Sex Addiction Therapy in Philadelphia
If you feel stuck in patterns around sex, porn, hookups, or "party and play" that you can't seem to control, you're not alone. I provide sex addiction therapy in Philadelphia for individuals who feel caught between compulsion and shame, wanting change but not knowing how to get there. This isn't about judgment. It's about understanding what's actually driving the behavior, and helping you regain a sense of control. As a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), I bring specialized knowledge of how sexual compulsivity develops and how to treat it, and real help for sex addiction that goes beyond willpower. This work is LGBTQ+ affirming and available to adults of all identities. I see clients in person in Bala Cynwyd, just outside Philadelphia, and by telehealth across Pennsylvania.
What Is Sex Addiction?
Sex addiction (sometimes called compulsive sexual behavior) isn't just about sex; it's about patterns that feel difficult or impossible to stop, even when there are consequences. You might notice repeated behaviors you've tried to cut back on but can't; escalation, meaning a need for more intensity, risk, or frequency; feeling disconnected, numb, or out of control; shame, secrecy, or a double life; and an impact on relationships, work, or self-esteem. For many people, these patterns are tied to stress, trauma, loneliness, or emotional regulation, not a lack of willpower. The World Health Organization's ICD-11 recognizes this pattern as Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder.
My Approach to Sex Addiction Therapy
I don't take a one-size-fits-all or overly rigid approach. Instead, we focus on understanding what the behavior is doing for you; identifying triggers, patterns, and underlying drivers; reducing shame (which often keeps the cycle going); and building new ways to regulate emotions and connect. I integrate EMDR for trauma and underlying drivers, attachment-focused therapy, CSAT methods developed by Dr. Patrick Carnes, and harm reduction and behavior change strategies. This work isn't about labeling you; it's about helping you feel more choice, clarity, and control. Related areas I work with include ChemSex, porn addiction, love addiction, and EMDR.
Is This Therapy Right for Me?
This therapy may be a good fit if you feel out of control with sexual behavior, you've tried to stop but keep going back, you feel stuck in shame or secrecy, or you want to understand the behavior rather than just suppress it. Change doesn't come from more shame or more discipline; it comes from understanding what's underneath, with the right support to work through it.
You might be in the right place if:
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You're spending more time on sex, porn, or hookups than you intended
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You find it difficult to stop or cut back, even when you want to
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You're experiencing shame, secrecy, or a sense of living a double life
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It's affecting your relationships, work, or self-esteem
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You've tried to stop on your own and haven't been able to
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You feel out of control but can't see a way out
Sex Addiction Therapy FAQ
Is sex addiction a real diagnosis?
The World Health Organization's ICD-11 recognizes Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder. Clinicians still debate the term sex addiction, but the pattern and the pain it causes are real, and you don't need a diagnosis to deserve help.
Will therapy shame my sexuality, kinks, or relationship style?
No. My practice is LGBTQ+ affirming and sex-positive. Kink, non-monogamy, and your orientation are never treated as the problem. We focus on what feels out of your control.
Do I have to stop having sex?
No. Recovery isn't about giving up sex. We define healthy and unhealthy behaviors together and build a sexual health plan that fits your values.
What about my partner?
If your behavior has hurt someone you love, therapy can help you take responsibility and rebuild trust. Partners can find their own support through betrayal trauma therapy.
What if my sexual behavior is tied to drugs or alcohol?
That's common, and it's one of my specialties. When sex and substances are linked, we work on both together. Learn more about sex in recovery.
Is therapy confidential?
Yes. What you share stays between us within the limits of the law. Telehealth lets you meet from anywhere private in Pennsylvania.
How do I get started?
Call 484-393-1185 or book a free 15-minute consultation. We'll talk about what's going on and whether we're a good fit.
