Innovative Approaches to Out-of-Control Sexual Behavior : Beyond the Sex-Addiction Paradigm

This expertly curated volume offers groundbreaking explorations for treating people who struggle with these issues, reframing problematic sexual conduct — often labelled “sex addiction” — as complex and often harmful human behaviors rather than as a disease.

This expertly curated volume offers groundbreaking explorations for treating people who struggle with these issues, reframing problematic sexual conduct — often labelled “sex addiction” — as complex and often harmful human behaviors rather than as a disease. Mental health practitioners often have limited resources and few expert mentors to consult when treating patients with out-of-control sexual behaviors (OSCB). With contributions from twenty seasoned clinicians, this book provides nonpathologizing approaches to support diverse sexual health needs and client healing. The writers address common clinical challenges such as erotic difference, existential angst, fidelity, pornography, and internalized shame and discusses the impacts of sexism, racism, and ethnic oppression on individual experiences of sexuality and on patient treatment. Filled with rich and engaging clinical examples, including harm reduction, IFS, couple and group therapy approaches, as well as clinical supervision, this collection equips a wide range of mental health professionals with practical tools to expand their practice. This book is an essential guidebook for both new and experienced clinicians looking to refine their perspectives, enhance their clinical skills, and foster unbiased, effective treatment for a diverse clientele. Individuals and families affected by OCSB will also find hope and guidance within its pages.