Sexual Addiction Therapists in Charlotte, NC

Photo of Wendy Pocock, MACC, NCLCMHC, CSAT, CPTT
Wendy Pocock
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MACC, NCLCMHC, CSAT, CPTT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28211
As a Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist (CSAT), I offer years of training and experience in assisting the partners and addicts in recovery, as well as helping the marriage to heal.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in NC and a Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist (CSAT) and a Certified Partner Trauma Therapist (CPTT) who can help you navigate through relational struggles, individual challenges, brokenness and betrayal, divorce, and parenting issues. My ability to help people express their core feelings and thoughts, brings individuals and couples to a point of clarity and understanding about themselves and their future as they make important decisions about life. I founded the Charis Counseling Center in Charlotte, NC in 2011.
As a Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist (CSAT), I offer years of training and experience in assisting the partners and addicts in recovery, as well as helping the marriage to heal.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in NC and a Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist (CSAT) and a Certified Partner Trauma Therapist (CPTT) who can help you navigate through relational struggles, individual challenges, brokenness and betrayal, divorce, and parenting issues. My ability to help people express their core feelings and thoughts, brings individuals and couples to a point of clarity and understanding about themselves and their future as they make important decisions about life. I founded the Charis Counseling Center in Charlotte, NC in 2011.
(704) 228-9576 View (704) 228-9576
Photo of Tim Martin, CSAT, CMAT, CPTT, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tim Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSAT, CMAT, CPTT, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28202  (Online Only)
I have advanced training in sexual addiction treatment.
Infidelity? Porn addiction? Sex addiction? Trauma? These issues can be tough to deal with, but I can help. I have specialized training so that you're not wasting your time and money. Not just talk, talk, talk that gets you nowhere. I used evidence-based treatments so that you're feeling better soon. As a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), a Certified Partner Trauma Therapist (CPTT), and a Certified Multiple Addiction Therapist (CMAT), I'm trained in many addictions and compulsive behavior, as well as substance addictions. Most therapists aren't trained in all these issues. I offer EMDR trauma therapy, as well. There is hope.
I have advanced training in sexual addiction treatment.
Infidelity? Porn addiction? Sex addiction? Trauma? These issues can be tough to deal with, but I can help. I have specialized training so that you're not wasting your time and money. Not just talk, talk, talk that gets you nowhere. I used evidence-based treatments so that you're feeling better soon. As a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), a Certified Partner Trauma Therapist (CPTT), and a Certified Multiple Addiction Therapist (CMAT), I'm trained in many addictions and compulsive behavior, as well as substance addictions. Most therapists aren't trained in all these issues. I offer EMDR trauma therapy, as well. There is hope.
(704) 397-3669 View (704) 397-3669
Photo of Todd E Byrd, MDiv, MA, LCMHC, NCC, CSAT
Todd E Byrd
MDiv, MA, LCMHC, NCC, CSAT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28201
My specialty area of focus is with individuals and couples whose lives have been affected by sexual addiction.
My work is focused on helping older adolescents and men deal with life's challenges, struggles, and difficulties with particular emphasis and attention to the unique concerns and needs of men. I provide individual, marital and family counseling, counseling for relationship concerns, men's issues, adjustment disorders, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, spirituality, communication, intimacy, attachment, self-esteem difficulties, and trauma work.
My specialty area of focus is with individuals and couples whose lives have been affected by sexual addiction.
My work is focused on helping older adolescents and men deal with life's challenges, struggles, and difficulties with particular emphasis and attention to the unique concerns and needs of men. I provide individual, marital and family counseling, counseling for relationship concerns, men's issues, adjustment disorders, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, spirituality, communication, intimacy, attachment, self-esteem difficulties, and trauma work.
(828) 476-4297 View (828) 476-4297
Photo of Tina Wehner, MTSC, LCMHCS, CSAT-S, CHFP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tina Wehner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MTSC, LCMHCS, CSAT-S, CHFP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28209
Are you interested in accelerating your treatment? I specialize and exclusively offer 3 Day Intensive Therapy in my practice. If you are interested in achieving 6 months of therapy in 3 Days and have a desire and willingness to dig deep, roll up your sleeves and work on your issues then our practice might be a good option for you. Hope & Freedom specializes in treating sexual addiction recovery therapy, betrayal trauma treatment for betrayed partners, and provides top quality couples recovery treatment for couples hoping to restore after betrayal. Our website has lots of helpful information and an application for consideration.
Are you interested in accelerating your treatment? I specialize and exclusively offer 3 Day Intensive Therapy in my practice. If you are interested in achieving 6 months of therapy in 3 Days and have a desire and willingness to dig deep, roll up your sleeves and work on your issues then our practice might be a good option for you. Hope & Freedom specializes in treating sexual addiction recovery therapy, betrayal trauma treatment for betrayed partners, and provides top quality couples recovery treatment for couples hoping to restore after betrayal. Our website has lots of helpful information and an application for consideration.
(980) 372-3255 View (980) 372-3255
Photo of Susan E Steier - Hope Again Counseling, Susan Steier, MS, LCMHC
Hope Again Counseling, Susan Steier
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28277
My areas of specialty include Couples, individuals, partners of sexual addiction betrayal, infidelity, postpartum, depression, anxiety, divorce, parenting, relationship conflicts and trauma. I utilize Brainspotting for treating trauma and PTSD. I have completed Module 1 of IITAP Certified Partner Trauma Therapist Training for betrayed partners as well as Levels 1 & 2 of Gottman Method Training for Couples work. I have also completed Phase 1 training of Brainspotting.
My areas of specialty include Couples, individuals, partners of sexual addiction betrayal, infidelity, postpartum, depression, anxiety, divorce, parenting, relationship conflicts and trauma. I utilize Brainspotting for treating trauma and PTSD. I have completed Module 1 of IITAP Certified Partner Trauma Therapist Training for betrayed partners as well as Levels 1 & 2 of Gottman Method Training for Couples work. I have also completed Phase 1 training of Brainspotting.
(704) 703-7509 View (704) 703-7509
Photo of Jim Katsoudas, MACC, LCMHC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jim Katsoudas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MACC, LCMHC, CCTP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262  (Online Only)
I specialize in the area of providing counseling to men struggling anxiety depression, anger, relational problems, Sexual Addiction , Porn Addiction,Sexual Identity and problematic sexual behaviors.
Looking for a Counselor who will walk with you and guide you through some of the issues we face in life. As an older person and former Pastoral Counselor I have had much life experiences, understanding many trials we may face in living. I enjoy helping people find their true potential, knowing themselves better, become more aware of their own feelings and desires. As a Christian Counselor I believe in a holistic approach in counseling and have been trained to help clients work through any questions and problems spiritually, Biblically and theologically. Certified as a Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP)
I specialize in the area of providing counseling to men struggling anxiety depression, anger, relational problems, Sexual Addiction , Porn Addiction,Sexual Identity and problematic sexual behaviors.
Looking for a Counselor who will walk with you and guide you through some of the issues we face in life. As an older person and former Pastoral Counselor I have had much life experiences, understanding many trials we may face in living. I enjoy helping people find their true potential, knowing themselves better, become more aware of their own feelings and desires. As a Christian Counselor I believe in a holistic approach in counseling and have been trained to help clients work through any questions and problems spiritually, Biblically and theologically. Certified as a Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP)
(704) 960-1509 View (704) 960-1509
Photo of Natalie Murray, LCMHCS
Natalie Murray
LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28227
We specialize in couples counseling, relationships and sex therapy. The broad umbrella of sex therapy includes sexual abuse, sexual addiction, sexual dysfunctions and polyamory. We are Safe Zone trained and an LGBTQ ally. Our practice is also accepting newly licensed LCMHCAs for supervision. Contact us today!
We specialize in couples counseling, relationships and sex therapy. The broad umbrella of sex therapy includes sexual abuse, sexual addiction, sexual dysfunctions and polyamory. We are Safe Zone trained and an LGBTQ ally. Our practice is also accepting newly licensed LCMHCAs for supervision. Contact us today!
(704) 908-6630 View (704) 908-6630
Photo of Morgan Enright, PhD, LPC-S, AAMFT-S, LMFT-S, LCMHC-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
Morgan Enright
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LPC-S, AAMFT-S, LMFT-S, LCMHC-S
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28277
Dr. Morgan Enright has been helping individuals, couples, and families over the last decade find health and wholeness. As co-founder of One:12 Counseling, he is passionate about helping people become emotionally and spiritually healthy as individuals as well as in their relationships, working with: couples to develop healthy communication, process anger and disappointment, heal from past hurt, and deal with sexual intimacy difficulties; families in turmoil to be able to heal and reconnect; adolescents and young adults to develop healthy life skills, positive goals, and foster their identity in Christ; men who struggle with pornography and sexual addiction to find freedom and wholeness.
Dr. Morgan Enright has been helping individuals, couples, and families over the last decade find health and wholeness. As co-founder of One:12 Counseling, he is passionate about helping people become emotionally and spiritually healthy as individuals as well as in their relationships, working with: couples to develop healthy communication, process anger and disappointment, heal from past hurt, and deal with sexual intimacy difficulties; families in turmoil to be able to heal and reconnect; adolescents and young adults to develop healthy life skills, positive goals, and foster their identity in Christ; men who struggle with pornography and sexual addiction to find freedom and wholeness.
(704) 706-9451 View (704) 706-9451
Photo of Robert Costa Lodwick, MA Eds, LCMHC, MDiv, Licensed Professional Counselor
Robert Costa Lodwick
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA Eds, LCMHC, MDiv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28273
I specialize in individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, and sexual addiction, Christian and family counseling.
Do you find yourself at times, getting stuck and needing help navigating life's issues? Do you find it difficult where or how to ask for help, even when you know you need it? If you are ready to accept help, I am here to help you. I specialize in anxiety, depression, marriage counseling, sexual addiction and other life issues. I accept a sliding scale if needed. I have availability in four to five days. I'd be happy to set up a free 15 minute consult to see if I might be a good fit for you. 980.396.2870.
I specialize in individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, and sexual addiction, Christian and family counseling.
Do you find yourself at times, getting stuck and needing help navigating life's issues? Do you find it difficult where or how to ask for help, even when you know you need it? If you are ready to accept help, I am here to help you. I specialize in anxiety, depression, marriage counseling, sexual addiction and other life issues. I accept a sliding scale if needed. I have availability in four to five days. I'd be happy to set up a free 15 minute consult to see if I might be a good fit for you. 980.396.2870.
(704) 253-8771 View (704) 253-8771
Photo of Clay Parker, LCMHC, LCASA, NCC, MS
Clay Parker
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCASA, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28215
Specialized areas include Substance abuse, sexual addiction, gaming addiction,anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, stress related issues, divorce, children and divorce, grief, stress management.
My name is Clay Parker. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist Associate , National Certified Counselor with a long history of working in the mental health field in various capacities. I have experience with adults, children, couple and family therapy. In my work, the focus often times involves exploring healthier ways to address any concerns that are creating challenges. I like to be creative with the counseling techniques that I employ in order to help people address their problems in a non-threatening and fun way.
Specialized areas include Substance abuse, sexual addiction, gaming addiction,anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, stress related issues, divorce, children and divorce, grief, stress management.
My name is Clay Parker. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist Associate , National Certified Counselor with a long history of working in the mental health field in various capacities. I have experience with adults, children, couple and family therapy. In my work, the focus often times involves exploring healthier ways to address any concerns that are creating challenges. I like to be creative with the counseling techniques that I employ in order to help people address their problems in a non-threatening and fun way.
(704) 385-4441 View (704) 385-4441
Photo of John Peter Dorris Jr, MA, LCMHCA, CSATC, LCASA, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
John Peter Dorris Jr
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LCMHCA, CSATC, LCASA, NCC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210
Does anxiety, depression, or grief hold you back? Do you struggle to find ways of coping with life’s stressors? Have you turned to porn/sex addiction as a way to cope? I am here to listen and work with you to find ways to live a fulfilling life and not be controlled by stress, grief, or addiction. I use a holistic approach incorporating evidenced-based treatments depending on your needs as a client. I primarily begin with a person-centered approach and like to get to know you and your values before determining an appropriate path that may include cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, or family systems therapy.
Does anxiety, depression, or grief hold you back? Do you struggle to find ways of coping with life’s stressors? Have you turned to porn/sex addiction as a way to cope? I am here to listen and work with you to find ways to live a fulfilling life and not be controlled by stress, grief, or addiction. I use a holistic approach incorporating evidenced-based treatments depending on your needs as a client. I primarily begin with a person-centered approach and like to get to know you and your values before determining an appropriate path that may include cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, or family systems therapy.
(980) 982-2317 View (980) 982-2317
Photo of Bruce Wayne Knight - Grace Healing Journey, PLLC, LMFT, LCMHC, EFT, CST, CSAT tr, Marriage & Family Therapist
Grace Healing Journey, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCMHC, EFT, CST, CSAT tr
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
Waitlist for new clients
The typical clients I work with are like you and me, usually have successful careers, have a faith orientation, although not always, and have a tremendous longing to find, repair, or revitalize something gone wrong in themselves or in relationship with those closest. They are individuals and couples who are hurting at their core, who want more than just a quick fix, a few techniques, or merely a listening ear. They want answers, real, deep, transforming answers. They realize deep down that it is probably going to take longer than they want or expect. But, they are longing and willing to do whatever it takes to get to a better place
The typical clients I work with are like you and me, usually have successful careers, have a faith orientation, although not always, and have a tremendous longing to find, repair, or revitalize something gone wrong in themselves or in relationship with those closest. They are individuals and couples who are hurting at their core, who want more than just a quick fix, a few techniques, or merely a listening ear. They want answers, real, deep, transforming answers. They realize deep down that it is probably going to take longer than they want or expect. But, they are longing and willing to do whatever it takes to get to a better place
(704) 870-0802 View (704) 870-0802
Photo of Spencer Setcavage - Charlotte Counseling Associates, PLLC, CSAT, PhD, LCMHC, EMDR, CPTT
Charlotte Counseling Associates, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, CSAT, PhD, LCMHC, EMDR, CPTT
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210
Are you experiencing the pain/betrayal that is coming from your loved one caught up in porn/sex addiction or an affair? Are you the one that has regrettably betrayed your loved one? You are not alone, that pain is real and you deserve the time and attention to help mend your heart, to process and heal from the betrayal trauma, and to receive help to add safe boundaries. We are a group of passionate therapists that work with betrayal trauma and sex addiction/affairs and PTSD. We understand the need not to blame you, but to empower you to best heal, and for your partner to also receive the specialized help you both deserve now.
Are you experiencing the pain/betrayal that is coming from your loved one caught up in porn/sex addiction or an affair? Are you the one that has regrettably betrayed your loved one? You are not alone, that pain is real and you deserve the time and attention to help mend your heart, to process and heal from the betrayal trauma, and to receive help to add safe boundaries. We are a group of passionate therapists that work with betrayal trauma and sex addiction/affairs and PTSD. We understand the need not to blame you, but to empower you to best heal, and for your partner to also receive the specialized help you both deserve now.
(704) 610-5817 View (704) 610-5817
Photo of Adam T Fadel, MS, NC LMFT, SC LMFT, EMDR, AAMFT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
Adam T Fadel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, NC LMFT, SC LMFT, EMDR, AAMFT-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226
Adam is devoted to walking alongside clients with compassion, confidence, and purpose. His goal is to help others experience the fullness of being emotionally and relationally strong. He believes therapy provides the best opportunity to develop personal insight and confidence as well as to develop honest and joyful relationships with others.
Adam is devoted to walking alongside clients with compassion, confidence, and purpose. His goal is to help others experience the fullness of being emotionally and relationally strong. He believes therapy provides the best opportunity to develop personal insight and confidence as well as to develop honest and joyful relationships with others.
(704) 817-2746 View (704) 817-2746
Photo of Kendra M King - The Healing Heart Center, LCSW-A, LCAS-A, PRT, PBTT, CST-C
The Healing Heart Center
LCSW-A, LCAS-A, PRT, PBTT, CST-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204
Individuals who are Partners of Sex & Porn Addicts have unique issues that have to be met with a person centered and eclectic approach. Most clients are experiencing emotional instability that is influenced by their significant others inappropriate sexual acting out behaviors. Couples who are trying to restore physical intimacy after infidelity are able to re-establish their connection through understanding one another's needs by communication, vulnerability and transparency. Individuals or couples seeking guidance benefit from a therapeutic environment that offers emotional safety with a non-judgmental perspective.
Individuals who are Partners of Sex & Porn Addicts have unique issues that have to be met with a person centered and eclectic approach. Most clients are experiencing emotional instability that is influenced by their significant others inappropriate sexual acting out behaviors. Couples who are trying to restore physical intimacy after infidelity are able to re-establish their connection through understanding one another's needs by communication, vulnerability and transparency. Individuals or couples seeking guidance benefit from a therapeutic environment that offers emotional safety with a non-judgmental perspective.
(704) 389-2966 View (704) 389-2966
Photo of David Sanchez, LCMHC, CSAT, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
David Sanchez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, CSAT, EMDR
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
No one understands how I feel. "Why is life so hard?" Have you had similar thoughts? Are you tired of not living the life you want due to sex addiction, being assertive, or relationship issues/conflict? Then we should talk. Are you tired of doing this alone? You don't have to; we can work together to reach your goals. If you are ready for positive change, I want to hear about your situation and work with you. Don't wait another day, now is the time for relief. Contact me today as your first step towards the life you really want.
No one understands how I feel. "Why is life so hard?" Have you had similar thoughts? Are you tired of not living the life you want due to sex addiction, being assertive, or relationship issues/conflict? Then we should talk. Are you tired of doing this alone? You don't have to; we can work together to reach your goals. If you are ready for positive change, I want to hear about your situation and work with you. Don't wait another day, now is the time for relief. Contact me today as your first step towards the life you really want.
(704) 469-5470 View (704) 469-5470
Photo of Michelle Holleman, MS, LCAS, CSAT, CPTT, CMAT, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Michelle Holleman
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, LCAS, CSAT, CPTT, CMAT
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28226
It is my honor to be a part of your healing journey and recovery. Nothing is really a problem, until it becomes a problem. My mission is to guide people to heal and find their authentic selves via an exceptional therapeutic process and experience. As a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist and Certified Sex Addiction Therapist, I specialize in supporting teens, adults, and their loved ones recover from sex/love, pornography, internet/gaming, mental health issues, and drug and alcohol addiction/dependency. There is no judgement and I welcome all. This is a safe place to heal.
It is my honor to be a part of your healing journey and recovery. Nothing is really a problem, until it becomes a problem. My mission is to guide people to heal and find their authentic selves via an exceptional therapeutic process and experience. As a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist and Certified Sex Addiction Therapist, I specialize in supporting teens, adults, and their loved ones recover from sex/love, pornography, internet/gaming, mental health issues, and drug and alcohol addiction/dependency. There is no judgement and I welcome all. This is a safe place to heal.
(704) 469-5425 View (704) 469-5425
Raymond J Ball
Counselor, BSc, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28277
Real change is hard, long-term work not meant to be done alone. Dysfunctions around sexuality, food, money and work (the so-called "process" addictions) are primarily a struggle with intimacy. One needs to understand THE FUNCTION OF one's own self - destructive behaviors: that self hatred is not low self esteem; that contempt for others is not good self concept; that my wife is not the problem; and that sex is not my greatest need. I am several steps ahead of you on a journey I encourage you to take. Real change is hard, don't do it alone. :)
Real change is hard, long-term work not meant to be done alone. Dysfunctions around sexuality, food, money and work (the so-called "process" addictions) are primarily a struggle with intimacy. One needs to understand THE FUNCTION OF one's own self - destructive behaviors: that self hatred is not low self esteem; that contempt for others is not good self concept; that my wife is not the problem; and that sex is not my greatest need. I am several steps ahead of you on a journey I encourage you to take. Real change is hard, don't do it alone. :)
(704) 577-4311 View (704) 577-4311
Photo of Chris Bissell, MACMHC, LCMHCA, CSAT-C, CST-C
Chris Bissell
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MACMHC, LCMHCA, CSAT-C, CST-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204
I started my career as an electrical engineer in the aerospace industry, working and leading teams for the International Space Station and a satellite mission. Wanting to work more closely with people, I switched to business strategy consulting, traveling to Fortune 100 companies on a weekly basis for two years. While I got the chance to solve complex problems, I realized I wanted to help people solve the problems that mattered to them at a deeper level. This, coupled with my own recovery journey, is what drives me to do exceptional therapy work today.
I started my career as an electrical engineer in the aerospace industry, working and leading teams for the International Space Station and a satellite mission. Wanting to work more closely with people, I switched to business strategy consulting, traveling to Fortune 100 companies on a weekly basis for two years. While I got the chance to solve complex problems, I realized I wanted to help people solve the problems that mattered to them at a deeper level. This, coupled with my own recovery journey, is what drives me to do exceptional therapy work today.
(704) 459-1017 View (704) 459-1017
Photo of Tom Stagg, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tom Stagg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28202
There are times in our lives when we need someone safe and objective to talk to. I believe that we have the answers within us and I strive to create a place of safety where you are free to express your hopes and desires. Many times we have themes in our life that recycle in and out. As an objective observer I can gently point those out. At times we may focus too intently on what is "wrong" or missing when we must first start where we are and make peace with who we are.
There are times in our lives when we need someone safe and objective to talk to. I believe that we have the answers within us and I strive to create a place of safety where you are free to express your hopes and desires. Many times we have themes in our life that recycle in and out. As an objective observer I can gently point those out. At times we may focus too intently on what is "wrong" or missing when we must first start where we are and make peace with who we are.
(704) 666-4898 View (704) 666-4898
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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.