Sensory Aspects of Sexual Intimacy
About this toolkit
Julie Marshall has created a Sensory Toolkit to help autistic people to identify sensory preferences during sexual intimacy. Discussions using the toolkit should always be done sensitively and with kindness. Remember, just because something is a sensory preference doesn't mean a partner has to do this.
About the author
Julie is a UK-based Psychotherapist and Psychosexual Therapist. She identifies as neurodivergent and holds a clinical diagnosis of autism and is awaiting an ADHD assessment. Julie is an active researcher at the University of Chester. Her research interests lie in ADHD and sexual intimacy. Julie is BACP Accredited and a member of COSRT and is passionate about supporting people in navigating sensory differences in sexual intimacy. You can find her website here
Sexual Pleasure
Sexual pleasure can be an important aspect of sexual intimacy for many people. However, sexual pleasure is complex and difficult to define, as sexual pleasure is different for everyone and may vary according to the context and people involved. In addition, sexual pleasure and sexual intimacy intersect with other forms of intimacy, such as emotional intimacy and other factors like relationship dynamics, children, and/or sensory aspects.
What constitutes sexual pleasure ?
Anything really, however, make sure it is consensual. Whilst many individuals engage in solo and/or shared sexual activities for a variety of reasons, such as connection, stress relief, procreation, and/or pleasure (Rye & Meaney, 2007), it is important to ensure consent is active and stays active throughout.