Sex Addiction and Compulsive Sexual Behavior

The term “sex addiction” is used to describe those with compulsive and problematic sexual behavior. “Sex addiction” is not a formal diagnosis. In fact, after reviewing the available research, the DSM-V manual rejected “sex addiction” as a viable diagnosis. We use and combine models such as Out of Control Sexual Behavior (OCSB) and self-regulation. We are wired as sexual beings, making abstinence from all sexual behaviors an unrealistic goal. We focus our treatment on understanding what is underneath the behaviors that have been deemed problematic and move towards a place of sexual health, connection, and emotion regulation. 

We focus on teaching tools for leading an authentic life, deepening relationships, and emotional regular. We offer individual, couples, and group therapy to help people to recognize long-standing patterns of behavior that impede intimacy and sex, and we give them skills to create a more emotionally connected and meaningful life. 

Groups are Virtual and Facilitated
by a Clinician

We offer an intensive approach to managing problematic sexual behavior that addresses the underlying causes of the behaviors and provide skills to manage their behaviors and emotions more effectively. Many men aren’t raised to identify and cope with their emotions. Some are even punished. Therefore, a central focus of the process is skills for emotion regulation to improving independent skills, empathy, and “holding space” for others. These skills are needed to develop healthier emotional and physical intimacy. To change deeply rooted and often automatic thoughts, feelings, and behaviors takes a long time making the treatment process last 2-3 years. There isn’t a quick fix. 

Individuals typically engage in one therapy session (individual or couples) and 1-2 groups each week. Groups offer a safe place for individuals to give and receive support. In the process, group members practice and develop emotional intimacy skills. Groups often become a space for intentional community-building. Members have the option to gather socially outside of the group context.  

We can provide support to partners who may be experiencing Betrayal Trauma. We offer a support group for partners that is supportive and focuses on their healing journey. It empowers partners to have a voice and set boundaries. 

Support group

For adult men with out-of-control sexual behavior. This is an open forum to discuss challenges that come up. It is also an opportunity to practice emotional connection and get feedback on skill implementation. Participants talk to one another outside of the group in a supportive and social role. Generally, groups are every other week, but members can attend multiple support groups if needed. 

Partners support group

For adult women whose partners are struggling with out-of-control sexual behaviors. It is a place to talk freely without worrying about judgment, stigma, or managing another person’s reaction/emotions. This is an open forum for participants to bring up topics and receive support/feedback from one another. Participants may talk to one another outside of the group in a supportive and social role.

Skills Group

For adult men struggling with out-of-control sexual behaviors and/or substance use. The skills are a simplified Dialectical Behavior Therapy approach to teach coping strategies to manage what is underlying the out-of-control sexual behavior and to safety plan around managing difficult situations. Members and their partners are encouraged to complete the elearning together because the language used in the materials can be an effective tool for emotion regulation as a couple. 

ADHD Support group

For adult men with out-of-control sexual behavior and/or substance use challenges. This group meets monthly to discuss issues specific to these topics such as understanding symptoms, executive functioning strategies, relationship challenges, safety planning around behaviors, understanding the impact of the diagnosis from childhood, and topics that participants bring to the meeting.

Testimonials

5/5
“I am part of a women’s partner support group facilitated by Michele. I am so incredibly thankful for the safe space she has created for us to share our stories, struggles and build relationships with other women that have been isolated, alone and felt unsure where to go for support. She offers her years of expertise, experience and understanding of problematic sexual behaviors in men and the destructive impact it has on the partners, wives and girlfriends in their lives. I feel more confident in my ability to manage the myriad of emotions that have been tearing my relationship apart for years and the importance of prioritizing my needs and boundaries. My partner has been working with Michelle for almost two years and because of her amazing work with our partners, I am experiencing the relationship I never thought I’d have. I’ve never met anyone that has been so impactful with sexual addictions and I am forever thankful we found her.”
“I have struggled with my sexual behaviors, and the wreckage they created, for most of my life. With Michelle I not only have learned how to control my behaviors, but why I depended on them. I also have a better understanding and control of my emotions. I am a better man because of her, and the work I have done.”
“I've been in a group with Michele for 8 years. She's extremely knowledgeable in the field, as well as highly skilled at both letting us wander around our conversation topics and guiding us when we get lost. She also helped me in a very difficult and dangerous situation with one of my teenaged children (indirectly related to the work we've done together) with a healthy and safe resolution.”
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workshops + classes

Sexual Couples Workshop

Couples will create a cheat sheet for their partner about their likes, dislikes, and things they are curious about. However, it won't just be sex (main event) it will also be about the appetizer (foreplay) and dessert (aftercare).

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