Couples Counseling for Sexual Addiction

Research Proposal for Couples Counseling Problem Sexual addiction is currently not recognized by the DSM-V as an addiction, and therefore some discrepancy among counselors about how to approach this issue exists, particularly when it comes to couples counseling.

Research indicates, however, that sexual addiction is on the rise and that counselors require advanced training in this area to know how to treat it effectively and help couples address this issue that may be negatively impacting their relationship (Gilbert, 2014; Griffiths & Dhuffar, 2014; Karila et al., 2014; Rosenberg, Carnes & O’Connor, 2014; Phillips, Hajela & Hilton, 2015; Kraus, Voon & Potenza, 2016).

In order to better understand how to help counselors address the issue of sexual addiction in couples counseling, there needs to be more research on how counselors themselves view this issue and whether or not they recognize it as something that serves as an obstacle for healthy relationships for couples.

Research Question The research question posed by this study is: Are current couples counselors effectively trained and prepared to counseling for sexual addiction in the course of their couples counseling sessions or is there a dearth of preparation, skilled approach, and training for professional counselors with regard to this issue in couples counseling? Approach This study will use the semi-structured interview method to understand whether today’s couples counselors are adequately trained and prepared to address the issue of sexual addiction in couples counseling.

This qualitative study will be useful in deepening the understanding currently held on this issue and may facilitate in helping professional counselors to address a topic currently not specifically addressed by the DSM-V.

Need for the Study The need for this type of study with this type of design is evident in the fact that many researchers have identified sexual addiction as a problem but yet in the professional counseling sphere, which is guided by the DSM-V in terms of identifying mental health issues that require treatment, there is not much guidance in the way of helping patients or couples for whom sexual addiction is an issue.

Understanding where professional counselors are on this issue and whether they need more training will ultimately be of use both to the field of counseling and to patients who may require help in this area. Defining Concepts and Variables Sexual addiction—a person who is not able to control sexual impulses. It is expected that not every counselor will have the same view or definition of what constitutes sexual addiction.

Some may view behaviors as representative of sexual addiction while others may view behaviors as normal, healthy expressions of a strong sexual urge or appetite. This definition needs clarification—mainly because the DSM-V has provided no guidance as of yet. Counseling for sexual addiction—counseling that helps a sex addict overcome the addiction and engage in a more normative lifestyle and avoid the negative repercussions of sexual addiction.

Training and preparation—the feeling or knowledge of confidence of couples counselors regarding their ability to address sexual addiction during the process of couples counseling should it emerge as an issue. Literature Review Gilbert (2014) conducted a literature review and identified sexual addiction as an issue that can be overcome by the patient through the development of an interior life—i.e., meditation, prayer, and trust in a higher power similar to that which is used by the Alcoholics Anonymous group for alcoholics seeking assistance in overcoming their issues.

Griffiths and Dhuffar (2014) conducted a survey of mental health facilities to identify whether there is much treatment available for sex addicts; their study showed that there is a need for more access to counseling in this area. Karila et al. (2014) conducted a systematic review and found that there are many differing opinions on what constitutes sex addiction among professional counselors and that clarity is needed. Kraus et al.

(2016) likewise conducted a systematic review across multiple disciplines to determine whether sexual addiction is an addiction like others and concluded that more research is needed. Phillips et al. (2015) conducted a review indicating that sexual addiction is indeed a disease that needs more attention. Rosenberg et al. (2014) provided historical context on the issue of sexual addiction and offered counseling approaches to help but noted that there is still confusion about how to approach this issue.

Closing the Gap This study aims to close the gap in knowledge by showing clearly how professional counselors view the issue of sex addiction in couples counseling and whether they feel confident enough to address this issue. It will help to.