The first medical centre for sexology in Denmark began operations in 1986 under the leadership of Preben Hertoft. A psychiatrist and academic based at the University of Copenhagen, Hertoft spent over four decades researching and treating various sexual health issues, transitioning into a field that required both clinical rigor and a departure from traditional psychiatric norms.
Professional Trajectory
After the death of his mentor Kirsten Auken, Hertoft assumed a central role in the development of clinical sexology within Denmark. His career spanned more than forty years, encompassing research, direct patient counseling, and the education of medical professionals. His approach to psychiatry integrated academic teaching with practical clinical intervention.
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Hertoft maintained a broad clinical practice that addressed diverse sexual health concerns. His therapy sessions included heterosexual and homosexual patients dealing with various sexual dysfunctions. Furthermore, his clinical work extended to providing treatment and counseling for transvestites and pedophiles, reflecting a specialized focus on conditions often marginalized in general psychiatric practice.
Academic Contributions and Legacy
As a senior doctor of medicine and professor, Hertoft authored significant texts to formalize the study of sexology, including 'Klinisk sexologi' and 'Paedagogisk sexologi'. He also published 'Paradiset er ikke til salg', a work specifically focused on transvestism. His scholarly contributions were recognized internationally when he was elected a fellow of the Society for the Scientific Study of Sex.
Fast facts
- Born: 1928
- Died: 2017
- Citizenship: Kingdom of Denmark
- Primary Employer: University of Copenhagen
- Burial Site: Lyngby Parkkirkegård
Questions readers ask
What subjects did Preben Hertoft write about?
He authored professional literature on medical and educational sexology, alongside a specific study concerning transvestites titled 'Paradiset er ikke til salg'.
Where did Hertoft conduct his medical work?
He operated primarily out of the University of Copenhagen and the medical centre for sexology he established in 1986.
Achievements
- Held posts at University of Copenhagen
