SEX ADDICTION
What is a sex addiction?
The simple answer is- any behavior you can't control that is related to sex.
There are many different kinds of sex addictions. They include:
- Compulsive Sex
- Routine Use of Prostitution
- Pornagraphy Addiction
- Compulsive Masturbation
- Compulsive Infidelity
Many people confuse codependent relationships with sex addiction, especially since Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous, or "SALA," is the support group for this issue. However, codependency is more likely to stem from issues surrounding self-esteem and is common in women with Borderline Personality Disorder.
There's nothing sexy about a sex addiciton
Unfortunately, sex addiction is much more common than you would imagine. People tend to be particularly shameful about sex addiction, oftentimes not even telling their therapist the whole truth. There is nothing to be embarrassed about. With a supportive doctor helping you through the process, sex addiction can easily be dealt with.
Can "Sex Addicts Anonymous" help?
I have visited several local meetings in Los Angeles, and of all the twelve step progams, I think that SAA can be of the greatest use. The reason SAA is so much more helpful is because it targets the issue of shame. Of course, there are still drawbacks, the biggest being that there is no standard program with SAA. It is very free-form.
What treatment works best?
The first part is to be honest and understand that at long as your sex addiction remains hidden, it remains untreatable. If you are in a relationship, this process can be very difficult and I do not recommend going it alone. Consult a professional with experience in sexual issues and addiction, preferably someone who has had success treating people with sex addictions.
"I only got caught once, and that was enough. I came clean and admitted I had a problem. That was the easy part. Figuring out what to do next was hard.
My relationship ended, and I didn't know how to tell my next girlfriend about my problem. Dr. Martorano's method worked. It took awhile but now I trust my wife, and she trusts me. I don't cheat anymore and I don't have to worry about getting caught."
-- anonymous
BREAK THE CYCLE OF SHAME
Until you are honest with the important people who share your life, you run the risk of relapse. My experience as a couples therapist will allow you to enlist your loved one as an ally as you learn to deal with your addiction.
It's not as hard as you think. Combining couples therapy with proven cognitive behavioral techniques, yields great results.
If there is an underlying issue that needs to be addressed, you have the option of medication or psychotherapy.
To Schedule a Consultation, Please Call 310-593-4827
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