Sexual Addiction Therapists in Tampa, FL

Photo of Michael Evans, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT
Michael Evans
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33602
As a licensed psychotherapist, my greatest strength is the rapport that I build with my clients. I utilize a compassionate and client-centered approach to helping my clients create their personalized understanding of wellness while helping them to feel heard and understood. I am skilled in treating a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, addiction, family conflict, self-esteem, and trauma. I have extensive training in treating mental health disorders, substance abuse, problematic sexual behavior, early adulthood struggles, and family dynamics.
As a licensed psychotherapist, my greatest strength is the rapport that I build with my clients. I utilize a compassionate and client-centered approach to helping my clients create their personalized understanding of wellness while helping them to feel heard and understood. I am skilled in treating a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, addiction, family conflict, self-esteem, and trauma. I have extensive training in treating mental health disorders, substance abuse, problematic sexual behavior, early adulthood struggles, and family dynamics.
(561) 786-9619 View (561) 786-9619
Photo of Taylor Smith, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Taylor Smith
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Tampa, FL 33606
I specialize in marriage counseling for couples facing ongoing conflict, difficulty communicating, pornography use, infidelity, and betrayal trauma. Many couples come feeling disconnected, defensive, or unsure how to move forward together. I offer a compassionate, structured space to help partners rebuild trust, improve communication, and restore emotional safety. My approach integrates evidence-based models including EFT, the Gottman Method, CBT, DBT, and the CSAT (Certified Sex Addiction Therapy) task model. For couples who desire it, I thoughtfully integrate Christian faith into counseling.
I specialize in marriage counseling for couples facing ongoing conflict, difficulty communicating, pornography use, infidelity, and betrayal trauma. Many couples come feeling disconnected, defensive, or unsure how to move forward together. I offer a compassionate, structured space to help partners rebuild trust, improve communication, and restore emotional safety. My approach integrates evidence-based models including EFT, the Gottman Method, CBT, DBT, and the CSAT (Certified Sex Addiction Therapy) task model. For couples who desire it, I thoughtfully integrate Christian faith into counseling.
(813) 320-5647 View (813) 320-5647
Photo of Dr. Joshua E. Shannon - Gulf Coast Rehabilitation Services, Inc, Counselor, LMHC, CRC, MCAP, SAP, NCC
Gulf Coast Rehabilitation Services, Inc
Counselor, LMHC, CRC, MCAP, SAP, NCC
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33602
Workers' Comp, PTSD, Trauma, Addictions. Primarily First responders, Veterans, and injured workers, We are a group of LMHC/LCSW/counselors that have very diverse specialties, We have offices locally in South Tampa and Central area of Tampa. We offer HIPPA compliant virtual telehealth counseling services. We additionally have offices in Orlando, Miami and Tampa, We also offer bi-lingual counseling. All counselors hold appropriate Florida and or National License. Workers Compensation, and Court Ordered Evaluations Modalities, CBT, CPT, ART, EMDR, Psychotherapy
Workers' Comp, PTSD, Trauma, Addictions. Primarily First responders, Veterans, and injured workers, We are a group of LMHC/LCSW/counselors that have very diverse specialties, We have offices locally in South Tampa and Central area of Tampa. We offer HIPPA compliant virtual telehealth counseling services. We additionally have offices in Orlando, Miami and Tampa, We also offer bi-lingual counseling. All counselors hold appropriate Florida and or National License. Workers Compensation, and Court Ordered Evaluations Modalities, CBT, CPT, ART, EMDR, Psychotherapy
(855) 335-5044 x701 View (855) 335-5044 x701
Photo of Chelsea Noel, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Chelsea Noel
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Online Only
Hi, I’m a therapist who believes healing happens best in a space that feels genuine, supportive, and human. Outside of therapy, I enjoy reading, writing true crime pieces, painting, and embracing a slow, intentional lifestyle especially slow mornings that allow time for reflection and self-care. I bring that same grounded and thoughtful energy into my work with clients. I work with individuals who are ready to better understand themselves, work through emotional challenges, and create meaningful change in their lives. My approach is compassionate, honest, and collaborative.
Hi, I’m a therapist who believes healing happens best in a space that feels genuine, supportive, and human. Outside of therapy, I enjoy reading, writing true crime pieces, painting, and embracing a slow, intentional lifestyle especially slow mornings that allow time for reflection and self-care. I bring that same grounded and thoughtful energy into my work with clients. I work with individuals who are ready to better understand themselves, work through emotional challenges, and create meaningful change in their lives. My approach is compassionate, honest, and collaborative.
(813) 547-5539 View (813) 547-5539
Photo of Scott Grupp - Catalyst Center for Change LLC, Counselor, LMHC, LMFT, MCAP, CSAT, CMAT
Catalyst Center for Change LLC
Counselor, LMHC, LMFT, MCAP, CSAT, CMAT
Tampa, FL 33609
Catalyst provides Three-Day Intensives for couples looking to restore relationships after intimate betrayal and/or sexual addiction (polygraph can be included.) Catalyst also offers customized Individual or Couple Intensives; please inquire.
Catalyst specializes in treating compulsive behaviors and addictions (including food, sex, love, relationships, gambling, shopping, substances), infidelity/betrayal trauma, ADHD, Eating Disorders, and how those issues have affected loved ones. Additional areas of expertise: anxiety; panic attacks; sexuality; gender; disordered eating; PTSD; complex trauma; attachment injuries and personality disorders.
Catalyst provides Three-Day Intensives for couples looking to restore relationships after intimate betrayal and/or sexual addiction (polygraph can be included.) Catalyst also offers customized Individual or Couple Intensives; please inquire.
Catalyst specializes in treating compulsive behaviors and addictions (including food, sex, love, relationships, gambling, shopping, substances), infidelity/betrayal trauma, ADHD, Eating Disorders, and how those issues have affected loved ones. Additional areas of expertise: anxiety; panic attacks; sexuality; gender; disordered eating; PTSD; complex trauma; attachment injuries and personality disorders.
(813) 213-4137 View (813) 213-4137
Photo of Erin Grupp - Catalyst Center for Change LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAP, CST, CSAT-S
Catalyst Center for Change LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAP, CST, CSAT-S
6 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33609
Erin is a Certified Addiction Professional, Certified Emotionally Focused Couple Therapist, Certified Sex Therapist, CSAT Therapist & Supervisor, Certified Clinical Trauma Resolution Therapist and a Psychodramatist (PAT.) Catalyst provides 3-Day Intensives for couples looking to restore relationships after betrayal and/or sexual addiction (polygraph can be included.) Catalyst also offers customized Individual or Couple Intensives; please inquire.
Catalyst specializes in treating compulsive behaviors and addictions (including food, sex, love, relationships, gambling, shopping, substances); ADHD, & Eating Disorders. Additional areas of expertise: trauma; anxiety; panic attacks; sexuality; gender; disordered eating; PTSD; complex trauma; attachment injuries and personality disorders.
Erin is a Certified Addiction Professional, Certified Emotionally Focused Couple Therapist, Certified Sex Therapist, CSAT Therapist & Supervisor, Certified Clinical Trauma Resolution Therapist and a Psychodramatist (PAT.) Catalyst provides 3-Day Intensives for couples looking to restore relationships after betrayal and/or sexual addiction (polygraph can be included.) Catalyst also offers customized Individual or Couple Intensives; please inquire.
Catalyst specializes in treating compulsive behaviors and addictions (including food, sex, love, relationships, gambling, shopping, substances); ADHD, & Eating Disorders. Additional areas of expertise: trauma; anxiety; panic attacks; sexuality; gender; disordered eating; PTSD; complex trauma; attachment injuries and personality disorders.
(813) 375-9701 View (813) 375-9701
Photo of James Valdes - James Valdes, LifeLift Wellness, Counselor, LMHC, NCC, MBA
James Valdes, LifeLift Wellness
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, MBA
3 Endorsed
Online Only
You feel stuck, even broken. Your life is not going the way you thought it would. Career fog, failed relationships. People have called you a commitment-phobe. Stuck in behaviors like drinking or using porn or pursuing sex. You have a pattern of getting very depressed over break-ups. Do you run to, and then run away from, relationships? Let me help guide you through difficult times. With compassion, without judgment, I can help you reduce suffering, and create a renewed life.
You feel stuck, even broken. Your life is not going the way you thought it would. Career fog, failed relationships. People have called you a commitment-phobe. Stuck in behaviors like drinking or using porn or pursuing sex. You have a pattern of getting very depressed over break-ups. Do you run to, and then run away from, relationships? Let me help guide you through difficult times. With compassion, without judgment, I can help you reduce suffering, and create a renewed life.
(813) 945-9153 View (813) 945-9153
Photo of Chelsea Noel, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC
Chelsea Noel
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I offer a supportive space to explore yourself honestly and make meaningful changes in your life. My approach is collaborative, humanistic, and genuine. I strive to create an environment where you feel respected, supported, and understood while also offering thoughtful honesty when it’s helpful. I believe growth comes not only from what we talk about in sessions but from how those insights are carried into everyday life. Together, we’ll find ways for you to reflect, build new skills, and move forward at a pace that feels both supportive and empowering.
As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I offer a supportive space to explore yourself honestly and make meaningful changes in your life. My approach is collaborative, humanistic, and genuine. I strive to create an environment where you feel respected, supported, and understood while also offering thoughtful honesty when it’s helpful. I believe growth comes not only from what we talk about in sessions but from how those insights are carried into everyday life. Together, we’ll find ways for you to reflect, build new skills, and move forward at a pace that feels both supportive and empowering.
(321) 321-8415 View (321) 321-8415
Photo of Shannon Camp - Camp Counseling, Counselor, PhD, LMHC, NCC
Camp Counseling
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, NCC
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Hello, I’m Dr. Shannon Camp! Whether you are married, dating, single, poly, or whatever your situation is, I‘ll help you to live fully and passionately with the partner(s) of your choosing. Often people find themselves lacking intimacy, romance, and connection with their loved ones. I try and assist people in regaining what they once had, while fostering growth within both the relationship and the individual. My office is free of judgment, shame, and antiquated notions about sex and love. I welcome anyone, regardless of sexual orientation, ethnicity, race, or religion, and I am currently accepting new patients on a limited basis!
Hello, I’m Dr. Shannon Camp! Whether you are married, dating, single, poly, or whatever your situation is, I‘ll help you to live fully and passionately with the partner(s) of your choosing. Often people find themselves lacking intimacy, romance, and connection with their loved ones. I try and assist people in regaining what they once had, while fostering growth within both the relationship and the individual. My office is free of judgment, shame, and antiquated notions about sex and love. I welcome anyone, regardless of sexual orientation, ethnicity, race, or religion, and I am currently accepting new patients on a limited basis!
(813) 213-3733 View (813) 213-3733
Photo of Dennis DelVecchio, Counselor, RPh, LMHC, CSAT, CPTT, MCAP
Dennis DelVecchio
Counselor, RPh, LMHC, CSAT, CPTT, MCAP
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33604
Sex Addiction, Pornography Addiction, and the resulting Betrayal Trauma shatter individuals and their loved ones, wrecking families. Addiction isolates the addict from themselves and their loved ones. A healthy connection to self is a MUST for a healthy connection to another therefore we treat the intimacy disorder. I am a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist and a Certified Partner Trauma Therapist with 20+ years of experience. Sex Addiction and Betrayal Trauma are treatable with a strong Willingness and lots of Love and Courage. We do recover. We will achieve success together, deepening intimacy with self and treating the root cause.
Sex Addiction, Pornography Addiction, and the resulting Betrayal Trauma shatter individuals and their loved ones, wrecking families. Addiction isolates the addict from themselves and their loved ones. A healthy connection to self is a MUST for a healthy connection to another therefore we treat the intimacy disorder. I am a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist and a Certified Partner Trauma Therapist with 20+ years of experience. Sex Addiction and Betrayal Trauma are treatable with a strong Willingness and lots of Love and Courage. We do recover. We will achieve success together, deepening intimacy with self and treating the root cause.
(813) 380-5976 View (813) 380-5976
Photo of Dr. Shannon Camp, Counselor, PhD, LMHC, NCC
Dr. Shannon Camp
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, NCC
2 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33607
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! I am now accepting new patients on a limited basis for spring & summer of 2026. I understand that reaching out for help is a difficult first step when you feel as though the life you are currently living is not the one you envisioned. Perhaps you are struggling with one of your key relationships and you are feeling frustrated, helpless, and hopeless for change. Most of us will face difficulties in our interactions with our spouse/partner, children, parents, and friends. I help individuals, couples, and families reach their goals of renewed hope, contentment, and connection. Watching people transform their lives is my passion!
Hello! I am now accepting new patients on a limited basis for spring & summer of 2026. I understand that reaching out for help is a difficult first step when you feel as though the life you are currently living is not the one you envisioned. Perhaps you are struggling with one of your key relationships and you are feeling frustrated, helpless, and hopeless for change. Most of us will face difficulties in our interactions with our spouse/partner, children, parents, and friends. I help individuals, couples, and families reach their goals of renewed hope, contentment, and connection. Watching people transform their lives is my passion!
(813) 774-4628 View (813) 774-4628
Photo of Nicole Otis, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CSAT
Nicole Otis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CSAT
Online Only
Are you struggling with pornography or sexual compulsivity? Is secrecy, broken trust or loss of intimacy hurting your relationship? Or maybe you’re not in crisis, but you know your marriage could be stronger, more connected, more alive? You’re not alone–we have been through these issues personally and know what it’s like. I’m a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), and Hunter is a Certified Mentor Coach in long-term recovery. Together, we help men break free (porn, sexting, affairs, prostitution, etc) and we help couples rebuild trust and real intimacy.
Are you struggling with pornography or sexual compulsivity? Is secrecy, broken trust or loss of intimacy hurting your relationship? Or maybe you’re not in crisis, but you know your marriage could be stronger, more connected, more alive? You’re not alone–we have been through these issues personally and know what it’s like. I’m a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), and Hunter is a Certified Mentor Coach in long-term recovery. Together, we help men break free (porn, sexting, affairs, prostitution, etc) and we help couples rebuild trust and real intimacy.
(320) 300-9473 View (320) 300-9473
Photo of Dr. Crystal Hollenbeck, Counselor, EdD, LMHC, CST, CSAT, EMDR
Dr. Crystal Hollenbeck
Counselor, EdD, LMHC, CST, CSAT, EMDR
3 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33606
Hi. I'm Dr. Crystal Hollenbeck and I am a Relationship Expert, Sex Therapist, and Trauma Specialist. I specialize in treating adult individuals and couples with concerns about their relationships, healing from trauma, and managing anxiety. My credentials include AASECT Certified Sex Therapist, Certified Sex Addiction Therapist, APSATS Clinical Partner Specialist, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, and Certified EMDR Therapist. I offer sessions in person, virtual, and three-day intensives.
Hi. I'm Dr. Crystal Hollenbeck and I am a Relationship Expert, Sex Therapist, and Trauma Specialist. I specialize in treating adult individuals and couples with concerns about their relationships, healing from trauma, and managing anxiety. My credentials include AASECT Certified Sex Therapist, Certified Sex Addiction Therapist, APSATS Clinical Partner Specialist, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, and Certified EMDR Therapist. I offer sessions in person, virtual, and three-day intensives.
(407) 408-6521 View (407) 408-6521
Photo of Tina M. Cline - Tina M. Cline - Sex Addiction & Betrayal Trauma, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhDc, LISW-S, CSAT, CPTT
Tina M. Cline - Sex Addiction & Betrayal Trauma
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhDc, LISW-S, CSAT, CPTT
2 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33606
No matter how overwhelming things may feel right now, recovery from sexual addiction, pornography addiction, and betrayal trauma is possible.
Real recovery is more than talk therapy. It requires a focused, structured approach to change. I specialize exclusively in this work. As a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) and Certified Partner Trauma Therapist (CPTT), I have extensive experience helping individuals and partners move from crisis and confusion toward recovery and healing.
No matter how overwhelming things may feel right now, recovery from sexual addiction, pornography addiction, and betrayal trauma is possible.
Real recovery is more than talk therapy. It requires a focused, structured approach to change. I specialize exclusively in this work. As a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) and Certified Partner Trauma Therapist (CPTT), I have extensive experience helping individuals and partners move from crisis and confusion toward recovery and healing.
(740) 679-6497 View (740) 679-6497
Photo of Dr. Tim Martin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, CSAT, CPTT, CMAT
Dr. Tim Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, CSAT, CPTT, CMAT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Porn addiction? Sex addiction? Has an affair or sexual behavior put your relationship at risk? Many clients contact me after promising themselves or their partner they would stop, yet finding the behavior keeps returning. If secrecy, porn use, or sexual behavior has created shame, conflict, or a crisis in your relationship, you’re not alone. I help clients understand the deeper patterns driving these behaviors and develop practical strategies for lasting change. Recovery from sex addiction is possible with the right structure, accountability, and support. Contact me to schedule an appointment.
Porn addiction? Sex addiction? Has an affair or sexual behavior put your relationship at risk? Many clients contact me after promising themselves or their partner they would stop, yet finding the behavior keeps returning. If secrecy, porn use, or sexual behavior has created shame, conflict, or a crisis in your relationship, you’re not alone. I help clients understand the deeper patterns driving these behaviors and develop practical strategies for lasting change. Recovery from sex addiction is possible with the right structure, accountability, and support. Contact me to schedule an appointment.
(904) 569-9932 View (904) 569-9932
Photo of Calvin Alardo, Counselor, LMHC
Calvin Alardo
Counselor, LMHC
8 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33612
Waitlist for new clients
More Than Symptom Relief—Therapy That Unlocks Possibility. Are you feeling stuck in old patterns, have unresolved trauma, or experiencing relationship challenges? As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Long-Term Recovery I had similar struggles. My approach integrates evidence-based modalities including DBT, Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) to support meaningful, lasting change.
More Than Symptom Relief—Therapy That Unlocks Possibility. Are you feeling stuck in old patterns, have unresolved trauma, or experiencing relationship challenges? As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Long-Term Recovery I had similar struggles. My approach integrates evidence-based modalities including DBT, Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) to support meaningful, lasting change.
(813) 845-0626 View (813) 845-0626
Photo of Dr. Vanessa Rojas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSAT, CMAT, C-PD, CCTP-II, LCSW-C
Dr. Vanessa Rojas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSAT, CMAT, C-PD, CCTP-II, LCSW-C
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I have 27 years of experience helping clients transform high conflict in their relationships into harmony. My expertise covers a wide range of issues, including avoidant and anxious attachment styles, neurodiversity, sex/porn/love addiction, betrayal trauma, childhood trauma, narcissistic abuse recovery, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and codependency. I also conduct ADHD and Autism assessments. My clients value my training in both relationship dynamics and trauma to aid in complex cases. If you are interested in more than supportive therapy and want to make foundational changes in yourself and/or your relationships, I am here for you.
I have 27 years of experience helping clients transform high conflict in their relationships into harmony. My expertise covers a wide range of issues, including avoidant and anxious attachment styles, neurodiversity, sex/porn/love addiction, betrayal trauma, childhood trauma, narcissistic abuse recovery, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and codependency. I also conduct ADHD and Autism assessments. My clients value my training in both relationship dynamics and trauma to aid in complex cases. If you are interested in more than supportive therapy and want to make foundational changes in yourself and/or your relationships, I am here for you.
View
Photo of James Foley - Sexual Addiction Sex Misbehavior Absolute Expert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SOTS
Sexual Addiction Sex Misbehavior Absolute Expert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SOTS
Serves Area
I am a Sexual addiction elite level expert 31 years & 46,000 hrs sexual misbehavior specialist psychotherapy.
My preeminent expert status had "The Adam Friedland Show” put me on 1st episode of 2nd season re: sexual addiction behaviors, was interviewed by Rolling Stone Magazine on "virtual companions", and XM Radio on issue of paid infidelity. I enjoy being go to clinician and thought leader on high functioning men acting out sexual misbehaviors such as Infidelity
I am a Sexual addiction elite level expert 31 years & 46,000 hrs sexual misbehavior specialist psychotherapy.
My preeminent expert status had "The Adam Friedland Show” put me on 1st episode of 2nd season re: sexual addiction behaviors, was interviewed by Rolling Stone Magazine on "virtual companions", and XM Radio on issue of paid infidelity. I enjoy being go to clinician and thought leader on high functioning men acting out sexual misbehaviors such as Infidelity
(305) 676-7412 View (305) 676-7412
Photo of Ryan G Henry, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Ryan G Henry
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
I view relationship problems from a systemic model. Meaning that I take into account environmental factors, relationship factors, family of origin, biological, mental, and spiritual factors when creating a treatment plan. From this approach new understanding and new solutions are opened up for the relationship. Too often in our problem solving we try the same thing over and over and when it does not work we just try the same thing harder. If you find yourself stuck in that kind of negative cycle just know that you are not alone and that there is help available. I work from an evidence based approach called EFT in a intensive format.
I view relationship problems from a systemic model. Meaning that I take into account environmental factors, relationship factors, family of origin, biological, mental, and spiritual factors when creating a treatment plan. From this approach new understanding and new solutions are opened up for the relationship. Too often in our problem solving we try the same thing over and over and when it does not work we just try the same thing harder. If you find yourself stuck in that kind of negative cycle just know that you are not alone and that there is help available. I work from an evidence based approach called EFT in a intensive format.
(863) 277-3575 View (863) 277-3575
Photo of Anthony Marler - Salvo (Pornography Addiction Recovery)., LMHC
Salvo (Pornography Addiction Recovery).
Verified Verified
Serves Area
You’ve tried to stop watching porn, but the cycle keeps pulling you back. You feel trapped in guilt, shame, and secrecy, wondering why willpower alone never seems to work. Deep down, you want more—you want freedom, stronger relationships, a clear mind, and faith restored. You long to feel confident again, to break the habits that sabotage your goals, and to live with integrity and purpose. You’re tired of isolation and ready for real support. SALVO exists to walk with you on that journey, giving you the tools, accountability, and faith-based guidance you need to finally break free.
You’ve tried to stop watching porn, but the cycle keeps pulling you back. You feel trapped in guilt, shame, and secrecy, wondering why willpower alone never seems to work. Deep down, you want more—you want freedom, stronger relationships, a clear mind, and faith restored. You long to feel confident again, to break the habits that sabotage your goals, and to live with integrity and purpose. You’re tired of isolation and ready for real support. SALVO exists to walk with you on that journey, giving you the tools, accountability, and faith-based guidance you need to finally break free.
(904) 298-7468 View (904) 298-7468

See more therapy options for Tampa

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.