Photo of Joleena Abrams in Los Angeles, CA
Joleena Abrams
CCTSA, CMEMI, MA, CSAC
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90036  (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 a 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 a 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) 639-4614 View (619) 639-4614
Photo of Dale K Rose, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Dale K Rose
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CSAT, CMAT, CTHP
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90027
I am Certified as a Telehealth Provider (CTHP), Sexual Addiction Therapist (CSAT) and an Eye Movement Desensitization/Reprocessing (EMDR) Clinician.
Hi, I'm Dale Rose, and I've been a licensed, practicing Marriage and Family Therapist in the Sherman Oaks-Studio City neighborhood for over 20 years. Do your behaviors and attitudes bother you, and would you like to change them? Would you like to feel more confident and competent, less anxious or depressed? With individualized therapeutic methods, you can address these issues and more. You will better understand how you got here and what you can do to change. You will learn to cope more effectively, heal your inner wounds, and communicate better with yourself and others.
I am Certified as a Telehealth Provider (CTHP), Sexual Addiction Therapist (CSAT) and an Eye Movement Desensitization/Reprocessing (EMDR) Clinician.
Hi, I'm Dale Rose, and I've been a licensed, practicing Marriage and Family Therapist in the Sherman Oaks-Studio City neighborhood for over 20 years. Do your behaviors and attitudes bother you, and would you like to change them? Would you like to feel more confident and competent, less anxious or depressed? With individualized therapeutic methods, you can address these issues and more. You will better understand how you got here and what you can do to change. You will learn to cope more effectively, heal your inner wounds, and communicate better with yourself and others.
(213) 260-4902 View (213) 260-4902
Photo of Men's Issues - Dr. Dean, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Men's Issues - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90071
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
(562) 376-5143 View (562) 376-5143
Photo of Sex Addiction & Parenting: Betrayal In Families in Los Angeles, CA
Sex Addiction & Parenting: Betrayal In Families
LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90064
Families are greatly impacted by betrayal, infidelity and sex addiction. As parents struggle to orient themselves to a new reality in the face of betrayal, it can be overwhelming and painful for a parent to recognize the immediate and future impact on their children. Well meaning parents can unintentionally make serious mistakes in managing the family during this painful and confusing time. You may have questions at this time such as “How is the tension in the household affecting our child?" and “Is our child internalizing emotional pain that we can't see?”
Families are greatly impacted by betrayal, infidelity and sex addiction. As parents struggle to orient themselves to a new reality in the face of betrayal, it can be overwhelming and painful for a parent to recognize the immediate and future impact on their children. Well meaning parents can unintentionally make serious mistakes in managing the family during this painful and confusing time. You may have questions at this time such as “How is the tension in the household affecting our child?" and “Is our child internalizing emotional pain that we can't see?”
(213) 397-2306 View (213) 397-2306
Photo of Melissa A. Richman, PsyD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Melissa A. Richman, PsyD, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW, DAPA
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90035
Nurturing, nonjudgmental understanding, respect and honesty are at the heart of the therapeutic relationship I hope to develop with you. I believe that these deepest principles are the root of healing and recovery. The therapeutic relationship is where and how this takes place. When we address it in the here and now, then it most often generalizes to the present and future of your life. The foundation of my private practice lies in fostering this experience.
Nurturing, nonjudgmental understanding, respect and honesty are at the heart of the therapeutic relationship I hope to develop with you. I believe that these deepest principles are the root of healing and recovery. The therapeutic relationship is where and how this takes place. When we address it in the here and now, then it most often generalizes to the present and future of your life. The foundation of my private practice lies in fostering this experience.
(424) 254-0339 View (424) 254-0339
Photo of Sarah A Goldberg, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Sarah A Goldberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90027
I help people who are dealing with: Job stress; heavy feelings surrounding break-ups; artists who have lost their spark and want to find it again-who are navigating between commercial pressures and the ability to have their true voices heard. Intimacy issues, trauma, and love & sex addiction issues as well as other addictive issues are a specialty. My goal is to create a supportive, non-judgmental space for you to unpack difficult feelings and to help facilitate emotional healing.
I help people who are dealing with: Job stress; heavy feelings surrounding break-ups; artists who have lost their spark and want to find it again-who are navigating between commercial pressures and the ability to have their true voices heard. Intimacy issues, trauma, and love & sex addiction issues as well as other addictive issues are a specialty. My goal is to create a supportive, non-judgmental space for you to unpack difficult feelings and to help facilitate emotional healing.
(424) 383-5009 View (424) 383-5009
Photo of Don ( Dr Don ) Etkes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Don ( Dr Don ) Etkes
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90024
IMMEDIATE APPOINTMENT: STRESS MANAGEMENT by VIDEO, PHONE, OFFICE $65 and up Sliding Fee. Day/Eve/Weekend. "I offer YOU over 30 years of Experience in giving Warm Nurturing Nonjudgmental Guidance to 1000s of people, offering HELP in COPING with YOUR LIFE feeling out of control. My GOAL is your GETTING THE LIFE YOU WANT. " Author "Loving With Passion", Ph.D. in Psychology, life coach, hypnotherapist, UCLA certified Sex Therapist, professional speaker, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, had a TV show "Love U." on TLC. Internationally recognized expert on TV and radio. Written about in Cosmopolitan to the Washington Post. Dr Don
IMMEDIATE APPOINTMENT: STRESS MANAGEMENT by VIDEO, PHONE, OFFICE $65 and up Sliding Fee. Day/Eve/Weekend. "I offer YOU over 30 years of Experience in giving Warm Nurturing Nonjudgmental Guidance to 1000s of people, offering HELP in COPING with YOUR LIFE feeling out of control. My GOAL is your GETTING THE LIFE YOU WANT. " Author "Loving With Passion", Ph.D. in Psychology, life coach, hypnotherapist, UCLA certified Sex Therapist, professional speaker, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, had a TV show "Love U." on TLC. Internationally recognized expert on TV and radio. Written about in Cosmopolitan to the Washington Post. Dr Don
(310) 895-9655 View (310) 895-9655
Photo of Blaze A Cosko, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Blaze A Cosko
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
Relief from Pain Distress Consequences. Hitting rock bottom is a time filled with overwhelming pain resulting from the consequenses of our addiction. It is the moment we recognize just how far we have strayed from our own personal values. Regardless if that addiction is to porn, sex, or drugs, I specialize in helping you find a way out of the darkness and despair. If you need Individual Treatment or Intensive Outpatient Treatment, the team at Mindful Centers for Addiction and Trauma Therapy can guide you down the path to recovery. Email or Call to set up a confidential free 20 min consultation.
Relief from Pain Distress Consequences. Hitting rock bottom is a time filled with overwhelming pain resulting from the consequenses of our addiction. It is the moment we recognize just how far we have strayed from our own personal values. Regardless if that addiction is to porn, sex, or drugs, I specialize in helping you find a way out of the darkness and despair. If you need Individual Treatment or Intensive Outpatient Treatment, the team at Mindful Centers for Addiction and Trauma Therapy can guide you down the path to recovery. Email or Call to set up a confidential free 20 min consultation.
(818) 862-5008 x1 View (818) 862-5008 x1
Photo of Gerald B. Chambers, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Gerald B. Chambers
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90024  (Online Only)
Relationships are as important to us as food and water. They can strengthen us, like a vitamin, or weaken us, like the flu. You are only as good in relationships as the relationships you have been in. As your therapist, I can assist you in many ways. I can help you learn more about yourself, increase both self-compassion and compassion for others, and heal past trauma. Together, we can explore how to feel more connected to yourself, your values, and people you care about.
Relationships are as important to us as food and water. They can strengthen us, like a vitamin, or weaken us, like the flu. You are only as good in relationships as the relationships you have been in. As your therapist, I can assist you in many ways. I can help you learn more about yourself, increase both self-compassion and compassion for others, and heal past trauma. Together, we can explore how to feel more connected to yourself, your values, and people you care about.
(510) 756-4880 View (510) 756-4880
Photo of Kevin James Simms, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Kevin James Simms
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC-II, ICADC, CSAT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Change the story. Change the narrative. Building self esteem comes from doing esteem-able acts. My life experience enables me to offer effective, individualized, client-centered care. I treat a number of mental health disorders and addictions, and provide a safe space to individuals, families, and couples.
Change the story. Change the narrative. Building self esteem comes from doing esteem-able acts. My life experience enables me to offer effective, individualized, client-centered care. I treat a number of mental health disorders and addictions, and provide a safe space to individuals, families, and couples.
(562) 784-5749 View (562) 784-5749
Photo of Alexander Gittinger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Alexander Gittinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90045
Welcome to my therapist website! Embarking on the therapeutic journey takes courage, and I commend you for taking this important step. I am a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist focusing on helping you overcome sex addiction, porn addiction, and relationship challenges. I understand that these issues can have a significant impact on your life and relationships, and I am here to provide a safe and nonjudgmental space for you to explore and heal. I also welcome you if your sexual behavior has gotten you in legal trouble, or if you have an attraction to minors. Together we can explore how to best navigate these challenging situations.
Welcome to my therapist website! Embarking on the therapeutic journey takes courage, and I commend you for taking this important step. I am a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist focusing on helping you overcome sex addiction, porn addiction, and relationship challenges. I understand that these issues can have a significant impact on your life and relationships, and I am here to provide a safe and nonjudgmental space for you to explore and heal. I also welcome you if your sexual behavior has gotten you in legal trouble, or if you have an attraction to minors. Together we can explore how to best navigate these challenging situations.
(424) 622-1431 View (424) 622-1431
Photo of Jack May, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Jack May
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CAMF, CSAT
Verified Verified
20 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
My therapeutic philosophy is rooted in the belief that each individual possesses the strength to overcome their challenges. In my practice, I blend cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, solution-focused strategies, and emotionally focused therapy (EFT) to support those dealing with sex addiction and anger management in a non-judgmental environment. Emphasizing empathy, integrity, and professionalism, I offer guidance and hope. I'm committed to navigating personal challenges and fostering resilience and well-being with you. Together, we'll pursue healing, self-discovery, and a fulfilling life, ensuring you feel supported.
My therapeutic philosophy is rooted in the belief that each individual possesses the strength to overcome their challenges. In my practice, I blend cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, solution-focused strategies, and emotionally focused therapy (EFT) to support those dealing with sex addiction and anger management in a non-judgmental environment. Emphasizing empathy, integrity, and professionalism, I offer guidance and hope. I'm committed to navigating personal challenges and fostering resilience and well-being with you. Together, we'll pursue healing, self-discovery, and a fulfilling life, ensuring you feel supported.
(805) 243-1170 View (805) 243-1170
Photo of Dr. Timothy Devitt, Sexual Recovery Coach in Los Angeles, CA
Dr. Timothy Devitt, Sexual Recovery Coach
PhD, CST, CACDIII
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90048
As a Board Certified Sex Therapist and an Internationally Certified Addiction Counselor, I help people who suffer from problematic sexual behavior. Pornography and PIED, excessive masturbation, sexting, hook-up apps, infidelity, anonymous sex and prostitution are some of the typical behaviors that can become compulsive and difficult to control. If you want to stop a behavior, but find you can't, I can help you. If you repeatedly break promises to yourself or to your partner, I can help you. If you want to stop holding secrets and leading a double life, I can help.
As a Board Certified Sex Therapist and an Internationally Certified Addiction Counselor, I help people who suffer from problematic sexual behavior. Pornography and PIED, excessive masturbation, sexting, hook-up apps, infidelity, anonymous sex and prostitution are some of the typical behaviors that can become compulsive and difficult to control. If you want to stop a behavior, but find you can't, I can help you. If you repeatedly break promises to yourself or to your partner, I can help you. If you want to stop holding secrets and leading a double life, I can help.
(310) 651-7552 View (310) 651-7552
Photo of Jill Vermeire, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Jill Vermeire
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90064
Sex Addiction, Love Addiction, Partner Betrayal, Trauma & Sex Therapy...these are my specialties and some of my favorite issues to work with. If you feel stuck, confused, or hurt you don't have to keep suffering. My job is to support you and help you understand yourself so you can make the changes you need to have the life you want. I can help you heal from shame, pain, or guilt of addiction, trauma, or betrayal. You will learn what you value, what you want, & together we will find clarity in your relationships from the past to the present so you can be hopeful about your future. I want you to feel empowered and confident...truly.
Sex Addiction, Love Addiction, Partner Betrayal, Trauma & Sex Therapy...these are my specialties and some of my favorite issues to work with. If you feel stuck, confused, or hurt you don't have to keep suffering. My job is to support you and help you understand yourself so you can make the changes you need to have the life you want. I can help you heal from shame, pain, or guilt of addiction, trauma, or betrayal. You will learn what you value, what you want, & together we will find clarity in your relationships from the past to the present so you can be hopeful about your future. I want you to feel empowered and confident...truly.
(602) 536-6982 View (602) 536-6982
Photo of Men's Issues - Dr. Dean, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Men's Issues - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90071
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
(949) 694-7987 View (949) 694-7987
Photo of Men's Issues - Dr. Dean, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Men's Issues - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90071
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
(310) 929-9852 View (310) 929-9852
Photo of Men’s Issues - Dr. Dean, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Men’s Issues - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90071
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
(949) 694-7993 View (949) 694-7993
Photo of Men's Issues - Dr. Dean, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Men's Issues - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90071
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
(949) 755-8095 View (949) 755-8095
Photo of Men's Issues - Dr. Dean, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Men's Issues - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90071
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
(626) 209-8796 View (626) 209-8796
Photo of Men's Issues - Dr. Dean, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Men's Issues - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90071
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
(714) 477-7385 View (714) 477-7385

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.