Compulsive Sexual Behavior Therapy in Charlotte, NC

The Impact of Compulsive Sexual Behaviors

Sex addiction is typically defined as continued compulsive sexual behavior despite the negative consequences. Those struggling with sex addiction often have difficulty with closeness in intimate relationships and use compulsive sexual behavior to escape painful, lonely, or stressful feelings. This results in problems with self-esteem and relationships.

Sexuality is an essential part of a balanced life. However, when sex becomes all-consuming or unhealthy, it creates a barrier of shame and self-contempt, making it difficult to maintain healthy relationships with others. Without treatment and recovery, overcoming sex addiction can be very challenging.

Signs of Compulsive Sexual Behavior

There are many forms of compulsive sexual behavior that have varying degrees of impact on the lives of those who struggle with sex addiction. Here are some common manifestations of compulsive sexual behavior:

Seeking approval from others Compulsive use of pornography, with or without masturbation

Seeking approval from others Compulsive use of one or more digital “sexnologies,” i.e., webcams, sexting, dating/hookup websites, hook-up apps, etc.

Seeking approval from others Multiple affairs or brief “serial” relationships

Seeking approval from others Frequent visitation of strip clubs, adult bookstores, adult movie theaters, sex clubs, and other sex-focused environments

Seeking approval from others Ongoing involvement with prostitution and/or sensual massage (hiring or providing)

Seeking approval from others A pattern of anonymous and/or casual sexual hookups with people met online via apps, websites, or in-person

Seeking approval from others Repeated engaging in unprotected sex

Seeking approval from others Repeated engaging in sex with potentially dangerous people or in potentially dangerous places

Criteria for Sex/Porn Addiction

Are you unsure whether you are suffering from sex addiction? Sometimes, simply asking the question of oneself is a telltale sign that something is amiss in this area of life. Here are some helpful criteria to diagnose sexual addiction. If you identify with three or more of these criteria, it is likely that you are suffering from sex addiction:

Seeking approval from others A pattern of out-of-control compulsive sexual behavior.

Seeking approval from others Severe or ongoing life consequences due to sexual behavior

Seeking approval from others Persistent pursuit of self-destructive or high-risk sexual behavior to self or others

Seeking approval from others Important social, recreational, or occupational activities are sacrificed or reduced because of sexual behavior

Seeking approval from others An all-encompassing desire for new and exciting sexual experiences

Seeking approval from others Using sexual obsession and fantasy as primary emotional coping strategies

Seeking approval from others Sexual behavior begins to occur more often and can be riskier and more dangerous

Seeking approval from others Experiencing symptoms of sexual withdrawal (irritation, depression, anxiety) when stopping the sexual behavior

Discover a Healthy Relationship to Sex

Sexual health can be achieved by sex addicts in recovery. Overcoming this addiction requires hard work and commitment, which is why it is important to have accountability and support throughout the healing process. Our Certified Sex Addiction Therapists are experts in sex addiction counseling and help clients discover a healthy relationship with sex and help form fulfilling intimate relationships.

Are you ready to leave the shame behind and engage in sexual behavior that is characterized by trust, respect, joy, and safety? Contact us to schedule your free 15-minute Q&A call with Charlotte Counseling Associates to begin your journey to sexual freedom!

Sex Addiction Screening Test

Still unsure if you have a sexual problem? Take this short Free Sexual Addiction Screening Test and receive instant results. If you score a “6” or higher, it is likely that you are suffering from sex addiction. But don’t worry - there is hope and help. Reach out today to schedule a meeting with one of our Certified Sex Addiction Therapists.