Sexual Addiction Therapists in Chicago, IL

Photo of Patrick Cornelius, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Patrick Cornelius
Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC, CADC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60605
Our you struggling with addiction, porn, sexual addiction, personality disorders? I believe in providing therapy that works. I believe in reducing/eliminating the problem. So many times, I hear of clients that's been in therapy for years. I believe that in 8 -12 sessions there should be at the minimum a reduction in symptoms or complete elimination, or a referral out should be recommended. I practice Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Value Based Therapy, and Interpersonal therapy to conceptualize a client's issues to reduce and eliminate the problem.
Our you struggling with addiction, porn, sexual addiction, personality disorders? I believe in providing therapy that works. I believe in reducing/eliminating the problem. So many times, I hear of clients that's been in therapy for years. I believe that in 8 -12 sessions there should be at the minimum a reduction in symptoms or complete elimination, or a referral out should be recommended. I practice Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Value Based Therapy, and Interpersonal therapy to conceptualize a client's issues to reduce and eliminate the problem.
(773) 985-2021 View (773) 985-2021
Photo of Zachariah (Zach) Seifert, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Zachariah (Zach) Seifert
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60642  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with individuals who may be experiencing complex relationship challenges, faith Integration & spirituality concerns, sexual addiction & urge control difficulties, and emotion management & regulation. I have experience supporting people with with anxiety & depression, family of origin dynamics, military and service member populations, as well as athletes & sports related hurdles. Additionally, I work with couples who are married, interested in pre-marital support, dating, or thinking about starting a romantic relationship.
I specialize in working with individuals who may be experiencing complex relationship challenges, faith Integration & spirituality concerns, sexual addiction & urge control difficulties, and emotion management & regulation. I have experience supporting people with with anxiety & depression, family of origin dynamics, military and service member populations, as well as athletes & sports related hurdles. Additionally, I work with couples who are married, interested in pre-marital support, dating, or thinking about starting a romantic relationship.
(630) 326-8406 View (630) 326-8406
Photo of Peonita Harris, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
Peonita Harris
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, CSAT, CPTT, DWCF
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
I see couples, partners and individuals recovering from sexual addiction.
The Couple and Family Clinic is creating connections that heal. We specialize in relational conflict and trauma, partner betrayal trauma, sexual compulsion, cultural trauma and grief and loss. Pain and adjustment is a part of life. I am here to walk with you through the process so that you will arrive at your goal feeling healthy and whole. The client's experience from beginning to the end of treatment are all very important to me and the healing process. We all desire healthy, happy and loving relationships, and this takes courage and will pull us out of our comfort zone. Sometimes loving ourselves is the best place to start.
I see couples, partners and individuals recovering from sexual addiction.
The Couple and Family Clinic is creating connections that heal. We specialize in relational conflict and trauma, partner betrayal trauma, sexual compulsion, cultural trauma and grief and loss. Pain and adjustment is a part of life. I am here to walk with you through the process so that you will arrive at your goal feeling healthy and whole. The client's experience from beginning to the end of treatment are all very important to me and the healing process. We all desire healthy, happy and loving relationships, and this takes courage and will pull us out of our comfort zone. Sometimes loving ourselves is the best place to start.
(847) 416-6625 View (847) 416-6625
Photo of Barney Straus, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Barney Straus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PCGC, CGP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
I specialize in treating addictions to drugs, alcohol, and behaviors such as gambling, sex, Internet, and eating. I also address underlying issues such as anxiety, depression, and relationship problems. I work with adults of all ages individually as well as in groups. My approach to therapy is an interpersonal, client-centered approach. In other words, the client's own treatment goals are of central importance. Recovering from addiction usually entails two phases; stopping the problematic behavior, and the examining deeper issues.
I specialize in treating addictions to drugs, alcohol, and behaviors such as gambling, sex, Internet, and eating. I also address underlying issues such as anxiety, depression, and relationship problems. I work with adults of all ages individually as well as in groups. My approach to therapy is an interpersonal, client-centered approach. In other words, the client's own treatment goals are of central importance. Recovering from addiction usually entails two phases; stopping the problematic behavior, and the examining deeper issues.
(312) 698-3313 View (312) 698-3313
Photo of Alexi Gianopulos, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Alexi Gianopulos
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60604
Being human is so beautiful, and can also be very difficult. Our bodies hold stories of great beauty, and also great shame. Often stories of pain, shame, and harm get minimized and not tended to. As a result, these stories are held in our bodies and can lead to addictions, anxiety, depression, loss of connection, anger, sadness, self-doubt, negative self-esteem, overwhelming emotions, and disorientation. If you can relate to this, you are not alone - I am here for you, and most importantly, there is hope!
Being human is so beautiful, and can also be very difficult. Our bodies hold stories of great beauty, and also great shame. Often stories of pain, shame, and harm get minimized and not tended to. As a result, these stories are held in our bodies and can lead to addictions, anxiety, depression, loss of connection, anger, sadness, self-doubt, negative self-esteem, overwhelming emotions, and disorientation. If you can relate to this, you are not alone - I am here for you, and most importantly, there is hope!
(630) 642-6696 View (630) 642-6696
Photo of John P Harris, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
John P Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60614
I specialize in treating men who were sexually abused as children, the treatment of sexual addictions, couples therapy, relationship issues, depression and anxiety. If you are unhappy in your relationships or career, suffering from depression or anxiety, going through a crisis, or wanting to make changes in your life, psychotherapy can help you. Please visit my website at wwwjohnpharris.com.
I specialize in treating men who were sexually abused as children, the treatment of sexual addictions, couples therapy, relationship issues, depression and anxiety. If you are unhappy in your relationships or career, suffering from depression or anxiety, going through a crisis, or wanting to make changes in your life, psychotherapy can help you. Please visit my website at wwwjohnpharris.com.
(773) 747-6150 View (773) 747-6150
Photo of David Gasper, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
David Gasper
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LMHC, NCC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611
Waitlist for new clients
Do you feel like you've lost your way? Maybe your use of substances or engagement in acting out behaviors has taken you so far from your values you don't know what they are anymore. Perhaps you've experienced a recent life change, and the future seems so uncertain you don't know who you are anymore. I combine a science-based therapeutic approach with a deep love of philosophy to help you work towards a fuller understanding of yourself and your world. Together, we'll use that robust understanding of yourself & your world to identify the gap between the life you have and the life you want and develop tools and goals to close that gap.
Do you feel like you've lost your way? Maybe your use of substances or engagement in acting out behaviors has taken you so far from your values you don't know what they are anymore. Perhaps you've experienced a recent life change, and the future seems so uncertain you don't know who you are anymore. I combine a science-based therapeutic approach with a deep love of philosophy to help you work towards a fuller understanding of yourself and your world. Together, we'll use that robust understanding of yourself & your world to identify the gap between the life you have and the life you want and develop tools and goals to close that gap.
(872) 529-3516 View (872) 529-3516
Photo of Rob LeLaurin in Chicago, IL
Rob LeLaurin
MA, LCPC, CSAT-C, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60604  (Online Only)
You are not alone. Perhaps you feel anxious or depressed or addicted or lonely or filled with shame. You want to change your behavior, negative thoughts, and understand your emotions in order to gain balance and wholeness in life, but you feel stuck. There is hope. Tomorrow does not have to be like today. Change is actually possible. Each of us needs someone to bear witness to the core stories of our lives, and to help us make sense of why our life looks and feels the way it does. I can partner with you on your journey toward true transformation, healing, and wholeness as we explore all that is going on within you.
You are not alone. Perhaps you feel anxious or depressed or addicted or lonely or filled with shame. You want to change your behavior, negative thoughts, and understand your emotions in order to gain balance and wholeness in life, but you feel stuck. There is hope. Tomorrow does not have to be like today. Change is actually possible. Each of us needs someone to bear witness to the core stories of our lives, and to help us make sense of why our life looks and feels the way it does. I can partner with you on your journey toward true transformation, healing, and wholeness as we explore all that is going on within you.
(630) 345-8672 View (630) 345-8672
Photo of Jodi Craft Bates, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Jodi Craft Bates
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60622
I have experience in the treatment of addictions, anxiety, and depression. I am also experienced working with trauma, bipolar and borderline personality disorders. I graduated from Colorado Christian University in 2020 with my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I am currently working on my CSAT certification. Prior to gaining my Master's in Clinical Mental Health, I worked in non-profit outreach providing services such as psychoeducation in anger management to marginalized population groups and people operations providing recruiting, career development, and human resources support.
I have experience in the treatment of addictions, anxiety, and depression. I am also experienced working with trauma, bipolar and borderline personality disorders. I graduated from Colorado Christian University in 2020 with my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I am currently working on my CSAT certification. Prior to gaining my Master's in Clinical Mental Health, I worked in non-profit outreach providing services such as psychoeducation in anger management to marginalized population groups and people operations providing recruiting, career development, and human resources support.
(872) 219-1683 View (872) 219-1683
Photo of Luke Thimmesch, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Luke Thimmesch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60618
Do you feel like no one truly knows you? Do you feel like if people knew the REAL you that you wouldn't be accepted or loved? Depression, shame, and anxiety are all common experiences as we reflect on our unwanted behavior, relational discord, past trauma, and family of origin. The motivation to change becomes all that much harder when you seek it out alone. You want to believe there is hope for a brighter day. Let's work together as we honor your resiliency and work towards healing because the question "what would you prefer?" is worth asking. You want to live a life of freedom. Let's boldly walk into that freedom together.
Do you feel like no one truly knows you? Do you feel like if people knew the REAL you that you wouldn't be accepted or loved? Depression, shame, and anxiety are all common experiences as we reflect on our unwanted behavior, relational discord, past trauma, and family of origin. The motivation to change becomes all that much harder when you seek it out alone. You want to believe there is hope for a brighter day. Let's work together as we honor your resiliency and work towards healing because the question "what would you prefer?" is worth asking. You want to live a life of freedom. Let's boldly walk into that freedom together.
(630) 937-1212 View (630) 937-1212
Photo of Deborah Vege, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Deborah Vege
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611  (Online Only)
I graduated from Northeastern Illinois University with a Bachelor’s in social work in 2005 and from Dominican University with a Masters in Social Work in 2006. I am a skilled therapist with experience working with individuals, couples, families, and groups. I utilize a variety of approaches including strength based, solution focused, motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioral therapy. I have experienced working with addiction, anxiety, depression, grief, and other behavioral challenges. I provide a relaxed atmosphere where individuals feel safe to express themselves fully.
I graduated from Northeastern Illinois University with a Bachelor’s in social work in 2005 and from Dominican University with a Masters in Social Work in 2006. I am a skilled therapist with experience working with individuals, couples, families, and groups. I utilize a variety of approaches including strength based, solution focused, motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioral therapy. I have experienced working with addiction, anxiety, depression, grief, and other behavioral challenges. I provide a relaxed atmosphere where individuals feel safe to express themselves fully.
(872) 219-2548 View (872) 219-2548
Photo of Nakisher Psychological Services, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Nakisher Psychological Services
Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60611  (Online Only)
Dr. Nakisher offers a practical approach in a supportive, yet challenging atmosphere to help clients gain insight, make lasting changes in life and get out your own way. He works particularly well with people who have previously experienced therapy as unhelpful. Dr. Nakisher also works a business consultant to major corporations, improving business through human capital.
Dr. Nakisher offers a practical approach in a supportive, yet challenging atmosphere to help clients gain insight, make lasting changes in life and get out your own way. He works particularly well with people who have previously experienced therapy as unhelpful. Dr. Nakisher also works a business consultant to major corporations, improving business through human capital.
(773) 417-5450 View (773) 417-5450
Photo of Prem K Pahwa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Prem K Pahwa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
Waitlist for new clients
I'm a Mental Health Clinician with over 20yrs experience, and also a Certified Sex Therapist. I work with LGBTQ+ and heterosexual people on a variety of relational and mental health issues, as well as sexual and intimacy concerns. I approach my work from a sexual health model and values driven perspective. I work with clients on consensual non-monogamy/polyam, kink, BDSM, as well as sexual health challenges such as erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, desire discrepancies, etc. I continue to work with mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, as well as navigating life!
I'm a Mental Health Clinician with over 20yrs experience, and also a Certified Sex Therapist. I work with LGBTQ+ and heterosexual people on a variety of relational and mental health issues, as well as sexual and intimacy concerns. I approach my work from a sexual health model and values driven perspective. I work with clients on consensual non-monogamy/polyam, kink, BDSM, as well as sexual health challenges such as erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, desire discrepancies, etc. I continue to work with mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, as well as navigating life!
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Photo of SFC Searching For Change, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
SFC Searching For Change
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT-S, SE-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
My practice works with a diverse population. I specialize in addiction, both Sex Addiction and a range of other addictions. I run groups for sex addicts and for the partners of sex addicts. I also specialize in trauma and work with adolescent and adult trauma survivors, both male and female. The practice also works with the LGBTQ community.
My practice works with a diverse population. I specialize in addiction, both Sex Addiction and a range of other addictions. I run groups for sex addicts and for the partners of sex addicts. I also specialize in trauma and work with adolescent and adult trauma survivors, both male and female. The practice also works with the LGBTQ community.
(917) 746-5114 View (917) 746-5114
Photo of Igor Soloveychik, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Igor Soloveychik
Psychologist, PsyD, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60611
Dr. Soloveychik focuses on treatment of sex and love addiction (pornography, infidelity, escorts, romantic obsessions) and sexual anorexia. For the past 15+ years, I’ve had the privilege to provide concierge therapeutic relationships to help individuals and their partners to stop out of control damaging sexually compulsive behaviors. You can heal the shame, loneliness, and possible presence of attachment failures/trauma. You can stop using sex to cope with stress/boredom. End seeking external validation and artificial dopamine dependence; regain lost time, become more present, and experience intimate loving honest relationships.
Dr. Soloveychik focuses on treatment of sex and love addiction (pornography, infidelity, escorts, romantic obsessions) and sexual anorexia. For the past 15+ years, I’ve had the privilege to provide concierge therapeutic relationships to help individuals and their partners to stop out of control damaging sexually compulsive behaviors. You can heal the shame, loneliness, and possible presence of attachment failures/trauma. You can stop using sex to cope with stress/boredom. End seeking external validation and artificial dopamine dependence; regain lost time, become more present, and experience intimate loving honest relationships.
(773) 312-3752 View (773) 312-3752
Photo of Kurt Mohning, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Kurt Mohning
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CGP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60625  (Online Only)
"Have you come to a point in your life where you know things need to change but you are not sure how to make that happen? I can help you through a process of change and guide you to a more satisyfying peaceful way of living. I offer a warm safe enviroment where you can take the time and energy to only focus on yourself.
"Have you come to a point in your life where you know things need to change but you are not sure how to make that happen? I can help you through a process of change and guide you to a more satisyfying peaceful way of living. I offer a warm safe enviroment where you can take the time and energy to only focus on yourself.
(773) 382-1521 View (773) 382-1521
Photo of Korey McWilliams, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Korey McWilliams
Counselor, MA, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
I work with individuals and couples with a variety of emotional and interpersonal concerns. I have a particular interest in working with issues around intimacy, sexuality, and identity. Sexual difficulties and dissatisfaction are surprisingly common. In fact, most of us will experience some sexual difficulties even in the best of relationships and at the best of times. However, misunderstood and unaddressed sexual difficulties can have a domino effect, negatively impacting how you view yourself, your partner, and your relationship. The result often entails unnecessary feelings of disconnection, frustration, anxiety, and shame, not to mention the loss of your sex life!
I work with individuals and couples with a variety of emotional and interpersonal concerns. I have a particular interest in working with issues around intimacy, sexuality, and identity. Sexual difficulties and dissatisfaction are surprisingly common. In fact, most of us will experience some sexual difficulties even in the best of relationships and at the best of times. However, misunderstood and unaddressed sexual difficulties can have a domino effect, negatively impacting how you view yourself, your partner, and your relationship. The result often entails unnecessary feelings of disconnection, frustration, anxiety, and shame, not to mention the loss of your sex life!
(312) 487-2555 View (312) 487-2555
Photo of Aaron Swerdlove, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Aaron Swerdlove
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60622
Finding our true sense of Self or "Good nature" can be very helpful for healing and personal growth. Understanding our personalty structure or internal landscape i.e. the "Critic" , or the "inner child" etc can lead to clarity, compassion, curiosity, connectedness, courage, creativity, confidence, calm and everything in this wheelhouse. These are the characteristics of Self leadership. Come and explore with me, I'm here to help.
Finding our true sense of Self or "Good nature" can be very helpful for healing and personal growth. Understanding our personalty structure or internal landscape i.e. the "Critic" , or the "inner child" etc can lead to clarity, compassion, curiosity, connectedness, courage, creativity, confidence, calm and everything in this wheelhouse. These are the characteristics of Self leadership. Come and explore with me, I'm here to help.
(872) 204-2733 View (872) 204-2733
Photo of Cat Sanders, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Cat Sanders
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
My focus is on encouraging the process of recovery, whether it is recovery from mental illness, sex addiction (including pornography, masturbation, compulsive infidelity), betrayal trauma, substance abuse or other types of addictions. I believe that recovery is made possible by a willingness to change, courage to commit, and the help of supportive people. I am dedicated to providing a safe, non-judgmental, and compassionate space for clients to express themselves, process their experiences, and work on removing what is blocking their path to success and contentment.
My focus is on encouraging the process of recovery, whether it is recovery from mental illness, sex addiction (including pornography, masturbation, compulsive infidelity), betrayal trauma, substance abuse or other types of addictions. I believe that recovery is made possible by a willingness to change, courage to commit, and the help of supportive people. I am dedicated to providing a safe, non-judgmental, and compassionate space for clients to express themselves, process their experiences, and work on removing what is blocking their path to success and contentment.
(773) 570-7631 View (773) 570-7631
Photo of Helen Wyatt, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
Helen Wyatt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60618
Waitlist for new clients
You get a pit in your stomach when you think about, discuss, or engage in sex; you no longer or never enjoyed it. You have pain, erection, arousal, or orgasm issues and feel stuck. You're curious about trying on a sexual identity or playing in kink/BDSM. You have out-of control or shameful behaviors, dilemmas, porn use, or masturbation problems. You don’t know how to talk to your partner(s) about sex, let alone pulling their load more at home. Religion or the feeling of shame greatly limits you. You just can’t communicate. You can’t trust or forgive them – you’re too hurt and angry. Let me engage you in sex and relationship therapy.
You get a pit in your stomach when you think about, discuss, or engage in sex; you no longer or never enjoyed it. You have pain, erection, arousal, or orgasm issues and feel stuck. You're curious about trying on a sexual identity or playing in kink/BDSM. You have out-of control or shameful behaviors, dilemmas, porn use, or masturbation problems. You don’t know how to talk to your partner(s) about sex, let alone pulling their load more at home. Religion or the feeling of shame greatly limits you. You just can’t communicate. You can’t trust or forgive them – you’re too hurt and angry. Let me engage you in sex and relationship therapy.
(872) 713-5412 View (872) 713-5412
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.