Sex Addicts compulsively pursue sexual behaviors despite the harm caused to themselves and/or others. Sex addicts have an inability to limit their sexual behavior and exposure to damaging sex-related consequences. Specific behaviors vary widely from spending hours watching pornography, compulsively masturbating, one-night stands, prostitution, voyeurism, exhibitionism, love & relationship addiction, intrusive sex, phone sex, and many more. Escalation occurs when acting out behaviors go from having a “good time” to numbing out and then to simply “feeding the beast” using sex to escape the pain of living life on life’s terms.

Sex Addiction Counseling in Peoria, Illinois

Understanding Behavior. Restoring Control. Rebuilding Connection.

Sexual behavior is a natural and healthy part of life — but for some, it can become compulsive, secretive, or destructive. When sexual urges begin to interfere with relationships, work, or emotional health, it may be a sign of sex addiction or compulsive sexual behavior.

At Life Balance Counseling Peoria, we provide confidential, nonjudgmental therapy to help individuals understand the roots of their behaviors, regain control, and rebuild healthier relationships with themselves and others.

Understanding Sex Addiction

Sex addiction involves repeated, out-of-control sexual thoughts or behaviors that continue despite harmful consequences. It’s not about morality or desire — it’s about compulsion and emotional pain.

Common signs include:

• Difficulty controlling sexual urges or impulses

• Spending excessive time pursuing sexual activity or fantasy

• Using sex to escape loneliness, stress, trauma, or shame

• Repeated infidelity or secret sexual behavior

• Relationship strain or loss of trust

• Feeling guilt, shame, or depression after sexual behavior

• Failed attempts to stop or reduce the behavior

Many people experiencing sexual compulsion feel trapped in a cycle of secrecy, guilt, and temporary relief. Therapy helps you understand why and begin to heal from within.

The Purpose of Therapy

Sex addiction often masks deeper emotional needs or unresolved trauma. Our therapists focus on helping you uncover and address those roots while developing healthier ways to cope, connect, and experience intimacy.

Treatment may include:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to identify and change harmful patterns

• Trauma-informed therapy for clients whose behavior stems from past abuse or neglect

• Mindfulness and emotional regulation techniques to manage urges

• Attachment-based therapy to explore how early relationships shaped intimacy needs

• Relapse prevention and accountability strategies

• Couples counseling to rebuild trust and emotional safety in relationships

We meet each client where they are — balancing structure, compassion, and evidence-based care.

Healing for Relationships

Sex addiction deeply affects partners and families, often leading to betrayal, mistrust, and emotional pain. Our counselors work with couples and families to:

• Process grief, anger, and loss of trust

• Rebuild emotional and physical intimacy

• Improve communication and transparency

• Support both partners’ healing journeys

We help couples move from crisis toward understanding, honesty, and restoration — at a pace that feels safe for both.

A Safe, Confidential Environment

Seeking help for sexual behavior issues can feel vulnerable. At Life Balance Counseling Peoria, privacy and dignity are our priorities. Our therapists provide a confidential, shame-free environment where you can begin to heal without judgment or labels.

Recovery is not about restriction — it’s about reclaiming freedom, balance, and integrity in your relationships and sense of self.

Begin Your Recovery Journey

Sex addiction can cause deep pain, but healing is possible. With the right guidance, you can break free from compulsive patterns and build a more fulfilling, connected life