Sexual Addiction Therapists in Asheboro, NC

Photo of Marydale M Worboys, Counselor in Asheboro, NC
Marydale M Worboys
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Asheboro, NC 27203
RedBud Legacy offers refuge for anyone seeking to find healing and comfort in a setting of nature and quiet farm surroundings. I am a licensed professional counselor with 25+ years of experience in the mental health field. As a retired Military spouse I am using my experience and farm to help others find peace, acceptance, change, and a place to strengthen their mind, body and spirit as well as their legacy. I offer faith based counseling but always seek to meet my clients wherever they may be on their spiritual journey.
RedBud Legacy offers refuge for anyone seeking to find healing and comfort in a setting of nature and quiet farm surroundings. I am a licensed professional counselor with 25+ years of experience in the mental health field. As a retired Military spouse I am using my experience and farm to help others find peace, acceptance, change, and a place to strengthen their mind, body and spirit as well as their legacy. I offer faith based counseling but always seek to meet my clients wherever they may be on their spiritual journey.
(336) 656-2160 View (336) 656-2160
Photo of Lydia Long, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Asheboro, NC
Lydia Long
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheboro, NC 27203
Being. Belonging. Becoming. Are you having trouble with people or situations in your life? Has your life become unrecognizable? Does it feel like you are in a rut, and nothing is changing? As the days go by, do you find yourself wondering if there is more to life? I can help you rediscover yourself and claim your life once again. Call and set up an consultation and get working on the life that you want. Take charge and create the future you have dreamed of!
Being. Belonging. Becoming. Are you having trouble with people or situations in your life? Has your life become unrecognizable? Does it feel like you are in a rut, and nothing is changing? As the days go by, do you find yourself wondering if there is more to life? I can help you rediscover yourself and claim your life once again. Call and set up an consultation and get working on the life that you want. Take charge and create the future you have dreamed of!
(336) 530-5572 View (336) 530-5572
Photo of Rachel Rennie, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Asheboro, NC
Rachel Rennie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheboro, NC 27203  (Online Only)
LGBTQIA+/GNC/Kink/Polyamory/Sex Worker affirming
LGBTQIA+/GNC/Kink/Polyamory/Sex Worker affirming
(718) 550-0635 View (718) 550-0635
Photo of Michelle Gallimore, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in Asheboro, NC
Michelle Gallimore
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, LCMHCS, MS, MTS, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheboro, NC 27203
Not accepting new clients
Have you ever experienced betrayal, a boundary violation, or dealing with the destruction of a toxic relationship? Do you struggle with problematic behaviors that lead to an ongoing shame cycle? When this occurs, we are unsure of next steps, so we isolate or continue the same unwanted behaviors. Through specialized counseling, clients gain the courage to challenge shame, create healthy boundaries, find balance in life, and move towards a healthier identity. Current groups are focused on betrayal, emotionally destructive relationships (family, partner or friend), brain health, and identity and shame- see below for more info
Have you ever experienced betrayal, a boundary violation, or dealing with the destruction of a toxic relationship? Do you struggle with problematic behaviors that lead to an ongoing shame cycle? When this occurs, we are unsure of next steps, so we isolate or continue the same unwanted behaviors. Through specialized counseling, clients gain the courage to challenge shame, create healthy boundaries, find balance in life, and move towards a healthier identity. Current groups are focused on betrayal, emotionally destructive relationships (family, partner or friend), brain health, and identity and shame- see below for more info
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Online Therapists

Photo of Bill Venable, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Asheboro, NC
Bill Venable
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, MDiv, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27606
Waitlist for new clients
Other treatment areas include sexual addiction, marriage, depression, anxiety, sexual dysfunction, post-traumatic stress disorder and dissociative issues, personality and family-of-origin issues, self-image issues, premarital counseling, conflict resolution and communication.
Do you want to find a place where you can be authentic and feel safe? My desire is to provide an environment for emotional and spiritual healing. As a Christian counselor, I seek to weave eternal truths in with healing prayer in a way that brings about lasting change and transformation. I am a Certified HeartSync Minister and since 2010, I have taken a special interest in implementing the HeartSync method developed by Andy Miller, LCSW to bring lasting healing to places in the soul that have received trauma, emotional pain and deep hurts.
Other treatment areas include sexual addiction, marriage, depression, anxiety, sexual dysfunction, post-traumatic stress disorder and dissociative issues, personality and family-of-origin issues, self-image issues, premarital counseling, conflict resolution and communication.
Do you want to find a place where you can be authentic and feel safe? My desire is to provide an environment for emotional and spiritual healing. As a Christian counselor, I seek to weave eternal truths in with healing prayer in a way that brings about lasting change and transformation. I am a Certified HeartSync Minister and since 2010, I have taken a special interest in implementing the HeartSync method developed by Andy Miller, LCSW to bring lasting healing to places in the soul that have received trauma, emotional pain and deep hurts.
(919) 759-5833 View (919) 759-5833
Photo of Alexandra 'ali' Martin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Asheboro, NC
Alexandra 'ali' Martin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, CSAT, CCTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Davidson, NC 28036
I specialize in the treatment of sexual addiction, anxiety, depression, & navigating life's transitions.
I am privileged to be in a profession where I am a witness to the strength people have in their most difficult times. The buildup of stress, anxiety, disconnection, traumatic events, or major life transitions can leave you feeling helpless, hopeless, and looking for relief in ways that feel confusing and unauthentic. Being able to reflect and come to the conclusion that there has to be a different way to cope is the first step toward enacting change. In therapy, my clients work to heal from past hurts, address current stressors, and plan for a vibrant future.
I specialize in the treatment of sexual addiction, anxiety, depression, & navigating life's transitions.
I am privileged to be in a profession where I am a witness to the strength people have in their most difficult times. The buildup of stress, anxiety, disconnection, traumatic events, or major life transitions can leave you feeling helpless, hopeless, and looking for relief in ways that feel confusing and unauthentic. Being able to reflect and come to the conclusion that there has to be a different way to cope is the first step toward enacting change. In therapy, my clients work to heal from past hurts, address current stressors, and plan for a vibrant future.
(704) 666-0748 View (704) 666-0748
Photo of Jeffrey Levy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Asheboro, NC
Jeffrey Levy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27511
Subspecialties in our practice include: the treatment of sexual addiction on an individual, couple, and group therapy level; treating anxiety and depression in individual therapy through the use of Cognitive-Behavioral Strategies, and Mindfulness approaches.
www.CouplesCounseling.com: As Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists devoted to helping people, we offer psychotherapy to individual adults, and couples through Carolina Counseling & Wellness Center, PC. Our specialty is couples counseling - helping couples discover solutions to problems that lead to more fulfilling relationships. Our practitioners are: Jeff Levy, LMFT and Dr. Toni Rabinowitz, Ph.D, LMFT. Each with over 25 experience, we share expertise and similar perspectives on couples counseling. Please visit our website at www.CouplesCounseling.com to learn more about us.
Subspecialties in our practice include: the treatment of sexual addiction on an individual, couple, and group therapy level; treating anxiety and depression in individual therapy through the use of Cognitive-Behavioral Strategies, and Mindfulness approaches.
www.CouplesCounseling.com: As Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists devoted to helping people, we offer psychotherapy to individual adults, and couples through Carolina Counseling & Wellness Center, PC. Our specialty is couples counseling - helping couples discover solutions to problems that lead to more fulfilling relationships. Our practitioners are: Jeff Levy, LMFT and Dr. Toni Rabinowitz, Ph.D, LMFT. Each with over 25 experience, we share expertise and similar perspectives on couples counseling. Please visit our website at www.CouplesCounseling.com to learn more about us.
(919) 666-3151 View (919) 666-3151
Photo of Eugene T Naughton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Asheboro, NC
Eugene T Naughton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CSAT, NCC
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27410
I use a person-centered, cognitive-behavioral and dialectical approach that has proven useful in reducing stress and anxiety, easing painful emotions, and developing the coping skills needed to face life-challenges such as: Sexual addiction* Stress * Anger * Depression *Self-injury* Severe anxiety * Ineffective Coping Behavior * Relationship struggles * Parenting Challenges.
Everyone struggles at times. You might face challenging life circumstances, or maybe you are having trouble coping with painful emotions or painful relationships. You do not have to face life's challenges alone. I offer therapy for adults, couples, parents, and teens who are struggling with difficult situations or changes in emotions.
I use a person-centered, cognitive-behavioral and dialectical approach that has proven useful in reducing stress and anxiety, easing painful emotions, and developing the coping skills needed to face life-challenges such as: Sexual addiction* Stress * Anger * Depression *Self-injury* Severe anxiety * Ineffective Coping Behavior * Relationship struggles * Parenting Challenges.
Everyone struggles at times. You might face challenging life circumstances, or maybe you are having trouble coping with painful emotions or painful relationships. You do not have to face life's challenges alone. I offer therapy for adults, couples, parents, and teens who are struggling with difficult situations or changes in emotions.
(336) 939-8880 View (336) 939-8880
Photo of Wendy Pocock, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Asheboro, NC
Wendy Pocock
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MACC, NCLCMHC, CSAT, CPTT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28211
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.
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 Hope Again Counseling, Susan Steier, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Asheboro, NC
Hope Again Counseling, Susan Steier
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
I am licensed for Telehealth in Florida. Helping couples is a passion for me as it's the most important relationship in an individual's life. This growth is often painful and joyful but worth it! I also work with partners of sexual addiction/infidelity to aid in healing from the trauma, setting boundaries and the process of formal therapeutic disclosure (including polygraphs where desired). I have completed Module 1 of IITAP Certified Partner Trauma Therapist Training for betrayed partners as well as Level 1 Gottman Method Training for Couples work. I am currently in training to provide Brainspotting.
I am licensed for Telehealth in Florida. Helping couples is a passion for me as it's the most important relationship in an individual's life. This growth is often painful and joyful but worth it! I also work with partners of sexual addiction/infidelity to aid in healing from the trauma, setting boundaries and the process of formal therapeutic disclosure (including polygraphs where desired). I have completed Module 1 of IITAP Certified Partner Trauma Therapist Training for betrayed partners as well as Level 1 Gottman Method Training for Couples work. I am currently in training to provide Brainspotting.
(704) 703-7509 View (704) 703-7509
Photo of Flyleaf Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Asheboro, NC
Flyleaf Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMFT, LCSW, CSAT, CMAT, CCTP
Verified Verified
Davidson, NC 28036
Trained as Certified Sexual Addiction Therapists (CSAT) as well as Certified Multiple Addiction Therapists (CMAT), Stefanie and Kim help individuals and couples begin to make meaningful changes in their lives so they can begin to live authentically.
At Flyleaf Counseling, Kim and Stefanie assist individuals and couples reach their fullest potential in healing and thriving. We help clients heal from past and current traumas and hurts, reduce anxieties, and find recovery with addiction and partner betrayal. Whether we are working with an individual or couple, we assist you in reaching your own determined goals. We assist clients in finding connection with themselves and others and to begin to unpack and release all of the needs that they believe hold them back from living their best life.
Trained as Certified Sexual Addiction Therapists (CSAT) as well as Certified Multiple Addiction Therapists (CMAT), Stefanie and Kim help individuals and couples begin to make meaningful changes in their lives so they can begin to live authentically.
At Flyleaf Counseling, Kim and Stefanie assist individuals and couples reach their fullest potential in healing and thriving. We help clients heal from past and current traumas and hurts, reduce anxieties, and find recovery with addiction and partner betrayal. Whether we are working with an individual or couple, we assist you in reaching your own determined goals. We assist clients in finding connection with themselves and others and to begin to unpack and release all of the needs that they believe hold them back from living their best life.
(704) 327-0457 View (704) 327-0457
Photo of Julie Martin, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Asheboro, NC
Julie Martin
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, CSAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Davidson, NC 28036
Waitlist for new clients
I am uniquely qualified to treat female pornography and love/sexual addiction.
There is not a "one size fits all" therapy that works for everyone, so I tailor my therapeutic interventions to what I feel will work best for you. I know that it is difficult to come in for counseling, but I believe that if you have the courage to take that step you will find that I am a very approachable person with a passion for helping others improve their lives. I have both inpatient and outpatient experience working with individuals who are struggling with relationships issues, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, sexual addiction, codependency, boundaries, parenting and more.
I am uniquely qualified to treat female pornography and love/sexual addiction.
There is not a "one size fits all" therapy that works for everyone, so I tailor my therapeutic interventions to what I feel will work best for you. I know that it is difficult to come in for counseling, but I believe that if you have the courage to take that step you will find that I am a very approachable person with a passion for helping others improve their lives. I have both inpatient and outpatient experience working with individuals who are struggling with relationships issues, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, sexual addiction, codependency, boundaries, parenting and more.
(704) 850-5834 View (704) 850-5834
Photo of Ronald A Zumstein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Asheboro, NC
Ronald A Zumstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CSAT
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514  (Online Only)
Though I have a wide area of professional interests, and training, I specialize in Relationship and Couples' issues, and Sexual Addiction (including Internet and Porn Addiction).
Over 20 years of working with individuals and couples, I have developed expertise working with a variety of issues, including: low mood, low motivation, anxiety, creative blocks, feeling "stuck" (in any area of life), relationship issues, work or career issues, anger management, addictions, compulsive behavior, and personal growth. My approach is client-centered and collaborative. Together we will work to clarify your goals, and develop a plan that will help you achieve them as quickly as possible. To help you actualize those goals I utilize a variety of modalities, including mindfulness therapy, interpersonal therapy and psychoeducational approaches.
Though I have a wide area of professional interests, and training, I specialize in Relationship and Couples' issues, and Sexual Addiction (including Internet and Porn Addiction).
Over 20 years of working with individuals and couples, I have developed expertise working with a variety of issues, including: low mood, low motivation, anxiety, creative blocks, feeling "stuck" (in any area of life), relationship issues, work or career issues, anger management, addictions, compulsive behavior, and personal growth. My approach is client-centered and collaborative. Together we will work to clarify your goals, and develop a plan that will help you achieve them as quickly as possible. To help you actualize those goals I utilize a variety of modalities, including mindfulness therapy, interpersonal therapy and psychoeducational approaches.
(919) 283-3480 View (919) 283-3480
Photo of Todd E Byrd in Asheboro, NC
Todd E Byrd
MDiv, MA, LCMHC, NCC, CSAT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hickory, NC 28601
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 Mike Vaughn, Licensed Professional Counselor in Asheboro, NC
Mike Vaughn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHCS, CSAT
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Waxhaw, NC 28173  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
The last seven years of my professional development have been focused in the training to treat sexual addiction, trauma and marital therapy.
My practice is focused on treating sexual brokenness and addiction, trauma (relational, single event, PTSD) and marital issues, including infidelity. Many times, these three treatment areas are linked together and experience in all three leads to more comprehensive therapy. I have also worked with clients with many different presenting issues over 19 years of private practice. I believe this experience helps me address the varied needs that my clients present.
The last seven years of my professional development have been focused in the training to treat sexual addiction, trauma and marital therapy.
My practice is focused on treating sexual brokenness and addiction, trauma (relational, single event, PTSD) and marital issues, including infidelity. Many times, these three treatment areas are linked together and experience in all three leads to more comprehensive therapy. I have also worked with clients with many different presenting issues over 19 years of private practice. I believe this experience helps me address the varied needs that my clients present.
(704) 498-4152 View (704) 498-4152
Photo of Wendy Lehnertz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Asheboro, NC
Wendy Lehnertz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27603
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I believe it's not only important but essential for individuals and couples to have a safe, non-judgemental space to share and work through problems. I have nearly twenty years of experience working with individuals and couples struggling with destructive relationship patterns, post traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, sexual and intimacy disruptions (such as infidelity, sexual addiction, past sexual abuse, etc), trauma and abuse, domestic violence, depression, and grief.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I believe it's not only important but essential for individuals and couples to have a safe, non-judgemental space to share and work through problems. I have nearly twenty years of experience working with individuals and couples struggling with destructive relationship patterns, post traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, sexual and intimacy disruptions (such as infidelity, sexual addiction, past sexual abuse, etc), trauma and abuse, domestic violence, depression, and grief.
(919) 343-9011 View (919) 343-9011
Photo of Natalie Murray, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Asheboro, NC
Natalie Murray
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, 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.
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.
(704) 908-6630 View (704) 908-6630
Photo of Robert Costa Lodwick, Licensed Professional Counselor in Asheboro, NC
Robert Costa Lodwick
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA Eds, LCMHC, MDiv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28273
I specialize in dealing with anxiety, depression, sexual addiction, Christian and family counseling.
From time to time we all get stuck and need help with life's issues. Sometimes, it is difficult to reach out for help even when we know we need it. If you are ready for 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. Normally, my rates are $120-150. I look foward to working with you to help you reach your goals!
I specialize in dealing with anxiety, depression, sexual addiction, Christian and family counseling.
From time to time we all get stuck and need help with life's issues. Sometimes, it is difficult to reach out for help even when we know we need it. If you are ready for 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. Normally, my rates are $120-150. I look foward to working with you to help you reach your goals!
(704) 253-8771 View (704) 253-8771
Photo of Clay Parker, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Asheboro, NC
Clay Parker
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LPC, LCAS, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kannapolis, NC 28081
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 Nick DeJesus, Licensed Professional Counselor in Asheboro, NC
Nick DeJesus
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS, NCC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609
My approach to counseling is that of a “fellow traveler” who takes the journey alongside of you in a way that is calm, open, supportive, empathic, and actively engaged with you at all times. I bring a unique existential approach to counseling that helps you in the “here and now,” and daily lived experiences of your life. I work with couples and individual’s ages 13-70. I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, intimacy issues (physical and emotional), LGBTQIA issues, men’s issues, marital conflict, sexual addiction, and complex personal life struggles. There is space here for you!
My approach to counseling is that of a “fellow traveler” who takes the journey alongside of you in a way that is calm, open, supportive, empathic, and actively engaged with you at all times. I bring a unique existential approach to counseling that helps you in the “here and now,” and daily lived experiences of your life. I work with couples and individual’s ages 13-70. I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, intimacy issues (physical and emotional), LGBTQIA issues, men’s issues, marital conflict, sexual addiction, and complex personal life struggles. There is space here for you!
(919) 646-3816 View (919) 646-3816
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.