Sexual Addiction Psychologists and Therapists in Canberra, ACT

Kent Cheney
Counsellor
Online Only
I support adults who feel stuck in patterns of unwanted sexual behaviours and want lasting change, including those seeking help to take responsibility and prevent harm. My approach is calm, structured, and non-judgemental, focusing on understanding underlying drivers, building practical strategies, and strengthening self-control and accountability. I provide a confidential space where clients can speak openly without shame. Sessions are goal-focused and paced to support sustainable growth rather than quick fixes. I offer online counselling for individuals ready to engage honestly in the change process.
I support adults who feel stuck in patterns of unwanted sexual behaviours and want lasting change, including those seeking help to take responsibility and prevent harm. My approach is calm, structured, and non-judgemental, focusing on understanding underlying drivers, building practical strategies, and strengthening self-control and accountability. I provide a confidential space where clients can speak openly without shame. Sessions are goal-focused and paced to support sustainable growth rather than quick fixes. I offer online counselling for individuals ready to engage honestly in the change process.
0494 587 298 View 0494 587 298
Henry Franck
Counsellor
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Confidential counselling for men seeking freedom from pornography and unwanted sexual behaviour, grounded in respect, understanding, and lasting change. I provide general counselling with a particular focus on pornography use, online sexual activity, infidelity, and related sexual concerns. My work is values-based and informed by a Christian worldview, helping clients explore underlying drivers, address shame, and move toward healthier ways of living. The focus is on achieving meaningful and sustainable change, as well as restoring dignity and integrity.
Confidential counselling for men seeking freedom from pornography and unwanted sexual behaviour, grounded in respect, understanding, and lasting change. I provide general counselling with a particular focus on pornography use, online sexual activity, infidelity, and related sexual concerns. My work is values-based and informed by a Christian worldview, helping clients explore underlying drivers, address shame, and move toward healthier ways of living. The focus is on achieving meaningful and sustainable change, as well as restoring dignity and integrity.
(03) 7302 2892 View (03) 7302 2892
Louise Nenasheff
Counsellor, ACA-L4
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I provide a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals/couples navigating the challenges of sex/porn addiction and betrayal trauma. My approach is grounded in empathy and uses Patrick Carnes’ model of addiction recovery.
I provide a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals/couples navigating the challenges of sex/porn addiction and betrayal trauma. My approach is grounded in empathy and uses Patrick Carnes’ model of addiction recovery.
(08) 7184 4804 View (08) 7184 4804
Francesca Palazzolo
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a counsellor & psychotherapist working in the existential humanist tradition. I work with all sorts of issues including mental health, addictions and relationship issues to name a few. I am registered with PACFA (Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation Australia), and have worked in youth mental health, alcohol & other drugs counselling and trauma counselling. If you are experiencing issues with any emotional concerns, anxiety, substance use, addiction, including behavioural addictions such as sex, internet or pornography, please do not hesitate to reach out.
I am a counsellor & psychotherapist working in the existential humanist tradition. I work with all sorts of issues including mental health, addictions and relationship issues to name a few. I am registered with PACFA (Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation Australia), and have worked in youth mental health, alcohol & other drugs counselling and trauma counselling. If you are experiencing issues with any emotional concerns, anxiety, substance use, addiction, including behavioural addictions such as sex, internet or pornography, please do not hesitate to reach out.
(03) 6411 0202 View (03) 6411 0202
David Nielsen
Counsellor, ACA-L4
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
David is down-to-earth, non-judgmental and respectful: he creates a safe and trusting environment for his clients to discuss, explore, and resolve their concerns. Even in the most trying of circumstances, David gives his clients the support they need to turn their most challenging circumstances into opportunities for positive change. David equips his clients with practical strategies and workable solutions to all manner of concerns and difficulties. David is especially skilled at helping clients to manage conflict and improve their relationships.
David is down-to-earth, non-judgmental and respectful: he creates a safe and trusting environment for his clients to discuss, explore, and resolve their concerns. Even in the most trying of circumstances, David gives his clients the support they need to turn their most challenging circumstances into opportunities for positive change. David equips his clients with practical strategies and workable solutions to all manner of concerns and difficulties. David is especially skilled at helping clients to manage conflict and improve their relationships.
(02) 5118 9980 View (02) 5118 9980
Wendy Rosa Bas
Counsellor, ACA-L1
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Struggling in your intimate relationship(s)? Whether you are navigating ethical non-monogamy, open relationships, polyamory, or kink dynamics, you're not alone - and you don’t have to figure it out by yourself. I’m a queer, pansexual, polyamorous counsellor (she/her) living an ENM lifestyle, and I bring both lived and professional experience to this work. I offer a safe, affirming space where your unique needs, values, and relationship structures are deeply respected. My approach is warm, non-judgemental, and empowering - I’m here to help you show up fully as yourself while building the kind of connections that feel right for you.
Struggling in your intimate relationship(s)? Whether you are navigating ethical non-monogamy, open relationships, polyamory, or kink dynamics, you're not alone - and you don’t have to figure it out by yourself. I’m a queer, pansexual, polyamorous counsellor (she/her) living an ENM lifestyle, and I bring both lived and professional experience to this work. I offer a safe, affirming space where your unique needs, values, and relationship structures are deeply respected. My approach is warm, non-judgemental, and empowering - I’m here to help you show up fully as yourself while building the kind of connections that feel right for you.
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Daniel Di Pietro
Psychotherapist, PACFA
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Daniel is a sexologist and psychotherapist who enjoys working empathically and collaboratively with individuals and partnerships of all cultural, gender, and sexual identities to provide support for their sexological needs. He specialises in working with sexological presentations around male sexual health, sexual and gender identity, intimacy, pleasure, desire discrepancy, kink and fetish-related behaviours, sexual functioning and relational challenges. Taking a non-judgmental and holistic approach, he assists his clients by providing tools to access their potential in overcoming the difficulties faced in their lives.
Daniel is a sexologist and psychotherapist who enjoys working empathically and collaboratively with individuals and partnerships of all cultural, gender, and sexual identities to provide support for their sexological needs. He specialises in working with sexological presentations around male sexual health, sexual and gender identity, intimacy, pleasure, desire discrepancy, kink and fetish-related behaviours, sexual functioning and relational challenges. Taking a non-judgmental and holistic approach, he assists his clients by providing tools to access their potential in overcoming the difficulties faced in their lives.
(03) 7003 2160 View (03) 7003 2160
Blake Edward Penland
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Online Only
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by grief, burnout, or a major life transition. Maybe it's a divorce, career stress, or emotional exhaustion. I can help you take the next step toward healing. Together, we’ll work through the tough emotions, develop tools to manage anxiety, and move beyond survival mode. I blend therapeutic counselling and coaching with real-life experience and practical strategies. You’ll learn how to recover with strength, rebuild your resilience and rediscover your sense of purpose through a grounded approach that includes elements of positive psychology, solution-focused therapy, narrative therapy and coaching.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by grief, burnout, or a major life transition. Maybe it's a divorce, career stress, or emotional exhaustion. I can help you take the next step toward healing. Together, we’ll work through the tough emotions, develop tools to manage anxiety, and move beyond survival mode. I blend therapeutic counselling and coaching with real-life experience and practical strategies. You’ll learn how to recover with strength, rebuild your resilience and rediscover your sense of purpose through a grounded approach that includes elements of positive psychology, solution-focused therapy, narrative therapy and coaching.
(02) 4075 5799 View (02) 4075 5799
Mental Care Clinic
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, grief, addiction, anxiety, or major life changes? Sometimes you can be so overwhelmed with stress that you have trouble prioritising your own needs. You don’t know where to start to make things better. There comes a time when help is needed from a certified professional to cope with many of life’s challenges and to provide you with the psychological tools needed to face stressful events. Mental Care Clinic is here to support you on your journey toward healing and self-discovery. We are committed to helping individuals live their best life.
Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, grief, addiction, anxiety, or major life changes? Sometimes you can be so overwhelmed with stress that you have trouble prioritising your own needs. You don’t know where to start to make things better. There comes a time when help is needed from a certified professional to cope with many of life’s challenges and to provide you with the psychological tools needed to face stressful events. Mental Care Clinic is here to support you on your journey toward healing and self-discovery. We are committed to helping individuals live their best life.
(02) 8105 5551 View (02) 8105 5551
Zoë is a registered & experienced Clinical Sexologist, Psychosexual Therapist, Sex & Relationship Therapist, the founder & principal practitioner of Sex-EQ with over 25 years psychotherapeutic experience. She can support you with issues regarding sex, sexuality, relationships, dating & sexually related mental health concerns. Do you desire enhanced trust, connection, communication, eroticism, vitality, safe sexual play, or to feel more connected to your body or find greater life purpose? Zoë offers years of wisdom, knowledge, & useful tools to help you enrich or transform your life within a safe, sex-positive, empathic space.
Zoë is a registered & experienced Clinical Sexologist, Psychosexual Therapist, Sex & Relationship Therapist, the founder & principal practitioner of Sex-EQ with over 25 years psychotherapeutic experience. She can support you with issues regarding sex, sexuality, relationships, dating & sexually related mental health concerns. Do you desire enhanced trust, connection, communication, eroticism, vitality, safe sexual play, or to feel more connected to your body or find greater life purpose? Zoë offers years of wisdom, knowledge, & useful tools to help you enrich or transform your life within a safe, sex-positive, empathic space.
(08) 9126 9400 View (08) 9126 9400
Thrive within Counselling & Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L4
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with individuals who are ready — whether confidently or cautiously — to explore what’s happening beneath the surface. You may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, substance use, or difficulties with identity and relationships. I often support people experiencing mental health concerns, alcohol and other drug (AOD) challenges, and members of the LGBTIQ+ community seeking a safe and supportive space. My approach is warm, collaborative, and down-to-earth. Together, we work at your pace using evidence-based strategies to help you feel heard, empowered, and supported
I work with individuals who are ready — whether confidently or cautiously — to explore what’s happening beneath the surface. You may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, substance use, or difficulties with identity and relationships. I often support people experiencing mental health concerns, alcohol and other drug (AOD) challenges, and members of the LGBTIQ+ community seeking a safe and supportive space. My approach is warm, collaborative, and down-to-earth. Together, we work at your pace using evidence-based strategies to help you feel heard, empowered, and supported
(08) 7110 0028 View (08) 7110 0028
Sally Walsh
Psychotherapist, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Immediately Available - No Waitlist - Registered Clinical Psychotherapist and Registered Mental Health Practitioner. Are you overwhelmed, anxious or depressed or seeking practical support? Are you struggling with an issue on your own? We can work this out together to help you feel more in control. I can help you see your situation more clearly with talking therapy and somatically integrating body/mind experiences for emotional distress support for anxiety, depression and trauma (CPTSD) ie. brain intervention (7-8 sessions). Relationship struggles ? including poly/open, narcissism
Immediately Available - No Waitlist - Registered Clinical Psychotherapist and Registered Mental Health Practitioner. Are you overwhelmed, anxious or depressed or seeking practical support? Are you struggling with an issue on your own? We can work this out together to help you feel more in control. I can help you see your situation more clearly with talking therapy and somatically integrating body/mind experiences for emotional distress support for anxiety, depression and trauma (CPTSD) ie. brain intervention (7-8 sessions). Relationship struggles ? including poly/open, narcissism
(02) 9100 0123 View (02) 9100 0123
Mauro Vieira
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected? I offer a compassionate, client-centered approach to therapy, often in nature, where deep reflection and healing happen naturally. With 15+ years of experience, I support children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families facing trauma, anxiety, and life transitions. Originally trained in Brazil, I hold postgraduate qualifications in Art Therapy and Psychological Practice and am a registered Australian psychologist. Let’s work together to help you find clarity and resilience.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected? I offer a compassionate, client-centered approach to therapy, often in nature, where deep reflection and healing happen naturally. With 15+ years of experience, I support children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families facing trauma, anxiety, and life transitions. Originally trained in Brazil, I hold postgraduate qualifications in Art Therapy and Psychological Practice and am a registered Australian psychologist. Let’s work together to help you find clarity and resilience.
(02) 9158 6184 View (02) 9158 6184
My name is Johan Torsteinsrud, and my private practice is called Human Puzzles. I am a PACFA-certified professional counsellor who works mostly with international clients, with over ten years of experience in helping people from all walks of life find their way through life’s many challenges. My counselling sessions are conducted online. This provides a convenient and safe way for people to access support without the added stress of travelling to an office. I strive to create a safe space for all genders, races, cultures, bodies, sexual orientations, family constellations, and relationships.
My name is Johan Torsteinsrud, and my private practice is called Human Puzzles. I am a PACFA-certified professional counsellor who works mostly with international clients, with over ten years of experience in helping people from all walks of life find their way through life’s many challenges. My counselling sessions are conducted online. This provides a convenient and safe way for people to access support without the added stress of travelling to an office. I strive to create a safe space for all genders, races, cultures, bodies, sexual orientations, family constellations, and relationships.
(02) 9100 0570 View (02) 9100 0570
Laura Davis Sexologist
Counsellor, ACA-L2
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a Sex Therapist, a Sexuality and Relationships Educator, a Generalist Counsellor and Couples Therapist based in nipaluna/Hobart, lutruwita/Tasmania, Australia. I offer trauma-informed therapeutic, educational and consulting services, both online and face-to-face. I love supporting young people, adults, couples, parents/carers and organisations. I'm all about empowerment!
I am a Sex Therapist, a Sexuality and Relationships Educator, a Generalist Counsellor and Couples Therapist based in nipaluna/Hobart, lutruwita/Tasmania, Australia. I offer trauma-informed therapeutic, educational and consulting services, both online and face-to-face. I love supporting young people, adults, couples, parents/carers and organisations. I'm all about empowerment!
(03) 6155 2309 View (03) 6155 2309
Dr Nicolas Kessous
Psychologist, PsychD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a clinical and forensic psychologist registered with the Psychology Board of Australia. I am also a member of the Australian Psychological Society, and a clinical member of the Association for the Treatment & Prevention of Sexual Abuse. I was trained to practise psychology in Canada, where I began my career as a psychologist in 2013.
I am a clinical and forensic psychologist registered with the Psychology Board of Australia. I am also a member of the Australian Psychological Society, and a clinical member of the Association for the Treatment & Prevention of Sexual Abuse. I was trained to practise psychology in Canada, where I began my career as a psychologist in 2013.
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Mind Profile Psychology Clinic
Psychologist, MAPS
Serves Area
My ideal client is ready for change. They’re insightful, proactive, and seeking clarity around patterns that no longer serve them—whether it’s anxiety, overthinking, or relationship challenges. They want practical strategies, not just talk, and are motivated to understand themselves more deeply. They’re not here to be rescued—they’re here to grow, to realign with their values, and to create a more grounded, authentic life.
My ideal client is ready for change. They’re insightful, proactive, and seeking clarity around patterns that no longer serve them—whether it’s anxiety, overthinking, or relationship challenges. They want practical strategies, not just talk, and are motivated to understand themselves more deeply. They’re not here to be rescued—they’re here to grow, to realign with their values, and to create a more grounded, authentic life.
1300 006 463 View 1300 006 463
Andrew Macdonald
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Online Only
Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, stuck in patterns that aren't helping, or struggling in your relationship? Maybe you look like you're coping on the outside, but inside feel exhausted, disconnected or uncertain about what to do next. I'm Andrew and thanks for stopping by. With over 15 years experience, I am a registered clinical psychotherapist with the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia. My approach is supportive and grounded in evidence-based approaches. I provide health insurance rebates for most providers.
Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, stuck in patterns that aren't helping, or struggling in your relationship? Maybe you look like you're coping on the outside, but inside feel exhausted, disconnected or uncertain about what to do next. I'm Andrew and thanks for stopping by. With over 15 years experience, I am a registered clinical psychotherapist with the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia. My approach is supportive and grounded in evidence-based approaches. I provide health insurance rebates for most providers.
(03) 7003 2204 View (03) 7003 2204
Luigi C Romanelli
Social Worker, AASW
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
You may look like you are coping, while inside you feel tense, tired or disconnected. Many men I work with are holding everything together while quietly losing touch with themselves. I offer calm, practical counselling, sex therapy and clinical hypnotherapy for anxiety, trauma, sexual confidence, intimacy and life transitions. My body-aware approach helps the nervous system feel safer and steadier. With 20 years’ experience, including recent international speaking in New Zealand on men, emotion and agency, I welcome clients in Launceston and online across Australia. Reaching out can become the first steady step back toward yourself.
You may look like you are coping, while inside you feel tense, tired or disconnected. Many men I work with are holding everything together while quietly losing touch with themselves. I offer calm, practical counselling, sex therapy and clinical hypnotherapy for anxiety, trauma, sexual confidence, intimacy and life transitions. My body-aware approach helps the nervous system feel safer and steadier. With 20 years’ experience, including recent international speaking in New Zealand on men, emotion and agency, I welcome clients in Launceston and online across Australia. Reaching out can become the first steady step back toward yourself.
(03) 6315 9073 View (03) 6315 9073
Daniel Brightwell
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Online Only
Struggling with pornography, gambling, substance use, or compulsive technology use? When these patterns start to take hold, they can impact your relationships, work, and sense of who you are, but change is possible. I’m Daniel, a psychologist at Brightwell Psychology, and I work with adults who feel stuck, overwhelmed, or caught in cycles that no longer serve them. Using practical, evidence-based therapy, I help you regain control, reduce anxiety and stress, and build a life that feels more aligned with your values, one that is sustainable, meaningful, and genuinely your own
Struggling with pornography, gambling, substance use, or compulsive technology use? When these patterns start to take hold, they can impact your relationships, work, and sense of who you are, but change is possible. I’m Daniel, a psychologist at Brightwell Psychology, and I work with adults who feel stuck, overwhelmed, or caught in cycles that no longer serve them. Using practical, evidence-based therapy, I help you regain control, reduce anxiety and stress, and build a life that feels more aligned with your values, one that is sustainable, meaningful, and genuinely your own
(02) 8000 1158 View (02) 8000 1158
Sexual Addiction Therapists
When should someone seek treatment for sex addiction?
People should seek treatment for sex addiction if they cannot control their sexual thoughts or behaviours to the point that it disrupts their ability to function in daily life, for example by threatening their finances, career, or relationships. This may include spending an excessive amount of time obsessing over sex, planning sex, watching pornography, or masturbating, as well as consistently engaging in risky sexual activities, using sex to escape distressing feelings, or attempting yet failing to control sexual behaviour.

What are the most common treatment options for sex addiction?
Psychotherapy is the most common treatment for sex addiction; therapy helps patients better understand their compulsive thoughts and behaviours and develop strategies to manage their desires. Therapy may be supplemented by medications, such as antidepressants, mood stabilizers, anti-androgens, alcohol and substance use medications, as well as support groups, such as 12-step programs.

How long does therapy take for sex addiction?
Recovering from compulsive behaviour takes time and effort. There’s no precise timeline for treatment, but research suggests 12 therapy sessions may be enough to see change. Treatment for sexual compulsions requires honesty in therapy, a commitment to understanding triggers and developing coping skills, and potential lifestyle changes such as cutting out alcohol or drugs.

What if sex addiction is left untreated?
Compulsive sexual behaviour can have serious repercussions if left unaddressed. For example, if sexual obsessions consume the vast majority of a person’s time, they may lose their job. If they can’t stop paying for sex, their finances may suffer. If they’re dishonest in their relationships, their partner may leave them. If they consistently feel shame, they may struggle with anxiety, depression, or loneliness. Therapy can help people develop the tools to manage sexual thoughts and behaviours that feel uncontrollable.