

The Menopause Experience: More Than Just Hormones

We often hear that menopause is “just hormonal.” And while shifts in estrogen and testosterone do play a big role, there’s so much more happening beneath the surface.

As your body changes, so can your self-image, confidence, and relationships. You might notice:

• A drop in sexual desire or arousal

• Vaginal discomfort or pain during sex

• Feelings of shame, frustration, or disconnection

• Anxiety, low mood, or emotional distance in relationships

These issues are deeply personal—and they're not just physical. That’s why treatments focused only on the body often miss the mark.

So, What Is CBT and Why Is It So Effective During Menopause?

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a structured, research-backed form of talk therapy that helps you identify and reframe negative thought patterns that affect your feelings and behaviors.

When it comes to therapy for peri-menopausal and menopausal sexual health, CBT offers a unique, empowering approach by addressing both the psychological and emotional layers of intimacy.

CBT Can Help You:

• Challenge internalized beliefs about aging, desirability, and sexuality

• Rebuild body confidence through compassionate, present-moment practices

• Communicate more openly with your partner about needs and fears

• Reframe pressure around intimacy and redefine what pleasure means for you

• Explore new forms of connection—emotionally and physically

CBT for Menopause Isn’t Rushed. It’s a Journey.

One of the most common therapy myths? That a few quick sessions will solve everything.

In reality, healing—especially when it comes to sexuality—takes time, space, and trust. CBT for peri-menopause and menopause is flexible and highly personalized. You move at a pace that works for you.

Some women find what they need in a few sessions, while others benefit from longer-term support. It’s not about ticking boxes, it’s about creating a safe, affirming environment where you can reconnect with yourself and your body.

Why More Women Are Choosing Therapy for Menopause Symptoms

Hormonal treatments like HRT and testosterone can help manage physical symptoms, and are an important option to consider. As a stand alone approach or in conjunction with HRT, counselling can help mid-life women address emotional and psychological impacts of the menopausal transition.

CBT provides a non-hormonal option that supports the whole person, not just the body. And for many women, it offers something they haven’t felt in a while: hope.

What Happens in Therapy? Here’s a Peek

While every experience is different, CBT for menopause and sexual concerns often includes:

• Psychoeducation about what’s happening physically and emotionally

• Mindfulness and body-awareness exercises

• Cognitive reframing to address self-critical or anxious thoughts

• Exploration of pleasure, intimacy, and identity

• Relationship work (when applicable), focused on trust, safety, and closeness

Therapy Helps You Reclaim Your Story

Menopause is not the end of desire, connection, or joy. It’s a new chapter. Working with a menopause-informed therapist help you write it with clarity, confidence, and compassion.

Whether you’re feeling disconnected, struggling with intimacy, or just not feeling like yourself, therapy offers tools to support your body, your mind, and your relationships.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you’re curious about how CBT could support you through menopause, we’re here for you! We have counsellors in BC who specialize in women’s health, including menopause.

You deserve support that honors every part of this stage of life - your physical needs, emotional truth, and sexual self.