Sex Addiction

Do you know if you suffer from sexual addiction? Take our free assessment, designed to identify possible signs of sex addiction.

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I was the first Certified Sexual Addictions Therapist (CSAT) in the Chapel Hill area who was trained with Dr. Carnes (sexhelp.com), over 15 yrs ago. Dr. Carnes is the pioneer in the Sexual Addiction field, and is the author of numerous books on the topic.

The SAA Program (Sex Addicts Anonymous) is a free supportive system for recovering people. I have witnessed the SAA program grow in leaps and bounds, and I know the recovering community well. I have spoken at their weekend workshops. I have trained employees at Duke University’s Counseling department on this topic. I was the first Expert Witness on Sex Addiction in a Capital Offense case which took place in Raleigh, NC.

Individual Work

Addictions are devastating in general, and sex addiction carries an added level of shame and relational trauma. The client is not only coping to manage acting out behaviors, but has to face the shame and pain of hurting a loved one. The Specialization in Sex Addiction work uses Dr. Carnes’ task-focused model to restore the individual and the couple.

Individual Work (Partner)

Being a partner of a sex addict can create deep feelings of betrayal, rage, shame, and hopelessness. Obtaining support as a partner of a sex addict is crucial for maintaining your sanity, self-worth, and self-esteem.

You may have pressing questions like “What should I do next?” and “How do I begin to pick up the pieces?” Some people simply find deep healing in knowing that they are not alone, and that others have been in their shoes and had similar experiences.

Couples Work

Depending on the case, I will sometimes work in combination with the individual and the Couple. Couples work in Sex Addiction is complex, because we need to work with all the moving parts at one time. Initially, I am firmly and compassionately addressing the person with the compulsive sexual behavior, and the partner’s trauma/rage reaction, while educating the couple about the nature of this addiction. Through a step by step strategy, I help the couple assess the damage and work toward repair.