By Dámaris Tenza – Sex Therapist Specialized in Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder (CSBD), CBT and Gestalt Therapy
Addiction is not just about losing control; it is about understanding why control becomes impossible. For those struggling with sex, porn, and love addiction, it can feel like an endless cycle—promising to stop, relapsing, and feeling consumed by guilt.
The Doctor’s Opinion, written by Dr. William D. Silkworth in The Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous, provides one of the most profound explanations of addiction. Though originally focused on alcoholism, his insights apply directly to compulsive sexual behaviors, including sex, porn, and love addiction.
Addiction as a Disease, Not a Moral Failing
Dr. Silkworth’s groundbreaking idea was that addiction is a disease affecting both the body and mind. He described two key aspects:
- Physical Craving: Once the addictive behavior (watching porn, engaging in compulsive sex, or chasing love highs) begins, the person cannot stop. The body craves more stimulation, leading to escalation.
- Mental Obsession: Even when abstinent, the mind fixates on the addiction, convincing the person to return to the cycle despite negative consequences.
This aligns perfectly with sex and love addiction, where individuals continue harmful behaviors despite knowing the damage they cause.
Why Willpower Alone Fails in Sex Addiction
Many people believe they can simply «control themselves» or «just stop», but Dr. Silkworth’s research showed why this doesn’t work. Addiction rewires the brain, making willpower alone ineffective.
In sex, porn, and love addiction, this means:
- Porn users escalate to more extreme content, chasing the next dopamine hit.
- Love addicts move from one toxic relationship to another, craving emotional highs.
- Sex addicts repeat risky behaviors, even when it jeopardizes their relationships or health.
This is why a structured recovery plan is necessary.
Comprehensive Treatment for Sex, Porn, and Love Addiction
At Inner Life Recovery in Costa del Sol, we specialize in treating compulsive sexual behaviors with a holistic, neuroscience-based approach.
- One-on-One Therapy: Personalized CBT & Gestalt therapy to address trauma and compulsive patterns.
- Recovery Programs: Intensive programs for individuals, partners, and couples.
- 12-Step Recovery: Groups like Sex Addicts Anonymous (SAA) and Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous (SLAA) provide vital support.
- Neuroscience-Based Healing: Understanding how addiction alters the brain and how to reverse its effects.
If you’re unsure whether you struggle with addiction, start with our Sex Addiction Test, Porn Addiction Test, or Love Addiction Test to gain clarity.
Spiritual and Emotional Growth in Recovery
Dr. Silkworth also noted that successful recovery often involved a spiritual or emotional shift. In the context of sex addiction, this means:
- Healing shame and rebuilding self-worth.
- Developing emotional regulation and self-awareness.
- Relearning intimacy and healthy connection.
This process is at the heart of our therapy and recovery retreats, helping individuals rediscover healthy, fulfilling relationships.
Take the First Step Toward Recovery
Sex, porn, and love addiction are not life sentences—you can heal. The first step is understanding that your struggles are not a sign of weakness but a condition that needs proper treatment.
Take a free addiction test to understand your behaviors.
Book a consultation to discuss personalized treatment options.
Join a recovery program at Inner Life Recovery in Costa del Sol and start your journey today.
You don’t have to do this alone. Recovery starts with knowledge, support, and action.
Dámaris Tenza
