SEXUAL ADDICTIONS AND COMPULSIONS

If you have sexually addictive behaviors, you know how difficult these are to change. If a spouse, family member, or loved one has discovered that you have this problem, you know how devastating this can be for you and your family.

According to the Mayo Clinic, "Compulsive sexual behavior refers to spending inordinate amounts of time in sexual related activity, to the point that one neglects important social, occupational or recreational activities in favor of sexual behavior."

With the increasing popularity of the internet, treatment providers have seen much growth in sexually compulsive behavior related to internet pornography. Research has shown that pornography affects the same area of the brain that heroin impacts, and breaking free of this behavior by yourself is often just as difficult. This is especially true if your work involves using a computer, but it also applies to those who regularly visit prostitutes, massage parlors, or adult entertainment establishments.

One of the most heartbreaking aspects of this problem is that the compulsion can be a foreshadowing of illegal sexual behaviors. When I am referred offenders by attorneys or the criminal justice system, the perpetrators universally regret that they did not get help sooner.  Because of the secrecy, those involved in this web of deceit often believe they will never be found out. The behavior continues until the crisis of discovery brings much shame and remorse to the offending person, his or her partner, and their family. If the behavior is against the law, there is also the very real possibility of jail or prison time, exploitation by the media, stigma in the community, and many other grim repercussions.

It is not unusual that a married couple considers divorce over this discovery, and the partner feels they will never recover. I believe through effective psychotherapy recovery is possible, and a new level of trust can emerge. If you or a loved one is struggling with sexually addictive or compulsive behaviors, I urge you to get help NOW. Please contact me or visit the Resources page.

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415 - 453 - 2640
Kentfield, CA
gary@garylgross.com