Photo of Sexual Addiction Infidelity Expert 26 Yrs Exper, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Sexual Addiction Infidelity Expert 26 Yrs Exper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, SOTS
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90071
Absolute sexual addiction elite level expert 26 years + 45,000 hours sexual misbehavior specialist psychotherapy provided, faster recovery evidence based research oriented treating of Infidelity / Cheating /Affairs, Prostitution Use, "Seeking Arrangements", Sugar Daddy, Sex Apps, Strip Clubs, Massage Parlors, Sex Misconduct, Certified Specialist. I created government funded sexual misbehavior programs, utilizing highly effective clinical models. I use my most up to date understanding to have you change your thinking and learn how to end self destructive actions and love yourself and the great life you have. All I do is these cases.
Absolute sexual addiction elite level expert 26 years + 45,000 hours sexual misbehavior specialist psychotherapy provided, faster recovery evidence based research oriented treating of Infidelity / Cheating /Affairs, Prostitution Use, "Seeking Arrangements", Sugar Daddy, Sex Apps, Strip Clubs, Massage Parlors, Sex Misconduct, Certified Specialist. I created government funded sexual misbehavior programs, utilizing highly effective clinical models. I use my most up to date understanding to have you change your thinking and learn how to end self destructive actions and love yourself and the great life you have. All I do is these cases.
(562) 454-1931 View (562) 454-1931
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 Sexual Addiction Sex Misbehavior Infidelity Expert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Sexual Addiction Sex Misbehavior Infidelity Expert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SOTS
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90024
Absolute sexual addiction elite level expert 26 years + 45,000 hours sexual misbehavior specialist psychotherapy provided, faster recovery evidence based research oriented treating of Infidelity / Cheating /Affairs, Prostitution Use, "Seeking Arrangements", Sugar Daddy, Sex Apps, Strip Clubs, Massage Parlors, Sex Misconduct, Certified Specialist. I created government funded sexual misbehavior programs, utilizing highly effective clinical models. I use my most up to date understanding to have you change your thinking and learn how to end self destructive actions and love yourself and the great life you have. All I do is these cases.
Absolute sexual addiction elite level expert 26 years + 45,000 hours sexual misbehavior specialist psychotherapy provided, faster recovery evidence based research oriented treating of Infidelity / Cheating /Affairs, Prostitution Use, "Seeking Arrangements", Sugar Daddy, Sex Apps, Strip Clubs, Massage Parlors, Sex Misconduct, Certified Specialist. I created government funded sexual misbehavior programs, utilizing highly effective clinical models. I use my most up to date understanding to have you change your thinking and learn how to end self destructive actions and love yourself and the great life you have. All I do is these cases.
(619) 824-6086 View (619) 824-6086
Photo of Paul Julio Calloway, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Paul Julio Calloway
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90043
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in treating anxiety, PTSD, anger management, depression, OCD, co-dependency and sexual addiction.
As a therapist, I would like to create a safe place to discuss and process your feelings. The most important thing for me is building trust and rapport so that the therapeutic process can commence. I am here to provide guidance and tailor my counseling interventions to address your specific needs. I identify as a therapist of color specializing in working with communities of color.
I specialize in treating anxiety, PTSD, anger management, depression, OCD, co-dependency and sexual addiction.
As a therapist, I would like to create a safe place to discuss and process your feelings. The most important thing for me is building trust and rapport so that the therapeutic process can commence. I am here to provide guidance and tailor my counseling interventions to address your specific needs. I identify as a therapist of color specializing in working with communities of color.
(510) 983-7753 View (510) 983-7753
Photo of Matthew Opoien, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles, CA
Matthew Opoien
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90011
I specialize in working with couples struggling with infidelity and sexual addiction.
Do you find yourself struggling in the wake of infidelity? Most divorcing couples list infidelity as a factor in their divorce. However, these divorces can be prevented approximately 70% of the time. The biggest factor in whether or not your marriage can weather this hardship is in how long it takes you to get help.
I specialize in working with couples struggling with infidelity and sexual addiction.
Do you find yourself struggling in the wake of infidelity? Most divorcing couples list infidelity as a factor in their divorce. However, these divorces can be prevented approximately 70% of the time. The biggest factor in whether or not your marriage can weather this hardship is in how long it takes you to get help.
(760) 359-9867 View (760) 359-9867
Photo of Caleb Park, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles, CA
Caleb Park
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90020
I am dedicated to providing personalized support for individuals struggling with a range of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma (EMDR Certified), sexual addiction, marital issues, substance addiction, and panic attacks. My comprehensive approach to therapy draws from a combination of evidence-based practices, including CBT, DBT, Psychodynamic, and solution-focused therapy, to help you achieve lasting results. I have over 8+ years of clinical experience, along with the best sexual addiction and trauma therapy training. You can trust that you are with a professional who has been trained at the highest-level institutions.
I am dedicated to providing personalized support for individuals struggling with a range of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma (EMDR Certified), sexual addiction, marital issues, substance addiction, and panic attacks. My comprehensive approach to therapy draws from a combination of evidence-based practices, including CBT, DBT, Psychodynamic, and solution-focused therapy, to help you achieve lasting results. I have over 8+ years of clinical experience, along with the best sexual addiction and trauma therapy training. You can trust that you are with a professional who has been trained at the highest-level institutions.
(562) 303-5633 View (562) 303-5633
Photo of Kristen Parker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Kristen Parker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PsyD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90001
I specialize in the treatment of PTSD, Dissociative Disorders, Borderline Personality Disorder, Military Trauma, Eating Disorders and Sexual Addiction.
I am a Psychoanalyst and Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been in practice for over 30 years, treating children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I provide a skilled, empathic, supportive, and yet challenging therapeutic environment in which I will not only act as a guide to deeper insight, but help to navigate the change that is necessary to help you reach your potential as well.
I specialize in the treatment of PTSD, Dissociative Disorders, Borderline Personality Disorder, Military Trauma, Eating Disorders and Sexual Addiction.
I am a Psychoanalyst and Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been in practice for over 30 years, treating children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I provide a skilled, empathic, supportive, and yet challenging therapeutic environment in which I will not only act as a guide to deeper insight, but help to navigate the change that is necessary to help you reach your potential as well.
(310) 740-9761 View (310) 740-9761
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 Gretchen Mattox, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Gretchen Mattox
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT, CMAT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90066  (Online Only)
As the Clinical Director of a group practice and sex therapist, I want my patients to feel safe; trust opens the door to healing. I have successfully treated: infidelity, sexual abuse, pelvic pain, sexual compulsions, and erectile struggles. As Rumi said, "The wound is the place the Light enters you." Stress and unfinished emotional work can make us feel stuck or lead to destructive relationship patterns, and sexual acting out. My office is a shame free zone where we can unpack together a course best suited for your individual healing. Sex is a complex as each of us are as individuals. Shame can be in your past; a new life awaits!
As the Clinical Director of a group practice and sex therapist, I want my patients to feel safe; trust opens the door to healing. I have successfully treated: infidelity, sexual abuse, pelvic pain, sexual compulsions, and erectile struggles. As Rumi said, "The wound is the place the Light enters you." Stress and unfinished emotional work can make us feel stuck or lead to destructive relationship patterns, and sexual acting out. My office is a shame free zone where we can unpack together a course best suited for your individual healing. Sex is a complex as each of us are as individuals. Shame can be in your past; a new life awaits!
(310) 773-4247 View (310) 773-4247
Photo of Sex Addiction Sexual Misbehavior Infidelity Expert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Sex Addiction Sexual Misbehavior Infidelity Expert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SOTS , JSOC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90028
Absolute sex addiction elite level expert, 26 years & 45,000 hours sexual misbehavior specialist psychotherapy provided, faster recovery. Evidence based research oriented treating of Infidelity/Cheating/Affairs, Prostitution Use, "Seeking Arrangements", Sugar Daddy, Sex Apps, Strip Clubs, Massage Parlors, Sex Misconduct, Certified Specialist. I created government funded sexual misbehavior programs, utilizing highly effective clinical models. I use my most up to date understanding to have you change your thinking and learn how to end self destructive actions and love yourself and the great life you have. All I do is these cases.
Absolute sex addiction elite level expert, 26 years & 45,000 hours sexual misbehavior specialist psychotherapy provided, faster recovery. Evidence based research oriented treating of Infidelity/Cheating/Affairs, Prostitution Use, "Seeking Arrangements", Sugar Daddy, Sex Apps, Strip Clubs, Massage Parlors, Sex Misconduct, Certified Specialist. I created government funded sexual misbehavior programs, utilizing highly effective clinical models. I use my most up to date understanding to have you change your thinking and learn how to end self destructive actions and love yourself and the great life you have. All I do is these cases.
(213) 319-5604 View (213) 319-5604
Photo of Adam Silverstein, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Adam Silverstein
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CSAT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90004
Sometimes we just need a little help getting through tough times or difficult situations. We might be experiencing depression, anxiety, stress at work, or conflict in our relationships, for example. In those moments it might feel like you don’t know what to do or where to turn. I work collaboratively with clients from a strength-based, solution-focused orientation. I incorporate cognitive behavioral strategies and mindfulness practices to help clients reach their goals. I am dedicated to helping clients have lives that are meaningful and enjoyable.
Sometimes we just need a little help getting through tough times or difficult situations. We might be experiencing depression, anxiety, stress at work, or conflict in our relationships, for example. In those moments it might feel like you don’t know what to do or where to turn. I work collaboratively with clients from a strength-based, solution-focused orientation. I incorporate cognitive behavioral strategies and mindfulness practices to help clients reach their goals. I am dedicated to helping clients have lives that are meaningful and enjoyable.
(323) 395-5077 View (323) 395-5077
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 Virginia Gilbert, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Virginia Gilbert
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90027  (Online Only)
Do you and your partner have a hard time resolving conflict? Is the struggle to connect making you feel alone and misunderstood? Or, if you're divorced, is the level of acrimony between you and your ex so intense that it feels impossible to co-parent? I help both partnered and divorced couples learn how to regulate their emotions and communicate skillfully. I also help people who struggle with sexual compulsivity and love addiction learn to manage their feelings without resorting to destructive behaviors or staying attached to unhealthy people.
Do you and your partner have a hard time resolving conflict? Is the struggle to connect making you feel alone and misunderstood? Or, if you're divorced, is the level of acrimony between you and your ex so intense that it feels impossible to co-parent? I help both partnered and divorced couples learn how to regulate their emotions and communicate skillfully. I also help people who struggle with sexual compulsivity and love addiction learn to manage their feelings without resorting to destructive behaviors or staying attached to unhealthy people.
(323) 988-0580 View (323) 988-0580
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 Dr. Suzanne Pelka, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Dr. Suzanne Pelka
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90066
In need of sex therapy? Lack of desire? A sex-starved marriage? Sex/porn addiction? Just not on the same page as your partner? As a Sexuality Specialist and CSAT, I have successfully treated clients struggling with many different sexual problems (Men: erectile dysfunction, rapid/premature/delayed ejaculation. Women: low desire, painful intercourse, vaginismus/vulvadynia. Either: sexual inexperience, sexual anorexia, childhood sexual traumas including incest). I often use EMDR to resolve underlying traumas. I have researched and taught at UCLA, SMC, The University of Chicago, DePaul and have been a sexuality expert on NBC, ABC and KCAL 9 news.
In need of sex therapy? Lack of desire? A sex-starved marriage? Sex/porn addiction? Just not on the same page as your partner? As a Sexuality Specialist and CSAT, I have successfully treated clients struggling with many different sexual problems (Men: erectile dysfunction, rapid/premature/delayed ejaculation. Women: low desire, painful intercourse, vaginismus/vulvadynia. Either: sexual inexperience, sexual anorexia, childhood sexual traumas including incest). I often use EMDR to resolve underlying traumas. I have researched and taught at UCLA, SMC, The University of Chicago, DePaul and have been a sexuality expert on NBC, ABC and KCAL 9 news.
(310) 601-6882 View (310) 601-6882
Photo of Therapy Is Here, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Therapy Is Here
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CSAT, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90014
Give yourself permission to be vulnerable by putting yourself first. Negative and highly-critical self-talk, especially for gay men, is the root of many of our problems and addictions. You may feel “less-than” others, think poorly of yourself, or are unsure how to get your needs met. I can help you to shed light on where this inner-critic is coming from, how to quiet it, and help you rebuild your relationship with self/others. Next, we can develop tools to manage anxiety and depression, embrace your sexuality, develop a healthier relationship to sex/porn, heal infidelity, integrate love and sex, or improve your relationships.
Give yourself permission to be vulnerable by putting yourself first. Negative and highly-critical self-talk, especially for gay men, is the root of many of our problems and addictions. You may feel “less-than” others, think poorly of yourself, or are unsure how to get your needs met. I can help you to shed light on where this inner-critic is coming from, how to quiet it, and help you rebuild your relationship with self/others. Next, we can develop tools to manage anxiety and depression, embrace your sexuality, develop a healthier relationship to sex/porn, heal infidelity, integrate love and sex, or improve your relationships.
(562) 645-4643 View (562) 645-4643
Photo of Rhonda B Bernstein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Rhonda B Bernstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CST, CSAT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90046  (Online Only)
I'm a licensed clinical social worker with over 30 years of clinical experience helping clients with a variety of issues including relational problems, trauma, depression, stress and anxiety disorders, life transitions, low self-esteem, partner betrayal, substance abuse, sexual dysfunction, and compulsive behaviors. My therapy is client-centered, strengths-based and solution-focused. I provide both individual and couples therapy.
I'm a licensed clinical social worker with over 30 years of clinical experience helping clients with a variety of issues including relational problems, trauma, depression, stress and anxiety disorders, life transitions, low self-esteem, partner betrayal, substance abuse, sexual dysfunction, and compulsive behaviors. My therapy is client-centered, strengths-based and solution-focused. I provide both individual and couples therapy.
(818) 649-6111 View (818) 649-6111
Photo of Greg Binns, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Greg Binns
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90048
I provide a reliable space for talking about what affects you most deeply in your love, work, creative and spiritual life. We will develop pragmatic approaches to achieving greater fulfillment and less distress. As we carefully develop an understanding of your internal and interpersonal life, our dialogue will afford you a deeper understanding of how you function with others and how you create meaning for yourself. I regard each person's therapy as unique in terms of goals, pace, content, and the nature of our working relationship.
I provide a reliable space for talking about what affects you most deeply in your love, work, creative and spiritual life. We will develop pragmatic approaches to achieving greater fulfillment and less distress. As we carefully develop an understanding of your internal and interpersonal life, our dialogue will afford you a deeper understanding of how you function with others and how you create meaning for yourself. I regard each person's therapy as unique in terms of goals, pace, content, and the nature of our working relationship.
(888) 712-9896 View (888) 712-9896
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 Naomi Lewis Afriat, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Naomi Lewis Afriat
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90035
I'm a Licensed Certified Social Worker with many years of clinical experience, currently licensed in CA, FL, NJ and NY. The focus of my work is with betrayed partners (of sex addicts). Most of my clients approach me trying to understand and process the trauma that they have suffered. For many patients, their recent trauma, is not their first. Patients often tell me that I’m so easy to talk to and that they feel comfortable and validated when working with me. In helping my clients understand their trauma, and the dynamics around it, I work gently and carefully, while ensuring comfort and safety as we talk about these difficult topics
I'm a Licensed Certified Social Worker with many years of clinical experience, currently licensed in CA, FL, NJ and NY. The focus of my work is with betrayed partners (of sex addicts). Most of my clients approach me trying to understand and process the trauma that they have suffered. For many patients, their recent trauma, is not their first. Patients often tell me that I’m so easy to talk to and that they feel comfortable and validated when working with me. In helping my clients understand their trauma, and the dynamics around it, I work gently and carefully, while ensuring comfort and safety as we talk about these difficult topics
(213) 205-0874 View (213) 205-0874


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.