Are you navigating a relationship where sexual behavior seems to be spiraling? Have you ever wondered what really constitutes out-of-control sexual behavior (OCSB) and how it differs from what many call “sex addiction”? You’re not the only one. Let’s explore how a skilled couples therapist can help you and your partner find clarity, restore intimacy, and foster healthier communication with couples therapy in Miami, FL.
What is Out-of-Control Sexual Behavior (OCSB)?
Do you often feel compelled to act on a sexual impulse and then wonder why it felt so urgent? The Sexual Medicine Society of North America notes that out-of-control sexual behavior is just that—sexual activities or impulses that feel overwhelming and difficult to manage. OCSB gets in the way of your everyday life. It’s disturbing. It’s distressing. OCSB doesn’t always look the same. You may be dealing with pornography or infidelity in your marriage. Other people have issues with risky sexual activity or inappropriate contact with sex workers.
So, does this mean that every intense sexual urge is unhealthy or problematic for couples dealing with OCSB? Not at all. The perception that you cannot control sexual impulses is where the distinction lies.
How OCSB Differs from Traditional Addiction Models
Sexual Addiction vs Compulsive Behaviors
When people hear “sex addiction,” they often think of out-of-control sexual behavior in the same vein as substance addiction. But is that really accurate? Traditional addiction models focus on physical dependencies, like drug or alcohol addiction. However, intense sexual behavior doesn’t always fit this mold. So, what’s the difference?
OCSB often arises from underlying emotional or psychological issues, such as anxiety or past trauma. Yet, viewing OSCB through the lens of addiction instead of a type of sexual disregulation is problematic. Why?
For one thing, thinking of this compulsive behavior as sex addiction incorrectly supports the misconception that sex, a natural human desire, must be eradicated for the addiction to be resolved. The term OCSB is both more factual and less shame-inducing. Without the stigma, couples may be more inclined to seek support and therapy.
In addition, labels like sex addiction or hyper-sexual behavior disorder don’t have an agreed-upon diagnostic criteria like that of substance abuse disorders. Typically, linking physical addiction to OCBS is a poor fit. Instead, it’s better to concentrate on how OSCB is used as a coping mechanism. Then you can see how unmet needs, deep feelings, and troubles or struggles fuel a seemingly “addictive” dependency on sex.
Beyond Out-of-Control Sexual Behavior Toward Relationship Recovery
Relationship recovery isn’t a straight path. Healing is filled with ups, downs, and moments of doubt when it comes to OCSB. But it isn’t impossible. To recover well, a couples therapist in Miami, FL can support you locally as you navigate the difficulties in your relationship together. Here’s how:
Identify Underlying Issues
What drives the current out-of-control sexual behavior? A therapist can help identify these root causes, whether they stem from anxiety, past trauma, or unmet emotional needs.
Set Realistic Relationship Goals
It’s important to set achievable goals. What does success look like for you and your partner? Maybe it’s re-establishing trust, improving communication, or simply feeling more connected. Whatever your goals, a therapist can help map out a plan to reach them.
Often, couples aren’t really sure what sexual health really looks like. Exploring the following six principles of sexual health, developed by the Harvey Institute in 2009, with your therapist might be helpful.
Six Principles of Sexual Health
- Consent- the willing cooperation and voluntary permission to engage in sexual intimacy.
- Non-exploitation- refusing to do anything that changes or violates your understood sexual boundaries.
- Honesty- directly communicating about your sexual pleasure, experience, and perspective.
- Shared Values- clearly communicating your respective sexual ethics, values, and standards.
- Prevention- responsibly protecting each other from Sexually Transmitted Infections and disease
- Pleasure- balancing sexual safety and responsibility with the pursuit of pleasure and evolving sexual interests
As you address OSCB and work through the resulting conflicts and consequences, having a firm grasp on what keeps you both safe, seen, and secure helps develop the connection you want. Next steps? Seek support and expert guidance.
How a Couples Therapist Can Help
Understanding and addressing out-of-control sexual behavior is a journey that requires patience, empathy, and commitment. With the guidance of a couples therapist in Miami, FL, you can navigate the challenges of OCSB and emerge stronger together. Remember, it’s not about perfection but progress. Each step forward is a testament to your dedication to each other and your relationship needs.
By embracing this journey with open hearts and minds, you can rebuild intimacy, foster healthier communication, and ultimately find a path to a more fulfilling relationship. Isn’t that worth the effort?
If you feel that you and your partner could benefit from couples therapy at Relationship Experts, consider reaching out to a professional who can guide you on this path to recovery and connection now. After all, like every couple, you deserve a chance at wholeness and happiness. We are here to help.
Ready to Face OCSB with Couples Therapy in Miami, FL?
Turn your relationship around with our expert care and embrace couples therapy in Miami, FL. We can help you take the first steps towards a more emotionally and physically intimate connection. Our experienced couples therapists at Relationship Experts offer a safe space for open communication about the most intimate topics. Don’t let OCSB drive a wedge between you– invest in therapy and invest in your relationship right away. Follow these three simple steps to get started:
- Plan a free consultation or call our office at 305-507-9955 to ask about scheduling couples therapy.
- Chat with a skilled couples therapist soon.
- Start your relationship recovery today!
OTHER SERVICES PROVIDED BY RELATIONSHIP EXPERTS
At Relationship Experts, our team supports you with a wide range of services to help you and your partner. Our Miami, FL-based counseling office provides various programs online and throughout Florida. In addition to Couples Therapy to help your relationship face OCSB, our services include Affair Counseling, an excellent Infidelity Recovery Program, and Communication Counseling. We also offer online therapy sessions if you are seeking relationship therapy from home. Feel free to review our blog for more articles like this!
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