What is Sexual Compulsivity/Sexual Addiction?

Defining compulsive sexual behavior can be difficult and is subject to interpretation based on moral judgment. Sexual compulsivity is defined as sexual behavior an individual engages to reduce anxiety or depressive symptoms. A self-perpetuated cycle is created by the eventual return of anxiety or depressive symptoms that are reduced by engaging in problematic sexual behavior.

Common forms of Sexual Compulsivity/Addiction

• Compulsive viewing of pornography: including pornographic movies, viewing pornography on the Internet.
• Compulsive masturbation
• Sex with prostitutes, multiple partners, strangers.
• Multiple affairs outside a committed relationship.
• Exhibitionism: exposing your privates to unsuspecting onlookers. Generally occurs by either removing clothing in front of an individual or exposing ones privates while sitting in a parked car or while driving.
• Voyeurism: attempting to view or the viewing of an individual without the knowledge of ones presence. Also called “peeping Tom.”
• Inappropriate sexual touching: generally occurs in crowded places, where a person touches another sexually, and it is intended to look “accidental.”
• Sexual abuse of children: when an individual engages in repeated sexual activity with a child.

Answer the following questions to see if you may be addicted to sex:

1. I sometimes fail to meet my commitments and responsibilities because of my sexual behaviors.
2. I sometimes get so horny I could lose control.
3. I find myself thinking about sex while at work.
4. I feel that my sex thoughts and feelings are stronger than I am.
5. I have to struggle to control my sexual thoughts and behaviors.

The more yes answers, the more likely you are addicted to sex.

Evaluation

The initial evaluation consists of a clinical interview (1 to 2 hours), written tests, and a thorough testing in our physiologic laboratory to evaluate 20 separate sexual interests. Behavioral Medicine Institute of Atlanta conducts an objective measurement of sexual interest, but never uses plethysmography (direct genital measurement) or shows nude images to the client. The assessment can be scheduled over several days, if necessary.

Treatment Program

Our outpatient treatment program is rapid, intensive and goal directed. We utilize an eclectic approach to treat those with compulsive sexual behavior.

Major Treatment Components

• Sex education to define sexual compulsivity in its various forms and help the individual better understand his or her motives for carrying out this behavior.
• Cognitive therapy to identify and disrupt distorted beliefs and attitudes that support the sexually compulsive behavior.
• Empathy training to help the individual become more aware of the impact of his or her sexual behavior on his or her significant others.
• Psychotherapy to address personality characteristics and other contributors to sexually compulsive behavior.
• Relapse prevention to identify the triggers for compulsive behavior and how to either avoid them or cope with them more appropriately.
• Behavior therapy to reduce urges to engage in the compulsive behavior and gain better control over it.
• Anger and assertiveness training, as needed.
• Substance abuse treatment, as needed.

Fees

Please contact Behavioral Medicine Institute of Atlanta's office at 404-872-7929 for the cost of the initial assessment and therapy sessions. There may be additional charges for medication evaluations, drug screens and consultative psychological screening.

Methods of payment include cash, personal check, or major credit card payments. We will provide you with insurance claim forms and any assistance we can with your insurance reimbursement. We do not participate in any insurance program.

For Your Appointment:

It is important that we have this at the time of your appointment to make the process more efficient

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