Sex Addiction Counseling for Men: How Therapy Helps You Take Control and Rebuild Your Life

A clear, judgment-free guide to understanding compulsive sexual behavior—and how professional counseling supports real, lasting recovery

By Keith York, LMFT Couples Therapist in Orinda, CA

Sex addiction, sometimes called compulsive sexual behavior, can deeply affect a person’s life—impacting

relationships, self-esteem, and overall well-being.

If you or someone you care about is struggling with

uncontrollable urges or behaviors around sex, know that you’re not alone. More importantly, help is

available, and counseling can be a powerful part of the recovery process.

What is Sex Addiction?

Sex addiction involves persistent, repetitive sexual behaviors despite negative consequences.

People may use sex to escape stress, anxiety, or painful emotions, creating a cycle that feels impossible to break.

This condition is real and serious, but with the right support, it is manageable.

Compulsive sexual behaviors are often symptoms of deeper emotional disconnection. For a compassionate overview of how these patterns develop and how therapy helps men reconnect, see this 👉guide to men’s emotional disconnection and couples counseling.

How Counseling Can Help

Counseling provides a safe, supportive environment to explore the thoughts, feelings, and experiences that contribute to sex addiction.

Here’s how therapy can support your healing journey:

Uncovering Underlying Causes

Therapy helps identify the emotional wounds, trauma, or mental health struggles that often underlie

compulsive sexual behaviors. Understanding these root causes is essential to addressing addiction in a

meaningful way.

Learning Healthy Coping Skills

Through counseling, you’ll develop tools to manage difficult emotions and stress without turning to

harmful behaviors . Techniques like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness can build

resilience and emotional balance.

Breaking Free from Shame

Feelings of shame and guilt can keep you trapped in addiction. Therapy offers a judgment-free space

where you can process these feelings, cultivate self-compassion, and rebuild your confidence.

Building Stronger Relationships

Counselors help you set healthy boundaries and improve communication skills—critical steps toward

nurturing meaningful and fulfilling relationships.

Ongoing Support and Accountability

Regular sessions provide structure and encouragement as you work through challenges. Group therapy or support groups may also be recommended to connect with others on a similar path.

Taking the First Step

If sex addiction is impacting your life, reaching out for counseling is a brave and important first step.

Recovery is a journey, but with professional guidance, you can regain control, heal, and build a healthier

future.

If you’re ready to explore counseling options or have questions about treatment, please contact us to

schedule a confidential consultation.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you or a loved one are struggling with compulsive sexual behaviors, you don’t have to face it alone.

Counseling can provide the support and guidance needed to break free from addiction and build a

healthier, more fulfilling life.

Contact EBCRR today to schedule a confidential consultation and learn how therapy can help you start

your recovery journey. We offer in-person services in Orinda and the greater east bay of San Francisco and online services in all of California.

Your path to healing begins with one courageous step — we’re here to walk alongside you.

Click here for more information and to schedule a free consultation

Written by Keith York, LMFT, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Orinda, California, serving Orinda, Lafayette, Moraga, and the greater east bay area of San Francisco. Keith specializes in couples therapy and addictions with a focus in Gottman Method Therapy and Relational Life Therapy.

For more information about Keith please click here:

About Keith York, LMFT