Journal of Addiction Research & Therapy
Open Access

Abstract

T his presentation offers an in depth overview of the diagnostic and treatment related questions and concerns presenting in clients who compulsively/addictively act out sexually-either in relationship or by themselves. The focus of the presentation is to encourage non-judgmentalclinical insight and direction toward helping clients with sex and/or pornography addictions as well as a focus on the most effective and useful clinical stance needed for providing supportive therapy to betrayed spouses. The material offers an overview of the diagnosis of sexual addiction (interpersonal, porn and Internet related), common behaviors and problems encountered by sex addicts along with direction toward eliminating problem sexual behaviors. A model will be introduced toward encouraging insight and empathy for spouses, wives and partners who experienceis one of profound betrayal. The relationship between sexual addiction and early trauma survival will be reviewed along with pertinent discussion about managing and pacing recovery in multiple related areas such as behavioral (additions) and emotional/relationship (intimacy problems). Differential diagnosis will be reviewed along with the differences demonstrated in male vs female sex, porn and relationship addicts. Relevant cultural and class concerns will be addressed. The influence of Internet based sexuality and porn on the problem sexual addiction will be reviewed along with potential solutions toward managing Internet access. The past and current status of Sexual Addiction as a DSM diagnosis will be provided. Participants will be offered a model of sex addiction recovery and healing most commonly utilized in treatment along with useful reading, 12-step and clinical referral information. Time will be offered for discussion, questions and answers.

Biography

Robert Weiss LCSW, CSAT-S, Senior Vice President of Clinical Development Elements Behavioral Health, has developed ongoing clinical programs for The Ranch in Nunnelly Tennessee, Promises Treatment Centers in Malibu & The Sexual Recovery Institute in California (founded by Mr. Weiss in 1995). A licensed, UCLA MSW graduate and personal trainee of Dr. Patrick Carnes. He is author of Cruise Control Understanding Sex Addiction in Gay Men and co-author of both Untangling the Web and the upcoming 2013 release, Closer Together: Further Apart- The Effect of Digital Technology on Sex, Dating and Relationships with Dr. Jennifer Schneider, along with numerous peer reviewed articles and chapters. An author and subject expert on the relationship between digital technology and human sexuality. He has served as a media specialist for CNN, The Oprah Winfrey Network, the NY Times, LA Times and the Today Show among many others. He has also provided clinical multi-addiction training and behavioral health program development for the US military and multi-addiction treatment centers throughout the United States, Europe and Asia