Sexual Addiction Therapists in Pennsylvania

Photo of Michele Saffier, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pennsylvania
Michele Saffier
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT
Verified Verified
Blue Bell, PA 19422
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and certified sex addiction therapist as well as Level 3 EMDR practitioner. I have been been practicing for over 25 years. I have specialized in infidelity, chronic infidelity, betrayal trauma and sexual addiction treatment since 1996 with a particular interest in working with partners. I develop partners programs utilizing the trauma model which views the partner as a victim of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. My private practice office is Blue Bell, Pennsylvania where I conduct groups, individual, couples and family therapy for sexual compulsion, partners and their families.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and certified sex addiction therapist as well as Level 3 EMDR practitioner. I have been been practicing for over 25 years. I have specialized in infidelity, chronic infidelity, betrayal trauma and sexual addiction treatment since 1996 with a particular interest in working with partners. I develop partners programs utilizing the trauma model which views the partner as a victim of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. My private practice office is Blue Bell, Pennsylvania where I conduct groups, individual, couples and family therapy for sexual compulsion, partners and their families.
(215) 600-4764 View (215) 600-4764
Photo of Michael Morton, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pennsylvania
Michael Morton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT-S, NCGC-
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I work with individuals, couple and families experiencing relational difficulties. I am particularly interested in those struggling in recovery from various addictions and in particular sexual addiction and compulsivity. I have over 25 years experience in this area. I also have extensive experience in working with families and adolescents. My approach considers each person's side and attempts to facilitate a healing dialogue and the resolution of emotional reactivity among family members especially where issues of trauma are present.
I work with individuals, couple and families experiencing relational difficulties. I am particularly interested in those struggling in recovery from various addictions and in particular sexual addiction and compulsivity. I have over 25 years experience in this area. I also have extensive experience in working with families and adolescents. My approach considers each person's side and attempts to facilitate a healing dialogue and the resolution of emotional reactivity among family members especially where issues of trauma are present.
(267) 863-2075 View (267) 863-2075
Photo of Oasis Counseling Services, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pennsylvania
Oasis Counseling Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, S-PSB
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mount Joy, PA 17552  (Online Only)
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist in private practice specializing exclusively in the psychotherapeutic treatment of sexual addiction & trauma.
There comes a day when we find ourselves in a place we never, ever expected to be. We face some painful realities and make very difficult decisions and choices. Later, we look back on our decisions and realize we could have done things better, or differently. What is important is what we do with what we have learned from those mistakes and how to deal with the guilt and shame that goes with it. Successful therapy involves a commitment to heal and become strong, stable and able to put our wounds where they might be appropriately placed. Not as defense shields to distort realities, but instead, to live the life we all desire.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist in private practice specializing exclusively in the psychotherapeutic treatment of sexual addiction & trauma.
There comes a day when we find ourselves in a place we never, ever expected to be. We face some painful realities and make very difficult decisions and choices. Later, we look back on our decisions and realize we could have done things better, or differently. What is important is what we do with what we have learned from those mistakes and how to deal with the guilt and shame that goes with it. Successful therapy involves a commitment to heal and become strong, stable and able to put our wounds where they might be appropriately placed. Not as defense shields to distort realities, but instead, to live the life we all desire.
(717) 610-1568 View (717) 610-1568
Photo of Marie Wilson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania
Marie Wilson
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LPCC, CSAT-S
Verified Verified
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
The focus of my counseling practice is the delivery of specialized treatment services for those whose lives are affected by sexual addiction.
You may be wondering if you have a problem with sexual behavior or you may be seeking help for someone you care about. Did you know that mental health professionals believe that 5% to 8% of the population in the U.S. suffer from sexual addiction? Dependence on pornography, especially Internet pornography, is a common behavior for persons who struggle with sexual addiction. Often individuals need professional help since efforts at self care are usually not successful and failure only enforces feelings of shame & despair. Professional help is available for you, your spouse or a loved one. You do not have to figure this out alone.
The focus of my counseling practice is the delivery of specialized treatment services for those whose lives are affected by sexual addiction.
You may be wondering if you have a problem with sexual behavior or you may be seeking help for someone you care about. Did you know that mental health professionals believe that 5% to 8% of the population in the U.S. suffer from sexual addiction? Dependence on pornography, especially Internet pornography, is a common behavior for persons who struggle with sexual addiction. Often individuals need professional help since efforts at self care are usually not successful and failure only enforces feelings of shame & despair. Professional help is available for you, your spouse or a loved one. You do not have to figure this out alone.
(505) 207-5633 View (505) 207-5633
Photo of LeeAnn Walter, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania
LeeAnn Walter
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Youngwood, PA 15697
For the past 10 years I have worked with men and women experiencing sexual addiction (my specialty area), broken and traumatic relationships and feelings of despair.
Connection is key! I seek to provide the space for clients to allow themselves to be open, explore and accept aspects about themselves where shame and fear may have been the barrier. Past trauma, damaging relationships, anxiety, depression, and spiritual abuse are just a few areas where shame and fear are created. These lead us to isolate, mask, and seek unhealthy coping skills in order to face the day. If you find yourself not enjoying relationships, not able to fulfill or even understand your passion/purpose, or stuck in anxiety, depression or addiction I would be honored to walk through these things with you.
For the past 10 years I have worked with men and women experiencing sexual addiction (my specialty area), broken and traumatic relationships and feelings of despair.
Connection is key! I seek to provide the space for clients to allow themselves to be open, explore and accept aspects about themselves where shame and fear may have been the barrier. Past trauma, damaging relationships, anxiety, depression, and spiritual abuse are just a few areas where shame and fear are created. These lead us to isolate, mask, and seek unhealthy coping skills in order to face the day. If you find yourself not enjoying relationships, not able to fulfill or even understand your passion/purpose, or stuck in anxiety, depression or addiction I would be honored to walk through these things with you.
(724) 564-6906 View (724) 564-6906
Photo of Jennifer Weeks, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania
Jennifer Weeks
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CAADC, CSAT
Verified Verified
The decision to seek treatment is often very difficult. I work to make the therapeutic environment comfortable, offering a non-judgmental arena to work on issues of addiction, sexual addiction and trauma. I work to meet the client where they are in the moment and help guide them on the journey to recovery, well-being and peace of mind
The decision to seek treatment is often very difficult. I work to make the therapeutic environment comfortable, offering a non-judgmental arena to work on issues of addiction, sexual addiction and trauma. I work to meet the client where they are in the moment and help guide them on the journey to recovery, well-being and peace of mind
(908) 444-0215 View (908) 444-0215
Photo of Mary L Deitch, Psychologist in Pennsylvania
Mary L Deitch
Psychologist, JD, PsyD
Verified Verified
Woodlyn, PA 19094
I specialize in problematic sexual behaviors (sexual addiction, paraphilia, sexual offending), physicians with boundary issues or disruptive behaviors, assessment and education.
I have worked with problematic sexual behaviors and physician boundary issues for over a decade and have a passion for helping clients find answers. Often the behavior is not the issue but the client's reaction to the behavior or there are underlying reasons for why they are engaging in maladaptive behaviors. Each client is unique and the issue is often about unmet needs for nurturing, control, power, love and connection. Helping clients find the answers, their resiliency, and improve their healthy sexuality is an amazing part of the work that we do together.
I specialize in problematic sexual behaviors (sexual addiction, paraphilia, sexual offending), physicians with boundary issues or disruptive behaviors, assessment and education.
I have worked with problematic sexual behaviors and physician boundary issues for over a decade and have a passion for helping clients find answers. Often the behavior is not the issue but the client's reaction to the behavior or there are underlying reasons for why they are engaging in maladaptive behaviors. Each client is unique and the issue is often about unmet needs for nurturing, control, power, love and connection. Helping clients find the answers, their resiliency, and improve their healthy sexuality is an amazing part of the work that we do together.
(484) 514-1665 View (484) 514-1665
Photo of Angela M Clymer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania
Angela M Clymer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAADC, CSAT-C
Verified Verified
Pipersville, PA 18947
Hello and welcome, Here is a little about my approach to therapy. I love working with people as they begin exploring the roots of their story to begin healing, breathing and being fully present in their bodies. As we begin focusing on your past and current struggles, you will learn how you hold trauma, stress and pain in your body to help bring relief and connection to yourself and others. I believe there is beauty in our brokenness and I strive to bring meaning to your experiences. I specialize in the areas of Betrayal Trauma, Sexual Addiction, Substance Use Disorder, Anxiety, Depression and Trauma.
Hello and welcome, Here is a little about my approach to therapy. I love working with people as they begin exploring the roots of their story to begin healing, breathing and being fully present in their bodies. As we begin focusing on your past and current struggles, you will learn how you hold trauma, stress and pain in your body to help bring relief and connection to yourself and others. I believe there is beauty in our brokenness and I strive to bring meaning to your experiences. I specialize in the areas of Betrayal Trauma, Sexual Addiction, Substance Use Disorder, Anxiety, Depression and Trauma.
(267) 772-2884 View (267) 772-2884
Photo of Valerie Palencar, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania
Valerie Palencar, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Pittston, PA 18640
Hello! I work with my clients using a Cognitive Behavioral, Psychoanalytic, Solution Focused Approach. Solution Focused means we try to solve issues and problems as soon as possible. I am also a trauma specialist and have worked with military and domestic violence victims for many years. Trauma is relative to each individual and shouldn't be compared. And there are ways to heal and thrive! I also work with sexual addiction, childhood behavioral issues, depression and anxiety, chronic pain, career coaching, and all female issues. I also offer premarital and marital counseling.
Hello! I work with my clients using a Cognitive Behavioral, Psychoanalytic, Solution Focused Approach. Solution Focused means we try to solve issues and problems as soon as possible. I am also a trauma specialist and have worked with military and domestic violence victims for many years. Trauma is relative to each individual and shouldn't be compared. And there are ways to heal and thrive! I also work with sexual addiction, childhood behavioral issues, depression and anxiety, chronic pain, career coaching, and all female issues. I also offer premarital and marital counseling.
(917) 821-6645 View (917) 821-6645
Photo of Jena Meneo, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania
Jena Meneo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
Waitlist for new clients
My areas of specialization include: Anxiety and Mood Disorders, Depression, Impulse Control, Relationships/Trust Issues, Self-Esteem/Shame, Trauma, Sexual Issues including Sexual Addiction/Compulsions, Internet Compulsions, Sexual Abuse, Sex Therapy, Anger Management, Stress Management, Eating Disorders, Grief/Loss, Substance Abuse, and Women's Issues.
Are you having difficulty making decisions, expressing your emotions, or struggling to improve your personal relationship(s)? Admitting we have a problem and working to change our behaviors can be a challenge. I use cognitive behavioral, humanist, and mindfulness-based approaches to help clients focus in the here and now while gaining insight into themselves. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who offers therapy designed to help you learn healthy coping skills and improve your well being. I do not offer evening or weekend hours.
My areas of specialization include: Anxiety and Mood Disorders, Depression, Impulse Control, Relationships/Trust Issues, Self-Esteem/Shame, Trauma, Sexual Issues including Sexual Addiction/Compulsions, Internet Compulsions, Sexual Abuse, Sex Therapy, Anger Management, Stress Management, Eating Disorders, Grief/Loss, Substance Abuse, and Women's Issues.
Are you having difficulty making decisions, expressing your emotions, or struggling to improve your personal relationship(s)? Admitting we have a problem and working to change our behaviors can be a challenge. I use cognitive behavioral, humanist, and mindfulness-based approaches to help clients focus in the here and now while gaining insight into themselves. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who offers therapy designed to help you learn healthy coping skills and improve your well being. I do not offer evening or weekend hours.
(412) 387-5170 View (412) 387-5170
Photo of Jennifer DiNunno, Pre-Licensed Professional in Pennsylvania
Jennifer DiNunno
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Aliquippa, PA 15001
Taking new clients! I treat clients who experience anxiety, depression, mood disorders, panic disorders, self-esteem-related issues as well as life transitions, and sexual addiction. I am also LGBTQIA+-affirming. I utilize evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Psychodynamic theories, as well as Humanistic therapy. I work to provide a safe space for my clients to be able to be themselves within a judgment-free zone and work towards being their best selves.
Taking new clients! I treat clients who experience anxiety, depression, mood disorders, panic disorders, self-esteem-related issues as well as life transitions, and sexual addiction. I am also LGBTQIA+-affirming. I utilize evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Psychodynamic theories, as well as Humanistic therapy. I work to provide a safe space for my clients to be able to be themselves within a judgment-free zone and work towards being their best selves.
(724) 577-5527 View (724) 577-5527
Photo of Robert J Moore, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania
Robert J Moore
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I also have focused treatment for those with various addictions, especially sexual addiction.
Having extensive experience, I use empirically supported therapies, and have treated a wide range of ages as well as the most serious disorders. It is my belief that salient therapy treats a client in 3 different directions: top-down (spiritual dimension), inside out (healing of memories), and outside-in (Cognitive-Behavioral and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy). After a thorough assessment, I would identify with my client, determine problems on which to work, set appropriate goals, and determine the correct therapeutic intervention(s) to be used. Meeting those goals would be a therapeutic benchmark throughout the therapy.
I also have focused treatment for those with various addictions, especially sexual addiction.
Having extensive experience, I use empirically supported therapies, and have treated a wide range of ages as well as the most serious disorders. It is my belief that salient therapy treats a client in 3 different directions: top-down (spiritual dimension), inside out (healing of memories), and outside-in (Cognitive-Behavioral and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy). After a thorough assessment, I would identify with my client, determine problems on which to work, set appropriate goals, and determine the correct therapeutic intervention(s) to be used. Meeting those goals would be a therapeutic benchmark throughout the therapy.
(215) 642-0949 View (215) 642-0949
Photo of Carmella Bond Jackson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania
Carmella Bond Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MBA, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jenkintown, PA 19046
Because I understand that addiction is bigger than drugs and alcohol, I have received training specific to sexual addiction, problem gambling and trauma.
I am an addiction and trauma specialist with 15+ years of experience helping individuals, couples and families travel the road to recovery. I've worked as a sexual abuse case manager, drug and alcohol counselor, trauma group facilitator and military family consultant. I use an integrative approach rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing to assist in the development of new, applicable coping skills, constructive processing and identification of concrete ways of managing after the therapeutic experience has ended. I hope that you'll allow me to help you and those most important to you journey towards wellness.
Because I understand that addiction is bigger than drugs and alcohol, I have received training specific to sexual addiction, problem gambling and trauma.
I am an addiction and trauma specialist with 15+ years of experience helping individuals, couples and families travel the road to recovery. I've worked as a sexual abuse case manager, drug and alcohol counselor, trauma group facilitator and military family consultant. I use an integrative approach rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing to assist in the development of new, applicable coping skills, constructive processing and identification of concrete ways of managing after the therapeutic experience has ended. I hope that you'll allow me to help you and those most important to you journey towards wellness.
(267) 433-4503 View (267) 433-4503
Photo of Mark L Lee, Psychologist in Pennsylvania
Mark L Lee
Psychologist, PhD, EMDR, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manheim, PA 17545  (Online Only)
Are you dealing with depression and anxiety and feeling lonely due to past hurt and wounds? Are you struggling with porn addiction, infidelity, or other forms of sexual addiction that conflict with your faith and moral values, and are you keeping your suffering in secret? You don’t have to face these problems alone. I am here to support your healing journey to find freedom and to live a fulfilling life. I am a licensed Psychologist in Pennsylvania. I offer online sessions. My specialties include trauma, sexual addiction, partner betrayal, phobia, anxiety, panic attacks, depression, low self-esteem, and grief and loss.
Are you dealing with depression and anxiety and feeling lonely due to past hurt and wounds? Are you struggling with porn addiction, infidelity, or other forms of sexual addiction that conflict with your faith and moral values, and are you keeping your suffering in secret? You don’t have to face these problems alone. I am here to support your healing journey to find freedom and to live a fulfilling life. I am a licensed Psychologist in Pennsylvania. I offer online sessions. My specialties include trauma, sexual addiction, partner betrayal, phobia, anxiety, panic attacks, depression, low self-esteem, and grief and loss.
(717) 922-5131 View (717) 922-5131
Photo of Eugene Simonson, Counselor in Pennsylvania
Eugene Simonson
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Quarryville, PA 17566  (Online Only)
I have advanced training in CBT, Trauma, Grief/loss issues, Sexual Addiction and Marriage Counseling.
At the heart of making positive changes in our life is examining our thought processes and beliefs about ourselves, our relationships and the world around us in general. Whether you are seeking individual or couples counseling, navigating current challenges, struggling with past trauma or difficult emotions, your mental fitness is foundational to your success.
I have advanced training in CBT, Trauma, Grief/loss issues, Sexual Addiction and Marriage Counseling.
At the heart of making positive changes in our life is examining our thought processes and beliefs about ourselves, our relationships and the world around us in general. Whether you are seeking individual or couples counseling, navigating current challenges, struggling with past trauma or difficult emotions, your mental fitness is foundational to your success.
(516) 209-4739 View (516) 209-4739
Photo of Whole Heart Counseling Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania
Whole Heart Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT, NCC, MAC, CSAT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
I'm a Board-Certified Licensed Professional Counselor, with a PhD in Marriage and Family Therapy, a Master's degree in Counseling, and another Masters degree in Education. I specialize in treating adult survivors of childhood trauma, neglect, and abuse. I'm also specially certified as a sexual addiction therapist (CSAT), and I work with adults who have ADHD, along with their partners. I am available for sessions at my office, and on-line for clients in OR, WA and PA.
I'm a Board-Certified Licensed Professional Counselor, with a PhD in Marriage and Family Therapy, a Master's degree in Counseling, and another Masters degree in Education. I specialize in treating adult survivors of childhood trauma, neglect, and abuse. I'm also specially certified as a sexual addiction therapist (CSAT), and I work with adults who have ADHD, along with their partners. I am available for sessions at my office, and on-line for clients in OR, WA and PA.
(971) 238-5110 View (971) 238-5110
Photo of Dr. John Howe, Psychologist in Pennsylvania
Dr. John Howe
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19119
Are you engaging in persistent, compulsive or disruptive actions that bring little satisfaction and damage how you relate to others at home, at work or in social settings? Disturbances of the inner self can interfere with joy, love, and satisfaction in living. Frustration, anger, sorrow and loss, disappointment become repetitious and even predictable. If so, it is time to do something to relieve these ineffective experiences in living. I am a licensed psychologist with 35 years experience helping clients with stress and anxiety, sexual and relationship issues, and the effects of personality disorders.
Are you engaging in persistent, compulsive or disruptive actions that bring little satisfaction and damage how you relate to others at home, at work or in social settings? Disturbances of the inner self can interfere with joy, love, and satisfaction in living. Frustration, anger, sorrow and loss, disappointment become repetitious and even predictable. If so, it is time to do something to relieve these ineffective experiences in living. I am a licensed psychologist with 35 years experience helping clients with stress and anxiety, sexual and relationship issues, and the effects of personality disorders.
(215) 565-0317 View (215) 565-0317
Photo of Tim Van Rheenen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pennsylvania
Tim Van Rheenen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Doylestown, PA 18901
Maybe conflict with your spouse never seems to get resolved, or your secret sexual behavior isn't stopping as easily as you thought it would. If you're feeling confused and hopeless, I can help you get clear about who you were meant to be and to find peace. I want to help you find freedom and discard old ways of living. I work with people of all backgrounds but incorporate Christian principles and practices for those who share that worldview. Reach out today and let's develop a plan together based on your unique story and needs.
Maybe conflict with your spouse never seems to get resolved, or your secret sexual behavior isn't stopping as easily as you thought it would. If you're feeling confused and hopeless, I can help you get clear about who you were meant to be and to find peace. I want to help you find freedom and discard old ways of living. I work with people of all backgrounds but incorporate Christian principles and practices for those who share that worldview. Reach out today and let's develop a plan together based on your unique story and needs.
(267) 458-9250 View (267) 458-9250
Photo of Daniel White, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania
Daniel White
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CADC, CSAT, EMDR, trained
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19119
You have taken the first step toward healing and personal growth. Courage comes from knowing ourselves and loving each imperfection. Working together, we will walk on the path of healing and explore the pain and challenges that have brought you here. As a Licensed Professional Counselor with 20 years of clinical experience, I can help equip you with helpful resources to become empowered when facing difficult circumstances in life.
You have taken the first step toward healing and personal growth. Courage comes from knowing ourselves and loving each imperfection. Working together, we will walk on the path of healing and explore the pain and challenges that have brought you here. As a Licensed Professional Counselor with 20 years of clinical experience, I can help equip you with helpful resources to become empowered when facing difficult circumstances in life.
(267) 732-1269 View (267) 732-1269
Photo of Rosetree Center for Healthy Sexuality, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania
Rosetree Center for Healthy Sexuality
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, ACS, CCSOT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Media, PA 19063
Rosetree Center for Healthy Sexuality provides safe, confidential, sex-positive psychotherapy helping adolescents, adults, and couples navigate their sexuality concerns. Rosetree Center for Healthy Sexuality believes that sex, if it is healthy and explicitly consensual, is positive. Sexual health is an essential part of overall well-being. Many experience sexual challenges at some point in their life yet they hesitate to reach out for help. We understand. Our confidential, sex-positive approach helps resolve concerns and reduce barriers to living a sexually fulfilled life. In addition, we provide forensic psychological services.
Rosetree Center for Healthy Sexuality provides safe, confidential, sex-positive psychotherapy helping adolescents, adults, and couples navigate their sexuality concerns. Rosetree Center for Healthy Sexuality believes that sex, if it is healthy and explicitly consensual, is positive. Sexual health is an essential part of overall well-being. Many experience sexual challenges at some point in their life yet they hesitate to reach out for help. We understand. Our confidential, sex-positive approach helps resolve concerns and reduce barriers to living a sexually fulfilled life. In addition, we provide forensic psychological services.
(610) 638-6738 View (610) 638-6738

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Sexual Addiction Therapists

When should someone seek treatment for sex addiction?

People should seek treatment for sex addiction if they cannot control their sexual thoughts or behaviours to the point that it disrupts their ability to function in daily life, for example by threatening their finances, career, or relationships. This may include spending an excessive amount of time obsessing over sex, planning sex, watching pornography, or masturbating, as well as consistently engaging in risky sexual activities, using sex to escape distressing feelings, or attempting yet failing to control sexual behavior.

What are the most common treatment options for sex addiction?

Psychotherapy is the most common treatment for sex addiction; therapy helps patients better understand their compulsive thoughts and behaviors and develop strategies to manage their desires. Therapy may be supplemented by medications, such as antidepressants, mood stabilizers, anti-androgens, and the alcohol and substance use medication Naltrexone, as well as support groups, such as 12-step programs.

How long does therapy take for sex addiction?

Recovering from compulsive behavior takes time and effort. There’s no precise timeline for treatment, but research suggests 12 therapy sessions may be enough to see change. Treatment for sexual compulsions requires honesty in therapy, a commitment to understanding triggers and developing coping skills, and potential lifestyle changes such as cutting out alcohol or drugs.

What if sex addiction is left untreated?

Compulsive sexual behavior can have serious repercussions if left unaddressed. For example, if sexual obsessions consume the vast majority of a person’s time, they may lose their job. If they can’t stop paying for sex, their finances may suffer. If they’re dishonest in their relationships, their partner may leave them. If they consistently feel shame, they may struggle with anxiety, depression, or loneliness. Therapy can help people develop the tools to manage sexual thoughts and behaviors that feel uncontrollable.