Compulsive Sexual Behavior Therapy in Columbus, Ohio
Shame-free, trauma-informed support for healing and reconnection
When sexual behavior feels out of control, it’s often not about sex at all.
At The Purple Tree, we work with individuals who are caught in patterns of sexual behavior that feel compulsive, secretive, or emotionally distressing. You may have tried to stop, or even promised yourself you would, but find yourself returning to the behavior again and again. And with it: guilt, shame, fear of being found out, or a growing sense of isolation.
This is more common than you think.
What looks like a behavior problem is often rooted in trauma, shame, and unmet emotional needs.
What Is Compulsive Sexual Behavior?
(Often referred to as “sex addiction”)
This isn’t about how much sex you’re having. It’s about how the behavior may be interfering with your relationships, values, and sense of self.
Common signs may include:
• Repeated use of pornography that feels excessive or interferes with daily life
• Risky sexual encounters, online hookups, or infidelity
• Hiding behavior from a partner or lying about your activity
• Feeling emotionally numb, ashamed, or disconnected after acting out
• Failed attempts to stop despite personal or relational consequences
Many people use sex or fantasy to escape from deeper emotional pain such as trauma, abandonment, stress, or unresolved grief. Over time, this coping mechanism can become a cycle of compulsivity, secrecy, and shame.
Our Approach to Healing
At The Purple Tree, we offer a shame-free, trauma-informed approach to understanding and treating compulsive sexual behavior. We don’t focus on labels—we focus on you.
We help you understand:
• Why the behavior started
• What needs it’s been trying to meet
• How to build a new relationship with your emotions, body, and values
There’s no shame in how you’ve coped. There’s just room for something new.
How We Help
Stopping the cycle is the first step. We begin with structure and support, creating boundaries that help you regain a sense of control.
From there, we move into the deeper work: exploring why the behavior began, what pain it’s been covering, and how to meet those needs differently. You’ll build insight, tools, and confidence to move forward grounded, not stuck.
Our therapy approach is attuned, relational, and rooted in evidence-based strategies like CBT, DBT, somatic therapies, and attachment-based work. Together, we help you manage triggers, increase emotional regulation, and rebuild your sense of agency and connection.
Take the First Step
We offer confidential, attuned therapy for individuals struggling with compulsive sexual behavior and the relational, emotional, and spiritual wounds that often come with it.
This work is supported by Jessica’s advanced training as a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) and Certified Multiple Addiction Therapist (CMAT) and grounded in a structured approach that meets you where you are.
If you're ready to explore a new way forward, reach out today. We’re here to walk alongside you.
Schedule your first appointment below or reach out through the contact form if you have questions. We’re here to help.