What is Compulsive Sexual Behaviour?
If you have found your way to this page, you may well be on the path of wondering if your sexual behaviours are ‘ok’ and ‘normal’ or you may be feeling that you want to change the way you view sex as its caused a problem for you or with your relationships.
When it comes to sex, we should be having sex that feels right, that is in line with our personal values and sex that is legal and consensual at all times.
The type of sexual behaviour does not define problem behaviour necessarily. It is the relationship we have with the sexual behaviour that can make it feel like a problem.
People who are struggling with compulsive sexual behaviours may be aware of some of the following:
- Feelings of being out of control with their sexual behaviours
- Using sex as a way to deal with uncomfortable feelings and emotions, ie having sex to manage feelings of sadness, angry, tiredness, feeling bored etc..
- Sexual behaviours that have negative consequences and they feel unable to stop the sexual behaviours even with those negative consequences that occur.
- Sexual behaviours that they find are compulsive and repetitive.
- Sex that makes them feel bad afterwards. Often feelings of deep regret and shame can occur and they can feel worthless, depressed and anxious.
In my practice, I offer an approach that is non judgmental, empathic, providing a space to be curious about yourself and your sexual framework. We work towards finding and better understanding about your sex life. We will identify the sexual behaviours that are wanted and the ones that are not wanted. This work is deep and explorative, often examining your world views and core beliefs and finding new ways to cope and soothe those negative feelings about life.
We will work towards Sexual Health - WHO states ‘Sexual Health is the possibility of having pleasurable and safe sexual experiences, free of coercion, discrimination and violence’ (2006)
