Sexual Addiction Therapists in Raleigh, NC

Photo of Mike Garrett - Christian Counseling Associates Raleigh, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, DMin, LPC
Christian Counseling Associates Raleigh
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, DMin, LPC
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
We specialize in marriages, communication, conflict resolution, infidelity, sexual addiction, trauma (EMDR), spiritual issues, anxiety, depression, grief and repairing and restoring relationships.
Dr. Mike and Rhonda can each see you and your spouse individually or they are available as a couple upon special scheduling. We specialize in relationships, healing past wounds, anxiety, depression, infidelity, sexual addiction, life coaching, grief and trauma (EMDR Counseling). We also offer adolescent and family counseling.
We specialize in marriages, communication, conflict resolution, infidelity, sexual addiction, trauma (EMDR), spiritual issues, anxiety, depression, grief and repairing and restoring relationships.
Dr. Mike and Rhonda can each see you and your spouse individually or they are available as a couple upon special scheduling. We specialize in relationships, healing past wounds, anxiety, depression, infidelity, sexual addiction, life coaching, grief and trauma (EMDR Counseling). We also offer adolescent and family counseling.
(919) 439-6343 View (919) 439-6343
Photo of Nick DeJesus, Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS, NCC
Nick DeJesus
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS, NCC
Raleigh, NC 27617
I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, intimacy issues (physical and emotional), LGBTQIA issues, men’s issues, marital conflict, sexual addiction, and complex personal life struggles.
I incorporate Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) techniques to assist clients in achieving their therapy goals. I specialize in working with adolescents, young adults, and adults, the LGBTQIQ community, and anyone who struggles with intimacy, relationships, mood, and sexual addiction.
I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, intimacy issues (physical and emotional), LGBTQIA issues, men’s issues, marital conflict, sexual addiction, and complex personal life struggles.
I incorporate Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) techniques to assist clients in achieving their therapy goals. I specialize in working with adolescents, young adults, and adults, the LGBTQIQ community, and anyone who struggles with intimacy, relationships, mood, and sexual addiction.
(919) 646-3816 View (919) 646-3816
Photo of Yuri Sklad, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CSAT
Yuri Sklad
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CSAT
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
If you are struggling with anxiety, compulsive behaviors, or feel stuck in your life journey, I invite you to contact me. As a therapist, I strive to provide a supportive environment for individuals to gain greater self-awareness and self-regulation. In our work together, we will hold space for difficult emotions, increase self-compassion, identify patterns that have helped you in the past and may not be serving you now, and develop new skills so that you are able to gently move toward living a more fulfilling life aligned with your values.
If you are struggling with anxiety, compulsive behaviors, or feel stuck in your life journey, I invite you to contact me. As a therapist, I strive to provide a supportive environment for individuals to gain greater self-awareness and self-regulation. In our work together, we will hold space for difficult emotions, increase self-compassion, identify patterns that have helped you in the past and may not be serving you now, and develop new skills so that you are able to gently move toward living a more fulfilling life aligned with your values.
(984) 464-6110 View (984) 464-6110
Photo of Eric Fesmire, Counselor, MA, MDiv, LCMHC
Eric Fesmire
Counselor, MA, MDiv, LCMHC
Raleigh, NC 27606
I strive to create an environment where you can explore, engage, and rewrite your life-script. We all live from our own unique scripts, the stories we tell ourselves everyday about who we are, where we come from, and what we're capable of. Sometimes these scripts trap us in patterns that harm us and keep us from living a rich life. I will help you engage these scripts, whether they be anxiety, depression, addiction, relational issues, shame, or others. I work with everyone and anyone who desires to engage their story afresh regardless of background, but have unique training to incorporate Christian theology for those interested.
I strive to create an environment where you can explore, engage, and rewrite your life-script. We all live from our own unique scripts, the stories we tell ourselves everyday about who we are, where we come from, and what we're capable of. Sometimes these scripts trap us in patterns that harm us and keep us from living a rich life. I will help you engage these scripts, whether they be anxiety, depression, addiction, relational issues, shame, or others. I work with everyone and anyone who desires to engage their story afresh regardless of background, but have unique training to incorporate Christian theology for those interested.
(919) 694-4187 View (919) 694-4187
Photo of Dr. Terrence W Graham, Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCAS, LCMHC-A, LCAADC, SAP, CSAC
Dr. Terrence W Graham
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCAS, LCMHC-A, LCAADC, SAP, CSAC
Online Only
My name is Dr. Terrence W. Graham and I am a graduate of North Carolina A&T State University, where I earned a Bachelors of Arts Degree in Psychology in 1993 and a Masters of Science Degree in Agency Counseling in 1998. I completed my Doctorate in Biblical Counseling at the Andersonville Theological Seminary. As a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist (LCAS) and Licensed Mental Health Counselor-Associate (LCMHCA), I have provided over 18 years of counseling experience. My work includes individual, group, and family therapy for adolescents, adults, and Military personnel struggling with addiction and mental health disorders.
My name is Dr. Terrence W. Graham and I am a graduate of North Carolina A&T State University, where I earned a Bachelors of Arts Degree in Psychology in 1993 and a Masters of Science Degree in Agency Counseling in 1998. I completed my Doctorate in Biblical Counseling at the Andersonville Theological Seminary. As a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist (LCAS) and Licensed Mental Health Counselor-Associate (LCMHCA), I have provided over 18 years of counseling experience. My work includes individual, group, and family therapy for adolescents, adults, and Military personnel struggling with addiction and mental health disorders.
(919) 582-7676 View (919) 582-7676
Photo of Lawrence Ellsworth - Lawrence Ellsworth, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Lawrence Ellsworth, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
I earned a Master of Science in Social Work from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and a BS in Psychology from the University of Northern Colorado. I have significant experience providing clinical services for children, adolescents, adults and families dealing with a wide range of mental health issues. I was a clinician and program supervisor at Wake County Mental Health/Human Services where I developed and managed an innovative treatment program for children and families dealing with sexual abuse. I also provide clinical supervision, consultation and mental health trainings around North Carolina through the Area Health Education Centers (AHEC).
I earned a Master of Science in Social Work from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and a BS in Psychology from the University of Northern Colorado. I have significant experience providing clinical services for children, adolescents, adults and families dealing with a wide range of mental health issues. I was a clinician and program supervisor at Wake County Mental Health/Human Services where I developed and managed an innovative treatment program for children and families dealing with sexual abuse. I also provide clinical supervision, consultation and mental health trainings around North Carolina through the Area Health Education Centers (AHEC).
(919) 883-4240 View (919) 883-4240
Photo of Kosta Petrogeorge, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT, MDiv
Kosta Petrogeorge
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT, MDiv
Online Only
Rather than subscribing to the traditional adage of counseling, “meet clients where they’re at”, Kosta embraces the viewpoint, “meet clients where they dream!” (Steve Andrew). NIKA Therapy is a private practice that utilizes the finest professional tools & evidence-based practices. Kosta is an experienced professional therapist that leads you to explore & navigate the challenges you face. With many years in helping individuals, couples and parents, he is skilled, intentional and compassionate, as he guides you to proactively address a broad scope of concerns.
Rather than subscribing to the traditional adage of counseling, “meet clients where they’re at”, Kosta embraces the viewpoint, “meet clients where they dream!” (Steve Andrew). NIKA Therapy is a private practice that utilizes the finest professional tools & evidence-based practices. Kosta is an experienced professional therapist that leads you to explore & navigate the challenges you face. With many years in helping individuals, couples and parents, he is skilled, intentional and compassionate, as he guides you to proactively address a broad scope of concerns.
(919) 794-4983 View (919) 794-4983
Photo of Bill Venable, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, MDiv, LCMHCS
Bill Venable
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, MDiv, LCMHCS
12 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27606
Other treatment areas include sexual addiction, marriage, depression, anxiety, sexual dysfunction, post-traumatic stress disorder and dissociative issues, personality and family-of-origin issues, self-image issues, premarital counseling, conflict resolution and communication.
Do you want to find a place where you can be authentic and feel safe? My desire is to provide an environment for emotional and spiritual healing. As a Christian counselor, I seek to weave eternal truths in with healing prayer in a way that brings about lasting change and transformation. I am a Certified HeartSync Minister and since 2010, I have taken a special interest in implementing the HeartSync method developed by Andy Miller, LCSW to bring lasting healing to places in the soul that have received trauma, emotional pain and deep hurts.
Other treatment areas include sexual addiction, marriage, depression, anxiety, sexual dysfunction, post-traumatic stress disorder and dissociative issues, personality and family-of-origin issues, self-image issues, premarital counseling, conflict resolution and communication.
Do you want to find a place where you can be authentic and feel safe? My desire is to provide an environment for emotional and spiritual healing. As a Christian counselor, I seek to weave eternal truths in with healing prayer in a way that brings about lasting change and transformation. I am a Certified HeartSync Minister and since 2010, I have taken a special interest in implementing the HeartSync method developed by Andy Miller, LCSW to bring lasting healing to places in the soul that have received trauma, emotional pain and deep hurts.
(919) 759-5833 View (919) 759-5833
Photo of Caitlin Clendenin, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA
Caitlin Clendenin
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27604
I have received advanced training in Internal Family Systems, the Gottman Method, and Sexual Addiction Therapy.
Anxiety, depression, anger, addiction - oftentimes these are the problems we experience and name, but what if they are the visible expressions of deeper parts of us that have valid needs and concerns? I am here to help you connect with all parts of yourself, even the ones that you wish would just "go away" in order to bring peace, integration, compassion, and self-leadership into your internal world, so that you are able to lead the life you desire. If you are ready to become curious about yourself and your story, I would be privileged to walk alongside you on the journey.
I have received advanced training in Internal Family Systems, the Gottman Method, and Sexual Addiction Therapy.
Anxiety, depression, anger, addiction - oftentimes these are the problems we experience and name, but what if they are the visible expressions of deeper parts of us that have valid needs and concerns? I am here to help you connect with all parts of yourself, even the ones that you wish would just "go away" in order to bring peace, integration, compassion, and self-leadership into your internal world, so that you are able to lead the life you desire. If you are ready to become curious about yourself and your story, I would be privileged to walk alongside you on the journey.
(984) 252-3244 View (984) 252-3244
Photo of Steven Joseph Maurno, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CSOTP
Steven Joseph Maurno
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CSOTP
Online Only
Feeling anxious or depressed is a reasonable response to living in an uncertain world. For many of us, recent years have brought loss and trauma. It may feel like you will never heal. Learning to cope and adapt may feel overwhelming. You want to be your "old self again," but it feels impossible. You may have tried to heal yourself, only to realize you need help. You may hesitate to seek help for fear of being judged. You may feel that you are alone in your struggles, but I want you to know that you are not alone. There is hope.
Feeling anxious or depressed is a reasonable response to living in an uncertain world. For many of us, recent years have brought loss and trauma. It may feel like you will never heal. Learning to cope and adapt may feel overwhelming. You want to be your "old self again," but it feels impossible. You may have tried to heal yourself, only to realize you need help. You may hesitate to seek help for fear of being judged. You may feel that you are alone in your struggles, but I want you to know that you are not alone. There is hope.
(757) 644-3862 View (757) 644-3862
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) 339-0830 View (320) 339-0830
Photo of Mark Christopher Harol, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Mark Christopher Harol
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC, NCC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My work is dedicated to helping people develop healthy relationships and productive, satisfying lives. You may be experiencing depression, anxiety, anger issues, or a difficult situation, a sense that somehow your life is not working out as you'd like. I have additional extensive training in Sex Therapy and sex addiction. I have been a corporate CEO, and am retired from the USAF with 22 years of service to this great country. It would be my privilege to work with you. I offer Video Teletherapy and I'm a certified distance counselor.
My work is dedicated to helping people develop healthy relationships and productive, satisfying lives. You may be experiencing depression, anxiety, anger issues, or a difficult situation, a sense that somehow your life is not working out as you'd like. I have additional extensive training in Sex Therapy and sex addiction. I have been a corporate CEO, and am retired from the USAF with 22 years of service to this great country. It would be my privilege to work with you. I offer Video Teletherapy and I'm a certified distance counselor.
(919) 348-4222 View (919) 348-4222
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.
(254) 237-5468 View (254) 237-5468
Photo of Todd Jones, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor
Todd Jones
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor
Raleigh, NC 27609
My specialty is working in a variety of areas including anxiety, sexual addiction, history of sexual abuse, sexual orientation, childhood trauma, ptsd, marital conflict, affair recovery, divorce, pre-marital counseling, grief, spirituality, and adult transitional issues among many other areas of relational brokenness helping people achieve wholeness.
I enjoy working with clients who seek to grow emotionally, relationally and spiritually. I believe therapy is an opportunity to come alongside others to help them heal and grow. I am relational in my approach. I believe that people have been broken in relationships and that we are healed in the context of relationships. Over the past 19 years I have had many clients reach their goals and experienced transformation through the counseling process. There is no greater privilege than being able to walk beside people in their healing journey. Evening and weekday appointments available. Contact me via phone, text or email.
My specialty is working in a variety of areas including anxiety, sexual addiction, history of sexual abuse, sexual orientation, childhood trauma, ptsd, marital conflict, affair recovery, divorce, pre-marital counseling, grief, spirituality, and adult transitional issues among many other areas of relational brokenness helping people achieve wholeness.
I enjoy working with clients who seek to grow emotionally, relationally and spiritually. I believe therapy is an opportunity to come alongside others to help them heal and grow. I am relational in my approach. I believe that people have been broken in relationships and that we are healed in the context of relationships. Over the past 19 years I have had many clients reach their goals and experienced transformation through the counseling process. There is no greater privilege than being able to walk beside people in their healing journey. Evening and weekday appointments available. Contact me via phone, text or email.
(336) 863-3102 View (336) 863-3102
Photo of Jennifer Padilla, LCMHC, CSAT-C, LCAS
Jennifer Padilla
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, Certified Sex Addiction Therapist Candidate, and Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist; I work with adults and couples navigating attachment wounds, betrayal trauma, and sex or intimacy-based addiction patterns. You might be here because trust has been broken, old patterns keep showing up again and again, or a significant relationship feels stuck, unpredictable, or unsafe. Many of my clients have experienced infidelity, compulsive behaviors, or emotional disconnection that leaves them anxious, overwhelmed, or unsure how to move forward.
As a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, Certified Sex Addiction Therapist Candidate, and Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist; I work with adults and couples navigating attachment wounds, betrayal trauma, and sex or intimacy-based addiction patterns. You might be here because trust has been broken, old patterns keep showing up again and again, or a significant relationship feels stuck, unpredictable, or unsafe. Many of my clients have experienced infidelity, compulsive behaviors, or emotional disconnection that leaves them anxious, overwhelmed, or unsure how to move forward.
(828) 528-3389 View (828) 528-3389
Photo of William Bixler, Psychologist, PhD, CSAT
William Bixler
Psychologist, PhD, CSAT
Serves Area
Are you or a loved one struggling with internet porn, sex addiction, serial affairs, or compulsive masturbation? Tired of living a double life--lying to your partner, friends, family? Shame and guilt often prevent sex addicts from seeking the help they need. Partners, in turn, feel overwhelmed by shock, anger, grief, and a deep sense of betrayal upon discovering the addict's secret life.I specialize in working with sex addicts, their partners and families in a confidential treatment program free of judgment or condemnation. I firmly believe that recovery is possible for this problem.
Are you or a loved one struggling with internet porn, sex addiction, serial affairs, or compulsive masturbation? Tired of living a double life--lying to your partner, friends, family? Shame and guilt often prevent sex addicts from seeking the help they need. Partners, in turn, feel overwhelmed by shock, anger, grief, and a deep sense of betrayal upon discovering the addict's secret life.I specialize in working with sex addicts, their partners and families in a confidential treatment program free of judgment or condemnation. I firmly believe that recovery is possible for this problem.
(919) 344-0786 View (919) 344-0786
Photo of Dr. Tim Martin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, CSAT, CPTT, CMAT
Dr. Tim Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, CSAT, CPTT, CMAT
18 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.
(919) 746-7779 View (919) 746-7779
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.
(662) 686-8889 View (662) 686-8889
Photo of Chris Bissell, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MACMHC, LCMHCA, CSAT-C, CST-C
Chris Bissell
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MACMHC, LCMHCA, CSAT-C, CST-C
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I started my career as an electrical engineer in the aerospace industry, working and leading teams for the International Space Station and a satellite mission. Wanting to work more closely with people, I switched to business strategy consulting, traveling to Fortune 100 companies on a weekly basis for two years. While I got the chance to solve complex problems, I realized I wanted to help people solve the problems that mattered to them at a deeper level. This, coupled with my own recovery journey, is what drives me to do exceptional therapy work today.
I started my career as an electrical engineer in the aerospace industry, working and leading teams for the International Space Station and a satellite mission. Wanting to work more closely with people, I switched to business strategy consulting, traveling to Fortune 100 companies on a weekly basis for two years. While I got the chance to solve complex problems, I realized I wanted to help people solve the problems that mattered to them at a deeper level. This, coupled with my own recovery journey, is what drives me to do exceptional therapy work today.
(704) 318-4785 View (704) 318-4785
Photo of Dr. Sophia Caudle, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCMHC-S, CSAT-S, CST, CTCT
Dr. Sophia Caudle
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCMHC-S, CSAT-S, CST, CTCT
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello! I have been a psychotherapist for over 30 years, and I love working with people and helping them heal and thrive! I work with adults and specialize in many areas, including: sex therapy, sports performance, Mental Fitness Training, settling your nervous system, neurofeedback, Alpha Stim, sex addiction, love addiction, couples therapy, trauma, grief, changing attachment styles, and more. I also provide Intensive coaching and therapy to people who want to feel better faster and make significant changes quickly.
Hello! I have been a psychotherapist for over 30 years, and I love working with people and helping them heal and thrive! I work with adults and specialize in many areas, including: sex therapy, sports performance, Mental Fitness Training, settling your nervous system, neurofeedback, Alpha Stim, sex addiction, love addiction, couples therapy, trauma, grief, changing attachment styles, and more. I also provide Intensive coaching and therapy to people who want to feel better faster and make significant changes quickly.
(919) 698-7061 View (919) 698-7061

See more therapy options for Raleigh

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.