Sexual Addiction Therapists in Ruidoso, NM
Problem gambling is one of the most hidden addictions in the U.S. due to the shame and stigma associated with gambling problems. Many people still mistake problem gambling for a moral problem or simply see it as poor choice making, rather than understanding the complex brain hijacking that problem gambling is for some people who can’t quit. Several neurotransmitters including dopamine, serotonin, glutamate, opioids, to name a few, are acting simultaneously on the brain during problem gambling.
Problem gambling is one of the most hidden addictions in the U.S. due to the shame and stigma associated with gambling problems. Many people still mistake problem gambling for a moral problem or simply see it as poor choice making, rather than understanding the complex brain hijacking that problem gambling is for some people who can’t quit. Several neurotransmitters including dopamine, serotonin, glutamate, opioids, to name a few, are acting simultaneously on the brain during problem gambling.
Online Therapists
Dr. Mark White
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT-S, CSAT-S, CMAT-S, CPTT-S, LSOTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Roswell, NM 88201
Searching for hope and healing from experiencing the trauma of betrayal, infidelity, compulsive sexual behavior, or relationship distress? Lasting, long-term recovery requires expert guidance. Individually, are you experiencing anxiety or depression? With a focus on your context, experience, and emotion, I specialize in deconstructing your presenting issues to clarify specific problems that you desire to change or respond to. I offer services by video conferencing, phone, and in-person. With similarly qualified colleagues, we offer collaborating therapists for each partner and for the relationship.
Searching for hope and healing from experiencing the trauma of betrayal, infidelity, compulsive sexual behavior, or relationship distress? Lasting, long-term recovery requires expert guidance. Individually, are you experiencing anxiety or depression? With a focus on your context, experience, and emotion, I specialize in deconstructing your presenting issues to clarify specific problems that you desire to change or respond to. I offer services by video conferencing, phone, and in-person. With similarly qualified colleagues, we offer collaborating therapists for each partner and for the relationship.
See more therapy options for Ruidoso
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.