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Behavioral Addiction

Sex Addiction Treatment

Compassionate, non-judgmental care for compulsive sexual behavior disorder

Medically reviewed by Dr. Maria Torres, Psy.D. — Clinical Director, Golden State Rehab Updated March 2026
Understanding Sex Addiction

A Real Condition That Responds to Real Treatment

Compulsive sexual behavior disorder — commonly called sex addiction — is characterized by persistent, intrusive sexual thoughts and urges that feel impossible to control, despite causing significant harm to relationships, career, self-esteem, and quality of life. It is increasingly recognized by the clinical and research community as a genuine behavioral addiction with neurobiological underpinnings.

We approach sex addiction treatment with the same compassion, rigor, and non-judgment we apply to every condition we treat. There is no shame in seeking help — only courage. And help is available.

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Healing through compassionate therapy
Treatment Methods

How We Treat Sex Addiction

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

CBT for sex addiction identifies the thoughts, emotions, and situations that trigger compulsive sexual behavior. You'll build the awareness and skills to interrupt automatic patterns and respond differently — without shame or self-punishment.

Relational Healing

Sex addiction deeply affects intimate relationships. Individual therapy addresses the attachment wounds, intimacy fears, and relational patterns that often underlie compulsive sexual behavior — creating the foundation for healthy intimacy.

Group Therapy

Specialized sex addiction group therapy provides a safe, confidential space to address shame, share experience, and build accountability — powerfully countering the isolation and secrecy that perpetuate compulsive sexual behavior.

Trauma-Informed Care

Sex addiction frequently has roots in childhood trauma, attachment disruption, or sexual abuse. Our trauma-informed approach ensures these underlying factors are addressed — not just the surface behavior.

Mindfulness-Based Approaches

Urge surfing, mindfulness meditation, and body awareness practices help you develop a different relationship with sexual urges — observing them without being compelled to act, creating the space for choice and behavior change.

Partner & Family Support

With appropriate consent and boundaries, we can involve partners or spouses in the treatment process — providing psychoeducation, relational repair support, and guidance for partners dealing with the impact of sex addiction.

Safe and compassionate therapy environment
Signs of Sex Addiction

Recognizing When Sexual Behavior Has Become Compulsive

Sex addiction exists on a spectrum. You may benefit from professional treatment if you experience:

  • Sexual thoughts or urges that feel intrusive and impossible to control
  • Using sexual behavior to cope with stress, loneliness, anxiety, or emotional pain
  • Continued sexual behavior despite serious consequences (relationship damage, career risk, financial harm)
  • Failed repeated attempts to change or stop the behavior
  • Escalation — needing more extreme or frequent sexual behavior to achieve the same effect
  • Profound shame, guilt, or self-loathing following sexual behavior
  • Secrecy, dishonesty, or double-life dynamics related to sexual behavior

Related Conditions & Programs

Complex Trauma

Childhood trauma and attachment wounds frequently underlie compulsive sexual behavior — we address both together.

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Dual Diagnosis

Sex addiction often co-occurs with depression, anxiety, or substance use — integrated treatment addresses all conditions.

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Individual Therapy

One-on-one therapy is particularly important in sex addiction treatment for processing shame and relational dynamics.

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We Accept Most Major Insurance Providers

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