Sex addiction is on the increase - in the media as well as in the therapy room. But while more and more people seek help for their compulsive sexual behaviours, there is still confusion and debate about whether the condition even exists.

Understanding and Treating Sex Addiction explains why an increasing number of people are inadvertently finding their lives devastated by their sexual behaviours. It explores the latest scientific understandings and research into why pornography, cyber sex, visiting sex workers, fetishes and multiple affairs can come to control some people’s lives to the point that they can’t stop. It explains how sex addiction is not a moral issue, as some assume, but a health issue that we as a society need to start taking seriously. Throughout the book are the revealing statistics from the UK’s latest survey on sex addiction. Three hundred and fifty people who struggle with this condition have bravely and candidly shared their experience for the benefit of their fellow sufferers and those who choose to help them.

This book contains support and advice for both the clinician and for those who suffer from sex addiction. As well as practical guidance and techniques for stopping compulsive behaviours and preventing relapse, there is also a thorough exploration of the deeper underlying causes and how these must be addressed.
Reviews

Paula Hall has tackled the oft dismissed issue of sexual addiction by packing this text with clear insight, compassion and solid clinical knowledge. It is a must have for anyone wishing to truly understand the diagnosis, and treatment of sexual addiction. - Robert Weiss LCSW, CSAT-S, Founding Director of the Sexual Recovery Institute and Author of Cruise Control

This book is a competent and intelligent exposition of the subject of sexual addiction, suitable for general readers and essential for clinicians. Written from a British perspective , it will be of considerable interest to a wider reading publa Hall is a fresh voice with stimulating insights. - Dr Thaddeus Birchard, Clinical Director, The Marylebone Centre

Contents

Introduction. Part I: Understanding Sex Addiction. Defining Sex Addiction. Assessment and Diagnosis. How Sex Addiction Starts. How Addiction is Maintained and Reinforced. The Partner’s Perspective. Part II: Breaking The Chains Of Addiction. Treatment Strategies and Options. Making a Commitment to Recovery. Understanding the Cycle of Addiction. Identifying Unresolved Issues and Unmet Needs. Part III: Establishing Relapse Prevention Strategies For Life. Avoiding and Managing Triggers. Creating Healthy Couple Relationships. Satisfying Sexuality. Developing a Healthy Lifestyle. Overcoming Blocks to Recovery. Conclusion. Further Reading and Resources.

Author Bio

Paula Hall is a UKCP registered psychotherapist who specialises in sex addiction and is CSAT trained. She provides individual and couple therapy and is the founder of The Hall Recovery Course. She is ...