A Place to Begin . . .
What is STARPRO?
Sexual Treatment and Recovery Program (STARPRO) is an intensive outpatient treatment program for sex and relationship addiction based on Connie’s Wellness Model, which holds that within each person is an inherent drive for emotional, physical, spiritual, relational, and sexual wellness. STARPRO helps addicts and their families access their innate potential for healing.
STARPRO provides:
- Research-based assessment of sex and relationship addiction and underlying issues such as trauma and depression
- An individualized, multifaceted wellness plan that recognizes each client’s unique circumstances and history
- Clinicians with expertise in the treatment of addiction, trauma and loss, depression and anxiety disorders, and marriage and family dysfunction
- A foundation for successful recovery from sex and relationship addiction
What is “sex addiction”?
Sex addiction is an illness of escape. Addicts use sexual behavior and fantasy excessively to escape unbearable feelings of hurt, betrayal, worry and loneliness—much as substance addicts use alcohol or cocaine. Addiction is indicated by preoccupation with sexual fantasy and behavior and the inability to stop despite serious risk or potentially severe consequences to health, relationships, finances, and reputation. Sex addiction creates chaos and misery in the lives of addicts and their families.
What is “relationship addiction”?
Relationship addictions include co-sex addiction, trauma bonding, codependence and romance addiction. Relationship addicts seek chronic drama and crisis by mistaking emotional intensity for caring.
Sex addict behaviors may include:
- Cybersex—online porn sites, chat rooms, cruising
- Obsessive fantasizing
- Affairs
- Exhibitionism
- Sexual harassment
- Power position relationships
- Anonymous sex
- Child molestation
- Prostitutes and escorts
- Compulsive use of pornography
What are some warning signs?
- Struggling to control or stop your sexual thoughts and behaviors
- Resorting to sex to escape, relieve anxiety, or cope with problems
- Feeling guilty or shameful after engaging in sexual activities or fantasies
- Loss of relationships due to inability to stop sexual activities outside of the relationship
- Putting self at risk for STD’s
- Losing time from work pursuing sexual activities
- Lying about unaccounted for time
- Pursuing sexual activities online
Is recovery really possible?
Sex addicts often feel hopeless, trapped, and beyond help. However, using a combination of techniques and approaches, addicts can be helped to identify and change destructive patterns of sexual behavior and to learn new ways of dealing with life challenges and emotions. Sex addicts can change from having their primary relationship with a mood altering behavior to having authentic connections with themselves, their families, and their partners.
Recovery begins with…
- Assessment: An individual assessment is conducted to determine if sex addiction exists, the level of severity, and whether there are other mental health issues that may coexist
- Recovery Plan: An individual recovery plan is mapped with the client depending on their specific problem behaviors and situation. The plan includes self-care, psychotherapy, and encouragement to participate in Connie’s sexual sobriety group. Co-addict support group, couple therapy, or family therapy may also be recommended
What is group? Do I have to go?
It is hightly recommended. Most STARPRO clients participate in an interactive group for adults in early recovery to learn about addiction, denial, rituals, triggers of their unhealthy behaviors, and to learn healthy response alternatives. Participants benefit by taking accountability for group process and responsibility for their own thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in a safe, supportive environment.
Contact connie@omahatherapy.com for information on STARPRO and other clinical issues.
Phone: 402-334-4478
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