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Sexual addictions can cause a wealth of pain and suffering for the individual who is addicted and for the spouse or loved ones. While sex addiction treatment is widely available, finding the right provider can be difficult.
Many clinicians who specialize in this area were trained years ago, and some may still rely on outdated or unsupported methods that can be less effective, or even counterproductive, for long-term recovery. Before you choose sex addiction treatment for yourself or a loved one, consider the following factors:
- Educational background of the therapist
- Involvement of your spouse in treatment
- Cost of the treatment
- Length of treatment
- Methods of treatment used
Education
Sex addiction treatment should be carefully chosen!
Treating sex addiction is different from treating alcohol or drug addiction, so it’s important to work with a therapist who has specific training in compulsive sexual behavior or sex addiction, not just substance abuse. If you also struggle with alcohol or drug use, choosing a therapist experienced in both areas can be especially beneficial for addressing all aspects of your recovery.
Spousal Involvement in Treatment
Your spouse is deeply affected by sex addiction and should be involved in your treatment and recovery process. The level of involvement your spouse has with your treatment can lead to improved relations and may reduce the impact that your sexual addiction has on your marriage or your relationship. Not all sex addiction treatment programs include the spouse in the process, but the most effective programs will definitely include your loved one during your treatment and recovery.
Cost
It’s important to choose an affordable and effective sex addiction treatment program. Cost isn’t the only factor to consider, but it will likely play an important role in determining which program you choose. If your budget is tight, consider choosing a sex addiction treatment program that accepts your insurance. In many cases, treatment centers accept health insurance.
It is crucial to verify your insurance coverage for therapy and counseling so you aren’t surprised by an unexpected medical bill. As you consider the overall cost of a treatment program, consider your options such as insurance coverage, sliding fee scales, payment plans, grants and other available financial assistance options. This ensures you find a program that provides quality treatment and care at a cost that you can afford.
Program Length
Effective sex addiction treatment takes time and consistency. Most experts recommend programs last at least 90 days, as this period allows for meaningful behavioral change and developing healthier coping mechanisms. Research indicates that it can take about three months of consistent effort to replace destructive habits with new, positive patterns of behavior.
However, recovery from compulsive sexual behavior often requires even more time, particularly when underlying issues such as trauma, anxiety, or co-occurring substance use are present. Many individuals benefit from ongoing counseling or therapy that extends six months or longer to reinforce progress, prevent relapse, and build long-term stability.
When choosing a treatment program, look for one that offers at least 90 days of structured care, with the option to continue support as needed.
Methods of Treatment Used
Many methods of sexual addiction treatment are used to help those suffering from sex addiction. The primary focus of treatment will likely be on counseling and therapy. However, you may also find that support groups and other methods of treatment help reduce the risk of relapse and ease your recovery. Individual, spousal and group counseling are recommended. Support groups can also help.
Cognitive behavioral therapy is also a common method of treatment when treating sex addiction. This method of treatment focuses on helping the individual to learn how to recognize the situations that trigger sexual urges and how to change the way that they react. Most often, CBT is paired with other methods of treatment to provide effective solutions for those in recovery from sex addiction.