Sexual Addiction Therapists in Seal Beach, CA

Photo of Earl Klebe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seal Beach, CA
Earl Klebe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Seal Beach, CA 90740
I am a Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist in Long Beach, California, who works with individuals struggling with compulsive sex or porn use and understand the impact of betrayal trauma on the partner and the relationship. I know how difficult it can be to break free from addictive behavior, and I am directive in my approach to therapy. I utilize a Task Centered approach based on the research of Dr. Patrick Carnes, the leading expert in the field of sexual addiction. Together we will start to repair the damage that has been done and work towards healing.
I am a Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist in Long Beach, California, who works with individuals struggling with compulsive sex or porn use and understand the impact of betrayal trauma on the partner and the relationship. I know how difficult it can be to break free from addictive behavior, and I am directive in my approach to therapy. I utilize a Task Centered approach based on the research of Dr. Patrick Carnes, the leading expert in the field of sexual addiction. Together we will start to repair the damage that has been done and work towards healing.
(562) 539-2324 View (562) 539-2324
Photo of Duane Osterlind, Marriage & Family Therapist in Seal Beach, CA
Duane Osterlind
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT-S
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Seal Beach, CA 90740
I am also a Certifed Sexual Addiction Therapist.
I am an expert in treating couples struggling with the traumatic betrayal of sex and porn addiction. Not sure what to do next to save your relationship? I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and have over 15 years of experience in helping individuals and couples overcome life's biggest problems. In our sessions, we will work together to improve your life and relationships, find peace and let go of old thoughts and behaviors that are keeping you stuck. Contact my office for a free 15-minute phone consultation.
I am also a Certifed Sexual Addiction Therapist.
I am an expert in treating couples struggling with the traumatic betrayal of sex and porn addiction. Not sure what to do next to save your relationship? I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and have over 15 years of experience in helping individuals and couples overcome life's biggest problems. In our sessions, we will work together to improve your life and relationships, find peace and let go of old thoughts and behaviors that are keeping you stuck. Contact my office for a free 15-minute phone consultation.
(562) 239-4921 View (562) 239-4921
Photo of Daniel W McQuoid, Psychologist in Seal Beach, CA
Daniel W McQuoid
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740
I work with individuals, couples, and families with a focus on healing past trauma, compulsive addictive behaviors (alcoholism, codependency, sexual addiction, etc.
I have over 30 years experience in individual, marital, family, and group counseling, working with those who have faced a variety of issues in life. Counseling will guide you through a healing process to find a profound sense of your purpose. You will find a warm, healing environment that will impact you intellectually, emotionally, relationally and spiritually. Tools will be provided to increase your sense of well being, your ability to cope with adversity, and your understanding of your brain chemistry as it relates to your emotional struggles along with exploring how one's faith can impact their transformation.
I work with individuals, couples, and families with a focus on healing past trauma, compulsive addictive behaviors (alcoholism, codependency, sexual addiction, etc.
I have over 30 years experience in individual, marital, family, and group counseling, working with those who have faced a variety of issues in life. Counseling will guide you through a healing process to find a profound sense of your purpose. You will find a warm, healing environment that will impact you intellectually, emotionally, relationally and spiritually. Tools will be provided to increase your sense of well being, your ability to cope with adversity, and your understanding of your brain chemistry as it relates to your emotional struggles along with exploring how one's faith can impact their transformation.
(714) 769-6986 View (714) 769-6986
Photo of Men's Issues - Dr. Dean, Psychologist in Seal Beach, CA
Men's Issues - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
(323) 417-9393 View (323) 417-9393
Photo of Men's Issues - Dr. Dean, Psychologist in Seal Beach, CA
Men's Issues - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
(909) 318-1937 View (909) 318-1937
Photo of Men's Issues - Dr. Dean, Psychologist in Seal Beach, CA
Men's Issues - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
(310) 742-9232 View (310) 742-9232
Photo of Men's Issues - Dr. Dean, Psychologist in Seal Beach, CA
Men's Issues - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
(657) 214-3099 View (657) 214-3099
Photo of Mateo Leonardo, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Seal Beach, CA
Mateo Leonardo
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, ASAT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seal Beach, CA 90740
My ideal client is seeking support for compulsive sexual behaviors or pornography addiction to the point it is negatively affecting their lives. I am fluent in Spanish and help clients and couples struggling with self-confidence issues and relationship frustrations. I am able to work individually, in group therapy and also provide psycho-eduction as part of a comprehensive intensive treatment program if needed. At Novus Mindful Life Institute, I work closely with my colleagues to care for our clients whose lives have been affected by sex addiction, porn addiction and betrayal in at a pace that feels right for you!
My ideal client is seeking support for compulsive sexual behaviors or pornography addiction to the point it is negatively affecting their lives. I am fluent in Spanish and help clients and couples struggling with self-confidence issues and relationship frustrations. I am able to work individually, in group therapy and also provide psycho-eduction as part of a comprehensive intensive treatment program if needed. At Novus Mindful Life Institute, I work closely with my colleagues to care for our clients whose lives have been affected by sex addiction, porn addiction and betrayal in at a pace that feels right for you!
(562) 414-6069 View (562) 414-6069
Photo of Holly Richmond, Marriage & Family Therapist in Seal Beach, CA
Holly Richmond
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Certified Sex Therapist, and hold a PhD in Somatic Psychology (body psychology). This unique combination of credentials facilitates a focus on clients' cognitive process as well as mind-body health. I work with a diverse client base including women, men, couples and gender-diverse individuals on relationship and sexuality issues. My treatment specialties include: recovery of sexual health after sexual trauma, sexless marriages/relationships, compulsive sexuality (often called "addiction") and non-traditional sexual expression including fetishes and redefining monogamy.
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Certified Sex Therapist, and hold a PhD in Somatic Psychology (body psychology). This unique combination of credentials facilitates a focus on clients' cognitive process as well as mind-body health. I work with a diverse client base including women, men, couples and gender-diverse individuals on relationship and sexuality issues. My treatment specialties include: recovery of sexual health after sexual trauma, sexless marriages/relationships, compulsive sexuality (often called "addiction") and non-traditional sexual expression including fetishes and redefining monogamy.
(424) 255-3638 x562881 View (424) 255-3638 x562881
Photo of Mike Valenzuela Catholic Therapist, Marriage & Family Therapist in Seal Beach, CA
Mike Valenzuela Catholic Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome. Life at times can create challenges that hinder our ability to live the life we would like. Do you find yourself feeling alone? Are you stuck and dealing with depression, past decisions or experiences, relationship issues or other issues that make you feel overwhelmed or impact your mental and emotional well-being? I am here and happy to help. I can provide an atmosphere that is free from judgment, support, and a safe place for us to work together.
Hello and welcome. Life at times can create challenges that hinder our ability to live the life we would like. Do you find yourself feeling alone? Are you stuck and dealing with depression, past decisions or experiences, relationship issues or other issues that make you feel overwhelmed or impact your mental and emotional well-being? I am here and happy to help. I can provide an atmosphere that is free from judgment, support, and a safe place for us to work together.
(562) 207-5658 View (562) 207-5658
Photo of Leslee Miller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seal Beach, CA
Leslee Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740  (Online Only)
SCHEDULE A TELEMENTALHEALTH APPOINTMENT ONLINE NOW at https://schedulewithLesleeMiller.as.me. Sugarhouse Counseling Center serves clients in both Utah and California. We have therapists who are compassionate and sensitive. Evening appointments are available. Whether you are experiencing an immediate crisis, wanting to deal with ongoing difficulties, or would like increased insight, we are here to assist you. We work with individuals, couples and families. We accept many insurance plans. We work with people of all faiths. In addition, we have therapists who have special insight regarding specific needs/ concerns of LDS clients.
SCHEDULE A TELEMENTALHEALTH APPOINTMENT ONLINE NOW at https://schedulewithLesleeMiller.as.me. Sugarhouse Counseling Center serves clients in both Utah and California. We have therapists who are compassionate and sensitive. Evening appointments are available. Whether you are experiencing an immediate crisis, wanting to deal with ongoing difficulties, or would like increased insight, we are here to assist you. We work with individuals, couples and families. We accept many insurance plans. We work with people of all faiths. In addition, we have therapists who have special insight regarding specific needs/ concerns of LDS clients.
(801) 895-3428 View (801) 895-3428
Photo of Ali Zandi, Psychologist in Seal Beach, CA
Ali Zandi
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Seal Beach, CA 90740
I am a Licensed Psychologist and Marriage and Family Therapist that provides psychological, cognitive, and neuropsychological testing for children and adults. I conduct testing and evaluations for Psychological Disorders, Autism, Personality Disorders, ADHD, Fitness for Duty, Marital Concerns, and Learning Disorders. Testing involves a combination of state-of-the-art neuropsychological assessment instruments, psychological tests, and a thorough clinical interview. I place your unique experiences and story at the center of the evaluation in order to provide specific feedback and guidance at the conclusion of the evaluation.
I am a Licensed Psychologist and Marriage and Family Therapist that provides psychological, cognitive, and neuropsychological testing for children and adults. I conduct testing and evaluations for Psychological Disorders, Autism, Personality Disorders, ADHD, Fitness for Duty, Marital Concerns, and Learning Disorders. Testing involves a combination of state-of-the-art neuropsychological assessment instruments, psychological tests, and a thorough clinical interview. I place your unique experiences and story at the center of the evaluation in order to provide specific feedback and guidance at the conclusion of the evaluation.
(714) 786-5785 View (714) 786-5785
Photo of Bryan Vasquez, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Seal Beach, CA
Bryan Vasquez
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CATCIII
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740
Struggling with addiction and feel rehab isn’t an option? Leaving your family, job, school and responsibilities for an extended period of time is not always needed to get yourself healthy and on track. If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction, I know the challenges of this lifestyle. Being caught in the cycle of addiction is hard--feelings of fear, failure, guilt, and shame. You may have tried stopping on your own, only to find yourself engaging in the same unhelpful behavior. Breaking this cycle alone is tough! Counseling may be more effective for you than rehab. I specialize in moderation & abstinence based approaches.
Struggling with addiction and feel rehab isn’t an option? Leaving your family, job, school and responsibilities for an extended period of time is not always needed to get yourself healthy and on track. If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction, I know the challenges of this lifestyle. Being caught in the cycle of addiction is hard--feelings of fear, failure, guilt, and shame. You may have tried stopping on your own, only to find yourself engaging in the same unhelpful behavior. Breaking this cycle alone is tough! Counseling may be more effective for you than rehab. I specialize in moderation & abstinence based approaches.
(657) 255-5534 View (657) 255-5534
Photo of Alexis Maron: Mental Fitness and Performance in Seal Beach, CA
Alexis Maron: Mental Fitness and Performance
MA, RDT, BCT, RADT
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740  (Online Only)
The main reason why couples seek counseling is due to a communication breakdown that begins to dismantle an otherwise healthy relationship. Our primary need is to be understood, but if partners are using different modes of communication, there can be a disconnect. DT can provide the jump-start to help find the excitement and communication that couples experienced at the beginning of a relationship, and the common ground that can build a stronger place from which to build trust. In learning more about the roles we play, DT offers partners the opportunity to gain greater insight about themselves and about their problems in relationships.
The main reason why couples seek counseling is due to a communication breakdown that begins to dismantle an otherwise healthy relationship. Our primary need is to be understood, but if partners are using different modes of communication, there can be a disconnect. DT can provide the jump-start to help find the excitement and communication that couples experienced at the beginning of a relationship, and the common ground that can build a stronger place from which to build trust. In learning more about the roles we play, DT offers partners the opportunity to gain greater insight about themselves and about their problems in relationships.
(323) 289-2220 View (323) 289-2220
Photo of Michael Dempsey, Marriage & Family Therapist in Seal Beach, CA
Michael Dempsey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740
Are you struggling? Have you given up on your dreams? I offer a safe place where we bring compassionate attention to your challenges, and help you uncover a rich source of understanding to light your way forward. Together, we help you discover for yourself your own truths, so you may pick up the tools to aid you with your distress. Your path is unique to you alone. I walk alongside you, and guide within a supportive and empathic environment to help you broaden your way forward toward more satisfying relationships and a more full experience of life.
Are you struggling? Have you given up on your dreams? I offer a safe place where we bring compassionate attention to your challenges, and help you uncover a rich source of understanding to light your way forward. Together, we help you discover for yourself your own truths, so you may pick up the tools to aid you with your distress. Your path is unique to you alone. I walk alongside you, and guide within a supportive and empathic environment to help you broaden your way forward toward more satisfying relationships and a more full experience of life.
(949) 391-4995 View (949) 391-4995
Photo of Julie Andersen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Seal Beach, CA
Julie Andersen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seal Beach, CA 90740
Are you seeking to HEAL your anxiety, worry, addiction, depression and relationship difficulties, rather than just cope with them for the rest of your life? Are you exhausted from constantly feeling like something is wrong with you or being told something is wrong with you? Has inner and outer conflict got you feeling overwhelmed or shut down? I specialize in a direct psycho-spiritual approach that involves looking at each person from a holistic wellness model. Rather than pathologizing, we will see everything as a necessary part of your human experience and create the relationship you want with others, as well as yourself.
Are you seeking to HEAL your anxiety, worry, addiction, depression and relationship difficulties, rather than just cope with them for the rest of your life? Are you exhausted from constantly feeling like something is wrong with you or being told something is wrong with you? Has inner and outer conflict got you feeling overwhelmed or shut down? I specialize in a direct psycho-spiritual approach that involves looking at each person from a holistic wellness model. Rather than pathologizing, we will see everything as a necessary part of your human experience and create the relationship you want with others, as well as yourself.
(562) 564-6282 View (562) 564-6282
Photo of Windows of Hope Counseling Center, Marriage & Family Therapist in Seal Beach, CA
Windows of Hope Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740
Palm Desert individual, couples and family counseling offered in a warm and comfortable environment! We help individuals and couples work through difficult life processes in a nurturing and loving way. We assist your process offering effective communication practices and tools to work through even the most difficult situations. We specialize with mental health counseling in Palm Desert and Long Beach dealing with infidelity, blended family difficulties, life transition, anger management, substance abuse and dependence, and healthy communication practices. We look forward to hearing from you.
Palm Desert individual, couples and family counseling offered in a warm and comfortable environment! We help individuals and couples work through difficult life processes in a nurturing and loving way. We assist your process offering effective communication practices and tools to work through even the most difficult situations. We specialize with mental health counseling in Palm Desert and Long Beach dealing with infidelity, blended family difficulties, life transition, anger management, substance abuse and dependence, and healthy communication practices. We look forward to hearing from you.
(310) 928-2319 View (310) 928-2319
Photo of Jennifer C Cohen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Seal Beach, CA
Jennifer C Cohen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MACL, LMFT, C-IAYT, RYT 500
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seal Beach, CA 90740  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My general frame work is that you cannot separate the body from the mind nor can you separate a person from their life time of experiences, therefore working with all of these systems is a highly effective way to improve happiness, decrease anxiety and stress, and increase coping skills to manage life with more ease and improved relationships. Now offering emergency Intensive Couples Counseling! I work well with individuals and couples who are seeking to learn more holistic ways to address their emotional and relational challenges whether they be family of origin issues, trauma, chronic illness, anxiety, or depression.
My general frame work is that you cannot separate the body from the mind nor can you separate a person from their life time of experiences, therefore working with all of these systems is a highly effective way to improve happiness, decrease anxiety and stress, and increase coping skills to manage life with more ease and improved relationships. Now offering emergency Intensive Couples Counseling! I work well with individuals and couples who are seeking to learn more holistic ways to address their emotional and relational challenges whether they be family of origin issues, trauma, chronic illness, anxiety, or depression.
(562) 454-0709 View (562) 454-0709
Photo of Krystal Faust, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Seal Beach, CA
Krystal Faust
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, ASAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seal Beach, CA 90740  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience treating depression, anxiety, gender, compulsive sexual and partner betrayal trauma challenges. As a Carnes and Minwalla trained, partner sensitive therapist, I can help those seeking healing from trauma and abuse. My interest is to help clients going through change, life transitions, and adjustment phases in life that we experience as we age, grow and evolve in our perceptions of ourselves, our gender and sexuality and relationships. I am able to provide knowledgeable and compassionate support to the LGBTQ+, kink and alternative lifestyle communities.
I have extensive experience treating depression, anxiety, gender, compulsive sexual and partner betrayal trauma challenges. As a Carnes and Minwalla trained, partner sensitive therapist, I can help those seeking healing from trauma and abuse. My interest is to help clients going through change, life transitions, and adjustment phases in life that we experience as we age, grow and evolve in our perceptions of ourselves, our gender and sexuality and relationships. I am able to provide knowledgeable and compassionate support to the LGBTQ+, kink and alternative lifestyle communities.
(714) 475-7412 View (714) 475-7412
Photo of Kenneth M. Sabel, Psychologist in Seal Beach, CA
Kenneth M. Sabel
Psychologist, PsyD , SEP
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740
I understand the importance of needing to feel understood and seen. When therapy is successful, we often will experience a greater sense of spaciousness inside ourselves, freedom from our own judgments, and are reminded that confronting our pain won’t destroy us. The goal is not a short-term fix but instead a long-term shift that brings forth feelings of empowerment, resiliency, and a confidence that our brains and our lives can change. As a consequence of shifting our relationship to ourselves and to our pain, the uncomfortable symptoms often associated with anxiety, trauma, and depression begin to dissolve and loosen their grip.
I understand the importance of needing to feel understood and seen. When therapy is successful, we often will experience a greater sense of spaciousness inside ourselves, freedom from our own judgments, and are reminded that confronting our pain won’t destroy us. The goal is not a short-term fix but instead a long-term shift that brings forth feelings of empowerment, resiliency, and a confidence that our brains and our lives can change. As a consequence of shifting our relationship to ourselves and to our pain, the uncomfortable symptoms often associated with anxiety, trauma, and depression begin to dissolve and loosen their grip.
(562) 372-6484 View (562) 372-6484
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 behavior.

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 behaviors and develop strategies to manage their desires. Therapy may be supplemented by medications, such as antidepressants, mood stabilizers, anti-androgens, and the alcohol and substance use medication Naltrexone, as well as support groups, such as 12-step programs.

How long does therapy take for sex addiction?

Recovering from compulsive behavior 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 behavior 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 behaviors that feel uncontrollable.