Sexual Addiction Therapists in Phoenix, AZ
![Photo of Cynthia A. Criss, LPC, CSAT, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e5f9f29c-b2fe-430e-a208-4d105a0f9b13/1/320x400.jpeg)
With over 20 years of experience in the counseling field, Cynthia A. Criss, LPC, Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist, founded a private practice, Open Hearts, Open Minds Counseling Services specializing in the treatment of addiction, depression, anxiety, trauma and intimacy disorders. Treatment of intimacy disorders may include a focus on sexual compulsivity, infidelity and relational trauma. Cynthia helps persons to create healthy and intimate relationships. She provides individual, group, couples and family therapy in the treatment of addiction (sexual compulsive behavior, drugs, alcohol), depression, anxiety, and trauma.
With over 20 years of experience in the counseling field, Cynthia A. Criss, LPC, Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist, founded a private practice, Open Hearts, Open Minds Counseling Services specializing in the treatment of addiction, depression, anxiety, trauma and intimacy disorders. Treatment of intimacy disorders may include a focus on sexual compulsivity, infidelity and relational trauma. Cynthia helps persons to create healthy and intimate relationships. She provides individual, group, couples and family therapy in the treatment of addiction (sexual compulsive behavior, drugs, alcohol), depression, anxiety, and trauma.
![Photo of Sandra Nettles, LCSW, MSSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d042c24-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sandra Nettles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85023
I help individuals struggling with anxiety or depression, couples restore their love, intimacy & trust, individuals with sexual addiction stop the roller coaster, and individuals with gender questions sort things out.
I help individuals struggling with anxiety or depression, couples restore their love, intimacy & trust, individuals with sexual addiction stop the roller coaster, and individuals with gender questions sort things out.
![Photo of Feryn Heath, LAC, ASAT, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a4be0139-3846-41d0-be8d-2460b1e17197/1/320x400.jpeg)
Within a secure and encouraging atmosphere, I am dedicated to assisting you in recognizing and removing the obstacles caused by sexual addiction, depression, anxiety, relationship problems, life transitions, and trauma, regardless of whether you have previously attended therapy or are thinking about doing so for the first time.
Within a secure and encouraging atmosphere, I am dedicated to assisting you in recognizing and removing the obstacles caused by sexual addiction, depression, anxiety, relationship problems, life transitions, and trauma, regardless of whether you have previously attended therapy or are thinking about doing so for the first time.
![Photo of Chris Chandler, MA, LPCC, LMHC, LPC, CSAT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2dc55d42-96c8-4257-95d5-2ff51bb1e922/2/320x400.jpeg)
Chris Chandler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC, LMHC, LPC, CSAT-S
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85004 (Online Only)
My passion is helping people build healthy and meaningful lives. I am a Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist trained by Dr. Patrick Carnes, the pioneer in the field of sex addiction. I have extensive experience working with individuals struggling with all forms of addictions and compulsive behaviors including: sex, pornography, drugs, alcohol, food, work, spending, codependent relationships, etc. I use Internal Family Systems, and Lifespan Integration to help people become free from underlying relational/attachment wounds.
My passion is helping people build healthy and meaningful lives. I am a Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist trained by Dr. Patrick Carnes, the pioneer in the field of sex addiction. I have extensive experience working with individuals struggling with all forms of addictions and compulsive behaviors including: sex, pornography, drugs, alcohol, food, work, spending, codependent relationships, etc. I use Internal Family Systems, and Lifespan Integration to help people become free from underlying relational/attachment wounds.
![Photo of Jennifer Monninger, LCSW, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46af4fe3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Monninger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85003
I am a certified sex therapist with a focus on sexuality, intimacy, and relationships. I offer individual and couples counseling focused on sexual addiction, infidelity, polyamory, kink/BDSM, desire differences, sexual pain and other health concerns impacting sexuality, and generally helping individuals improve their understanding of their sexuality. I use a sex positive approach that works to reduce shame and improve communication around sex. I would love to hear your story and see what I can do to support you. I see clients in person in Phoenix, and through telehealth in NM.
I am a certified sex therapist with a focus on sexuality, intimacy, and relationships. I offer individual and couples counseling focused on sexual addiction, infidelity, polyamory, kink/BDSM, desire differences, sexual pain and other health concerns impacting sexuality, and generally helping individuals improve their understanding of their sexuality. I use a sex positive approach that works to reduce shame and improve communication around sex. I would love to hear your story and see what I can do to support you. I see clients in person in Phoenix, and through telehealth in NM.
![Photo of Kristin Day-Hardwig, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/93cf3009-5165-4b86-893f-ee9822d1536b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Day-Hardwig has years of experience and training working with individuals who struggle with eating disorders/body image issues and individuals struggling with sexual addiction. She has had the opportunity to work in all levels of treatment (inpatient, IOP, and traditional outpatient), and strives to provide comprehensive treatment for her clients. In addition to these specialties, Dr. Day-Hardwig enjoys working with individuals who suffer from mood disorders, general life adjustment issues, and fertility struggles.
Dr. Day-Hardwig has years of experience and training working with individuals who struggle with eating disorders/body image issues and individuals struggling with sexual addiction. She has had the opportunity to work in all levels of treatment (inpatient, IOP, and traditional outpatient), and strives to provide comprehensive treatment for her clients. In addition to these specialties, Dr. Day-Hardwig enjoys working with individuals who suffer from mood disorders, general life adjustment issues, and fertility struggles.
![Photo of John Parker, MS, LMFT, SATP, CSAT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eeec8ccb-4ee8-451a-92c5-a1d66d0f960f/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am an experienced couples counselor, trauma treatment specialist and a certified sexual addiction therapist (CSAT).
If you are haunted by past trauma that doesn’t seem to get better with time, I am able to help you find relief. If your relationship has hit an all-time low, and you don't know if you can take it much longer, I can give you the tools to work through conflict and reclaim the love you have for one another. If having affairs or watching porn has gotten out of control for you or someone you love, together we can move toward healing for both you and your partner. If you’ve been disillusioned by religion and need to find a safe place to heal from spiritual abuse, I can walk with you as you find the kind of spirituality that works for you.
I am an experienced couples counselor, trauma treatment specialist and a certified sexual addiction therapist (CSAT).
If you are haunted by past trauma that doesn’t seem to get better with time, I am able to help you find relief. If your relationship has hit an all-time low, and you don't know if you can take it much longer, I can give you the tools to work through conflict and reclaim the love you have for one another. If having affairs or watching porn has gotten out of control for you or someone you love, together we can move toward healing for both you and your partner. If you’ve been disillusioned by religion and need to find a safe place to heal from spiritual abuse, I can walk with you as you find the kind of spirituality that works for you.
![Photo of Dr. Brian Longworth, LPC, C-SAT , MDiv, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a53f3ac3-570a-45a4-a1fa-8a13c07c070c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Brian Longworth
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, C-SAT , MDiv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85032 (Online Only)
I support clients who have experienced a variety of types of trauma including the impact of the trauma of sexual addiction on families.
I believe therapy is about a therapist and a client collaborating together to address mental health issues and or deal with life problems. I believe the client (You) is the expert about themselves concerning strengths, weaknesses, and issues of concern. I believe it is my purpose as a therapist to build a therapeutic relationship which supports the development of your insights, and life skills; including the identification of strengths, and support systems that may aid in the reduction of negative symptoms and improve quality. I do tele-health only and I am joined by Mason my therapy dog.
I support clients who have experienced a variety of types of trauma including the impact of the trauma of sexual addiction on families.
I believe therapy is about a therapist and a client collaborating together to address mental health issues and or deal with life problems. I believe the client (You) is the expert about themselves concerning strengths, weaknesses, and issues of concern. I believe it is my purpose as a therapist to build a therapeutic relationship which supports the development of your insights, and life skills; including the identification of strengths, and support systems that may aid in the reduction of negative symptoms and improve quality. I do tele-health only and I am joined by Mason my therapy dog.
![Photo of Megan MacKay - Innerstate Healing and Recovery, Megan MacKay LCPC, CSAT, LPC, LCPC, NCC, EMDR, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b196bcd1-cd50-4c0c-9117-9a7a8f4a2390/1/320x400.jpeg)
Innerstate Healing and Recovery, Megan MacKay LCPC
Counselor, CSAT, LPC, LCPC, NCC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85005
Do you struggle in relationships? Do you constantly feel on edge, exhausted, burnt out, or unsafe? If you have any history of trauma, addiction, or another difficulty with functioning, we can help. Megan MacKay is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCPC) in Montana, a Licensed Practicing Counselor (LPC) in Arizona, and National Board Certified Counselor (NCC). Certified Sexual Addiction (CSAT) and intimacy disorders, Meadows model Post Induction Therapy (PIT), and Safe and Sound Protocol based on Polyvagal Theory (SSP). In partnership with New Beginning Ranch and individual appointments.
Do you struggle in relationships? Do you constantly feel on edge, exhausted, burnt out, or unsafe? If you have any history of trauma, addiction, or another difficulty with functioning, we can help. Megan MacKay is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCPC) in Montana, a Licensed Practicing Counselor (LPC) in Arizona, and National Board Certified Counselor (NCC). Certified Sexual Addiction (CSAT) and intimacy disorders, Meadows model Post Induction Therapy (PIT), and Safe and Sound Protocol based on Polyvagal Theory (SSP). In partnership with New Beginning Ranch and individual appointments.
![Photo of Caleb Abrams, CSAT, CCTP, CAIMHP, CASDCS, CCATP](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5bc149dd-cd67-43c9-987f-54c9ecdb23e3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Caleb is Christian Counselor, a Certified Sex Addiction Counselor (CSAT), Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), Certified Addictions-Informed Mental Health Professional (CAIMHP), Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist (CASDCS), and Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP). Caleb specializes in helping men work through addiction recovery, anxiety, addictive behaviors, depression, PTSD, emotional abuse, mental abuse and trauma of various kinds. His passion is to provide a safe space for his clients and to walk hand-in-hand with them, guiding them through the healing process.
Caleb is Christian Counselor, a Certified Sex Addiction Counselor (CSAT), Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), Certified Addictions-Informed Mental Health Professional (CAIMHP), Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist (CASDCS), and Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP). Caleb specializes in helping men work through addiction recovery, anxiety, addictive behaviors, depression, PTSD, emotional abuse, mental abuse and trauma of various kinds. His passion is to provide a safe space for his clients and to walk hand-in-hand with them, guiding them through the healing process.
![Photo of Francesca Schultz, MC, LPC, EMDR, SE, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/340e93c0-4d31-4180-9c4f-906ce2ca791b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Francesca Schultz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC, EMDR, SE
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85014
Are you hurt and angry about the DISCOVERY or DISCLOSURE of your partner's or spouse's SEXUAL SECRETS? Have some of the things you once trusted and relied upon in life later proven to be false or been buried beneath layers and layers of deception? Do you know the experience of wanting stability as you attempt to stand on the shifting sands of overwhelming uncertainty? Your distress is valid and what you're feeling is quite normal, and yet it's all incredibly disconcerting. Fortunately, you do have someone to talk to. I'll listen, answer your questions, and help guide you through this difficult time. I hope you'll give me a call!
Are you hurt and angry about the DISCOVERY or DISCLOSURE of your partner's or spouse's SEXUAL SECRETS? Have some of the things you once trusted and relied upon in life later proven to be false or been buried beneath layers and layers of deception? Do you know the experience of wanting stability as you attempt to stand on the shifting sands of overwhelming uncertainty? Your distress is valid and what you're feeling is quite normal, and yet it's all incredibly disconcerting. Fortunately, you do have someone to talk to. I'll listen, answer your questions, and help guide you through this difficult time. I hope you'll give me a call!
15 Second Videos
John Parker
Aguilu Healing Services, LLC
Relationship Specialists
Dr. Mitch and Lisa Marriages/Couples Workshops
Elijah Steinbrecher
Jennifer C Cecil
Gil Gershon Tivon
Aaron Hartman
Raquel DeLuccia
Lisa Ruelas
Kyle Giblin
Jason Fierstein | Phoenix Men's Counseling
Scott Bennion
Caleb Mitchell
Travis Wood Munnerlyn
Jeffrey Ly
Lauren Baker
Mordechai (Motti) Polityko
Laura Tomaszewski
D.j. Diebold
Kim Glenn
Catherine Lowrey
Luke R. Allen
Tristan Michael Collins Hood
Aaron Hallstrom
David M Kolker
Daniel Nightingale
Dylan Richard
Elizabeth Ogren
![Photo of Patrick K Varney - Phoenix Foundations Recovery/ Patrick Varney PLLC, MA, MS, LISAC, LAC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/31ac93d4-fb80-4de2-b0a9-6c14a5bf488f/3/320x400.jpeg)
Phoenix Foundations Recovery/ Patrick Varney PLLC
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, MS, LISAC, LAC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85016
Accepting United Healthcare Insurance- In Network. Accepting New Clients! Serving Arizona Families, Couples & Individuals, Specializing in Addictions, Process Addictions & Mental Health Issues. Today can be the beginning of Change, “Let’s Get Started”. If you are feeling distressed and frustrated over having lost some or all control over gambling, shopping, obsessive & compulsive behaviors, sex, alcohol, cannabis, or other substances in your life or the lives of loved ones? Are you feeling despair, isolation, anxiety, loneliness or depression? " Let's start Healing Today".
Accepting United Healthcare Insurance- In Network. Accepting New Clients! Serving Arizona Families, Couples & Individuals, Specializing in Addictions, Process Addictions & Mental Health Issues. Today can be the beginning of Change, “Let’s Get Started”. If you are feeling distressed and frustrated over having lost some or all control over gambling, shopping, obsessive & compulsive behaviors, sex, alcohol, cannabis, or other substances in your life or the lives of loved ones? Are you feeling despair, isolation, anxiety, loneliness or depression? " Let's start Healing Today".
![Photo of Jill Vermeire, LMFT, CSAT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b8237f5c-0ba1-4f99-9c09-f0f1509b3300/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jill Vermeire
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85014
Sex Addiction, Love Addiction, Partner Betrayal, Trauma & Sex Therapy...these are my specialties and some of my favorite issues to work with. If you feel stuck, confused, or hurt you don't have to keep suffering. My job is to support you and help you understand yourself so you can make the changes you need to have the life you want. I can help you heal from shame, pain, or guilt of addiction, trauma, or betrayal. You will learn what you value, what you want, & together we will find clarity in your relationships from the past to the present so you can be hopeful about your future. I want you to feel empowered and confident...truly.
Sex Addiction, Love Addiction, Partner Betrayal, Trauma & Sex Therapy...these are my specialties and some of my favorite issues to work with. If you feel stuck, confused, or hurt you don't have to keep suffering. My job is to support you and help you understand yourself so you can make the changes you need to have the life you want. I can help you heal from shame, pain, or guilt of addiction, trauma, or betrayal. You will learn what you value, what you want, & together we will find clarity in your relationships from the past to the present so you can be hopeful about your future. I want you to feel empowered and confident...truly.
![Photo of Adlin Morales-Aguilu - Aguilu Healing Services, LLC, LCSW, CSAT, CCTS-A, CSOT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a7bc2397-a394-404a-8bac-d71652f21e32/1/320x400.jpeg)
Aguilu Healing Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT, CCTS-A, CSOT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85026 (Online Only)
Se habla ESPAÑOL. Adlin is a board-certified Licensed Clinical Social Worker who works with clients facing challenges with their sex life, addictions, trauma, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, eating disorders, and body image issues. Adlin offers 16+ years of experience assisting clients to find healing and growth. She understands that life can be challenging, and sometimes support is needed to navigate through difficult times. Adlin provides a safe and confidential space where clients can explore their feelings and work towards positive change. Adlin assists with self-discovery, healing, and empowerment.
Se habla ESPAÑOL. Adlin is a board-certified Licensed Clinical Social Worker who works with clients facing challenges with their sex life, addictions, trauma, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, eating disorders, and body image issues. Adlin offers 16+ years of experience assisting clients to find healing and growth. She understands that life can be challenging, and sometimes support is needed to navigate through difficult times. Adlin provides a safe and confidential space where clients can explore their feelings and work towards positive change. Adlin assists with self-discovery, healing, and empowerment.
![Photo of Jason Schrott, LPC, LAC, CTP, MS-CMH, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7d6a6fac-45ff-440d-a368-1766f30ffa3b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jason Schrott
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LAC, CTP, MS-CMH
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85028
Is something impeding you from reaching your full potential? Are you feeling stuck and overwhelmed? Are the ways that you've learned how to deal with life no longer working? If you are struggling with trauma, anxiety, compulsive, addictive behaviors, substance use or other challenges, I can help you find relief. Feeling safe, self-compassionate and empowered to move forward is within reach. Working together can enable you to identify goals and remove obstacles that may be preventing you from experiencing more fulfilling relationships with yourself, your career, and other people.
Is something impeding you from reaching your full potential? Are you feeling stuck and overwhelmed? Are the ways that you've learned how to deal with life no longer working? If you are struggling with trauma, anxiety, compulsive, addictive behaviors, substance use or other challenges, I can help you find relief. Feeling safe, self-compassionate and empowered to move forward is within reach. Working together can enable you to identify goals and remove obstacles that may be preventing you from experiencing more fulfilling relationships with yourself, your career, and other people.
![Photo of Beverly Janowitz-Price, LPC, ICADC, CSAT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48ef8962-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Beverly Janowitz-Price
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ICADC, CSAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85014 (Online Only)
I have been a therapist since 1977, starting out working in the substance abuse field. I am also a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist. My website is www.beverlyjanowitzprice.com. I firmly believe that the majority of our issues began in childhood, some of which can be very subtle. I like to work with people on healing their underlying issues. I believe in using the therapy process to find our true selves and, ideally, achieve inner peace.
I have been a therapist since 1977, starting out working in the substance abuse field. I am also a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist. My website is www.beverlyjanowitzprice.com. I firmly believe that the majority of our issues began in childhood, some of which can be very subtle. I like to work with people on healing their underlying issues. I believe in using the therapy process to find our true selves and, ideally, achieve inner peace.
![Photo of Laura Potter, MC, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d9d6d685-1a51-4dad-baa2-820ebd113d3d/3/320x400.jpeg)
It is NEVER TOO LATE...Whatever has happened, where ever you are right now, there is always a chance for hope and healing. I am uniquely experienced and specialize in working with individuals and/or couples struggling with sex or pornography addiction and infidelity as well as the resulting heartbreaking fall-out personally and within a relationship. With 20 years of experience in professional counseling, I understand the process of trauma, recovery and restoration that is uniquely associated with sex addiction, broken lives and broken marriages. More information is on my website: crossedheartscounseling.com.
It is NEVER TOO LATE...Whatever has happened, where ever you are right now, there is always a chance for hope and healing. I am uniquely experienced and specialize in working with individuals and/or couples struggling with sex or pornography addiction and infidelity as well as the resulting heartbreaking fall-out personally and within a relationship. With 20 years of experience in professional counseling, I understand the process of trauma, recovery and restoration that is uniquely associated with sex addiction, broken lives and broken marriages. More information is on my website: crossedheartscounseling.com.
![Photo of Jeffrey K Schultz, MC, LPC, CMAT, PACT II, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47cfc17b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
People can and do recover from Sex Addiction. When words lose their meaning, place your trust in a PROCESS of recovery.
People can and do recover from Sex Addiction. When words lose their meaning, place your trust in a PROCESS of recovery.
![Photo of Brecken Blades - Psychological and Consulting Services, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bd2f5807-4a82-4250-834a-edcc94499916/2/320x400.jpeg)
We provide evidence-based, effective treatment for general psychological issues, substance abuse, physical violence, and problematic sexual behavior ranging from sex addiction to sexual offending.
We provide evidence-based, effective treatment for general psychological issues, substance abuse, physical violence, and problematic sexual behavior ranging from sex addiction to sexual offending.
![Photo of Sam Hardwig - Sam Hardwig, Certified Brainspotting Therapist , MA, LPC, CSAT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cf583e76-7201-410f-9ae1-3a67d8aabe64/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sam Hardwig, Certified Brainspotting Therapist
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85018
With 10 years of counseling experience, I utilize an integrative approach to therapy that includes a blend of insight-oriented talk therapy, CBT, trauma-informed care, and experiential techniques such as Brainspotting, and IFS-informed therapy. Whether you're navigating relational challenges, communication barriers, life transitions, compulsivity issues, trauma, or mental health hurdles like anxiety and depression, I focus on creating a non-judgmental environment for you to work through challenges.
With 10 years of counseling experience, I utilize an integrative approach to therapy that includes a blend of insight-oriented talk therapy, CBT, trauma-informed care, and experiential techniques such as Brainspotting, and IFS-informed therapy. Whether you're navigating relational challenges, communication barriers, life transitions, compulsivity issues, trauma, or mental health hurdles like anxiety and depression, I focus on creating a non-judgmental environment for you to work through challenges.
See more therapy options for Phoenix
Nearby Sexual Addiction Therapists Searches for Phoenix
See More Sexual Addiction TherapistsSexual 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.