Sexual Addiction Therapists in La Jolla, CA

Photo of Chris Chandler, MA, LPCC, LMHC, LPC, CSAT-S, Counselor
Chris Chandler
Counselor, MA, LPCC, LMHC, LPC, CSAT-S
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037  (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.
(619) 369-1884 View (619) 369-1884
Photo of Denise T Silbert - Sex Addiction San Diego, Dr Silbert RN,CNS,PH.D., RN, CNS, PhD, FAACS, Psychologist
Sex Addiction San Diego, Dr Silbert RN,CNS,PH.D.
Psychologist, RN, CNS, PhD, FAACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037
"Escorts-Pornography-Happy Endings-Hook-Ups-Web Cam Sex- Internet Sex-Betrayal-Addiction-FBSM -Infidelity-Extra-Marital Affairs" Sexual addiction is a syndrome in which some form of sex behavior relates to and negatively affects an individual’s life cognitively and behaviorally. Controversy exists among professionals as to whether the syndrome should be considered sexual addiction, sexual compulsion, hypersexual or possibly a symptom of another mental disorder. Whatever the name, the problem is the same, which includes behavior that is out of control and negatively affecting various aspects of an individual’s life!"
"Escorts-Pornography-Happy Endings-Hook-Ups-Web Cam Sex- Internet Sex-Betrayal-Addiction-FBSM -Infidelity-Extra-Marital Affairs" Sexual addiction is a syndrome in which some form of sex behavior relates to and negatively affects an individual’s life cognitively and behaviorally. Controversy exists among professionals as to whether the syndrome should be considered sexual addiction, sexual compulsion, hypersexual or possibly a symptom of another mental disorder. Whatever the name, the problem is the same, which includes behavior that is out of control and negatively affecting various aspects of an individual’s life!"
(858) 299-1951 View (858) 299-1951
Photo of Andrew Last - Oasis Counseling Group, LMFT, CSAT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Oasis Counseling Group
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037
Does your sexuality feel out of control? Are you struggling to control compulsive sexual behaviors? We can help. Oasis Counseling has five Certified Sexual Addiction Therapists (CSAT) who can help you break free of these painful behaviors. Additionally, we specialize in betrayal trauma, couples therapy, trauma therapy using EMDR, anxiety disorders and depression. We perform both and individual, family and group therapy. Our staff works with clients of all ages and are there to help you. Reach out today to our intake coordinator to find the which therapist is the right fit for you.
Does your sexuality feel out of control? Are you struggling to control compulsive sexual behaviors? We can help. Oasis Counseling has five Certified Sexual Addiction Therapists (CSAT) who can help you break free of these painful behaviors. Additionally, we specialize in betrayal trauma, couples therapy, trauma therapy using EMDR, anxiety disorders and depression. We perform both and individual, family and group therapy. Our staff works with clients of all ages and are there to help you. Reach out today to our intake coordinator to find the which therapist is the right fit for you.
(619) 346-4433 View (619) 346-4433
Photo of Lynda Smith - Teletherapy Only, LPCC, CSAT, EMDR, CHT, Coach
Lynda Smith - Teletherapy Only
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, CSAT, EMDR, CHT, Coach
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
I'm also a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) and Board Certified Sex Therapist with an emphasis on 1) empowering betrayed partners, 2) utilizing a non-12 step approach to sexual addiction/trauma/porn recovery & 3) relational & intimacy problems.
Do you have past trauma, anxiety, depression, intimacy issues, sex/porn addiction, or relationship problems that need to be resolved? Discover how my integrative and holistic approach to therapy heals the whole person. I specialize in helping individuals, couples, and families restore their lives and relationships. With empathy and understanding, I will work with you to help you realize your greatest potential so you can live in the present and focus on an amazing and successful future!
I'm also a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) and Board Certified Sex Therapist with an emphasis on 1) empowering betrayed partners, 2) utilizing a non-12 step approach to sexual addiction/trauma/porn recovery & 3) relational & intimacy problems.
Do you have past trauma, anxiety, depression, intimacy issues, sex/porn addiction, or relationship problems that need to be resolved? Discover how my integrative and holistic approach to therapy heals the whole person. I specialize in helping individuals, couples, and families restore their lives and relationships. With empathy and understanding, I will work with you to help you realize your greatest potential so you can live in the present and focus on an amazing and successful future!
(949) 612-2229 View (949) 612-2229
Photo of Dean Leav - Men's Issues - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist
Men's Issues - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
(858) 221-9423 View (858) 221-9423
Photo of Dr. Paul Santero, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Paul Santero
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
Everyone, at one time or another, encounters challenging experiences which can leave a lasting, negative effect. These challenging or traumatic experiences can leave wounds of shame that can hinder one from being they're true, authentic self. Depression, anxiety, OCD, lowered self esteem and other negative effects can result. I specialize in helping people heal these wounds and resolve the negative effects which results in living a more authentic and assertive life. We will journey and collaborate together to help you achieve your goals. I work with teens, individuals, couples and families on a variety of areas.
Everyone, at one time or another, encounters challenging experiences which can leave a lasting, negative effect. These challenging or traumatic experiences can leave wounds of shame that can hinder one from being they're true, authentic self. Depression, anxiety, OCD, lowered self esteem and other negative effects can result. I specialize in helping people heal these wounds and resolve the negative effects which results in living a more authentic and assertive life. We will journey and collaborate together to help you achieve your goals. I work with teens, individuals, couples and families on a variety of areas.
(858) 295-3546 View (858) 295-3546
Photo of Denise T. Silbert - Sex Therapy San Diego, Dr Silbert RN,CNS,PH.D., RN, CNS, PhD, FAACS, Psychologist
Sex Therapy San Diego, Dr Silbert RN,CNS,PH.D.
Psychologist, RN, CNS, PhD, FAACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037
"RISE ABOVE THE NOISE AND CHAOS FOR CHANGE AND SUCCESS!" Sex Therapy, Sex Addiction, Sex Compulsion, Pornography Addiction, Betrayal, Infidelity, Escort Addiction, Happy Endings Addiction, Extramarital Affairs, Secrets, Cheating are Problems that can be corrected. The therapeutic alliance with Dr Silbert promotes the desirable change the individual is seeking in treatment. Arousal, Erectile Dysfunction, Impotence, Premature Ejaculation, Delayed Orgasm, Anorgasmia, Sex Aversion, Performance Anxiety are Sex problems treated by Dr Silbert. Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Trauma, Loss, Divorce, Lack of Control, Emotional Overload treated.
"RISE ABOVE THE NOISE AND CHAOS FOR CHANGE AND SUCCESS!" Sex Therapy, Sex Addiction, Sex Compulsion, Pornography Addiction, Betrayal, Infidelity, Escort Addiction, Happy Endings Addiction, Extramarital Affairs, Secrets, Cheating are Problems that can be corrected. The therapeutic alliance with Dr Silbert promotes the desirable change the individual is seeking in treatment. Arousal, Erectile Dysfunction, Impotence, Premature Ejaculation, Delayed Orgasm, Anorgasmia, Sex Aversion, Performance Anxiety are Sex problems treated by Dr Silbert. Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Trauma, Loss, Divorce, Lack of Control, Emotional Overload treated.
(858) 863-6986 View (858) 863-6986
Photo of Hans Reihling, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Hans Reihling
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037
Do you feel like living with a roommate in marriage? I provide transformative counseling for couples and individual men who want to be empowered to become better partners. There is a way out of chronic stress, irritability, and out of control sexual behavior. I strongly believe that you are so much more than the problems you are facing right now. If you want to be a better partner, parent, or person, contact me and get a free consultation. It is my passion to provide the attention and care you deserve.
Do you feel like living with a roommate in marriage? I provide transformative counseling for couples and individual men who want to be empowered to become better partners. There is a way out of chronic stress, irritability, and out of control sexual behavior. I strongly believe that you are so much more than the problems you are facing right now. If you want to be a better partner, parent, or person, contact me and get a free consultation. It is my passion to provide the attention and care you deserve.
(619) 404-2579 View (619) 404-2579
Jeffrey Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CGP
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
Are you looking for insight with something in your life that you are not satisfied with?Maybe I can help. I have worked with many different issues in the 20 years that I have been in practice. I hold a great deal of respect for those who are open to working on whatever problems bring them in. Whether it's depression, anxiety, relationship conflicts, understanding yourself better, repetitive destructive patterns or addictions, I believe a supportive and empathic approach is crucial. I also believe that understanding what led us to our struggles is helpful in making the changes we want.
Are you looking for insight with something in your life that you are not satisfied with?Maybe I can help. I have worked with many different issues in the 20 years that I have been in practice. I hold a great deal of respect for those who are open to working on whatever problems bring them in. Whether it's depression, anxiety, relationship conflicts, understanding yourself better, repetitive destructive patterns or addictions, I believe a supportive and empathic approach is crucial. I also believe that understanding what led us to our struggles is helpful in making the changes we want.
(619) 717-8930 View (619) 717-8930
Photo of Dr. Josh Thomas, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Josh Thomas
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
Hello, I am a licensed clinical psychologist with expertise in substance addiction, trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, work stress, relationship problems, grief and loss, and chronic pain. With an emphasis in connecting to and living from personal values, my approach is highly compassionate, culturally sensitive, strengths-based, and evidenced-based. My treatment specialty includes Internal Family Systems (IFS), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help heal psychological wounds that are blocking you from living an enriched and empowered life.
Hello, I am a licensed clinical psychologist with expertise in substance addiction, trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, work stress, relationship problems, grief and loss, and chronic pain. With an emphasis in connecting to and living from personal values, my approach is highly compassionate, culturally sensitive, strengths-based, and evidenced-based. My treatment specialty includes Internal Family Systems (IFS), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help heal psychological wounds that are blocking you from living an enriched and empowered life.
(858) 413-9160 View (858) 413-9160
Photo of Charles M Cutler - Charles Cutler, Ph.D., PhD, LP, Psychologist
Charles Cutler, Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037
Everyone has the capacity to grow and create a more meaningful and fulfilling life. All that is required is a willingness to try and some perseverance. My goal to is create a personalized experience for you. I am passionate about my work, well trained and very experienced. Working together we can make sense of things, lessen the pain you feel, overcome stuck places and find your way forward. Whether you're suffering from anxiety, depression, loneliness, relationship issues or low self-confidence, we will address these issues and begin to find answers.
Everyone has the capacity to grow and create a more meaningful and fulfilling life. All that is required is a willingness to try and some perseverance. My goal to is create a personalized experience for you. I am passionate about my work, well trained and very experienced. Working together we can make sense of things, lessen the pain you feel, overcome stuck places and find your way forward. Whether you're suffering from anxiety, depression, loneliness, relationship issues or low self-confidence, we will address these issues and begin to find answers.
(858) 521-9382 View (858) 521-9382
Photo of Deborah Lynn Skvarna, MS, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Deborah Lynn Skvarna
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
"Solution focused therapy for positive change" As a therapist, I specialize in working with individuals, couples, families, children and adolescents. My objective is to assist you and/or your family in reaching your personalized, specific goals unique to your lifestyle.
"Solution focused therapy for positive change" As a therapist, I specialize in working with individuals, couples, families, children and adolescents. My objective is to assist you and/or your family in reaching your personalized, specific goals unique to your lifestyle.
(858) 346-5830 View (858) 346-5830
Photo of Bryson Greaves, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bryson Greaves
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037
Interpersonal relationships are powerful contributors to our overall health. Our intimate partner relationships, family relationships, work or peer relationships tend to affect us in meaningful ways. When our relational lives are strong and connected we feel satisfied, empowered, hopeful, and more confident. When our relational lives are hurting, we feel anxious, sad, pained, frustrated, and left not knowing what to do to improve it. I work with my clients to address the heart of their stressors working toward tangible results with lasting effects. I work collaboratively & passionately to create a safe, responsive, and supportive environment to address your needs.
Interpersonal relationships are powerful contributors to our overall health. Our intimate partner relationships, family relationships, work or peer relationships tend to affect us in meaningful ways. When our relational lives are strong and connected we feel satisfied, empowered, hopeful, and more confident. When our relational lives are hurting, we feel anxious, sad, pained, frustrated, and left not knowing what to do to improve it. I work with my clients to address the heart of their stressors working toward tangible results with lasting effects. I work collaboratively & passionately to create a safe, responsive, and supportive environment to address your needs.
(619) 648-4823 View (619) 648-4823
Photo of Bernadette M. Di Toro, PsyD, MS, Psychologist
Bernadette M. Di Toro
Psychologist, PsyD, MS
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
I bring together the heart and science of psychology to my practice and 25 years experience in the field of mental health. I have worked as a researcher and clinician in inpatient and outpatient settings (including UCSD and the VA) and focused on trauma, grief, depression, dementia, Alzheimer's disease and forensics. I received a B.A. from Lehigh University in Psychology and Health & Human Development, an M.S.Degree from SDSU in Gerontology (the study of aging), and an M.A. Degree and a Doctorate Degree in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology.
I bring together the heart and science of psychology to my practice and 25 years experience in the field of mental health. I have worked as a researcher and clinician in inpatient and outpatient settings (including UCSD and the VA) and focused on trauma, grief, depression, dementia, Alzheimer's disease and forensics. I received a B.A. from Lehigh University in Psychology and Health & Human Development, an M.S.Degree from SDSU in Gerontology (the study of aging), and an M.A. Degree and a Doctorate Degree in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology.
(858) 348-4139 View (858) 348-4139
Photo of Trish A Stanley - The Center for Couples Therapy, PsyD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
The Center for Couples Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, MFT
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
As a marriage and family psychotherapist for over 30 years, I am an experienced, eclectic clinician whose passion is helping couples become masters of their relationship and individuals become their best selves. Clients find me to be warm, active, engaged, and creative. I often use humor, metaphor, and therapeutic experiment to enliven sessions, and utilize tools for practice to support clients between sessions. I work to have each session build on the last and reach the client’s goals in timely and powerful ways. I am committed to having each person feel known, understood, supported and appreciated throughout the therapeutic process.
As a marriage and family psychotherapist for over 30 years, I am an experienced, eclectic clinician whose passion is helping couples become masters of their relationship and individuals become their best selves. Clients find me to be warm, active, engaged, and creative. I often use humor, metaphor, and therapeutic experiment to enliven sessions, and utilize tools for practice to support clients between sessions. I work to have each session build on the last and reach the client’s goals in timely and powerful ways. I am committed to having each person feel known, understood, supported and appreciated throughout the therapeutic process.
(858) 496-7681 x701 View (858) 496-7681 x701
Photo of Dr. Brandon Honeycutt, DMin, BCPC, MFT, Pastoral Counselor
Dr. Brandon Honeycutt
Pastoral Counselor, DMin, BCPC, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92093
If hopelessness, loneliness, anger, or despair are a part of your regular experience, there is help. Many couples live their daily lives carrying these heavy burdens all alone. Sometimes marriage problems or recovery issues seem overwhelming, but couples do NOT have to accept that as normal. I am a specialist in life recovery and couples counseling. I'm Gottman Level 1 trained in marital relationship issues therapy, hold certification in LIFE Languages™ & Couples Coaching™, and IBCC/AACC board certified. My greatest hope is that anyone reading this who feels overwhelmed and hopeless will be encouraged to reach out for help.
If hopelessness, loneliness, anger, or despair are a part of your regular experience, there is help. Many couples live their daily lives carrying these heavy burdens all alone. Sometimes marriage problems or recovery issues seem overwhelming, but couples do NOT have to accept that as normal. I am a specialist in life recovery and couples counseling. I'm Gottman Level 1 trained in marital relationship issues therapy, hold certification in LIFE Languages™ & Couples Coaching™, and IBCC/AACC board certified. My greatest hope is that anyone reading this who feels overwhelmed and hopeless will be encouraged to reach out for help.
(619) 486-5502 View (619) 486-5502
Photo of Julie K Peters, MA, APCC
Julie K Peters
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, APCC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
Welcome, I bring a strong skill base working in LGBTQIA+, addiction and PTSD communitites. I love working with Couples and families, and I'm passionate about helping students navigate studying and self-care. I'm here to help you utilize your innate creativity, and I'm excited to aid you as you enact new patterns in your relationship with yourself and others. You will experience me as an affirming clinician who values and acknowledges your marginalized identity and the intersection of the many roles you embody. You can expect kindness from me and a treatment space that expands to allow your unique perspective to shine.
Welcome, I bring a strong skill base working in LGBTQIA+, addiction and PTSD communitites. I love working with Couples and families, and I'm passionate about helping students navigate studying and self-care. I'm here to help you utilize your innate creativity, and I'm excited to aid you as you enact new patterns in your relationship with yourself and others. You will experience me as an affirming clinician who values and acknowledges your marginalized identity and the intersection of the many roles you embody. You can expect kindness from me and a treatment space that expands to allow your unique perspective to shine.
(510) 380-5706 View (510) 380-5706
Photo of Annette Conway - Help Therapy | Mental Health Services, PsyD, LCSW, LMFT, NP, PNP, Psychologist
Help Therapy | Mental Health Services
Psychologist, PsyD, LCSW, LMFT, NP, PNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037
Help Therapy boasts a network of more than 150 licensed clinical psychologists, LCSWs, LMFTs, and NPs, spanning over 100 specialties and treatment areas. Services we provide including psychotherapy, psychological evaluations and psychiatric services. By completing an intake form on HelpTherapy.com, you'll be paired with a therapist tailored to your specific treatment requirements, insurance coverage, and location preferences. You have the flexibility to choose how you'd like to connect with your provider—whether in-person, online, or via phone.
Help Therapy boasts a network of more than 150 licensed clinical psychologists, LCSWs, LMFTs, and NPs, spanning over 100 specialties and treatment areas. Services we provide including psychotherapy, psychological evaluations and psychiatric services. By completing an intake form on HelpTherapy.com, you'll be paired with a therapist tailored to your specific treatment requirements, insurance coverage, and location preferences. You have the flexibility to choose how you'd like to connect with your provider—whether in-person, online, or via phone.
(858) 481-8827 View (858) 481-8827
Photo of Julia Rosengren, PsyD, Psychologist
Julia Rosengren
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037
I specialize in addiction/dual diagnosis, but treat various mental health problems as well (depression, anxiety, relationship problems, etc.). I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and a psychodynamic approach, but I alter treatment depending on your needs. Feeling stagnant as well as drug and alcohol concerns are often a result of deeper struggles such as depression, anxiety, self-esteem, trauma, and obstacles in your daily life. If you are feeling stuck and are grappling with how to move forward I can help guide you through it. *Please say your name when prompted when you call, otherwise your call will not go through.*
I specialize in addiction/dual diagnosis, but treat various mental health problems as well (depression, anxiety, relationship problems, etc.). I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and a psychodynamic approach, but I alter treatment depending on your needs. Feeling stagnant as well as drug and alcohol concerns are often a result of deeper struggles such as depression, anxiety, self-esteem, trauma, and obstacles in your daily life. If you are feeling stuck and are grappling with how to move forward I can help guide you through it. *Please say your name when prompted when you call, otherwise your call will not go through.*
(858) 609-8405 View (858) 609-8405
Photo of Tonya Meeks, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tonya Meeks
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037
I have extensive experience with dual diagnosis, addiction, & complex trauma. I have worked in private practice & residential and primary psychological treatment centers. I work as a drama therapist combining my clinical & performance background. I specialize in family working entire family system. I have direct and empathetic approach. Since becoming a mother I also, work on those areas specifically. In addition, I love working with artists, creative, and those wishing to explore or develop those areas. I know we are all creative and meant to be creating. I have a very intuitive nature with depth psychotherapist training.
I have extensive experience with dual diagnosis, addiction, & complex trauma. I have worked in private practice & residential and primary psychological treatment centers. I work as a drama therapist combining my clinical & performance background. I specialize in family working entire family system. I have direct and empathetic approach. Since becoming a mother I also, work on those areas specifically. In addition, I love working with artists, creative, and those wishing to explore or develop those areas. I know we are all creative and meant to be creating. I have a very intuitive nature with depth psychotherapist training.
(760) 642-5233 View (760) 642-5233
1
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.