Compulsive Sexual Behavior

I am a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), with specific training through IITAP (International Institute for Trauma and Addiction Professionals) founded by Patrick Carnes, a leading author and expert in the field of sexual addiction and recovery efforts. Through years of research and experience with thousands of clients in the field of addiction therapy, this model has quickly become a gold standard for addiction professionals.

While there is still controversy in the field of psychology around the diagnosis of sexual addiction, what is evident to me and fellow clinicians working in this field is that many individuals can recognize there is a problem, can see the subversive and harmful effects this is causing to themselves, their families, and their partners, and yet are unable to stop themselves from repeating these behaviors. Whether with pornography or other forms of sexual acting out, these individuals feel stuck; time and time again they have promised themselves, “I’m done,” and have been unable to keep to that promise. The secretive and isolating world of sexuality only exacerbates the shame narrative they have come to believe, “there’s something wrong with me/I’m broken/if others really knew who I am and what I do in secret …”.

The circumstances surrounding sexual and pornography addiction are incredibly painful and isolating for everyone involved (addicts and partners both report feeling very alone on the journey). One of the most important things you need to hear and know right now is there is hope. Every day many men and women begin a successful journey into recovery from their sexually compulsive behavior, who’s to say today it can’t be you?

I am passionate about walking with men on the journey toward integrity, healing and healthy intimacy. If you are ready, I’d love to hear more about your story and how I can be of help.

Unfortunately, due to the secretive and isolating nature of sexual/pornography addiction, it is more common than not that those wrestling will only seek help once their behaviors have been discovered and their partner delivers an ultimatum. If you have been busted I’ve written a blog post with some thoughts on next steps. Check it out HERE.