Sexual Addiction Therapists in Lakewood, CO
You've told yourself it was the last time. Maybe hundreds of times. And yet here you are again — same cycle, same guilt and shame, wondering what's wrong with you and why you can't just stop. You're not broken. But you might be stuck for a reason nobody has looked at yet. I work with men struggling with porn and sex addiction, compulsive sexual behavior, and the deeper layers underneath — the loneliness, the disconnection, the difficulty with real intimacy and vulnerable closeness — men who want genuine connection but keep reaching for something that feels safer, more controllable, and ultimately emptier.
You've told yourself it was the last time. Maybe hundreds of times. And yet here you are again — same cycle, same guilt and shame, wondering what's wrong with you and why you can't just stop. You're not broken. But you might be stuck for a reason nobody has looked at yet. I work with men struggling with porn and sex addiction, compulsive sexual behavior, and the deeper layers underneath — the loneliness, the disconnection, the difficulty with real intimacy and vulnerable closeness — men who want genuine connection but keep reaching for something that feels safer, more controllable, and ultimately emptier.
I'm Karina, a licensed clinical social worker and therapist based in Denver, CO. I specialize in ADHD, OCD, trauma, sex addiction, relationships, and the deeper work of healing — helping individuals understand themselves, connect to their highest self, and build the lives and relationships they actually want. I bring warmth, honesty, and a bit of humor into the room, because I believe the therapeutic relationship itself is where healing begins. Our first session is a chance to get to know each other. I'll ask about what's bringing you in, what you've tried before, and what you're hoping for.
I'm Karina, a licensed clinical social worker and therapist based in Denver, CO. I specialize in ADHD, OCD, trauma, sex addiction, relationships, and the deeper work of healing — helping individuals understand themselves, connect to their highest self, and build the lives and relationships they actually want. I bring warmth, honesty, and a bit of humor into the room, because I believe the therapeutic relationship itself is where healing begins. Our first session is a chance to get to know each other. I'll ask about what's bringing you in, what you've tried before, and what you're hoping for.
Let's be honest. When it comes to overcoming your compulsive use of porn and/or sex you feel defeated. You're tired of hearing that more effort and more accountability is the answer. What you're doing isn't working. Right? I get it. For over twenty years I was held captive by a secret porn and sex addiction. I understand the crushing shame and guilt. I understand that feeling that "things will never really change." But you know what? I found lasting freedom. And you can too.
Let's be honest. When it comes to overcoming your compulsive use of porn and/or sex you feel defeated. You're tired of hearing that more effort and more accountability is the answer. What you're doing isn't working. Right? I get it. For over twenty years I was held captive by a secret porn and sex addiction. I understand the crushing shame and guilt. I understand that feeling that "things will never really change." But you know what? I found lasting freedom. And you can too.
There’s a moment when coping strategies stop working, when success, distraction, or pushing through just isn’t enough. That moment doesn’t mean you’re failing. It means you’re ready. I work with adults navigating substance use & sex addiction, trauma, anxiety, depression, and major life transitions, especially when complicated by pressure, performance, or public visibility. As South Platte Counseling, I offer discreet, trauma-informed therapy with added support for men’s mental health.
There’s a moment when coping strategies stop working, when success, distraction, or pushing through just isn’t enough. That moment doesn’t mean you’re failing. It means you’re ready. I work with adults navigating substance use & sex addiction, trauma, anxiety, depression, and major life transitions, especially when complicated by pressure, performance, or public visibility. As South Platte Counseling, I offer discreet, trauma-informed therapy with added support for men’s mental health.
Many people come to therapy feeling stuck in patterns they don’t fully understand — depression that won’t lift, anxiety that keeps narrowing their world, or a vague but persistent sense that something is “wrong” with them. A line from an Eagles song captures what I’ve witnessed again and again in my work: “So oftentimes it happens that we live our lives in chains and we never even know we have the key.” I became a therapist over a decade ago because I firmly believe that with the right blend of support and challenge, almost anyone can change unworkable patterns in his or her life.
Many people come to therapy feeling stuck in patterns they don’t fully understand — depression that won’t lift, anxiety that keeps narrowing their world, or a vague but persistent sense that something is “wrong” with them. A line from an Eagles song captures what I’ve witnessed again and again in my work: “So oftentimes it happens that we live our lives in chains and we never even know we have the key.” I became a therapist over a decade ago because I firmly believe that with the right blend of support and challenge, almost anyone can change unworkable patterns in his or her life.
I have a particular affinity for working with people who struggle with depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. I am passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families discover healthier and more constructive ways of communicating and interacting with one another. Some of my most rewarding work has been with clients who had been in therapy for years and considered themselves hopeless.
I have a particular affinity for working with people who struggle with depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. I am passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families discover healthier and more constructive ways of communicating and interacting with one another. Some of my most rewarding work has been with clients who had been in therapy for years and considered themselves hopeless.
Is your relationship stuck in the same pattern and you two are losing hope? Do you want more trust, connection and intimacy? Are you depressed, anxious, stressed, struggling with addiction or repeating patterns that lead you down to the same dead end? As a Certified Sex Therapist (CST) through AASECT, and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I specialize in working with married & unmarried couples and individuals from all gender identity and sexual orientations. I help clients heal from intimacy/sexual issues, communication issues, depression/anxiety, infidelity, sexual trauma, mismatched sexual desires, sexual dysfunctions, gender identity and sexual orientation concerns. I am a LGBTQIA friendly and Kink aware therapist.
Is your relationship stuck in the same pattern and you two are losing hope? Do you want more trust, connection and intimacy? Are you depressed, anxious, stressed, struggling with addiction or repeating patterns that lead you down to the same dead end? As a Certified Sex Therapist (CST) through AASECT, and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I specialize in working with married & unmarried couples and individuals from all gender identity and sexual orientations. I help clients heal from intimacy/sexual issues, communication issues, depression/anxiety, infidelity, sexual trauma, mismatched sexual desires, sexual dysfunctions, gender identity and sexual orientation concerns. I am a LGBTQIA friendly and Kink aware therapist.
At times, life can be incredibly difficult, presenting us with moments that test our resilience, our relationships, and our ability to cope. Whether you are dealing with a long-term heartache, a recent tragedy, or the complexities of everyday struggles, reaching out for help is a testament to the hope that you have for change. In my work as a counselor, I believe that everyone needs safe spaces to process challenges and that there is hope for healing.
At times, life can be incredibly difficult, presenting us with moments that test our resilience, our relationships, and our ability to cope. Whether you are dealing with a long-term heartache, a recent tragedy, or the complexities of everyday struggles, reaching out for help is a testament to the hope that you have for change. In my work as a counselor, I believe that everyone needs safe spaces to process challenges and that there is hope for healing.
I specialize in working with young adults who seem to have it together on the outside but are struggling on the inside. Taking that first step to talk to someone can be incredibly difficult, but that in it of itself kickstarts the process of growth.
I specialize in working with young adults who seem to have it together on the outside but are struggling on the inside. Taking that first step to talk to someone can be incredibly difficult, but that in it of itself kickstarts the process of growth.
Dr. Schlegel's approach to therapy is pragmatic, client focused, and employs a variety of clinical interventions that target problematic behavior, cognitions, and emotional dysregulation. He takes advantage of treatments that are evidence-based, and favors interventions that address the range of factors that contribute to personal adversity. His therapeutic style is marked by mutual collaboration, fresh perspective taking, active teaching, and warm humor. He is committed to tailoring strategies to build upon client strengths while meeting each client's unique qualities, concerns, and circumstances. Providing the direction needed to not only cope, but to "own" challenges and strengths.
Dr. Schlegel's approach to therapy is pragmatic, client focused, and employs a variety of clinical interventions that target problematic behavior, cognitions, and emotional dysregulation. He takes advantage of treatments that are evidence-based, and favors interventions that address the range of factors that contribute to personal adversity. His therapeutic style is marked by mutual collaboration, fresh perspective taking, active teaching, and warm humor. He is committed to tailoring strategies to build upon client strengths while meeting each client's unique qualities, concerns, and circumstances. Providing the direction needed to not only cope, but to "own" challenges and strengths.
Westside Behavioral Care - Therapists in Lakewood
Psychologist, PsyD, LPC, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80215
Westside Behavioral Care can help you find a therapist who is just right for you or your family. Our qualified and compassionate counselors provide outstanding mental health services in-person and online across the entire Greater Denver Area. For an appointment, please call 303-986-4197 to speak with our receptionist M-F 8:30am-5pm. Alternatively, our website allows you to self-schedule with one of our multi-award-winning therapists 24/7. Our network includes licensed psychologists, clinical social workers, professional counselors, marriage and family therapists, couples counselors, and certified alcohol and drug counselors.
Westside Behavioral Care can help you find a therapist who is just right for you or your family. Our qualified and compassionate counselors provide outstanding mental health services in-person and online across the entire Greater Denver Area. For an appointment, please call 303-986-4197 to speak with our receptionist M-F 8:30am-5pm. Alternatively, our website allows you to self-schedule with one of our multi-award-winning therapists 24/7. Our network includes licensed psychologists, clinical social workers, professional counselors, marriage and family therapists, couples counselors, and certified alcohol and drug counselors.
It is important to find the right therapist that you can connect with and establish a trusting relationship. I believe that when people come to therapy, they allow themselves opportunities for self-exploration and growth. It is my goal to create a safe space where you can make positive changes to live a more fulfilling life. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Addiction Treatment Therapist who has been practicing for over 8 years.
It is important to find the right therapist that you can connect with and establish a trusting relationship. I believe that when people come to therapy, they allow themselves opportunities for self-exploration and growth. It is my goal to create a safe space where you can make positive changes to live a more fulfilling life. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Addiction Treatment Therapist who has been practicing for over 8 years.
I've been in the addictions / mental health (dual diagnosis) field for over 25 years in Colorado. I sincerely believe in clients' ability to make enduring change, after they have learned to identify and accept what's not working in their lives. I'm a very accessible and active therapist, and I offer specialized groups to meet clients' needs. Groups occur Tuesday through Saturday, depending on group assignment. Individual sessions are often a part of effective treatment planning, in addition to, or instead of, group format. Reasonable pricing.
I've been in the addictions / mental health (dual diagnosis) field for over 25 years in Colorado. I sincerely believe in clients' ability to make enduring change, after they have learned to identify and accept what's not working in their lives. I'm a very accessible and active therapist, and I offer specialized groups to meet clients' needs. Groups occur Tuesday through Saturday, depending on group assignment. Individual sessions are often a part of effective treatment planning, in addition to, or instead of, group format. Reasonable pricing.
With over a decade of experience in advocacy, sexual health, and systemic change, I bring a unique perspective to my work as a therapist. My background in navigating systems informs my approach, offering a welcoming and collaborative environment where clients feel heard, affirmed, and empowered.
I specialize in reproductive decision-making and bodily autonomy for people with uteruses. I support adults in all aspects of sex work, whether empowering or challenging, and those exploring kink identities. I also provide LGBTQIA+-affirming care, embracing diverse gender and sexual expression, relationships, spirituality, trauma, and more.
With over a decade of experience in advocacy, sexual health, and systemic change, I bring a unique perspective to my work as a therapist. My background in navigating systems informs my approach, offering a welcoming and collaborative environment where clients feel heard, affirmed, and empowered.
I specialize in reproductive decision-making and bodily autonomy for people with uteruses. I support adults in all aspects of sex work, whether empowering or challenging, and those exploring kink identities. I also provide LGBTQIA+-affirming care, embracing diverse gender and sexual expression, relationships, spirituality, trauma, and more.
The quality I most desire in clients is authenticity. I view the therapeutic relationship as being based upon mutual trust, and it is difficult to enact meaningful change if we fail to present our genuine selves. However, I also acknowledge that we all have different experiences, and there is no need to be concerned if it takes varying amounts of time to build trust in the therapeutic relationship. I have experience working with the following: nearly all mood disorders and personality disorders, substance dependency, dual diagnosis, trauma, adolescent crime, couples counseling, family counseling.
The quality I most desire in clients is authenticity. I view the therapeutic relationship as being based upon mutual trust, and it is difficult to enact meaningful change if we fail to present our genuine selves. However, I also acknowledge that we all have different experiences, and there is no need to be concerned if it takes varying amounts of time to build trust in the therapeutic relationship. I have experience working with the following: nearly all mood disorders and personality disorders, substance dependency, dual diagnosis, trauma, adolescent crime, couples counseling, family counseling.
I am someone who genuinely cares about my clients and am involved in this work because I want to be there for you. I'd like to congratulate you already on taking the first step in therapy.
I advocate a well-rounded lifestyle as a professional counselor and in my personal life, and believe that overcoming any life problem requires a lifestyle change. I have a wide range of mental health competencies, and uses empirically based - or scientifically proven - methods. Hours are set to most convenience my client's and only a limited number of clients are accepted at one time in order to commit to their progress.
I am someone who genuinely cares about my clients and am involved in this work because I want to be there for you. I'd like to congratulate you already on taking the first step in therapy.
I advocate a well-rounded lifestyle as a professional counselor and in my personal life, and believe that overcoming any life problem requires a lifestyle change. I have a wide range of mental health competencies, and uses empirically based - or scientifically proven - methods. Hours are set to most convenience my client's and only a limited number of clients are accepted at one time in order to commit to their progress.
If you are navigating sexual, romantic, or emotional difficulties I am here to help. Struggling with identity and authenticity in a sex-negative, stigmatizing society can be an isolating experience. You and any partners need an affirming space to explore the full bounds of your potential. A validating and inclusive space can help you feel comfortable questioning the social constructs and relational education you’ve received that may no longer serve you. You will receive guidance in existing confidently and finding the connection you seek. You deserve someone who is on your side, rooting for your success, whatever that may look like.
If you are navigating sexual, romantic, or emotional difficulties I am here to help. Struggling with identity and authenticity in a sex-negative, stigmatizing society can be an isolating experience. You and any partners need an affirming space to explore the full bounds of your potential. A validating and inclusive space can help you feel comfortable questioning the social constructs and relational education you’ve received that may no longer serve you. You will receive guidance in existing confidently and finding the connection you seek. You deserve someone who is on your side, rooting for your success, whatever that may look like.
Do you feel like you're somehow missing it? Life can be burdensome and confusing. There is hope of something more. One of my favorite quotes goes something like this: realizing where you are is meant to give you hope of where you get to go, not shame of where you are. There is hope in healing. Whether you struggle from trauma, depression, anxiety, or something you don't know how to put a name on, there is hope for you.
Do you feel like you're somehow missing it? Life can be burdensome and confusing. There is hope of something more. One of my favorite quotes goes something like this: realizing where you are is meant to give you hope of where you get to go, not shame of where you are. There is hope in healing. Whether you struggle from trauma, depression, anxiety, or something you don't know how to put a name on, there is hope for you.
I love hearing your story, we all have one but has anyone taken the time to really listen to yours? I enjoy working with clients from all different backgrounds, struggling with different issues or just needing a safe place to talk about your thoughts and ideas. I have worked with addiction and substance abuse for over ten years as well as anxiety, depression, grief/loss, veterans, children, couples/family & trauma. I am someone who enjoys watching my clients' journey and show them a different perspective. I am real and down to earth and love getting to know people. I do a free consult so we can make sure that we are a good fit.
I love hearing your story, we all have one but has anyone taken the time to really listen to yours? I enjoy working with clients from all different backgrounds, struggling with different issues or just needing a safe place to talk about your thoughts and ideas. I have worked with addiction and substance abuse for over ten years as well as anxiety, depression, grief/loss, veterans, children, couples/family & trauma. I am someone who enjoys watching my clients' journey and show them a different perspective. I am real and down to earth and love getting to know people. I do a free consult so we can make sure that we are a good fit.
As a very senior therapist, I see clients on a self-pay basis (with a sliding fee) and Medicare. I have been a clinical psychologist for 40 years and have worked with hundreds of wonderful people. Rather than list my specialties, I would say the most important factor in psychotherapy is the quality of the relationship created between the client and the therapist. The felt experience of really being seen, as clients truly and honestly are, is the vital healing force. If people feel that then almost regardless of the presenting problem, people can gain freedom and control in their lives.
As a very senior therapist, I see clients on a self-pay basis (with a sliding fee) and Medicare. I have been a clinical psychologist for 40 years and have worked with hundreds of wonderful people. Rather than list my specialties, I would say the most important factor in psychotherapy is the quality of the relationship created between the client and the therapist. The felt experience of really being seen, as clients truly and honestly are, is the vital healing force. If people feel that then almost regardless of the presenting problem, people can gain freedom and control in their lives.
See more therapy options for Lakewood
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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.