WHAT IS SEX ADDICTION?

Susan Malewicz, LCSW, CASAC, CSAT, CCPS

OFFERING TELETHERAPY via ZOOM IN NY & FL 
CONTACT ME TO SCHEDULE
 OFFERING TELETHERAPY via ZOOM IN NY & FL 
CONTACT ME TO SCHEDULE
Call Me

What Is Sex Addiction?

Sex addiction is known as a "process addiction".  What that means is that the you are addicted to some type of process; in this case sex.  Eating, gambling, spending and working are also examples of "process addictions".   

This is an important distinction from addiction to a substance as the addiction takes place in the brain beginning with fantasy or obsession, in this case about the sexual behavior. There is no way of detecting it outwardly on the addicted person. It cannot be seen on someone who suffers from it, unlike with drugs and alcohol.  For example: if someone suffers from alcoholism, you can smell it alcohol on their breath, see that they have red eyes or they are slurring their speech. There are no visible signs of someone who is addicted to sex.

Here are some of the addictive behaviors you may be suffering from signaling that you may need my help:  
  • Sexual behavior that is out of control; also referred to as "acting out"
  • Experiencing severe consequences due to sexual behavior, despite trying to stop
  • A willingness to continue to the self-destructive behavior
  • An ongoing effort or desire to limit sexual behavior which often serves to fuel the addiction
  • Sexual obsession and fantasy as a coping strategy
  • Escalating sexual experiences when the current level of activity is no longer sufficient
  • Severe mood changes relating to sexual activity
  • Excessive time devoted to obtaining sex, being sexual and recovering from sexual experiences
  • Neglect of significant activities in relationships, career and social life because of sexual behavior
Long Island Sex Addiction Therapist Susan Malewicz, LCSW, CASAC, CSAT serving Nassau, Suffolk Counties
Share by: