Popular media and some health care professionals have utilized the label "sexual addiction" to describe a pattern of repetitive and intense preoccupation with sexual thoughts, urges, and behaviors. It has also been referred to as "hyper-sexual behavior", "compulsive sexual behavior", "problematic sexual behavior" or even "out-of-control sexual behavior". Whichever label is used to describe this pattern, more and more people are finding their sexual behaviors (or their partner's sexual behaviors) and actions problematic in their daily lives. Problematic sexual behaviors have become more prevalent with the ease of access to affordable and abundant materials on the internet, combined with the ability to be anonymous while online.
If you are struggling with any of these issues it is important that you meet with someone who is specifically trained in treating the behaviors. Why is this important? There will always be generalist counselors who will agree to work with someone struggling with their sexual behaviors, even though they have little or no training or experience treating these specific issues. It is important to confirm that the counselor you choose to work with has expertise in treating sexual addiction. CSATs (Certified Sexual Addiction Therapists) have completed rigorous training and supervision and have specific expertise in treating sexual addiction. Dr. Patrick Carnes is an internationally respected expert, researcher, and author in the field of sexual addiction. He has developed this rigorous training program for mental health professionals to learn the specialized skills and task centered approach to sexual addiction recovery. CSATs have access to the cutting edge in evidence based sexual assessments, research, and innovative models of sexual addiction treatment utilizing the task centered approach to treatment.
If you may be struggling with your sexual behaviors, here are some questions to consider:
Do you often find yourself preoccupied with sexual thoughts?
Do you hide some of your sexual behavior from others?
Have you ever sought help for sexual behavior you did not like?
Has anyone been hurt emotionally because of your sexual behavior?
Do you feel controlled by your sexual desire?
When you have sex, do you feel depressed afterwards?
A positive response to just one of these questions would indicate a need for additional assessment, including a consultation with a CSAT. Agreeing with two or more questions likely indicates sexual issues that need to be addressed.
The great news is that by recognizing your concerns and proactively addressing your behavior, you are on the path towards developing a personalized sexual health program. One that can help you understand how rewarding and healthy your sexual life can be! The program you and your therapist develop will compliment and strengthen your personal values and goals, while giving you structure on your path of recovery. There are options for general treatment for individuals struggling with their sexual behaviors, and often faith based treatment for Christians interested in Christian Counseling and recovery. Clients who have chosen to commit themselves to their recovery report more joy and hope in their daily life, along with a greater sense of overall life satisfaction.
To learn more about options for treating sexual behaviors that are getting in the way of living your best life, visit sexhelp.com.