Compulsive Sexual Behaviour

“Compulsivity is the shadow side of our unmet needs and unresolved emotions.”

— Tara Brach

Compulsive sexual behaviour, sometimes referred to as sex addiction, is a complex and often misunderstood issue that can have profound effects on an individual's life. It involves persistent and escalating patterns of sexual behaviour that are difficult to control and may interfere with daily functioning and well-being.

Compulsive sexual behaviour can manifest in a variety of ways, including excessive pornography consumption, frequent masturbation, engaging in risky sexual activities, compulsive seeking of sexual encounters or relationships, and using sex as a coping mechanism to regulate emotions or escape from underlying issues. It's important to recognise that compulsive sexual behaviour is not solely about the frequency or intensity of sexual activity, but also about the underlying motivations, thoughts, and emotions driving the behaviour.

The impact of compulsive sexual behaviour can be far-reaching, affecting various areas of an individual's life, including relationships, work or academic performance, physical health, and mental well-being. Individuals struggling with compulsive sexual behaviour may experience feelings of shame, guilt, and low self-esteem, as well as difficulties in establishing and maintaining healthy boundaries in relationships. Additionally, compulsive sexual behaviour can contribute to a cycle of secrecy, isolation, and distress, further exacerbating the problem.

In therapy, I take a holistic and client-centred approach to addressing compulsive sexual behaviour, recognising that each person's experience is unique and requires a tailored approach to treatment. This may involve exploring underlying psychological, emotional, and relational factors contributing to the behaviour, as well as developing coping strategies and skills to manage urges and triggers.

My therapeutic approach is collaborative and strengths-based, empowering clients to reclaim control over their lives and make meaningful changes in their behaviour and relationships. This may involve incorporating elements of cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based techniques, and trauma-informed care to address underlying issues and promote healing and growth.

Ultimately, my goal as a therapist is to provide a safe and supportive space where individuals struggling with compulsive sexual behaviour can explore their experiences, gain insight into the underlying causes of their behaviour, and develop healthier ways of relating to themselves and others. By offering compassionate and individualised support, I aim to help clients break free from the grip of compulsive sexual behaviour and create fulfilling and balanced lives on their own terms.