This morning on our Therapist of Las Vegas facebook page I saw an inquiry for someone who “specializes” in sex addiction. In the state of Nevada there are very few CSATS (Certified Sex Addiction Therapists) compared to our neighboring state. The last time I checked we had maybe 3 in the entire state. The number of therapists who responded to the post stating that they specialize in treating sex addiction alarmed me. I have worked with a number of clients who spent lots of time (and money) working with therapists who claimed to treat sexual addiction and betrayal trauma only to discover that they were a general therapist who (though I’m sure very well meaning) contributed to treatment induced trauma. Here are 3 reasons why you should work directly with a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist or a clinical practice whose therapists are led by a CSAT.
A Tailored Treatment Plan
I can’t speak for other CSATs but those therapists at our practice provide very specific treatment to their clients. It is not general therapy. It is treatment. Our clients are expected to put in a significant amount of effort towards their recovery. We are clear in our plan for clients and we have a path to recovery that works for those who are willing to do the work.
Sobriety and Recovery
Prior to diving into deep trauma work, it is essential that a therapist helps their clients establish sobriety before going “under the water.” We must work to stabilize the system first and foremost. Many therapists go directly after the trauma without that stabilization in place. This is a breeding ground for relapses to occur. They’ve gone after the trauma, opened up the wounds and haven’t given the client a safe and stable base.
Providing a Formal Disclosure
I have been horrified to hear of formal disclosures being so mishandled that they have caused significant amounts of damage. Months of prep work is typically involved in the disclosure process. It is a very specific and very structured exercise for a couple who have walked this road. A therapist without the proper training will likely move through this process being callous and clumsy, thereby causing even more harm to the betrayed partner.
Our practice currently has one CSAT and one CSAT-Candidate. Three of our clinicians are also trained in Dr. Omar Minwalla’s Deceptive Sexuality Trauma Treatment (DST) which fills in many important gaps that most CSATs are missing. We are grateful for the opportunity to provide more specialized treatment to the clients in our care. If you have need of specialized help in this area, you are not alone and we are happy to help. When you reach out please request one of our certified sex addiction or DST trained clinicians.
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