If you or someone you know has a problem with compulsive sexual behavior, therapy can help. Having the courage to seek treatment for this often-taboo topic is an important step in recovery. Whether you’re struggling to control impulses or have difficulty maintaining healthy intimate relationships, a therapist can teach you how to overcome this challenge and live in a way that promotes your wellbeing.
Typically, psychotherapy is the first line of treatment for sex addiction. During psychotherapy, a therapist will work with you to identify the underlying issues that are contributing to your behavior. These may include an unmet need for intimacy or an attempt to distract yourself from painful emotions like anxiety or depression.
Some people find it helpful to journal about their sexual urges and experiences in order to understand what triggers them. Keeping a diary can also allow you to track your progress through your recovery. Avoiding people, places, or situations that might spark a urge or impulse is a common coping strategy. Especially at the beginning of recovery, this may be necessary to keep you from acting out on sexual impulses or engaging in risky behaviors that could jeopardize your safety.
Depending on the severity of your sex addiction, you might choose to undergo residential or inpatient sex addiction treatment. These programs provide a safe and supportive environment in which to receive therapy. Medications might be used in addition to counseling to treat the underlying causes of your problem and manage symptoms like anxiety, depression, or impulsivity. sex addiction therapy