Sexual Addiction Therapists in Los Angeles, CA

Photo of Sexual Addiction Infidelity Expert 27 Yrs Exper, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Sexual Addiction Infidelity Expert 27 Yrs Exper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, SOTS
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90071
Absolute sexual addiction elite level expert 27 years + 45,000 hours sexual misbehavior specialist psychotherapy provided, faster recovery evidence based research oriented treating of Infidelity / Cheating /Affairs, Prostitution Use, "Seeking Arrangements", Sugar Daddy, Sex Apps, Strip Clubs, Massage Parlors, Sex Misconduct, Certified Specialist. I created government funded sexual misbehavior programs utilizing highly effective clinical models. I use most up to date understanding to have you change your thinking and you learn how to end self destructive actions and love yourself and the great life you have. All I do is these cases.
Absolute sexual addiction elite level expert 27 years + 45,000 hours sexual misbehavior specialist psychotherapy provided, faster recovery evidence based research oriented treating of Infidelity / Cheating /Affairs, Prostitution Use, "Seeking Arrangements", Sugar Daddy, Sex Apps, Strip Clubs, Massage Parlors, Sex Misconduct, Certified Specialist. I created government funded sexual misbehavior programs utilizing highly effective clinical models. I use most up to date understanding to have you change your thinking and you learn how to end self destructive actions and love yourself and the great life you have. All I do is these cases.
(562) 454-1931 View (562) 454-1931
Photo of Sexual Addiction Sex Misbehavior Infidelity Expert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Sexual Addiction Sex Misbehavior Infidelity Expert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SOTS
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90024
Absolute sexual addiction elite level expert 27 years + 45,000 hours sexual misbehavior specialist psychotherapy provided, faster recovery evidence based research oriented treating of Infidelity / Cheating /Affairs, Prostitution Use, "Seeking Arrangements", Sugar Daddy, Sex Apps, Strip Clubs, Massage Parlors, Sex Misconduct, Certified Specialist. I created government funded sexual misbehavior programs utilizing highly effective clinical models. I use most up to date understanding to have you change your thinking and you learn how to end self destructive actions and love yourself and the great life you have. All I do is these cases.
Absolute sexual addiction elite level expert 27 years + 45,000 hours sexual misbehavior specialist psychotherapy provided, faster recovery evidence based research oriented treating of Infidelity / Cheating /Affairs, Prostitution Use, "Seeking Arrangements", Sugar Daddy, Sex Apps, Strip Clubs, Massage Parlors, Sex Misconduct, Certified Specialist. I created government funded sexual misbehavior programs utilizing highly effective clinical models. I use most up to date understanding to have you change your thinking and you learn how to end self destructive actions and love yourself and the great life you have. All I do is these cases.
(619) 824-6086 View (619) 824-6086
Photo of Joleena Abrams in Los Angeles, CA
Joleena Abrams
CCTSA, CMEMI, MA, CSAC
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90036  (Online Only)
Joleena is Certified in the Treament of Sexual Addiction, is a Certified Betrayal Trauma Coach, a Certified Clinical Trauma and Addiction Specialist with a Masters of Psychology in Grief Counseling, and a Bachelors of Science in Psychology. Joleena specializes in helping couples working through betrayal and addiction of all kinds. She also works with clients that are struggling with anxiety, addictive behaviors, depression, PTSD, emotional abuse, mental abuse and trauma of various kinds. Her passion is to provide a safe space for her clients and to walk hand-in-hand with them, guiding them through the healing process.
Joleena is Certified in the Treament of Sexual Addiction, is a Certified Betrayal Trauma Coach, a Certified Clinical Trauma and Addiction Specialist with a Masters of Psychology in Grief Counseling, and a Bachelors of Science in Psychology. Joleena specializes in helping couples working through betrayal and addiction of all kinds. She also works with clients that are struggling with anxiety, addictive behaviors, depression, PTSD, emotional abuse, mental abuse and trauma of various kinds. Her passion is to provide a safe space for her clients and to walk hand-in-hand with them, guiding them through the healing process.
(619) 639-4614 View (619) 639-4614
Photo of Paul Julio Calloway, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Paul Julio Calloway
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90043
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in treating anxiety, PTSD, anger management, depression, OCD, co-dependency and sexual addiction.
As a therapist, I would like to create a safe place to discuss and process your feelings. The most important thing for me is building trust and rapport so that the therapeutic process can commence. I am here to provide guidance and tailor my counseling interventions to address your specific needs. I identify as a therapist of color specializing in working with communities of color.
I specialize in treating anxiety, PTSD, anger management, depression, OCD, co-dependency and sexual addiction.
As a therapist, I would like to create a safe place to discuss and process your feelings. The most important thing for me is building trust and rapport so that the therapeutic process can commence. I am here to provide guidance and tailor my counseling interventions to address your specific needs. I identify as a therapist of color specializing in working with communities of color.
(510) 983-7753 View (510) 983-7753
Photo of Caleb Park, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles, CA
Caleb Park
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90020
I am dedicated to providing personalized support for individuals struggling with a range of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma (EMDR Certified), sexual addiction, marital issues, substance addiction, and panic attacks. My comprehensive approach to therapy draws from a combination of evidence-based practices, including CBT, DBT, Psychodynamic, and solution-focused therapy, to help you achieve lasting results. I have over 8+ years of clinical experience, along with the best sexual addiction and trauma therapy training. You can trust that you are with a professional who has been trained at the highest-level institutions.
I am dedicated to providing personalized support for individuals struggling with a range of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma (EMDR Certified), sexual addiction, marital issues, substance addiction, and panic attacks. My comprehensive approach to therapy draws from a combination of evidence-based practices, including CBT, DBT, Psychodynamic, and solution-focused therapy, to help you achieve lasting results. I have over 8+ years of clinical experience, along with the best sexual addiction and trauma therapy training. You can trust that you are with a professional who has been trained at the highest-level institutions.
(562) 303-5633 View (562) 303-5633
Photo of Matthew Opoien, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles, CA
Matthew Opoien
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90011
I specialize in working with couples struggling with infidelity and sexual addiction.
Do you find yourself struggling in the wake of infidelity? Most divorcing couples list infidelity as a factor in their divorce. However, these divorces can be prevented approximately 70% of the time. The biggest factor in whether or not your marriage can weather this hardship is in how long it takes you to get help.
I specialize in working with couples struggling with infidelity and sexual addiction.
Do you find yourself struggling in the wake of infidelity? Most divorcing couples list infidelity as a factor in their divorce. However, these divorces can be prevented approximately 70% of the time. The biggest factor in whether or not your marriage can weather this hardship is in how long it takes you to get help.
(760) 359-9867 View (760) 359-9867
Photo of Kristen Parker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Kristen Parker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PsyD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90001
I specialize in the treatment of PTSD, Dissociative Disorders, Borderline Personality Disorder, Military Trauma, Eating Disorders and Sexual Addiction.
I am a Psychoanalyst and Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been in practice for over 30 years, treating children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I provide a skilled, empathic, supportive, and yet challenging therapeutic environment in which I will not only act as a guide to deeper insight, but help to navigate the change that is necessary to help you reach your potential as well.
I specialize in the treatment of PTSD, Dissociative Disorders, Borderline Personality Disorder, Military Trauma, Eating Disorders and Sexual Addiction.
I am a Psychoanalyst and Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been in practice for over 30 years, treating children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I provide a skilled, empathic, supportive, and yet challenging therapeutic environment in which I will not only act as a guide to deeper insight, but help to navigate the change that is necessary to help you reach your potential as well.
(310) 740-9761 View (310) 740-9761
Photo of Ben Raskin, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles, CA
Ben Raskin
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS,, AMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90081  (Online Only)
I help people who are struggling with pornography/sexual addiction, depression, anxiety, codependency, compulsivity, and trauma.
Is your relationship in crisis? Are you experiencing deep loneliness, anxiety and depression? Are your sexual impulses and behaviors causing problems in your life? Are you confused by your emotions and behaviors? I will provide you with practical tools in addition to psychotherapy to help you break free from self-destructive cycles. My clients often report improvements within weeks of starting treatment. Call, text, or email me today for a free consultation or to schedule your first session.
I help people who are struggling with pornography/sexual addiction, depression, anxiety, codependency, compulsivity, and trauma.
Is your relationship in crisis? Are you experiencing deep loneliness, anxiety and depression? Are your sexual impulses and behaviors causing problems in your life? Are you confused by your emotions and behaviors? I will provide you with practical tools in addition to psychotherapy to help you break free from self-destructive cycles. My clients often report improvements within weeks of starting treatment. Call, text, or email me today for a free consultation or to schedule your first session.
(669) 219-2306 View (669) 219-2306
Photo of Dale K Rose, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Dale K Rose
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CSAT, CMAT, CTHP
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90027
I am Certified as a Telehealth Provider (CTHP), Sexual Addiction Therapist (CSAT) and an Eye Movement Desensitization/Reprocessing (EMDR) Clinician.
Hi, I'm Dale Rose, and I've been a licensed, practicing Marriage and Family Therapist in the Sherman Oaks-Studio City neighborhood for over 20 years. Do your behaviors and attitudes bother you, and would you like to change them? Would you like to feel more confident and competent, less anxious or depressed? With individualized therapeutic methods, you can address these issues and more. You will better understand how you got here and what you can do to change. You will learn to cope more effectively, heal your inner wounds, and communicate better with yourself and others.
I am Certified as a Telehealth Provider (CTHP), Sexual Addiction Therapist (CSAT) and an Eye Movement Desensitization/Reprocessing (EMDR) Clinician.
Hi, I'm Dale Rose, and I've been a licensed, practicing Marriage and Family Therapist in the Sherman Oaks-Studio City neighborhood for over 20 years. Do your behaviors and attitudes bother you, and would you like to change them? Would you like to feel more confident and competent, less anxious or depressed? With individualized therapeutic methods, you can address these issues and more. You will better understand how you got here and what you can do to change. You will learn to cope more effectively, heal your inner wounds, and communicate better with yourself and others.
(213) 260-4902 View (213) 260-4902
Photo of Kathleen Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Kathleen Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90007
I am also a Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist and trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing.
Hello! My name is Kathleen and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 10 years of experience working with addictions, trauma, and a widespan of relationship and mental health issues in outpatient and residential settings. I understand that seeking help can be difficult and therefore I use a client-centered and trauma-informed approach using compassion and empowerment to guide clients towards their personal goals and healing. Most importantly, trust and safety remain my top priority as it is essential in such a powerful and vulnerable process.
I am also a Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist and trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing.
Hello! My name is Kathleen and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 10 years of experience working with addictions, trauma, and a widespan of relationship and mental health issues in outpatient and residential settings. I understand that seeking help can be difficult and therefore I use a client-centered and trauma-informed approach using compassion and empowerment to guide clients towards their personal goals and healing. Most importantly, trust and safety remain my top priority as it is essential in such a powerful and vulnerable process.
(858) 544-3980 View (858) 544-3980
Photo of Jennifer Ginsberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Jennifer Ginsberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT, MAJCS
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Welcome to my practice! Here, you'll find a safe space where you can be completely honest with me, free from judgment. My goal is to provide the compassion and guidance you need to heal. I specialize in treating a range of issues including sex addiction, codependency, betrayal trauma, love addiction, substance abuse, partners of addicts, and complex couples. Together, we will address the underlying emotional triggers—such as trauma, unresolved grief, and abandonment wounds—that contribute to these challenges. We'll work collaboratively to reshape your internal landscape, so you can achieve your goals and live a more purposeful life.
Welcome to my practice! Here, you'll find a safe space where you can be completely honest with me, free from judgment. My goal is to provide the compassion and guidance you need to heal. I specialize in treating a range of issues including sex addiction, codependency, betrayal trauma, love addiction, substance abuse, partners of addicts, and complex couples. Together, we will address the underlying emotional triggers—such as trauma, unresolved grief, and abandonment wounds—that contribute to these challenges. We'll work collaboratively to reshape your internal landscape, so you can achieve your goals and live a more purposeful life.
(310) 340-6708 View (310) 340-6708
Photo of Sex Addiction Sexual Misbehavior Infidelity Expert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Sex Addiction Sexual Misbehavior Infidelity Expert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SOTS , JSOC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90028
Absolute sex addiction elite level expert, 27 years & 45,000 hours sexual misbehavior specialist psychotherapy provided, faster recovery. Evidence based research oriented treating of Infidelity/Cheating/Affairs, Prostitution Use, "Seeking Arrangements", Sugar Daddy, Sex Apps, Strip Clubs, Massage Parlors, Sex Misconduct, Certified Specialist. I created government funded sexual misbehavior programs, utilizing highly effective clinical models. I use my most up to date understanding to have you change your thinking and learn how to end self destructive actions and love yourself and the great life you have. All I do is these cases.
Absolute sex addiction elite level expert, 27 years & 45,000 hours sexual misbehavior specialist psychotherapy provided, faster recovery. Evidence based research oriented treating of Infidelity/Cheating/Affairs, Prostitution Use, "Seeking Arrangements", Sugar Daddy, Sex Apps, Strip Clubs, Massage Parlors, Sex Misconduct, Certified Specialist. I created government funded sexual misbehavior programs, utilizing highly effective clinical models. I use my most up to date understanding to have you change your thinking and learn how to end self destructive actions and love yourself and the great life you have. All I do is these cases.
(213) 319-5604 View (213) 319-5604
Photo of Sex Addiction & Parenting: Betrayal In Families in Los Angeles, CA
Sex Addiction & Parenting: Betrayal In Families
LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90064
Families are greatly impacted by betrayal, infidelity and sex addiction. As parents struggle to orient themselves to a new reality in the face of betrayal, it can be overwhelming and painful for a parent to recognize the immediate and future impact on their children. Well meaning parents can unintentionally make serious mistakes in managing the family during this painful and confusing time. You may have questions at this time such as “How is the tension in the household affecting our child?" and “Is our child internalizing emotional pain that we can't see?”
Families are greatly impacted by betrayal, infidelity and sex addiction. As parents struggle to orient themselves to a new reality in the face of betrayal, it can be overwhelming and painful for a parent to recognize the immediate and future impact on their children. Well meaning parents can unintentionally make serious mistakes in managing the family during this painful and confusing time. You may have questions at this time such as “How is the tension in the household affecting our child?" and “Is our child internalizing emotional pain that we can't see?”
(213) 397-2306 View (213) 397-2306
Photo of Kevin James Simms, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Kevin James Simms
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC-II, ICADC, CSAT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Change the story. Change the narrative. Building self esteem comes from doing esteem-able acts. My life experience enables me to offer effective, individualized, client-centered care. I treat a number of mental health disorders and addictions, and provide a safe space to individuals, families, and couples.
Change the story. Change the narrative. Building self esteem comes from doing esteem-able acts. My life experience enables me to offer effective, individualized, client-centered care. I treat a number of mental health disorders and addictions, and provide a safe space to individuals, families, and couples.
(562) 784-5749 View (562) 784-5749
Photo of Dr. Suzanne Pelka, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Dr. Suzanne Pelka
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90066
In need of sex therapy? Lack of desire? A sex-starved marriage? Sex/porn addiction? Just not on the same page as your partner? As a Sexuality Specialist and CSAT, I have successfully treated clients struggling with many different sexual problems (Men: erectile dysfunction, rapid/premature/delayed ejaculation. Women: low desire, painful intercourse, vaginismus/vulvadynia. Either: sexual inexperience, sexual anorexia, childhood sexual traumas including incest). I often use EMDR to resolve underlying traumas. I have researched and taught at UCLA, SMC, The University of Chicago, DePaul and have been a sexuality expert on NBC, ABC and KCAL 9 news.
In need of sex therapy? Lack of desire? A sex-starved marriage? Sex/porn addiction? Just not on the same page as your partner? As a Sexuality Specialist and CSAT, I have successfully treated clients struggling with many different sexual problems (Men: erectile dysfunction, rapid/premature/delayed ejaculation. Women: low desire, painful intercourse, vaginismus/vulvadynia. Either: sexual inexperience, sexual anorexia, childhood sexual traumas including incest). I often use EMDR to resolve underlying traumas. I have researched and taught at UCLA, SMC, The University of Chicago, DePaul and have been a sexuality expert on NBC, ABC and KCAL 9 news.
(310) 601-6882 View (310) 601-6882
Photo of Nicole M Hendrickson, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Los Angeles, CA
Nicole M Hendrickson
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90014
Many of us walk around every day wearing some version of a mask. Some of us do so to protect or take care of others, some of us wear the mask to fit in, and some of us wear it because of shame. My hope is that everyone I work with becomes a little bit more comfortable with the person underneath the mask-- their true authentic self. My practice tends to focus on working with individuals from marginalized communities, including LGBTQ-identified and BIPOC. I truly believe the therapeutic relationship can be a healing one, and be the first step in taking off your mask.
Many of us walk around every day wearing some version of a mask. Some of us do so to protect or take care of others, some of us wear the mask to fit in, and some of us wear it because of shame. My hope is that everyone I work with becomes a little bit more comfortable with the person underneath the mask-- their true authentic self. My practice tends to focus on working with individuals from marginalized communities, including LGBTQ-identified and BIPOC. I truly believe the therapeutic relationship can be a healing one, and be the first step in taking off your mask.
(323) 601-0504 View (323) 601-0504
Photo of Trish Haight, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Trish Haight
Marriage & Family Therapist, SEP, CSAT, CCPS, CPTT, DSTT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90064
Waitlist for new clients
I am a trauma specialist working with developmental, relational, and shock traumas. Relationship is what we long for from our deep selves. From birth, our instinct is to connect in order to feel safety, comfort, and wholeness. This yearning moves with us throughout our lives. Connection gives us a sense of belonging and of being "okay". Be it the relationship with self, body, others, and life experience, the connection and flow of it is vital for healthy functioning. When the connection is blocked, frozen, or severed, a whole-self cannot thrive. Reconnecting is essential for our authentic self-expressions.
I am a trauma specialist working with developmental, relational, and shock traumas. Relationship is what we long for from our deep selves. From birth, our instinct is to connect in order to feel safety, comfort, and wholeness. This yearning moves with us throughout our lives. Connection gives us a sense of belonging and of being "okay". Be it the relationship with self, body, others, and life experience, the connection and flow of it is vital for healthy functioning. When the connection is blocked, frozen, or severed, a whole-self cannot thrive. Reconnecting is essential for our authentic self-expressions.
(424) 294-8937 View (424) 294-8937
Photo of Gerald B. Chambers, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Gerald B. Chambers
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90024  (Online Only)
Relationships are as important to us as food and water. They can strengthen us, like a vitamin, or weaken us, like the flu. You are only as good in relationships as the relationships you have been in. As your therapist, I can assist you in many ways. I can help you learn more about yourself, increase both self-compassion and compassion for others, and heal past trauma. Together, we can explore how to feel more connected to yourself, your values, and people you care about.
Relationships are as important to us as food and water. They can strengthen us, like a vitamin, or weaken us, like the flu. You are only as good in relationships as the relationships you have been in. As your therapist, I can assist you in many ways. I can help you learn more about yourself, increase both self-compassion and compassion for others, and heal past trauma. Together, we can explore how to feel more connected to yourself, your values, and people you care about.
(510) 756-4880 View (510) 756-4880
Photo of Sarah A Goldberg, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Sarah A Goldberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90027
I help people who are dealing with: Job stress; heavy feelings surrounding break-ups; artists who have lost their spark and want to find it again-who are navigating between commercial pressures and the ability to have their true voices heard. Intimacy issues, trauma, and love & sex addiction issues as well as other addictive issues are a specialty. My goal is to create a supportive, non-judgmental space for you to unpack difficult feelings and to help facilitate emotional healing.
I help people who are dealing with: Job stress; heavy feelings surrounding break-ups; artists who have lost their spark and want to find it again-who are navigating between commercial pressures and the ability to have their true voices heard. Intimacy issues, trauma, and love & sex addiction issues as well as other addictive issues are a specialty. My goal is to create a supportive, non-judgmental space for you to unpack difficult feelings and to help facilitate emotional healing.
(424) 383-5009 View (424) 383-5009
Photo of Don ( Dr Don ) Etkes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Don ( Dr Don ) Etkes
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90024
IMMEDIATE APPOINTMENT: STRESS MANAGEMENT by VIDEO, PHONE, OFFICE $65 and up Sliding Fee. Day/Eve/Weekend. "I offer YOU over 30 years of Experience in giving Warm Nurturing Nonjudgmental Guidance to 1000s of people, offering HELP in COPING with YOUR LIFE feeling out of control. My GOAL is your GETTING THE LIFE YOU WANT. " Author "Loving With Passion", Ph.D. in Psychology, life coach, hypnotherapist, UCLA certified Sex Therapist, professional speaker, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, had a TV show "Love U." on TLC. Internationally recognized expert on TV and radio. Written about in Cosmopolitan to the Washington Post. Dr Don
IMMEDIATE APPOINTMENT: STRESS MANAGEMENT by VIDEO, PHONE, OFFICE $65 and up Sliding Fee. Day/Eve/Weekend. "I offer YOU over 30 years of Experience in giving Warm Nurturing Nonjudgmental Guidance to 1000s of people, offering HELP in COPING with YOUR LIFE feeling out of control. My GOAL is your GETTING THE LIFE YOU WANT. " Author "Loving With Passion", Ph.D. in Psychology, life coach, hypnotherapist, UCLA certified Sex Therapist, professional speaker, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, had a TV show "Love U." on TLC. Internationally recognized expert on TV and radio. Written about in Cosmopolitan to the Washington Post. Dr Don
(310) 895-9655 View (310) 895-9655

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.