Sexual Addictions

Sexual addictions can sometimes be destructive. For example, someone might have multiple sex partners and not take precautions against sexually transmitted diseases. They also put themselves at risk by having sex with someone unknown to them. Again, such behaviors may be destructive to the relationships that a person feels are most important.
When do behaviors become a problem? When they . . .

	Interfere with or replace normal sexual relationships
	Take up a lot of time that could be spent with one’s partner or family
	Are used to self-medicate mood, stress, insomnia, and so forth
	Cost money that takes away from the family budget
	Upset one’s partner on emotional or moral grounds
	Cause deep shame or guilt

We do have the knowledge and training to help intervene with sexual addictions. This can be a difficult behavior to change, because sex is highly rewarding to the brain. However, strong motivation, a willingness to take responsibility for one's behavior, and ability to make use of the therapist's recommendations go a long way toward resolving this problem. Treatment includes:

	Acknowledgement of the extent of the problem in your life
	Understanding how you misuse sex and why
	Learning about the addiction cycle
	Identifying risk factors and triggers
	Overcoming bad feelings about yourself and sex in general
	Reclaiming a healthy sexual life with one’s partner

While Dr. Buehler is trained to treat sexual addictions, Michael Smith, MFT is specialized in this area. If you’d like to set an appointment with either therapist, please call Dr. Buehler at 800-769-0342.

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