Porn Addiction Therapist

Finding the right therapist for porn addiction can be challenging. Not all therapists are equipped to help, and the wrong approach can actually be counterproductive. This page helps you navigate the search.

When to See a Therapist

Consider professional help if:

• You've tried to quit multiple times without success
• Porn use is significantly impacting your life
• You have co-occurring mental health issues
• Your porn use has escalated to concerning content
• You're experiencing relationship crisis due to porn use
• Self-help approaches haven't worked

What Credentials to Look For

Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT)

CSATs have specialized training in:

• Sexual compulsivity and addiction
• The neuroscience of behavioral addiction
• Evidence-based treatment protocols

This is often the gold standard for porn addiction treatment.

Other Relevant Credentials

• Licensed therapists (LMFT, LCSW, LPC) with addiction specialization
• Psychologists with behavioral addiction focus
• CBT or DBT specialists who understand compulsive behaviors

Red Flags

Be cautious of:

• Therapists who dismiss porn addiction as "not real"
• Those who approach it purely from a moral/religious angle without clinical training
• Anyone who hasn't treated sexual behavior issues before
• Excessive focus on shame rather than skills

How to Find a Specialist

Resources

• IITAP directory (iitap.com) - CSAT therapist finder
• Psychology Today - Filter by "sex addiction" specialty
• AASECT - Sex therapists (though not all treat addiction)
• Your insurance provider's directory

Questions to Ask

1. What's your training/experience with porn addiction?
2. What treatment approach do you use?
3. How do you view porn addiction? (screening for dismissiveness)
4. What does a typical treatment plan look like?
5. Do you work with partners/couples?

What to Expect

First session typically covers:

• Your history with porn
• Impact on your life
• Previous quit attempts
• Treatment goals
• Proposed approach

Treatment often includes:

• Weekly individual sessions
• Homework and tracking
• Skill-building exercises
• Processing underlying issues
• Relapse prevention planning