The term “sex addiction” is used to describe those with compulsive and problematic sexual behavior. “Sex addiction” is not a formal diagnosis and has been rejected by the DSM V manual as a viable diagnosis after reviewing available research. We utilize a model similar to Out of Control Sexual Behavior (OCSB) rather than Sex Addiction. We are biologically 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 as problematic and move towards a place of sexual health, connection, and emotion regulation. People engage in OCSB for many reasons and we don’t take a pathological stance.
We are curious about what is driving the behaviors and what tools are needed to assist with getting to a place of sexual, relational, and emotional health. Some reasons may include, but are not limited to: emotion dysregulation, difficulty with deep emotional connections, untreated and/or undiagnosed mental health or neurological conditions. There can also be a long history of escaping and avoiding the underneath challenges with various behaviors such as alcohol, drugs, food, gambling, or other pleasurable activities.