Treating Compulsive Sexual Behaviour and Its Impact on Relationships A Clinical Guide

1 Understanding Compulsive Sexual Behaviour (CSB)

2 Impact of Compulsive Sexual Behaviour on Couples: Mental, Emotional, Physical, and Spiritual Consequences

3 Types of Compulsive Sexual Behaviour (CSB) and Their Effects on Couples 34

4 Assessing and Treating Trauma and PTSD in Couples Impacted by Compulsive Sexual Behaviour

5 Attachment Theory and Compulsive Sexual Behaviour (CSB)

6 Trauma Theory and Compulsive Sexual Behaviour (CSB)

7 OAT Model: Out of Control Sexual Behaviour

8 Shame and Compulsive Sexual Behaviour and Its Effect on Relationships

9 Creating a Safe and Non- judgemental Space for Couples

10 Developing Effective Communication Skills for Couples Impacted by Compulsive Sexual Behaviour

11 Building Trust and Intimacy in Couples Impacted by Compulsive Sexual Behaviour

12 Supporting the Partner of the Person with Compulsive Sexual Behaviour: Coping Strategies and Self-Care

13 Managing Triggers in Couples Impacted by Compulsive Sexual Behaviour

14 Working with Couples to Develop a Long-Term Recovery Plan and Prevent Relapse

Conclusion: Moving Beyond Treating Compulsive Sexual Behaviour and Its Impact on Relationships

Biography

Dr Robert Hudson is a UKCP-registered psychotherapist, sex and relationship therapist, and certified sex addiction and trauma specialist (CSAT-S supervisor). He is an accredited member of the College of Sexual and Relationship Therapists (COSRT), a member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (MBACP), and a trained EMDR trauma therapist. Dr Hudson has extensive experience working with individuals, couples, and groups affected by compulsive sexual behaviour, intimacy issues, and relational trauma. His clinical work focuses on helping clients and couples navigate the challenges of trust, betrayal, and recovery. He has developed and facilitated numerous treatment groups, workshops, and therapeutic retreats in the UK and internationally. In addition to his clinical practice, Dr Hudson provides clinical supervision, training, and teaching in the fields of compulsive sexual behaviour, trauma, and relationship therapy. He regularly contributes to professional development programmes for therapists and is actively engaged in research aimed at improving understanding and best practice in this specialist area.

'I am delighted to commend this book by Dr Robert Hudson, alumnus of the London Diploma in Psychosexual and Relationship Therapy. He guides the reader through compulsive and addictive sexual behaviours, supported by valuable case examples and workbook exercises. We are led to consider the impact on relationships, couples interventions, and the role of shame, trauma bonds, conflict resolution, and the creation of safe therapeutic space. Practical guidance on non-conflict communication, healing ruptures, relapse prevention, and recognising restimulation is included. Clearly laid out and accessible, this book will be an essential resource for training providers and practitioners.'

Judi Keshet-Orr, Founder and Course Director, London Diploma in Psychosexual and Relationship Therapy; UKCP registered; fellow COSRT

'Treating Compulsive Sexual Behaviour and Its Impact on Relationships: A Clinical Guide is grounded in both professional and lived experience. Written by one of the UK’s pioneers in this field, it honours those who have moved beyond struggle with the support of partners and allies. It stands as testimony to human resilience and the healing power of connection. Robert navigates the tension between clinical pathology and hopeful relational recovery with clarity and compassion. The integrated workbook offers reflection, exercises, and connection-building tasks, demonstrating his expertise as a relationship psychotherapist. This guide is valuable for clients and clinicians alike.'

Bernd Leygraf, Consultant Psychotherapist, CEO Naos Institute

'Treating Compulsive Sexual Behaviour and Its Impact on Relationships: A Clinical Guide is an essential guide for couples working towards restoration and healing from the devastation of betrayal. It highlights the essential fundamentals of couples therapy for compulsive and addictive sexual behavior and instructs couples how to navigate the challenges and pitfalls of couples therapy when a loved one has CSBD. Additionally, it provides beneficial tools, exercises and journal prompts to cultivate insight for couples seeking to repair intimacy and trust.'

Stefanie Carnes, PhD, CSAT-S, CST, CPTT, Clinical Sexologist, LMFT