Sexual Addiction Therapists in 08502
Linda Gilbert McDonald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Belle Mead, NJ 08502
Courage. That is what I hear when I am contacted for consultation. We collaborate in a supportive environment to face challenges like being single (again), grief, strengthening a marriage, #MeToo, anxiety, codependency, impostor syndrome or burnout. Together, we understand and transform barriers that block you from what you want in life. I have extensive training in the treatment of trauma/neglect. I have experience working with people from a variety of ethnicities, religious/spiritual backgrounds and sexual orientations. We will mindfully, focus on the present and briefly visit the past when it is influencing the present.
Courage. That is what I hear when I am contacted for consultation. We collaborate in a supportive environment to face challenges like being single (again), grief, strengthening a marriage, #MeToo, anxiety, codependency, impostor syndrome or burnout. Together, we understand and transform barriers that block you from what you want in life. I have extensive training in the treatment of trauma/neglect. I have experience working with people from a variety of ethnicities, religious/spiritual backgrounds and sexual orientations. We will mindfully, focus on the present and briefly visit the past when it is influencing the present.
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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.