Is there really such a thing as sexual addiction?
The field of addictionology now includes what are called “process addictions,” which means that a person can become addicted to food, work, high-risk activities, another person and even emotions. All addictions have similarities and are symptoms that a person is attempting to increase pleasure and avoid their pain. The LifeSTAR Recovery program’s position is based upon the view that if you cannot control when you start or stop a behavior and if the behavior causes serious problems for you or those close to you, then you may have become addicted. Sexual addiction and compulsive sexual behaviors represent maladaptive ways that people attempt to meet physical, emotional and psychological needs for love, touch, relationships and intimacy.

How do I know if I have a sexual addiction or a compulsive behavior?
If you answer “yes” to any of the following questions, you may have a sexual addiction:

• Do you ever feel bad or uncomfortable about your sexual behavior?
• Do you become restless or irritable when you are unable to engage in sexual behavior?
• Do you ever feel guilt, shame, remorse or depression about your sexual behavior?
• Have you tried and failed to control the amount of sexual activity you engage in?
• Has your need for sexually-related behaviors ever made you abandon your values or go against your better judgment?
• Do you resort to pornography, or other sexual activities to escape from your problems, relieve anxiety or cope with stress?
• Do you feel a need to conceal from others either the nature or frequency of your sexual activities?
• Do you lead a secret or double life?

What’s involved with LifeSTAR’s sexual trauma and addiction recovery program?
The LifeSTAR (Sexual Trauma and Addiction Recovery) program is a comprehensive outpatient group therapy program. The recovery program consists of three phases of treatment for complete sobriety, recovery and healing.

Are LifeSTAR’s groups just for addicts? What about my spouse?
LifeSTAR of Southern California has observed that clients often find greater success if their spouse participates in the healing process. Therefore, we offer the program for spouses as well. However, if you are single or if your spouse is unable or unwilling to participate, do not let that stop you. Individuals who participate in the groups on their own also find great success.

If I start the recovery from sexual addiction group program, is that all I need to do?
In addition to the LifeSTAR group sessions, we also recommend joining a 12-Step program (see our RESOURCES page), as well as individual counseling sessions with one of our experienced, licensed therapists who have been trained in sexual addiction recovery and in the LifeSTAR program. However, you can still participate in the program if you are already seeing another therapist. Our staff will coordinate treatment with your therapist.