Photo of Charla Ellis Thorstad, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Charla Ellis Thorstad
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80223
I specialize in the treatment of sexual addiction/sexual compulsivity/out of control sexual behaviors.
I have worked exclusively with clients for 25 years in the area of sexual offending and sexually compulsive behaviors. I consider this my specialty. My ideal client would be motivated to change behaviors that harm themselves and others and appreciate a direct approach to making those changes.
I specialize in the treatment of sexual addiction/sexual compulsivity/out of control sexual behaviors.
I have worked exclusively with clients for 25 years in the area of sexual offending and sexually compulsive behaviors. I consider this my specialty. My ideal client would be motivated to change behaviors that harm themselves and others and appreciate a direct approach to making those changes.
(720) 782-1564 x2 View (720) 782-1564 x2
Photo of Meagan Grasmick, PsyD, Psychologist
Meagan Grasmick
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80204
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience assisting people dealing with anxiety, panic attacks, severe depression, relationship issues, problematic compulsions, sexual addiction, trauma, and psychosis (amongst others).
When providing therapy, my goal is for us to develop a trusting therapeutic relationship. Together, my aim is for us to determine strategies which enable you to live with increased meaning and fulfillment. This can involve navigating through barriers such as depression, anxiety, relationship problems, trauma, problematic/compulsive behaviors, lack of direction, etc. Often this includes identifying barriers, personal values that really matter, deepening understandings of ourselves and relationships, and implementing strategies.
I have experience assisting people dealing with anxiety, panic attacks, severe depression, relationship issues, problematic compulsions, sexual addiction, trauma, and psychosis (amongst others).
When providing therapy, my goal is for us to develop a trusting therapeutic relationship. Together, my aim is for us to determine strategies which enable you to live with increased meaning and fulfillment. This can involve navigating through barriers such as depression, anxiety, relationship problems, trauma, problematic/compulsive behaviors, lack of direction, etc. Often this includes identifying barriers, personal values that really matter, deepening understandings of ourselves and relationships, and implementing strategies.
(720) 358-8574 View (720) 358-8574
Photo of Timothy Milner - Flatirons Counseling Services, MSMFT, MFT, MDiv, CSAT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Flatirons Counseling Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSMFT, MFT, MDiv, CSAT
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80210
I am, first and foremost, a highly trained Therapist for pornography and sexual addiction. I love to work with couples, individuals and families helping to put an anchor back into their lives. For 3 decades I have sat front row and center in thousands of peoples lives. I have found that this is a most privileged position. My goal is to give my clients proven tools to learn to have healthy intimate relationships with those individuals who are most important to them.
I am, first and foremost, a highly trained Therapist for pornography and sexual addiction. I love to work with couples, individuals and families helping to put an anchor back into their lives. For 3 decades I have sat front row and center in thousands of peoples lives. I have found that this is a most privileged position. My goal is to give my clients proven tools to learn to have healthy intimate relationships with those individuals who are most important to them.
(720) 783-3199 View (720) 783-3199
Photo of Lynda Smith - Teletherapy Only, LPCC, LCPC, CSAT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lynda Smith - Teletherapy Only
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC, LCPC, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80246  (Online Only)
I'm also a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) and Board Certified Sex Therapist with an emphasis on 1) empowering betrayed partners, 2) utilizing a non-12 step approach to sexual addiction/trauma/porn recovery & 3) relational & intimacy problems.
Do you have past trauma, anxiety, depression, intimacy issues, sex/porn addiction, or relationship problems that need to be resolved? Discover how my integrative and holistic approach to therapy heals the whole person. I specialize in helping individuals, couples, and families restore their lives and relationships. With empathy & understanding, I will work with you to help you realize your greatest potential so you can live in the present & focus on an amazing & successful future!
I'm also a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) and Board Certified Sex Therapist with an emphasis on 1) empowering betrayed partners, 2) utilizing a non-12 step approach to sexual addiction/trauma/porn recovery & 3) relational & intimacy problems.
Do you have past trauma, anxiety, depression, intimacy issues, sex/porn addiction, or relationship problems that need to be resolved? Discover how my integrative and holistic approach to therapy heals the whole person. I specialize in helping individuals, couples, and families restore their lives and relationships. With empathy & understanding, I will work with you to help you realize your greatest potential so you can live in the present & focus on an amazing & successful future!
(720) 807-1912 View (720) 807-1912
Photo of Caleb Abrams, CSAT, CCTP, CLC, MA
Caleb Abrams
CSAT, CCTP, CLC, MA
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80203
Caleb is Certified in the Treatment of Sexual Addiction, is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Ordained Minister, Certified Life Coach, with a Masters of Psychology in Counseling and a Bachelors of Arts in Psychology. Caleb specializes in helping men work through sex addiction but provides counseling services for all kinds of addictions. He also works with clients that are struggling with anxiety, addictive behaviors, depression, PTSD, emotional abuse, mental abuse and trauma of various kinds. His passion is to provide a safe space for his clients and to walk hand-in-hand with them, guiding them through the healing process.
Caleb is Certified in the Treatment of Sexual Addiction, is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Ordained Minister, Certified Life Coach, with a Masters of Psychology in Counseling and a Bachelors of Arts in Psychology. Caleb specializes in helping men work through sex addiction but provides counseling services for all kinds of addictions. He also works with clients that are struggling with anxiety, addictive behaviors, depression, PTSD, emotional abuse, mental abuse and trauma of various kinds. His passion is to provide a safe space for his clients and to walk hand-in-hand with them, guiding them through the healing process.
(720) 706-5055 View (720) 706-5055
Photo of John Thorington, LPC, MA, SRT, DMin, Licensed Professional Counselor
John Thorington
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, SRT, DMin
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80203
Sexual Addiction Intensives are offered for teens, adults, and their spouses.
I am a Sexual Recovery Therapist (SRT) with specialization in sexual addictions and couples/marriages. I also work extensively with teens struggling with sexual compulsivity issues. My clients learn to replace destructive behaviors and avoidance of intimacies through healthy and meaningful interactions. As a pastor for three decades, I also have a passionate desire to assist pastors and their spouses. Pastors face some unique challenges in maintaining sexual purity and having healthy marriages. I offer them a safe, confidential, and proven place to find solutions.
Sexual Addiction Intensives are offered for teens, adults, and their spouses.
I am a Sexual Recovery Therapist (SRT) with specialization in sexual addictions and couples/marriages. I also work extensively with teens struggling with sexual compulsivity issues. My clients learn to replace destructive behaviors and avoidance of intimacies through healthy and meaningful interactions. As a pastor for three decades, I also have a passionate desire to assist pastors and their spouses. Pastors face some unique challenges in maintaining sexual purity and having healthy marriages. I offer them a safe, confidential, and proven place to find solutions.
(256) 330-5668 View (256) 330-5668
Photo of Joe Saavedra, MA, LMFT, CSAT, CMAT, CCTP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Joe Saavedra
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CSAT, CMAT, CCTP
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80202
As a Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist (CSAT), I hold extensive expertise in treating those affected by compulsive sexual behavior having gone through my own recovery journey from sex, porn, and relationship addiction.
As a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) trained in IFS, I am absolutely passionate about helping those impacted by sexual integrity issues. I work with "addicted parts" using individual, couple, and group therapy modalities. I am quite aware of relational trauma that partners of sex, porn, and relationship addicts experience, and I compassionately work to guide addicted parts through isolating and shame-filled experiences. My role is to help reduce this shame and systematically get to the root of the addictive and compulsive behaviors that have led to intimacy disorder issues.
As a Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist (CSAT), I hold extensive expertise in treating those affected by compulsive sexual behavior having gone through my own recovery journey from sex, porn, and relationship addiction.
As a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) trained in IFS, I am absolutely passionate about helping those impacted by sexual integrity issues. I work with "addicted parts" using individual, couple, and group therapy modalities. I am quite aware of relational trauma that partners of sex, porn, and relationship addicts experience, and I compassionately work to guide addicted parts through isolating and shame-filled experiences. My role is to help reduce this shame and systematically get to the root of the addictive and compulsive behaviors that have led to intimacy disorder issues.
(720) 881-0956 View (720) 881-0956
Photo of Josiah Greever, MA, LPC, NCC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Josiah Greever
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80209
I assist my clients to navigate trauma, manage anxiety, address sexual addiction, develop self-esteem, and resolve marital/couples issues as they move forward.
Are your past experiences or current struggles leading you to lash out, withdraw, make unwise decisions, or disrupt your relationships? Maybe it feels like no matter what you try, you just can't get it right. Life has a (not so funny) way of bringing difficulties that leave us wounded and disconnected. As our pain deepens, we develop coping strategies to numb and protect ourselves. These painful experiences and defense patterns can have long-lasting detrimental effects that deprive us of joy and meaning. However, although painful, these places of darkness can be catalysts to rewrite our story and move us towards healing.
I assist my clients to navigate trauma, manage anxiety, address sexual addiction, develop self-esteem, and resolve marital/couples issues as they move forward.
Are your past experiences or current struggles leading you to lash out, withdraw, make unwise decisions, or disrupt your relationships? Maybe it feels like no matter what you try, you just can't get it right. Life has a (not so funny) way of bringing difficulties that leave us wounded and disconnected. As our pain deepens, we develop coping strategies to numb and protect ourselves. These painful experiences and defense patterns can have long-lasting detrimental effects that deprive us of joy and meaning. However, although painful, these places of darkness can be catalysts to rewrite our story and move us towards healing.
(720) 446-8439 View (720) 446-8439
Photo of Joleena Abrams, CMEMI, CCTSA, CLC, MA
Joleena Abrams
CMEMI, CCTSA, CLC, MA
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80012  (Online Only)
Joleena is Certified in the Treament of Sexual Addiction, is a Certified Betrayal Trauma Coach, a Certified Clinical Trauma and Addiction Specialist, with an Masters of Psychology in Grief Counseling, and a Bachelors of Science in Psychology. Joleena specializes in helping couples working through betrayal and addiction of all kinds. She also works with clients that are struggling with anxiety, addictive behaviors, depression, PTSD, emotional abuse, mental abuse and trauma of various kinds. Her passion is to provide a safe space for her clients and to walk hand-in-hand with them, guiding them through the healing process.
Joleena is Certified in the Treament of Sexual Addiction, is a Certified Betrayal Trauma Coach, a Certified Clinical Trauma and Addiction Specialist, with an Masters of Psychology in Grief Counseling, and a Bachelors of Science in Psychology. Joleena specializes in helping couples working through betrayal and addiction of all kinds. She also works with clients that are struggling with anxiety, addictive behaviors, depression, PTSD, emotional abuse, mental abuse and trauma of various kinds. Her passion is to provide a safe space for her clients and to walk hand-in-hand with them, guiding them through the healing process.
(619) 349-7159 View (619) 349-7159
Photo of Moshe M Rozdzial, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Moshe M Rozdzial
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80206  (Online Only)
Is pornography, cybersex, or sexual addiction impacting your life? Are you feeling alone, sexually rejected, or struggling with low desire in your relationship? Do you want more sexual and emotion intimacy? Are you concerned about your sexual identity or sexual functioning? It is common for people to encounter sexual problems, at any age. What is uncommon is for people to do something about those problems before they irreparably damage their self-esteem and relationships. Left unmanaged, anger, shame, and fear increase. The sooner you come in for help the better chance you have of growing a happy, healthy sexual life.
Is pornography, cybersex, or sexual addiction impacting your life? Are you feeling alone, sexually rejected, or struggling with low desire in your relationship? Do you want more sexual and emotion intimacy? Are you concerned about your sexual identity or sexual functioning? It is common for people to encounter sexual problems, at any age. What is uncommon is for people to do something about those problems before they irreparably damage their self-esteem and relationships. Left unmanaged, anger, shame, and fear increase. The sooner you come in for help the better chance you have of growing a happy, healthy sexual life.
(720) 722-8403 View (720) 722-8403
Photo of Sherron Kilgore, MBA, BBS, ECE, CSAT, Registered Psychotherapist
Sherron Kilgore
Registered Psychotherapist, MBA, BBS, ECE, CSAT
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80014
I specialize in spouse/partner betrayal recovery, couples recovery, as well as pornography, sexual, love and romance addiction recovery. I can help you get the life you have always wanted. Together we will customize your therapy to fit your needs. I have been trained specifically to work with people in need of this very personal help. I will support you through your journey using a gentle path process. I am Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist (CSAT) trained and a member of the International Institute of Trauma and Addiction Professionals. I am also trained in behavioral sciences and early childhood developmental education.
I specialize in spouse/partner betrayal recovery, couples recovery, as well as pornography, sexual, love and romance addiction recovery. I can help you get the life you have always wanted. Together we will customize your therapy to fit your needs. I have been trained specifically to work with people in need of this very personal help. I will support you through your journey using a gentle path process. I am Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist (CSAT) trained and a member of the International Institute of Trauma and Addiction Professionals. I am also trained in behavioral sciences and early childhood developmental education.
(970) 673-4620 View (970) 673-4620
Photo of Jesse Bean, MA, LPC, Counselor
Jesse Bean
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211
Just a few years ago I was caught up in a cycle of self-doubt, shame, and failure. I was early on in adulthood and already I felt completely worn out; convinced my life would end in ruins. Eventually I was able to seek counseling, and this became a major factor in helping me find a new sense of hope and freedom. I became a counselor out of a desire to share this gift with others. I seek to create a safe space where my clients can find new hope in their journey. When you walk into my office, I want you to know that you are welcome here; you belong, and you matter.
Just a few years ago I was caught up in a cycle of self-doubt, shame, and failure. I was early on in adulthood and already I felt completely worn out; convinced my life would end in ruins. Eventually I was able to seek counseling, and this became a major factor in helping me find a new sense of hope and freedom. I became a counselor out of a desire to share this gift with others. I seek to create a safe space where my clients can find new hope in their journey. When you walk into my office, I want you to know that you are welcome here; you belong, and you matter.
(720) 727-6102 View (720) 727-6102
Photo of Josh Wilde, LAC, LSW, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Josh Wilde
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LAC, LSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80219  (Online Only)
You may have something small that you want to explore, or you may have lost a sense of your identity or purpose. Our basic core needs are safety and connection, but these needs are so hard to develop when we don't have a sense of self. If you are struggling in addiction and then also grapple with depression, anxiety, spiritual exploration, sexuality, gender, or sexual orientation, these are directly informed by how you hold space for yourself as a person.
You may have something small that you want to explore, or you may have lost a sense of your identity or purpose. Our basic core needs are safety and connection, but these needs are so hard to develop when we don't have a sense of self. If you are struggling in addiction and then also grapple with depression, anxiety, spiritual exploration, sexuality, gender, or sexual orientation, these are directly informed by how you hold space for yourself as a person.
(720) 734-6908 View (720) 734-6908
Photo of Keith W. Swain, LPC, Cert K, Licensed Professional Counselor
Keith W. Swain
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, Cert K
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80218
Thanks for checking out my profile. My name is Keith Swain and over the last 29 years I have worked as a psychotherapist and a college professor. I’ve learned a secret over that time: very few people have a true mental illness. Over my career I may have seen 5 or 6 truly mentally ill people. The rest? Folks like you and me - good people, just moving through life when, wham, something bad happens. If this were a problem with your car, at first you’d feel angry, or lost, or maybe afraid then you’d call a trusted mechanic. This time, it’s your life that’s off a bit and you’re looking for a trusted “life mechanic.” Good; you found him.
Thanks for checking out my profile. My name is Keith Swain and over the last 29 years I have worked as a psychotherapist and a college professor. I’ve learned a secret over that time: very few people have a true mental illness. Over my career I may have seen 5 or 6 truly mentally ill people. The rest? Folks like you and me - good people, just moving through life when, wham, something bad happens. If this were a problem with your car, at first you’d feel angry, or lost, or maybe afraid then you’d call a trusted mechanic. This time, it’s your life that’s off a bit and you’re looking for a trusted “life mechanic.” Good; you found him.
(720) 897-1257 View (720) 897-1257
Photo of Auburn Meisner - Auburn Meisner, LCSW, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Auburn Meisner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80209
I use a strengths based approach that integrates whole self wellness with an emphasis on mind, body and relationship. I help clients identify unhelpful patterning and create a vision of sexual and relational health through embodiment, presence and cognitive restructuring. I specialize in the intersection of sex, love, pleasure, relationships, identity, communication, and empowerment.
I use a strengths based approach that integrates whole self wellness with an emphasis on mind, body and relationship. I help clients identify unhelpful patterning and create a vision of sexual and relational health through embodiment, presence and cognitive restructuring. I specialize in the intersection of sex, love, pleasure, relationships, identity, communication, and empowerment.
(720) 619-2490 View (720) 619-2490
Photo of Colin Foster, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Colin Foster
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80218
I primarily work with individuals struggling with addiction, intrusive thoughts, unwanted sexual behavior, and challenges with developing and maintaining intimacy. I also have expertise in dealing with childhood trauma, particularly male childhood sexual abuse. My work with clients centers around clarifying their connection with their intuition. In doing so, I focus on creating a compassionate and non-judgmental environment, where one can freely express their thoughts and feelings and begin to truly understand their internal experience.
I primarily work with individuals struggling with addiction, intrusive thoughts, unwanted sexual behavior, and challenges with developing and maintaining intimacy. I also have expertise in dealing with childhood trauma, particularly male childhood sexual abuse. My work with clients centers around clarifying their connection with their intuition. In doing so, I focus on creating a compassionate and non-judgmental environment, where one can freely express their thoughts and feelings and begin to truly understand their internal experience.
(720) 636-8981 View (720) 636-8981
Photo of Talia R. Watrous Online Sex Therapy, MA, MFTC
Talia R. Watrous Online Sex Therapy
Marriage and Family Therapist Candidate, MA, MFTC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80209  (Online Only)
Do you feel lost or stuck in your relationship? Let’s help you build a relationship that is secure, stable, and intimate. It is so important for you and your partner to truly understand each other on a deeper level. We have so much conditioning from our upbringing—sometimes we are recreating our past without realizing it. Together, we can interrupt the patterns that are holding you back from the sensual life and relationship you want. I work with desire discrepancies, low libido, sex addiction, polyamory/ENM, Kink/BDSM, and painful sex.
Do you feel lost or stuck in your relationship? Let’s help you build a relationship that is secure, stable, and intimate. It is so important for you and your partner to truly understand each other on a deeper level. We have so much conditioning from our upbringing—sometimes we are recreating our past without realizing it. Together, we can interrupt the patterns that are holding you back from the sensual life and relationship you want. I work with desire discrepancies, low libido, sex addiction, polyamory/ENM, Kink/BDSM, and painful sex.
(720) 571-4663 View (720) 571-4663
Photo of Neil Cannon - The Cannon Institute - Sex Therapy Practice, Marriage & Family Therapist
The Cannon Institute - Sex Therapy Practice
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80209
Hi there! We have a team of awesome sex and relationship therapists here in the heart of Cherry Creek. We work together closely and use the methods of Dr. Cannon. The Cannon Institute offers therapy for individuals, couples, and relationship configurations of all types. Our formula for successful treatment combines the right clinicians, tried-and-true sex therapy practices, and the unique sex therapy processes created by Dr. Cannon over the past decades. Our hope is to provide you with gentle guidance and new tools to help you create the lasting changes you are seeking for yourself + your relationships!
Hi there! We have a team of awesome sex and relationship therapists here in the heart of Cherry Creek. We work together closely and use the methods of Dr. Cannon. The Cannon Institute offers therapy for individuals, couples, and relationship configurations of all types. Our formula for successful treatment combines the right clinicians, tried-and-true sex therapy practices, and the unique sex therapy processes created by Dr. Cannon over the past decades. Our hope is to provide you with gentle guidance and new tools to help you create the lasting changes you are seeking for yourself + your relationships!
(720) 386-8318 View (720) 386-8318
Photo of Andrew Bryson, LPCC, MA
Andrew Bryson
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, LPCC, MA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80210
Trauma is inevitable, but it does not have to overshadow our entire lives. I work with folks who have experienced trauma of all kinds and are interested in leaving behind the habits, patterns, and feelings that no longer serve them. Whether your trauma was acute, such as accident or loss, or longstanding, such as abuse from parents or partners, my work is to help folks rediscover their inherent ability to feel safe, connected, and capable. My work is nestled in understanding of how our social, political, and economic conditions lead to passing on trauma and distress.
Trauma is inevitable, but it does not have to overshadow our entire lives. I work with folks who have experienced trauma of all kinds and are interested in leaving behind the habits, patterns, and feelings that no longer serve them. Whether your trauma was acute, such as accident or loss, or longstanding, such as abuse from parents or partners, my work is to help folks rediscover their inherent ability to feel safe, connected, and capable. My work is nestled in understanding of how our social, political, and economic conditions lead to passing on trauma and distress.
(303) 951-5166 View (303) 951-5166
Photo of Michael Simms, LCSW, LAC, CSAT , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michael Simms
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAC, CSAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80206
I have worked with individuals who have struggled with trauma, addiction, and mental health struggles for the last 10 years. I have seen the damage that can occur when we attempt to carry these burdens alone. I hope to help. To support you in building connections, addressing trauma, and finding more adaptive ways to get what you want and need out of your life. As a licensed addictions counselor (LAC) and certified sex addictions therapist (CSAT), I understand how we may have come by coping mechanisms that may be hurting more than helping. I can work with you to address the core issues and build new ways to take care of yourself.
I have worked with individuals who have struggled with trauma, addiction, and mental health struggles for the last 10 years. I have seen the damage that can occur when we attempt to carry these burdens alone. I hope to help. To support you in building connections, addressing trauma, and finding more adaptive ways to get what you want and need out of your life. As a licensed addictions counselor (LAC) and certified sex addictions therapist (CSAT), I understand how we may have come by coping mechanisms that may be hurting more than helping. I can work with you to address the core issues and build new ways to take care of yourself.
(720) 804-0657 View (720) 804-0657
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.