Sexual Addiction Therapists in Ancaster, ON
![Photo of Rachel Okoro, MSc, Dip HE, BSC, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c45f151-06bf-42e1-b09c-a47c1a8b57f1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rachel Okoro
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, Dip HE, BSC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ancaster, ON L9G (Online Only)
I dedicated 17 years of my career to the mental health field, initially as a mental health nurse then transitioned to psychotherapy. Along this transformative journey, i developed a passion for addiction treatment, and trauma therapy, depression, and anxiety. My current clients say my skills I offer are practical and helpful! I am open to working with people who are struggling, feeling stuck, or emotionally tangled! Or just feel to vent, then we figure out what areas are keeping up from going forward. I would like to add value and see my clients flourish. No need to put up a facade, am open to help and most of all listen.
I dedicated 17 years of my career to the mental health field, initially as a mental health nurse then transitioned to psychotherapy. Along this transformative journey, i developed a passion for addiction treatment, and trauma therapy, depression, and anxiety. My current clients say my skills I offer are practical and helpful! I am open to working with people who are struggling, feeling stuck, or emotionally tangled! Or just feel to vent, then we figure out what areas are keeping up from going forward. I would like to add value and see my clients flourish. No need to put up a facade, am open to help and most of all listen.
![Photo of Maurisha Marie Dolson - Insight Counselling Therapy , RP, RSSW, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f1bb2cf4-40cb-4302-84c7-88a9ad6ff343/3/320x400.jpeg)
My passion is to help people regain their inner peace and happiness to live a pleasurable fulfilled life. Life is full of ups, downs and challenges that we are often not prepared for. It does not matter how many times you get knocked down, but the what matters comes from how many times you get up. I believe the greatest accomplishment is who you become while picking yourself back up. Each new day gives you a fresh start to get back on track and to have the courage to rebuild yourself the way you desire. In therapy we would work collaboratively to address your needs and to determine how best to meet these needs.
My passion is to help people regain their inner peace and happiness to live a pleasurable fulfilled life. Life is full of ups, downs and challenges that we are often not prepared for. It does not matter how many times you get knocked down, but the what matters comes from how many times you get up. I believe the greatest accomplishment is who you become while picking yourself back up. Each new day gives you a fresh start to get back on track and to have the courage to rebuild yourself the way you desire. In therapy we would work collaboratively to address your needs and to determine how best to meet these needs.
![Photo of Nathan J Cooper And Associates, CPsych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a28e7579-22e1-473e-838d-0fee0e267db0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Cooper and his associates, Joel Schramm and Maryam Rahat, offer care for individuals and couples dealing with concerns that are getting in the way of fully functioning both personally and socially. Common concerns include: anxiety, depression, substance use, procrastination, trauma, self-esteem, relationship conflict, career indecision, and many others. Maryam Rahat is focused on providing support to individuals in managing ADHD including associated issues of organization and behavioural addiction. Maryam is also fluent in Farsi and Arabic.
Dr. Cooper and his associates, Joel Schramm and Maryam Rahat, offer care for individuals and couples dealing with concerns that are getting in the way of fully functioning both personally and socially. Common concerns include: anxiety, depression, substance use, procrastination, trauma, self-esteem, relationship conflict, career indecision, and many others. Maryam Rahat is focused on providing support to individuals in managing ADHD including associated issues of organization and behavioural addiction. Maryam is also fluent in Farsi and Arabic.
![Photo of Jason Stotts, MA, RP, CCC, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4be29142-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jason Stotts
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
Ancaster, ON L9G (Online Only)
I work to meet people where they are and help them to unravel psychological problems that are negatively impacting their lives. I utilize a collaborative approach to therapy where I’ll explain what we’re doing and why so that we can engage in the process together. My goal is to help people to get back on the path towards happiness and living as well as they can.
I work to meet people where they are and help them to unravel psychological problems that are negatively impacting their lives. I utilize a collaborative approach to therapy where I’ll explain what we’re doing and why so that we can engage in the process together. My goal is to help people to get back on the path towards happiness and living as well as they can.
![Photo of Carly Sidney Crawford - CCP, Carly Crawford Psychotherapy, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/638d57f8-623b-410e-869d-3ad0b9e9a8cf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Voted Hamilton's Best Psychology Clinic in 2023 &2024 CCP is a team of professionals who treat individuals of all ages, genders and stages of life. We welcome people who are new to therapy or have been doing this for years. We are known for our work with Eating Disorders, Trauma, Grief, Depression, Anxiety, life transitions, building and repairing self-esteem, and more. Our clinicians have a wide variety of training, experience and interests in their clinical work. We have Occupational Therapists, Dietitians, Social Workers, Psychotherapists and Yoga instructors to meet all of your needs.
Voted Hamilton's Best Psychology Clinic in 2023 &2024 CCP is a team of professionals who treat individuals of all ages, genders and stages of life. We welcome people who are new to therapy or have been doing this for years. We are known for our work with Eating Disorders, Trauma, Grief, Depression, Anxiety, life transitions, building and repairing self-esteem, and more. Our clinicians have a wide variety of training, experience and interests in their clinical work. We have Occupational Therapists, Dietitians, Social Workers, Psychotherapists and Yoga instructors to meet all of your needs.
![Photo of Maryann El-Dairy - Couples Therapist- Maryann Dawood, MPharm, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c262cef-1add-46b1-a96c-4d26dc13bbf6/3/320x400.jpeg)
Couples Therapist- Maryann Dawood
Registered Psychotherapist, MPharm, MA, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ancaster, ON L9G (Online Only)
You’re probably feeling so alone and hopeless right now. The relationship you once looked to for strength and joy is beginning to feel like a source of pain and disconnection. You feel like you have tried everything that you know to make your relationship better. You’ve tried talking about your issues but somehow always end up spiraling into a fight- leaving you feeling frustrated, disconnected and more hurt each time. You worry about where your relationship is headed if something doesn’t change. I want you to know you are in the right place. You can transform your disconnection and negative communication patterns into connection.
You’re probably feeling so alone and hopeless right now. The relationship you once looked to for strength and joy is beginning to feel like a source of pain and disconnection. You feel like you have tried everything that you know to make your relationship better. You’ve tried talking about your issues but somehow always end up spiraling into a fight- leaving you feeling frustrated, disconnected and more hurt each time. You worry about where your relationship is headed if something doesn’t change. I want you to know you are in the right place. You can transform your disconnection and negative communication patterns into connection.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Johnson Kuriappilly, MDiv, MPS, RP, CSAT, EMDR(T), Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/340db24c-e8f6-4367-bba2-970e63db4a18/2/320x400.jpeg)
Johnson Kuriappilly
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, MPS, RP, CSAT, EMDR(T)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L9K
Begin your journey of self-discovery with personalized psychotherapy. As a Registered Psychotherapist , I offer person-centred therapy to adults, guiding them towards self-transformation and clarity in life. This approach focuses on individual thoughts, emotions, and experiences, rather than diagnostic labels. It empowers clients to lead their therapeutic journey with my unwavering support, empathy, and positive regard. Embrace this method for an environment that fosters personal growth. Unlock your potential for profound transformation today.
Begin your journey of self-discovery with personalized psychotherapy. As a Registered Psychotherapist , I offer person-centred therapy to adults, guiding them towards self-transformation and clarity in life. This approach focuses on individual thoughts, emotions, and experiences, rather than diagnostic labels. It empowers clients to lead their therapeutic journey with my unwavering support, empathy, and positive regard. Embrace this method for an environment that fosters personal growth. Unlock your potential for profound transformation today.
![Photo of Shoban Jeyamuraly, MACP, RP(Q), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d8e49d0d-7d10-410b-944c-0f205ce22e69/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shoban Jeyamuraly
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8S
I believe that we all have the capacity to grow and achieve a better state of being. I am deeply committed to helping individuals who feel stuck or unhappy in their lives. I understand that feeling unmotivated, unfulfilled, or depressed can be incredibly challenging. My goal is to provide a safe and supportive space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions without judgment. Through a caring and collaborative approach, I guide individuals in harnessing their inner resources to achieve personal growth and well-being. I see unlimited hope and potential in all individuals and aim to help others discover it for themselves.
I believe that we all have the capacity to grow and achieve a better state of being. I am deeply committed to helping individuals who feel stuck or unhappy in their lives. I understand that feeling unmotivated, unfulfilled, or depressed can be incredibly challenging. My goal is to provide a safe and supportive space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions without judgment. Through a caring and collaborative approach, I guide individuals in harnessing their inner resources to achieve personal growth and well-being. I see unlimited hope and potential in all individuals and aim to help others discover it for themselves.
![Photo of Eliora Wolfe, RP-Q, MFT, MEd, EXA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2e65f350-fcfb-45e1-94a0-0cce17b243e9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Eliora Wolfe
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP-Q, MFT, MEd, EXA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8S
Welcome :) I am a registered psychotherapist - qualifying (RP-Q) and Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) based in Hamilton, Ontario. I specialize in couples counseling and supporting individuals to build and strengthen their personal relationships. With a compassionate and non-judgmental approach, I provide a safe and supportive environment for clients to explore their emotions, work through challenges, and develop new ways of relating to themselves and others. My background includes training in Expressive Arts Therapy and often I will incorporate the arts into my therapy sessions when appropriate.
Welcome :) I am a registered psychotherapist - qualifying (RP-Q) and Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) based in Hamilton, Ontario. I specialize in couples counseling and supporting individuals to build and strengthen their personal relationships. With a compassionate and non-judgmental approach, I provide a safe and supportive environment for clients to explore their emotions, work through challenges, and develop new ways of relating to themselves and others. My background includes training in Expressive Arts Therapy and often I will incorporate the arts into my therapy sessions when appropriate.
![Photo of Irina Petrova, RP, DipGIT, MSc, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3eb3b75e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Irina Petrova
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, DipGIT, MSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8S
Welcome and thank you for your interest in my work! Congratulations on taking your first step to a more fulfilling life. I provide warm, safe and collaborative environment for my clients' healing journey. I am here to help you to become more authentic, grounded, and happy with yourself and your relationships. In my work I use client-centered, anti-oppression and culturally-competent framework. I work with individuals, couples and families.
Welcome and thank you for your interest in my work! Congratulations on taking your first step to a more fulfilling life. I provide warm, safe and collaborative environment for my clients' healing journey. I am here to help you to become more authentic, grounded, and happy with yourself and your relationships. In my work I use client-centered, anti-oppression and culturally-competent framework. I work with individuals, couples and families.
![Photo of Justin Michel - Affordable Therapy Ontario, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/38655869-7457-4db5-b337-9bafc6f96fbb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Affordable Therapy Ontario
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8S
Money should never be the reason you DON'T go to therapy. We never want money to be a barrier to accessing therapy. This is why Affordable Therapy Ontario (ATO) exists: to make therapy accessible for all! Created by Building Bridges Psychotherapy, we are a diverse team of licensed therapists providing high quality therapy to those who need it. We offer in-person services in Mississauga and Vaughan, with more locations to come. We also offer therapy over video and phone. We work with individuals, couples, and families. For a full list of all the issues and concerns we work with, check out our sister website: bbtherapy.ca/services.
Money should never be the reason you DON'T go to therapy. We never want money to be a barrier to accessing therapy. This is why Affordable Therapy Ontario (ATO) exists: to make therapy accessible for all! Created by Building Bridges Psychotherapy, we are a diverse team of licensed therapists providing high quality therapy to those who need it. We offer in-person services in Mississauga and Vaughan, with more locations to come. We also offer therapy over video and phone. We work with individuals, couples, and families. For a full list of all the issues and concerns we work with, check out our sister website: bbtherapy.ca/services.
![Photo of Michel Justin - Building Bridges Psychotherapy, MA, MSc, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ba05a063-53ff-4785-a6dc-67989547d5e8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Building Bridges Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L9C
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS: IN-PERSON & PHONE/VIDEO*** We believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. We have helped individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As relational therapists, we appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. We do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, we see our clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. We see strengths and we see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS: IN-PERSON & PHONE/VIDEO*** We believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. We have helped individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As relational therapists, we appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. We do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, we see our clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. We see strengths and we see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
![Photo of Couples Therapist Claudia Aranda, MDiv, RP, CAMFT, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d9caebe9-d9e8-4042-bffe-11af8e1a9613/1/320x400.jpeg)
Couples Therapist Claudia Aranda
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP, CAMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L9K (Online Only)
Come! Let´s have a chat! Have you ever thought that there is no longer an emotional bond with your partner. No exchange of comfort, care and no more satisfaction? Feelings about our own well being striving to solve the situation with the thought that my partner needs to change. Let me tell you there is always hope. You have an internal urge to continue, but on the other hand you are so deep in the problems that possible solutions are not in reach. You can overcome the challenge of communication & teamwork.
Come! Let´s have a chat! Have you ever thought that there is no longer an emotional bond with your partner. No exchange of comfort, care and no more satisfaction? Feelings about our own well being striving to solve the situation with the thought that my partner needs to change. Let me tell you there is always hope. You have an internal urge to continue, but on the other hand you are so deep in the problems that possible solutions are not in reach. You can overcome the challenge of communication & teamwork.
![Photo of Rob Feeney, RP, CTP, Dip, BSc, AEAPC, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ba69893d-c8ef-4948-98f5-117d33708688/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rob Feeney
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, CTP, Dip, BSc, AEAPC
Verified Verified
Dundas, ON L9H
Waitlist for new clients
You are an individual. There is no one else quite like you. Your therapy should be as unique as you are. We are all the products of our past, from experiences that happened so long ago that they escape memory to what happened just as we opened the door to the present moment. Through it all, we learn the skills that protect us on this journey through the interpersonal world. We sometimes struggle to be our authentic selves because there is no SELF without the context of the OTHER. Each of us is a single being trying to be seen as we see ourselves in a never ending sea of often confusing but always important social interaction.
You are an individual. There is no one else quite like you. Your therapy should be as unique as you are. We are all the products of our past, from experiences that happened so long ago that they escape memory to what happened just as we opened the door to the present moment. Through it all, we learn the skills that protect us on this journey through the interpersonal world. We sometimes struggle to be our authentic selves because there is no SELF without the context of the OTHER. Each of us is a single being trying to be seen as we see ourselves in a never ending sea of often confusing but always important social interaction.
![Photo of Justin Michel - Building Bridges Psychotherapy, RP, MSc, MA, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/128e69f8-69af-446d-b154-ddf3b3e751c3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Building Bridges Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MSc, MA
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L9C
Accepting New Clients: In-Person & Phone/Video. We believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. We have helped individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As relational therapists, we appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. We do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, we see our clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. We see strengths and we see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
Accepting New Clients: In-Person & Phone/Video. We believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. We have helped individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As relational therapists, we appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. We do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, we see our clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. We see strengths and we see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
![Photo of Addictions Counsellor Agnes Kaufman, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a7f44200-0563-42b0-a7c6-90fb513bc9ca/1/320x400.jpeg)
Addictions Counsellor Agnes Kaufman
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L9K (Online Only)
Today, we live in a fast-paced, stressful world. The hardships of balancing our work, education and personal time becomes increasingly hard to achieve. Our responsibilities continue to grow and the world around us is becoming so demanding. Sometimes, to cope we use resources which may, in fact, be harmful to ourselves. Addictions are often felt as shameful and concealed from others. We are all vulnerable to making decisions that are not always in our best interest. I am not here to judge you, but rather provide useful tools which will help provide opportunities for making healthier choices.
Today, we live in a fast-paced, stressful world. The hardships of balancing our work, education and personal time becomes increasingly hard to achieve. Our responsibilities continue to grow and the world around us is becoming so demanding. Sometimes, to cope we use resources which may, in fact, be harmful to ourselves. Addictions are often felt as shameful and concealed from others. We are all vulnerable to making decisions that are not always in our best interest. I am not here to judge you, but rather provide useful tools which will help provide opportunities for making healthier choices.
![Photo of Rob Pepper - Rob Pepper- Perfectionism & Borderline Personality, BEd, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b6671dd-b494-4cf5-ae77-90f3629fc1fe/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rob Pepper- Perfectionism & Borderline Personality
Registered Psychotherapist, BEd, MACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L9C (Online Only)
Are you feeling stuck in a negative cycle which keeps you distant from your goals, yourself, and other people in your life? Are you struggling with trusting yourself or other people? I specialize in helping clients work through perfectionist tendencies, Borderline Personality Disorder, and anxiety. The work I do with clients is often a 'deep-dive' into longstanding relational patterns, which are often automatic, that create unnecessary suffering.
Are you feeling stuck in a negative cycle which keeps you distant from your goals, yourself, and other people in your life? Are you struggling with trusting yourself or other people? I specialize in helping clients work through perfectionist tendencies, Borderline Personality Disorder, and anxiety. The work I do with clients is often a 'deep-dive' into longstanding relational patterns, which are often automatic, that create unnecessary suffering.
![Photo of Jennifer Lane, MACP, RP, CPT, FNS, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/72cfccbb-8bdb-4f6e-841e-f0110d97da9a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Lane
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP, CPT, FNS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L9K
Life can be difficult - we all go through struggles as we navigate the ups and downs of our experience. This can be further complicated when we're a member of a minority or marginalized group. As a queer woman myself, I am passionate about working with other queer individuals to help them explore and discover who they are, and how they want to express themselves in the world. Whether you're struggling with your sexuality, gender identity, depression, anxiety, or just having a hard time managing stress and life changes - I'm here to help!
Life can be difficult - we all go through struggles as we navigate the ups and downs of our experience. This can be further complicated when we're a member of a minority or marginalized group. As a queer woman myself, I am passionate about working with other queer individuals to help them explore and discover who they are, and how they want to express themselves in the world. Whether you're struggling with your sexuality, gender identity, depression, anxiety, or just having a hard time managing stress and life changes - I'm here to help!
![Photo of Pam Santon, MSW, RSW, RMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/814fb5b1-f84a-4701-a157-6bd304958049/3/320x400.jpeg)
Pam Santon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSW, RSW, RMFT
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L8S
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked with individuals, couples and families in private practice since 1983. Couples and families are a primary focus of mine including those struggling with issues of life transitions, mental health, sexuality, sexual compulsive disorders, substance and process addictions, as well as emotional and physical affairs. I am trained in systemic models of interventions that allow for a dual focus on the needs of the individual as well as those of the relationship. I am an Approved Supervisor with AAMFT which affords me the privilege of supervising psychotherapists and clinicians in the community interested in systemic models.
I have worked with individuals, couples and families in private practice since 1983. Couples and families are a primary focus of mine including those struggling with issues of life transitions, mental health, sexuality, sexual compulsive disorders, substance and process addictions, as well as emotional and physical affairs. I am trained in systemic models of interventions that allow for a dual focus on the needs of the individual as well as those of the relationship. I am an Approved Supervisor with AAMFT which affords me the privilege of supervising psychotherapists and clinicians in the community interested in systemic models.
![Photo of Megan Bouck - Couples and Relationship Therapy Roots in Wellness, BA, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b565a778-c97b-4bbb-9396-dc4b2c41aaf6/3/320x400.jpeg)
Couples and Relationship Therapy Roots in Wellness
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L9K
Are you and your partner(s) struggling to manage conflict or communicate effectively? Are you hoping to deepen your connection or work through life transitions together? Are you navigating a shift in relationship dynamics? Relationships can be difficult to navigate as we all shift and change through time, sometimes it takes a little extra work to shift and change together. At Roots in Wellness, we will support you through whatever shifts are occurring your relationship(s) to help you find common ground in order to move forward positively.
Are you and your partner(s) struggling to manage conflict or communicate effectively? Are you hoping to deepen your connection or work through life transitions together? Are you navigating a shift in relationship dynamics? Relationships can be difficult to navigate as we all shift and change through time, sometimes it takes a little extra work to shift and change together. At Roots in Wellness, we will support you through whatever shifts are occurring your relationship(s) to help you find common ground in order to move forward positively.
See more therapy options for Ancaster
Nearby Sexual Addiction Counsellors Searches for Ancaster
- Brantford
- Burlington
- Cambridge
- Georgetown
- Guelph
- Hamilton
- Kitchener
- Mississauga
- Oakville
- Port Dover
- Stoney Creek
- Waterdown
Sexual Addiction Counsellors
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 behaviour.
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 behaviours and develop strategies to manage their desires. Therapy may be supplemented by medications, such as antidepressants, mood stabilizers, anti-androgens, alcohol and substance use medications, as well as support groups, such as 12-step programs.
How long does therapy take for sex addiction?
Recovering from compulsive behaviour 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 behaviour 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 behaviours that feel uncontrollable.