Understanding and Overcoming Sexual Compulsion and Addiction

Written By Graham Hastie

Understanding and Overcoming Compulsive Sex Addiction
Sexual compulsions and addiction is a complex and often misunderstood issue that affects individuals of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. It can lead to a range of negative consequences, including strained relationships, mental health challenges, and a sense of loss of control. It's important to recognize that sexual compulsion and addiction is a real and valid concern that requires empathy, understanding, and professional support.
One of the first steps in addressing sexual compulsion and addiction is to acknowledge its presence and its impact on one's life. This can be a difficult and sensitive process, but seeking help and understanding the root causes of the addiction is essential for creating positive long-lasting change. Many individuals struggle with shame and guilt regarding their compulsive and addictive behaviours; further complicating their ability to seek help. To truly make a difference, we must encourage conversations around sexual compulsions and addiction. This will empower those affected to seek the help they need without the fear of judgment.
Therapy can play a crucial role in addressing sexual compulsion and addiction. Trained professionals can help individuals explore the underlying factors contributing to their addictive behaviours. This allows the development of healthier coping mechanisms and works towards rebuilding healthier relationships. In therapy, individuals can explore issues such as unresolved trauma, low self-esteem, or other underlying mental health concerns that may be contributing to their addictive behaviours.
In addition to therapeutic support, building a strong support network is essential for individuals in recovery from sexual compulsion and addiction. This may include involvement in support groups, reaching out to friends and family members, and finding healthy, non-triggering social activities. Developing a support system can provide individuals with the encouragement, understanding, and accountability necessary to navigate their journey toward sustainable recovery.
Society needs to move away from stigmatizing attitudes toward sexual compulsions and addiction and instead focus on providing empathy, education, and resources for those affected. By fostering open and understanding dialogue, we can create an environment where individuals can successfully navigate recovery and healing without fear. Ultimately, recovery requires patience, commitment, and ongoing support. By acknowledging the challenges, seeking professional help, and building a strong support network, individuals can begin to reclaim control over their lives and build healthier, more fulfilling relationships. Are you struggling with unmanageability? Use the link to test your level of dependency. new.recoveryzone.com/PublicSurvey/Create?SurveyTypeID=53

Graham Hastie

Susan Hastie M.A.,CCAC,CCPS,CPCS,CSAT

Member of ACTA (Alberta College for Counselling Therapists)

Licenses: 15-000-686, #207AB03

Susan Hastie received her undergrad in Family Studies from the University of Manitoba with an emphasis on cognitive and behavioural development of children, and a Masters in Counselling from Providence Theological Seminary. Susan is a Certified Clinical Partner Specialist (APSATS Association of Partners of Sex Addicts

trauma specialists), is a Certified Addiction Counsellor (CACCF Canadian Addictions Counselling Certification Federation) and a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (ITAP International Institute for Trauma and Addiction Professionals). She has also completed her skills training and working towards becoming an Emotionally Focused Therapist .

She is an adjunct faculty and holds a successful private practice of more than 20 years providing individual, marital and group counselling.

Susan has professional training/certification in ART(accelerated resolution therapy), Trauma informed counselling, somatic therapy, ASSIST (Suicide Intervention Certificate), SASSI (Substance Abuse Subtle Screening Inventory certification), TJTA (Taylor Johnson Temperament Analysis certification), DiSC workplace profile certification, Marriage and Enrich certification, Gottman certification for couples, Power and Control in Abusive Relationships certificate, and DAPS Detailed Assessment of Post traumatic Syndrome.

She specializes in trauma and addictions, grief and loss, marriage relationships, self-esteem and identity, assertiveness, abuse, anxiety and depression in her counselling practice.

She supervises interns and holds the status of Certified Supervisor (PACCCP) Professional Association of Christian Counsellors and Psychotherapist of Canada). She is a frequent guest speaker at local and national conferences.

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