Sexual Addiction Counseling
"Shame dies when stories are told in safe places." — Ann Voskamp
Understanding Sexual Addiction
Sexual addiction is not simply about sexual behavior, it's about using sexual experiences to manage difficult emotions, escape pain, or cope with life's challenges. Like other addictions, it creates a cycle of shame, isolation, and compulsive behavior that can devastate relationships and overall well being.
Drawing from the pioneering work of Dr. Patrick Carnes, we understand sexual addiction as an intimacy disorder rooted in early experiences and trauma. The path to recovery involves more than just stopping problematic behaviors, it requires healing underlying wounds and developing new ways of connecting with yourself and others.
My Approach to Healing
My approach integrates trauma-informed care with addiction recovery principles. I recognize that behind addictive patterns often lie unresolved trauma, attachment injuries, and emotional wounds that need compassionate attention.
In our work together, we'll create a safe, non-judgmental space where your story can be told and heard. Through this process, we address not just the behaviors but the underlying pain driving them, helping you discover genuine intimacy and connection.
For Those Struggling with Sexual Addiction
If you're caught in cycles of compulsive sexual behavior that feel out of control, therapy offers a path toward freedom and wholeness. Our work together may include:
Understanding Your Patterns: Identifying triggers, behaviors, and consequences of sexual addiction in your life
Healing Root Causes: Addressing trauma, attachment wounds, and other factors that contribute to addictive cycles
Building Recovery Skills: Developing practical tools for managing urges, processing emotions, and preventing relapse
Restoring Wholeness: Reconnecting with your authentic self and values beyond the addiction
Creating Healthy Intimacy: Learning to form and maintain genuine connections with others
For Betrayed Partners
The discovery of a partner's sexual addiction can be traumatic and devastating. I offer specialized support for betrayed partners dealing with the aftermath of discovery. Our work together focuses on:
Processing Trauma: Addressing the emotional impact of betrayal
Establishing Safety: Creating boundaries and stability while you heal
Reclaiming Your Story: Finding meaning and direction amid painful circumstances
Making Informed Choices: Gaining clarity about your relationship and future
The Healing Journey
Recovery from sexual addiction is a journey of transformation. While challenging, it offers an opportunity to discover deeper authenticity and more fulfilling relationships than you may have thought possible.
Sexual addiction thrives in secrecy and isolation, but healing happens in connection. By bringing these struggles into a therapeutic relationship, the grip of shame begins to loosen, making way for genuine change.
Drawing from my training in Brainspotting, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and somatic approaches, I offer tools that address both the psychological and physiological aspects of addiction and trauma. This integrative approach helps you not just manage symptoms but heal at the core level.
What to Expect
Our work begins with a thorough assessment to understand your unique situation and needs. From there, we develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific challenges and goals.Sessions provide a confidential space to explore difficult emotions, understand patterns, develop practical skills, and integrate new insights. The pace is always determined by what feels manageable and supportive of your overall wellbeing. Many clients find that as they progress in recovery, they discover not just freedom from addictive patterns, but a richer, more authentic way of being in the world and in relationship with others.
Begin Your Healing Journey
Taking the first step toward healing from sexual addiction requires courage. Whether you're struggling personally or supporting a partner, reaching out for help is a powerful act of hope and self-compassion.
Contact me today to schedule a confidential consultation and learn more about how therapy can support your journey toward healing and wholeness.
Contact us
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