Sex Addiction Treatment in New York
Sex addiction carries perhaps more shame than any other behavioral addiction, making it harder to seek help even when life is falling apart. If compulsive sexual behavior is controlling your life—damaging relationships, risking your career, or consuming hours you can't account for—know that treatment exists. New York has confidential programs that treat sex addiction with the same evidence-based approaches used for other addictions.
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Compulsive sexual behavior disorder involves persistent patterns of sexual activity that feel uncontrollable despite negative consequences. This might include compulsive pornography use, serial affairs, risky anonymous encounters, excessive use of sex workers, or other behaviors that have taken over your life.
Like other addictions, sex addiction involves escalation (needing more intense experiences), preoccupation (thinking constantly about sex), and continued behavior despite harm to relationships, career, health, or finances. The brain's reward system becomes hijacked, making sexual behavior feel essential for coping with stress, loneliness, or emotional pain.
Sex addiction often co-occurs with other conditions—substance use, depression, anxiety, or trauma. Many people use sexual behavior to escape emotional pain or fill an inner void. Treatment addresses these underlying issues alongside the behavioral patterns.
- Persistent patterns of sexual behavior that feel uncontrollable
- Continued sexual behavior despite serious negative consequences
- Using sex to cope with stress, anxiety, or negative emotions
- Preoccupation with sexual thoughts or activities
- Escalation to more intense or risky sexual behaviors
- Failed attempts to stop or reduce sexual behavior
- Significant time spent on sexual activities or recovering from them
- Neglecting responsibilities due to sexual behavior
- Lying about or hiding sexual activities
Treatment for sex addiction uses approaches similar to other addictions, adapted for sexual behavior. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy helps identify triggers and develop healthier coping strategies. Group therapy with others facing similar struggles reduces shame and provides accountability.
Unlike substance addiction, the goal usually isn't complete abstinence from sex but developing a healthy relationship with sexuality. Treatment distinguishes between problematic compulsive behaviors and normal sexual expression, helping you develop boundaries for healthy sexual activity.
Many people with sex addiction benefit from treatment for underlying trauma, attachment issues, or co-occurring mental health conditions. Family therapy or couples counseling may also be part of recovery.
Treatment Options Available in NY:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Group therapy for sex addiction
- Trauma-focused therapy when appropriate
- Couples or family therapy
- Treatment for co-occurring conditions
- 12-step programs (Sex Addicts Anonymous, Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous)
- Residential treatment for severe cases
New York, particularly NYC, has specialized therapists and treatment programs for sex addiction. Confidentiality is paramount given the sensitive nature of this condition. Some addiction treatment centers address sex addiction; others are specialized programs focused specifically on compulsive sexual behavior.
Coverage for sex addiction treatment varies by insurance plan. Treatment is often coded as mental health services. Check with your insurance about coverage for outpatient therapy and, if needed, residential treatment for behavioral addictions.
Verify Your CoverageSeeking help for sex addiction takes courage given the shame involved. When contacting programs, you can ask about confidentiality and their experience with sexual behavior issues. Many therapists offer initial phone consultations. Support groups like SAA offer anonymous, confidential meetings.
Call for HelpEditorial Team
Healthcare Information SpecialistsMedical Training NYC
Last updated: January 9, 2026
Content Information
This content is compiled from official government sources including SAMHSA and the New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS). Our editorial team verifies facility licensing and updates information regularly.
Important: This is a directory service providing information only. We do not provide medical advice or treatment recommendations. Always consult with healthcare professionals before making treatment decisions.
If you're experiencing a medical emergency:
- AASECT - American Association of Sexuality Educators — View source (Accessed December 2025)
- Sex Addicts Anonymous — View source (Accessed December 2025)
- SAMHSA — View source (Accessed December 2025)