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The Group Guide
Connecting people to community
Client and Family Education
What to know about

Sex and Love Addiction Groups

These groups offer peer support for people who experience compulsive sexual behavior, problematic pornography use, or compulsive romantic and relational patterns they feel unable to control and that are causing harm. The terminology is contested: the DSM-5 has no "sex addiction" diagnosis, but the WHO recognized compulsive sexual behavior disorder in ICD-11. Several 12-Step fellowships serve this population, each with its own definition of sobriety: SAA, SA, SLAA, and SCA. Clinician-led CBT groups are also available.

Who it's for, and who it's not

Programs differ a lot on sobriety and on LGBTQ+ and non-traditional relationships.
SA defines sobriety narrowly; many find it incompatible with their lives.
Trauma-driven patterns need trauma-focused care too. In crisis? Call or text 988.

What it's for

Compulsive sexual behavior, pornography use, or romantic and relational patterns.
SLAA also addresses romantic obsession, avoidance of intimacy, and codependency.
SCA was founded within and welcomes LGBTQ+ communities.
What to expect
112-Step meetings run 60 to 90 minutes: readings, sharing in turn, closing.
2No explicit detail required; the focus is the experience of compulsivity, not the acts.
3Many groups separate by gender or orientation. In person and online.

Evidence for treating compulsive sexual behavior is developing but still limited.

A 2022 review of 24 studies found treatment, especially CBT, improved CSBD symptoms, though only four were randomized trials.1
These fellowships aren't tested directly, but peer mutual aid broadly supports community, accountability, and de-shaming.2
Making the most of it
Find your program's fit. Each defines sobriety differently; choose what resonates.
Shame thrives in secret. Naming it in the room is the work.
Pair with therapy if trauma's involved. Peer support isn't a substitute.
Questions to ask before you join
1Which program is it, and how does it define sobriety?
2Is it affirming of my identity and relationships?
3Is it peer 12-Step or a clinician-led CBT group?

Ready to find a group?

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In crisis? Call or text 988 (US Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, 24/7).

The Group Guide is a directory, not a clinic. This handout is general education, not medical or mental health advice. Listings are written by group leaders and are not endorsements. Confirm details, cost, and fit with any group you contact. Sources on page 2.

The Group Guide
Connecting people to community
Client and Family Education

Sources

Sex and Love Addiction Groups · references keyed to the numbers on page 1.

1Antons, S., Engel, J., Briken, P., et al. Treatments and interventions for compulsive sexual behavior disorder with a focus on problematic pornography use: a preregistered systematic review. Journal of Behavioral Addictions (2022), 11(3), 643–666.

2Pistrang, N., Barker, C., & Humphreys, K. Mutual help groups for mental health problems: a review of effectiveness studies. American Journal of Community Psychology (2008), 42(1–2), 110–121.

In crisis? Call or text 988 (US Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, 24/7).

The Group Guide is a directory, not a clinic. This handout is general education, not medical or mental health advice. Listings are written by group leaders and are not endorsements. Confirm details, cost, and fit with any group you contact.