Sexual addiction

sexual addiction

Struggling with unwanted sexual thoughts or behaviors that feel out of control? You’re not alone. As a therapist specializing in sexual addiction recovery, I offer a safe and confidential space to explore the underlying causes of your compulsive sexual behaviors, develop healthy coping mechanisms and build a sustainable path towards a fulfilling and balanced life. 

Reasons to seek out therapy for sexual addiction

There are many reasons why individuals might seek therapy for sexual addiction, and the experience is unique to each person. Here are some common motivators:

  • Loss of control and shame: Engaging in compulsive sexual behaviors can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, and loss of control, impacting self-esteem and well-being.
  • Relationship problems: Sexual addiction can damage relationships with partners, family and friends due to broken trust, neglect, and emotional distance.
  • Financial and legal issues: Compulsive sexual behaviors can lead to financial problems, job loss, legal trouble or health risks.
  • Physical and emotional exhaustion: The cycle of seeking out sexual experiences and dealing with the consequences can be physically and emotionally draining.
  • Impact on mental health: Depression, anxiety, and other mental health concerns can exacerbate or be impacted by sexual addiction.
  • Feeling isolated and alone: Sharing the experience of sexual addiction can be challenging due to stigma and shame. Therapy offers a safe and confidential space for individuals to feel understood and supported.

How I can help

With my help, you can:

  • Unravel the underlying causes: Together, we’ll explore past experiences that might have contributed to unhealthy coping mechanisms and distorted views of intimacy. By understanding these underlying issues, you can begin to address them in a healthy way, reducing their influence on your present behaviors.
  • Identify triggers and healthy responses: Learn to identify specific situations, emotions or thoughts that trigger your compulsive sexual behaviors. Armed with this knowledge, you can develop personalized coping mechanisms to manage these triggers effectively. This might involve mindfulness and relaxation techniques, communication strategies or building a support network of trusted individuals.
  • Address underlying mental health issues: Often, sexual addiction co-occurs with other mental health concerns like anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These conditions can contribute to cravings and make it harder to resist addictive urges. We can address these underlying issues through evidence-based techniques like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or trauma-informed therapy, promoting emotional stability and well-being.
  • Cultivate self-acceptance: Shame often accompanies sexual addiction, hindering progress toward recovery. With my help, you can nurture your self-compassion, recognizing that you are not defined by your addiction. This shift in perspective fosters motivation and empowers you to make positive changes in your life.
  • Discover ways to prevent relapses: Recovering from sexual addiction is a lifelong journey. There may be setbacks and moments of doubt along the way. Through our sessions, you’ll equip yourself with relapse prevention strategies to recognize warning signs and manage challenges effectively. I will also provide ongoing support and encouragement, celebrating your victories and helping you get back on track if you experience setbacks.
  • Build healthy relationships: Sexual addiction can negatively impact relationships with partners, family and friends. In addition to individual sessions, I can also facilitate couples therapy or family therapy sessions to address relationship issues and promote healing and understanding.
  • Discover fulfillment: Recovering from sexual addiction is not just about managing urges; it’s about creating a rich and meaningful life. I can help you explore your passions, values and interests, fostering healthy ways to find joy and satisfaction outside of compulsive behaviors.

Get started today

Whether you’re experiencing pornography addiction, infidelity or other compulsive sexual behaviors, I’m here to walk alongside you, offering non-judgmental support, guidance and accountability every step of the way.

Remember, recovery is possible, and together, we can create a life free from the constraints of sexual addiction. Reach out today and let’s begin your journey towards healing and empowerment.

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