Out of Control Sexual Behavior
(sometimes referred to as “Sex Addiction,” “Hypersexuality,” or “Porn Addiction”)
What Is Out of Control Sexual Behavior?
Out of control sexual behavior is any sexual behavior that feels out of control, impulsive, compulsive or addictive—whether it is pornography, hook-ups, chat rooms, infidelity, or any other sexual behavior that you want to change.
How Is It Treated?
To treat out of control sexual behavior (sex addiction, porn addiction, chat room worries, hypersexuality symptoms, etc.), I use a healthy sexuality model as an alternative to Sexual 12 Step Programs. To support this model, I tailor my treatment to clients who are thoughtful and invested in learning about the roots of the behavior causing them distress. I use an acceptance-based, non-shaming approach to discovery around your compulsive sexual behavior. Our work together will help you better understand the underlying causes of your out of control sexual behavior so you can create sustainable, meaningful, and lasting changes.
This article from The Mind Embodied outlines how being intentional with language and treatment options can help you pick the right sex therapist for your needs: Sex Addiction vs. Out of Control Sexual Behavior: Definitions and the Importance and Impact of Language
Many self-identified sex addicts have untreated mental health conditions and/or untreated trauma, abuse, and bullying in their history. Therefore, as part of my treatment planning, I assess each person thoroughly so we treat the whole person, not just the undesirable behavior.
Who Can Benefit from Treatment?
Straight and gay men who have sexual behaviors that are out of control
Women who have sexual behavior that feels out of control
Couples where there has been a betrayal and/or a violation of trust
Gender variant and gender non-conforming people
Therapy Can Help
Out of control sexual behavior has many underlying causes. I will work with you to help you uncover and unpack what may be the root cause(s) of your distress. Sex therapy may be able to help with understanding and treating sex addiction, including any sexual betrayal.
Therapy may be one component of a comprehensive plan to treat your out of control sexual behavior. For many people, the best path to healing includes an integrated approach which may involve:
Individual counseling for each person involved
Couples/relationship counseling
Psychiatry and medication management (this may not be needed in all cases)
Not sure if I can help?
If you’re curious about therapy as a way of addressing your experience with out of control sexual behavior, please reach out—I respond to all inquiries within 48 hours (Monday - Friday) and am committed to helping you on your journey of discovery (even if it’s to help you find a therapist that has the potential to be a better match!).