Certified Sex Addiction Therapists (CSAT’s) have undergone rigorous training to work with individuals struggling with compulsive sexual behavior, and/or their partners. The certification program is through the International Institute of Trauma and Addiction Professionals. CSAT’s are skilled at accurately assessing and treating sex addiction and the trauma that surrounds it (betrayal trauma, sexual trauma, and complex PTSD). Hayley Leishman, LCSW, TRS, CSAT, CMAT with Cliffrose Therapy in Murray, UT is a compassionate CSAT. She understands the complexity of compulsive sexual behavior and the broad impact it can have on individuals, romantic relationships, children, and careers.
Early childhood trauma and neglect profoundly impact how someone navigates their emotional landscape. This is the client who has learned to internalize emotions, has difficulty expressing themselves, they often struggle with emotional intimacy, they may engage in addictive behaviors, when relational conflict arises they blow up or shut down. Their emotional dysregulation results in disconnection and avoidance or an anxious and excessive dependency on others (insecure attachment styles). Ultimately, at the core of this type of trauma is a decreased capacity to sit with, name, express, and cope with difficult emotional experiences.
Compulsive sexual behavior (sex addiction) is a complex issue that affects many aspects of life, from relationships to emotional well-being. It’s characterized by a compulsive need for sexual behaviors, even…
The shame and stigma of pornography addiction leads to intense feelings of hopelessness and isolation.
Pornography addiction often comes with a deep sense of shame and guilt. Many people feel embarrassed or isolated because of their struggle. Society tends to judge and shame those who…
