WHAT IS SEX ADDICTION?
The common experience for those struggling with sex addiction involves a loss of control over their behaviour, continuation despite negative consequences, and obsession or preoccupation with sexual thoughts and behaviours. Sex addiction may come in any of the following forms:
- Compulsive masturbation
- Obsession and preoccupation with sex (e.g. “romance junkie”)
- Cybersex, pornography, strip shows, peep shows
- Exposing oneself inappropriately
- Preoccupation and repeated efforts to seduce others sexually
- Compulsive sex with anonymous partners
- Purchasing sex as in compulsive prostitution, phone sex, massage parlours, etc.
- Engaging in sex that is most pleasurable when one is hurt.
Sex Addiction Treatment Phases
I utilize a task centered approach to treatment based on the research and training of Dr. Patrick Carnes, renowned Sex Addiction Therapist and Researcher. The recovery tasks are intended to help you achieve and maintain sobriety and address the issues that support addiction and hinder your ability to live life to its fullest. In my role as a therapist, I can assist you in working through the three phases of sex addiction treatment.
Phase 1:
o Learn about the extent of your problem, the nature of sex addiction, and how to recover
o Consider a 12 step program as part of your treatment
o Address the issues that support denial
Phase 2:
o Develop an abstinence definition
o Develop a relapse prevention plan
o Complete a period of celibacy
o Develop a sex plan for healthy sexuality
o Reduce shame
o Support your relationship with your partner
Phase 3:
o Learn about and work through family of origin and developmental issues
o Grief resolution
o Process trauma
o Provide support for your relationship or future relationship
The antidote to sex addiction is the development of healthy relationships and healthy boundaries. Beyond achieving sobriety from sexual acting out, recovery typically involves a long-term process of establishing healthy boundaries and learning how to relate to yourself and others in more adaptive ways.
Length of Treatment
The length of sex addiction treatment varies from person to person and will be established by you and I. Please note that sex addiction can be a difficult condition to recover from and therefore, I support a long-term approach to treatment.