Sexual Addiction Therapists in Elk River, MN
![Photo of Amber Rose Fuller, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53df0a6d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amber Rose Fuller
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Elk River, MN 55330
I have the belief that all doors open and close for a reason and that if we desire to be where the creator wants us, he will put us exactly where we need to be and I believe that I'm supposed to be in a place where I help others realize this. I also have a huge passion for instilling hope into the lives of others. I've seen people lose hope and believe the lie that it is non-existent; I have a passion for helping people regain hope and grow personally and spiritually. Fuller Living has locations in Anoka, Roseville, Blaine, and Saint Louis Park.
I have the belief that all doors open and close for a reason and that if we desire to be where the creator wants us, he will put us exactly where we need to be and I believe that I'm supposed to be in a place where I help others realize this. I also have a huge passion for instilling hope into the lives of others. I've seen people lose hope and believe the lie that it is non-existent; I have a passion for helping people regain hope and grow personally and spiritually. Fuller Living has locations in Anoka, Roseville, Blaine, and Saint Louis Park.
![Photo of Kellan Vencil, MS, LPCC, LADC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/681207d6-68c7-4f79-b152-b6b6046eec87/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kellan Vencil
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
Elk River, MN 55330 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) and a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC). I specialize in providing mental health and substance use related therapy. I work with adults in the areas of anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma and substance use. I come from a strength-based, solution focused and person centered approach with clients' goals in mind. I work from psycho-dynamic, DBT, CBT, and 12 step facilitation theoretical frameworks. My interests include mindfulness based stress reduction, meditation, physical and mental health concerns.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) and a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC). I specialize in providing mental health and substance use related therapy. I work with adults in the areas of anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma and substance use. I come from a strength-based, solution focused and person centered approach with clients' goals in mind. I work from psycho-dynamic, DBT, CBT, and 12 step facilitation theoretical frameworks. My interests include mindfulness based stress reduction, meditation, physical and mental health concerns.
![Photo of Shelly Melroe, MS, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5a3c2829-52b6-492c-9384-7186765b097c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shelly Melroe
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elk River, MN 55330
Another day of managing stress, trying to figure out what rules matter and what compromises have the least consequences. Get some rest, miss the deadline. Miss the workout, feel the irritability climb. Seems that playing by the rules has led you astray. The pieces seldom fit together anymore and all you really want is to feel good! Is it too much to ask to have a good relationship? One that loves and accepts you, without minimizing your needs or your hurt. Feeling so alone, when surrounded by people (people who don't hesitate to let you know what they need), is hard to explain. Yet you know it to be true for you.
Another day of managing stress, trying to figure out what rules matter and what compromises have the least consequences. Get some rest, miss the deadline. Miss the workout, feel the irritability climb. Seems that playing by the rules has led you astray. The pieces seldom fit together anymore and all you really want is to feel good! Is it too much to ask to have a good relationship? One that loves and accepts you, without minimizing your needs or your hurt. Feeling so alone, when surrounded by people (people who don't hesitate to let you know what they need), is hard to explain. Yet you know it to be true for you.
![Photo of Kevin Smith - Northwinds Counseling Services, P.A., LMFT, LPCC, LGSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3deaa0eb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
At Northwinds, we consider it a privilege to help our clients as they go through life-changing experiences. With integrity, compassion, and a deep devotion to the worth of each individual we see, we are here to help you make positive adjustments to the stressful life challenges you are facing. We offer individual, couples, and family counseling. Our primary model of treatment is Cognitive-Behavioral therapy, though we frequently draw from other treatment models as needed. LMFT: Kevin Smith, Amy Halverson, John Torkelson, and Terri Jorstad; LPCC: Jordan Leuthold, Michelle Rhea, Raven Winter & Rindie Eagle; LGSW: Allison Brockway
At Northwinds, we consider it a privilege to help our clients as they go through life-changing experiences. With integrity, compassion, and a deep devotion to the worth of each individual we see, we are here to help you make positive adjustments to the stressful life challenges you are facing. We offer individual, couples, and family counseling. Our primary model of treatment is Cognitive-Behavioral therapy, though we frequently draw from other treatment models as needed. LMFT: Kevin Smith, Amy Halverson, John Torkelson, and Terri Jorstad; LPCC: Jordan Leuthold, Michelle Rhea, Raven Winter & Rindie Eagle; LGSW: Allison Brockway
![Photo of Nicole R.h. Baker, PhD, LMFT-S, RPT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/26c0679f-2283-400b-8f12-375d881dc5c2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole R.h. Baker
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT-S, RPT
Verified Verified
Elk River, MN 55330
Not accepting new clients
For 20 years I have worked with children, teens and adults to find their voice and empower themselves. I ensure my clients are treated with the utmost respect and honored for their individuality and uniqueness. The comfortable and caring environment of my office puts client's at ease. Integration of play and alternative methods of therapy provide client's the opportunity to work in a manner that best fits their needs during their healing journey.
For 20 years I have worked with children, teens and adults to find their voice and empower themselves. I ensure my clients are treated with the utmost respect and honored for their individuality and uniqueness. The comfortable and caring environment of my office puts client's at ease. Integration of play and alternative methods of therapy provide client's the opportunity to work in a manner that best fits their needs during their healing journey.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Michael Kogan-White - Cornerstone Therapy and Recovery Center, MA, LP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/563ff74a-8501-4e9b-8a76-f5a8e0496459/3/320x400.jpeg)
Cornerstone Therapy and Recovery Center
Psychologist, MA, LP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Anoka, MN 55303
Waitlist for new clients
Before this I worked at various clinics, correctional facilities and agencies treating addictions, domestic violence, sexual addiction, sex offenses and general mental health issues both with men.
I've been counseling men and couples for over 40 years. My specialties are men with compulsive/addictive sexual behaviors, unresolved childhood abuse/trauma/neglect, anxiety/depression, relationship problems and intimacy issues. I also do couple's therapy teaching and helping couples in good communication and conflict management and how to heal from infidelity. Cornerstone has 5 outpatient treatment groups for men with sexual addiction. We also have very skilled therapist who treat childhood trauma and neglect with very highly regarded therapeutic methods and approaches including EMDR, Sensorimotor and Pesso Psychomotor Therapy.
Before this I worked at various clinics, correctional facilities and agencies treating addictions, domestic violence, sexual addiction, sex offenses and general mental health issues both with men.
I've been counseling men and couples for over 40 years. My specialties are men with compulsive/addictive sexual behaviors, unresolved childhood abuse/trauma/neglect, anxiety/depression, relationship problems and intimacy issues. I also do couple's therapy teaching and helping couples in good communication and conflict management and how to heal from infidelity. Cornerstone has 5 outpatient treatment groups for men with sexual addiction. We also have very skilled therapist who treat childhood trauma and neglect with very highly regarded therapeutic methods and approaches including EMDR, Sensorimotor and Pesso Psychomotor Therapy.
![Photo of David Olmscheid, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e002bca-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Where there is hurt, there is hope. This belief has fueled my passion for counseling over the last ten years. I work with my clients to empower them to resolve the stressors and hardships in their life. I also strive to help my clients achieve their goals. I have experience working through grief, depression, anxiety, anger issues, and conflict resolution with couples and individuals. I also have experience working with at-risk adolescent males and foster children.
Where there is hurt, there is hope. This belief has fueled my passion for counseling over the last ten years. I work with my clients to empower them to resolve the stressors and hardships in their life. I also strive to help my clients achieve their goals. I have experience working through grief, depression, anxiety, anger issues, and conflict resolution with couples and individuals. I also have experience working with at-risk adolescent males and foster children.
![Photo of Connie Wheeler, LPCC, LADC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ea8a7875-135e-42a0-99aa-c3b34a3d4695/2/320x400.jpeg)
Connie Wheeler
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
Anoka, MN 55303
Are you feeling uncertain and stuck? When terrible events or experiences happen in our lives, trauma is the emotional response that happens in our bodies. This could be a physical trauma such as a car accident, rape, physical abuse, or a natural disaster. There is also emotional trauma can be caused by emotional abuse, humiliation, and even grief. EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. This therapy is one of the most effective ways to treat trauma as it engages both sides of the brain and allows the trauma memory to be properly processed in the body.
Are you feeling uncertain and stuck? When terrible events or experiences happen in our lives, trauma is the emotional response that happens in our bodies. This could be a physical trauma such as a car accident, rape, physical abuse, or a natural disaster. There is also emotional trauma can be caused by emotional abuse, humiliation, and even grief. EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. This therapy is one of the most effective ways to treat trauma as it engages both sides of the brain and allows the trauma memory to be properly processed in the body.
![Photo of David Swan, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0e2684ad-e5f3-48ff-aa7a-061b64a0470b/1/320x400.jpeg)
We all struggle sometimes and feel overwhelmed. When people come to see me, they want help replacing the feeling of being overwhelmed with the belief that they can navigate their current situation and get to a better place. Anxiety, Depression, Anger, Relationship struggles, Addiction struggles, Parenting struggles, Infidelity, Broken dreams. If all it takes is a set of instructions that I can follow, it would be simple. But broken lives spring from deep feelings of inadequacy. Healing begins when we connect deeply with our true self and know we are loved just the way we are. Then we can be free to change and grow.
We all struggle sometimes and feel overwhelmed. When people come to see me, they want help replacing the feeling of being overwhelmed with the belief that they can navigate their current situation and get to a better place. Anxiety, Depression, Anger, Relationship struggles, Addiction struggles, Parenting struggles, Infidelity, Broken dreams. If all it takes is a set of instructions that I can follow, it would be simple. But broken lives spring from deep feelings of inadequacy. Healing begins when we connect deeply with our true self and know we are loved just the way we are. Then we can be free to change and grow.
![Photo of Bailey Maly, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/61b1ab05-7876-421f-b225-20ceb53c55ce/1/320x400.png)
I work with couples and individuals ages 18+. As an LGBTQIA+ identified therapist, I am deeply committed to supporting my community. I tailor my methods to honor the unique experiences within our community, always striving to be culturally competent and sensitive to diverse backgrounds. By witnessing your story, I create an environment where you can explore your identity, overcome challenges, and celebrate your strengths. Whether you’re navigating a gender transition, healing from past trauma, overcoming anxiety, or working on self-love, I’m here to support you in becoming your happiest self!
I work with couples and individuals ages 18+. As an LGBTQIA+ identified therapist, I am deeply committed to supporting my community. I tailor my methods to honor the unique experiences within our community, always striving to be culturally competent and sensitive to diverse backgrounds. By witnessing your story, I create an environment where you can explore your identity, overcome challenges, and celebrate your strengths. Whether you’re navigating a gender transition, healing from past trauma, overcoming anxiety, or working on self-love, I’m here to support you in becoming your happiest self!
![Photo of Neko J. Vanevenhoven - Authentic Roots Therapy PLLC, LMFT, LP, LPCC, LADC, Supervi, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e146ec8d-9019-4a24-8699-8900fd34bbef/2/320x400.jpeg)
Authentic Roots Therapy PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LP, LPCC, LADC, Supervi
Verified Verified
Saint Michael, MN 55376
Authentic Roots Therapy is a mental health collaborative where licensed professionals provide individual, couple, & family mental health therapy in Minneapolis, Minnesota. We specialize in working with children, couples, families, LGBTQIA+ individuals, individuals who are questioning, curious, transitioning, or identifying as transgender/non-binary, mothers in postpartum, faith communities, individuals experiencing traumatic symptomatology, and highly sensitive men.
Authentic Roots Therapy is a mental health collaborative where licensed professionals provide individual, couple, & family mental health therapy in Minneapolis, Minnesota. We specialize in working with children, couples, families, LGBTQIA+ individuals, individuals who are questioning, curious, transitioning, or identifying as transgender/non-binary, mothers in postpartum, faith communities, individuals experiencing traumatic symptomatology, and highly sensitive men.
![Photo of Mark Schmoyer, MS, LPCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2daeaa0c-1391-4a02-80c9-be0b306357d2/2/320x400.jpeg)
I enjoy working with adults and teenagers as they navigate many of life's transitions. I make it my goal to establish a genuine relationship so that you feel validated and respected and our time together is centered on coming along side of you to create meaningful change. For those having thoughts of death or dying, it can be extremely distressing and I want to align with you to determine the best path forwards to manage and decrease those thoughts. I also value the role of faith in pursuing healing and strive to incorporate faith based conversations and interventions to assist you in your goals.
I enjoy working with adults and teenagers as they navigate many of life's transitions. I make it my goal to establish a genuine relationship so that you feel validated and respected and our time together is centered on coming along side of you to create meaningful change. For those having thoughts of death or dying, it can be extremely distressing and I want to align with you to determine the best path forwards to manage and decrease those thoughts. I also value the role of faith in pursuing healing and strive to incorporate faith based conversations and interventions to assist you in your goals.
![Photo of Dan Schmoyer, MEd, MA, LSC, LPCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5210627e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
*** We offer online/telehealth counseling sessions! If you are looking for someone who is compassionate yet honest enough to provide direction, advice, and guidance than give us a call. We also specialize in working with teenagers/young adults as they navigate life. Women's issues are an area of passion for some of our staff too. We base our counsel on a Christian worldview and have helped people from all walks of life find meaning, hope, and restoration through their struggle. Check out our website for more information and to watch a short video about our clinic.
*** We offer online/telehealth counseling sessions! If you are looking for someone who is compassionate yet honest enough to provide direction, advice, and guidance than give us a call. We also specialize in working with teenagers/young adults as they navigate life. Women's issues are an area of passion for some of our staff too. We base our counsel on a Christian worldview and have helped people from all walks of life find meaning, hope, and restoration through their struggle. Check out our website for more information and to watch a short video about our clinic.
![Photo of Michele Laney, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b810538-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michele Laney
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Michael, MN 55376
I have worked for several years with individuals, couples, families, children, and adolescents on many different presenting issues. I work collaboratively with people to identify strengths within themselves to address their life challenges. I work with many parents regarding parenting concerns, balancing marriage and kids, and trying to find themselves again after having children. I work with couples to re-start their relationship after many years of unspoken distance. My practice is broad-based; I have experience with a range of issues such as marital strife, blended families, substance abuse, mental illness, depression, grief, anxiety, sexual abuse, and loss.
I have worked for several years with individuals, couples, families, children, and adolescents on many different presenting issues. I work collaboratively with people to identify strengths within themselves to address their life challenges. I work with many parents regarding parenting concerns, balancing marriage and kids, and trying to find themselves again after having children. I work with couples to re-start their relationship after many years of unspoken distance. My practice is broad-based; I have experience with a range of issues such as marital strife, blended families, substance abuse, mental illness, depression, grief, anxiety, sexual abuse, and loss.
![Photo of Miranda Kuschel, MA, CPSS, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22af6148-6b9f-4956-b461-252f82e1fd0a/2/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal client is looking for a breath of fresh air, and a way to experience immediate relief from pain and struggles. Your challenges can be changed into dramatic life improvements. Our interactions will help you feel understood. I build in tasks for you to work on in between sessions Focus Areas: Depression,OCD, Anxiety, Codependency, Narcissistic Harm Abuse/Survivor, Self Healing, Trauma, Relationship or Life Transitions,Compulsions, All Addictions, Intrusive Thoughts, Self-worth/Value/Health/Motivation.Burying all your disappointments will not be a sustainable strategy. There is a special approach that will help in your healing
My ideal client is looking for a breath of fresh air, and a way to experience immediate relief from pain and struggles. Your challenges can be changed into dramatic life improvements. Our interactions will help you feel understood. I build in tasks for you to work on in between sessions Focus Areas: Depression,OCD, Anxiety, Codependency, Narcissistic Harm Abuse/Survivor, Self Healing, Trauma, Relationship or Life Transitions,Compulsions, All Addictions, Intrusive Thoughts, Self-worth/Value/Health/Motivation.Burying all your disappointments will not be a sustainable strategy. There is a special approach that will help in your healing
Online Therapists
![Photo of Mary E. Woodward, MA, LP, CST, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40834fbb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
If you are seeking specialized help with a sexual problem for yourself or for your relationship, you have come to the right place. Common concerns include low/high sexual desire, problems with erections, ejaculation, painful sex, and sexual addiction. LGBT clients are a regular and welcome part of Mary's practice, though most clients identify as straight. Mary E. Woodward, MA, LP, CST is a Psychologist and AASECT Certified Sex Therapist with over 28 years of experience in general therapy as well as sex and couples therapy. She has had therapy experience in medical settings, crisis centers, mental health clinics and in
If you are seeking specialized help with a sexual problem for yourself or for your relationship, you have come to the right place. Common concerns include low/high sexual desire, problems with erections, ejaculation, painful sex, and sexual addiction. LGBT clients are a regular and welcome part of Mary's practice, though most clients identify as straight. Mary E. Woodward, MA, LP, CST is a Psychologist and AASECT Certified Sex Therapist with over 28 years of experience in general therapy as well as sex and couples therapy. She has had therapy experience in medical settings, crisis centers, mental health clinics and in
![Photo of Jim Farm - Faithful & True, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d322640a-7795-4739-9ad7-c3821e2edf0a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Faithful & True is a Christian counseling center located in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, specializing in the treatment of sexual addiction for men, support for their spouses who have experienced betrayal trauma, and guidance for their coupleship.
Faithful & True offers counseling & workshops for men struggling with compulsive sexual behaviors that they are having trouble stopping. Men who attend our center may be dealing with a wide variety of sexual behaviors — ranging from fantasy, pornography use, and masturbation to affairs, same-sex encounters, and fetish behaviors. We also offer counseling for women who struggle with betrayal trauma due to their partner's infidelity. We help women know they're not alone and help them re-establish their sense of worth and value. Finally, we offer counseling & workshops for couples seeking deeper emotional & spiritual intimacy.
Faithful & True is a Christian counseling center located in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, specializing in the treatment of sexual addiction for men, support for their spouses who have experienced betrayal trauma, and guidance for their coupleship.
Faithful & True offers counseling & workshops for men struggling with compulsive sexual behaviors that they are having trouble stopping. Men who attend our center may be dealing with a wide variety of sexual behaviors — ranging from fantasy, pornography use, and masturbation to affairs, same-sex encounters, and fetish behaviors. We also offer counseling for women who struggle with betrayal trauma due to their partner's infidelity. We help women know they're not alone and help them re-establish their sense of worth and value. Finally, we offer counseling & workshops for couples seeking deeper emotional & spiritual intimacy.
![Photo of Jenny Beall, MA, LPCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c2fea74c-bed4-4a28-9926-803917955734/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am Prepare/Enrich certified for couples and have special training in healing the wounds of Sexual Addiction.
Do you feel stuck and unsure how to move forward? We all have the ability to change our situations or the way we handle them, we just need a little hope. I love coming alongside people who are struggling and helping them to see the light at the end of the tunnel. From coloring and play therapy to exploring the past, challenging beliefs, or sitting with you in your pain--I have a passion for hurting people. I'd love to walk with you through shame and conflict in your life and help you find meaning and hope.
I am Prepare/Enrich certified for couples and have special training in healing the wounds of Sexual Addiction.
Do you feel stuck and unsure how to move forward? We all have the ability to change our situations or the way we handle them, we just need a little hope. I love coming alongside people who are struggling and helping them to see the light at the end of the tunnel. From coloring and play therapy to exploring the past, challenging beliefs, or sitting with you in your pain--I have a passion for hurting people. I'd love to walk with you through shame and conflict in your life and help you find meaning and hope.
![Photo of Claudia Petcu, MSW, LPsy, LGSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f22b64a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Claudia Petcu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LPsy, LGSW
Verified Verified
Little Falls, MN 56345
You know by now that the process of transitioning through whatever situation you are dealing with in your life can be very difficult and painful. Partnering with a professional will help you get through the stormy waters, manage the difficulties and the pain, and access the resources you really need to get out of the storm. My areas of expertise are relationships, depression, loss of motivation, anxiety, stress, trauma, sexual abuse and sexual addiction and issues, domestic abuse, and fears of all kinds. I help people release their blockages so they can free themselves and continue to continue to live their lives to the fullest.
You know by now that the process of transitioning through whatever situation you are dealing with in your life can be very difficult and painful. Partnering with a professional will help you get through the stormy waters, manage the difficulties and the pain, and access the resources you really need to get out of the storm. My areas of expertise are relationships, depression, loss of motivation, anxiety, stress, trauma, sexual abuse and sexual addiction and issues, domestic abuse, and fears of all kinds. I help people release their blockages so they can free themselves and continue to continue to live their lives to the fullest.
![Photo of Brenda Schaeffer, DMin, MALP, CAS, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bd6ccaf-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
Certified Addiction Specialist in Sexual Addiction, Clinical Member of International Transactional Analysis Association, Associate Member of Enneagram Association, Author of "Is It Love or Is It Addiction?" "Healthy Relationship Series", "Love's Way", Loving Me, Loving You","Love or Addiction? The Power and Peril of Teen Sex and Romance".
Seeking psychotherapy is a sign of wellness, an opportunity to grow beyond learned limitations, to help individuals and relationships realize their potential and release creative energy suppressed by traumatic events past or present, anxiety, depression, behavioral problems, life transitions, grief, illness, dysfunctional relationships, addiction, low esteem, and victimization.
Certified Addiction Specialist in Sexual Addiction, Clinical Member of International Transactional Analysis Association, Associate Member of Enneagram Association, Author of "Is It Love or Is It Addiction?" "Healthy Relationship Series", "Love's Way", Loving Me, Loving You","Love or Addiction? The Power and Peril of Teen Sex and Romance".
Seeking psychotherapy is a sign of wellness, an opportunity to grow beyond learned limitations, to help individuals and relationships realize their potential and release creative energy suppressed by traumatic events past or present, anxiety, depression, behavioral problems, life transitions, grief, illness, dysfunctional relationships, addiction, low esteem, and victimization.
See more therapy options for Elk River
Nearby Sexual Addiction Therapists Searches for Elk River
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.