Photo of Arturo Ballesteros, Counsellor in V5C, BC
Arturo Ballesteros
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burnaby, BC V5C
Arturo has worked as a counsellor for more than six years in non-profit, independent, community based organizations and private practice. He works with clients who experience depression and anxiety, family and relationship issues, loss and grief, identity issues and with clients who seek a safe space to express, process and explore what is in their minds and hearts. He works with individuals 19 years or older. The sessions can be in English or Spanish and in person or on video based on the client's needs.
Arturo has worked as a counsellor for more than six years in non-profit, independent, community based organizations and private practice. He works with clients who experience depression and anxiety, family and relationship issues, loss and grief, identity issues and with clients who seek a safe space to express, process and explore what is in their minds and hearts. He works with individuals 19 years or older. The sessions can be in English or Spanish and in person or on video based on the client's needs.
(672) 906-0035 View (672) 906-0035
Photo of Dr. Michael A. Gordon, Counsellor in V5C, BC
Dr. Michael A. Gordon
Counsellor, MSc, PhD
Verified Verified
Burnaby, BC V5C
I have been in private counselling practice for 15 years, and in wellness, personal development and the media for 25 years. My practice draws self-referring, high-functioning adults/couples with addiction, phobia, anxiety, depression and attachment disorders affecting their lives beyond their historical, current or perceived ability of self-control. In couples, I usually begin individually to create safety and self-awareness, then back together towards clear self-advocacy, expression and to build trustful communication. EMDR in the couple context can clear a lot of old trauma and wounded pattern-associations that mire us in destructive relational dynamics.
I have been in private counselling practice for 15 years, and in wellness, personal development and the media for 25 years. My practice draws self-referring, high-functioning adults/couples with addiction, phobia, anxiety, depression and attachment disorders affecting their lives beyond their historical, current or perceived ability of self-control. In couples, I usually begin individually to create safety and self-awareness, then back together towards clear self-advocacy, expression and to build trustful communication. EMDR in the couple context can clear a lot of old trauma and wounded pattern-associations that mire us in destructive relational dynamics.
(888) 596-6278 View (888) 596-6278

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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.