From Shame to Healing: Navigating the Complexities of Sex Addiction with Eric Webber, CSATFrom Shame to Healing: Navigating the Complexities of Sex Addiction with Eric Webber, CSAT
Recovery Recharged with Ellen Stewart Pushy Broad from the Bronx
We explore the complexities of sex addiction, shedding light on its root causes and prevalence in the digital age. Eric Webber,CSAT, discusses the interplay between addiction, technology, and mental health. We reveal strategies for effective...
26:07•25 Sept 2024
From Shame to Healing: Sex Addiction, Technology and Honest Recovery
Episode Overview
- Sex addiction is assessed using core addiction concepts such as obsession, compulsion, powerlessness and unmanageability.
- Modern technology, including phones, dating apps and high-definition pornography, can intensify compulsive sexual behaviour.
- Trauma, especially developmental trauma, is frequently linked with sex addiction and often needs dedicated therapeutic attention.
- Healthy sexual behaviour is defined individually, focusing on frequency, impact, values and the absence of shame rather than blanket abstinence.
- Untreated sex addiction can lead to legal trouble, financial strain, damaged relationships and serious work and life consequences.
“"It's about your relationship with sex that really needs to be examined, addressed and articulated."”
Curious about how others navigate their sobriety journey? This conversation on Recovery Recharged shifts the spotlight from substances to what host Ellen Stewart calls a "process addiction": sex addiction. You’ll hear certified sex addiction therapist Eric Weber break down how compulsive sexual behaviours can affect people in recovery and those who’ve never touched a drink or drug. Eric keeps things grounded by using familiar addiction language: obsession, compulsion, powerlessness and unmanageability.
He explains that sex addiction isn’t just "running out and trying to have sex with everybody"; it can show up as relentless pornography use, risky encounters, or even an intense fixation on one person. As he puts it, "Sex addiction will have a progression much like any other addiction," often measured by frequency, duration and impact on work, relationships and values.
The episode speaks directly to people in recovery, families, and anyone worried about their own or a loved one’s sexual behaviour. Ellen’s straight-talking style pairs with Eric’s clinical experience to tackle the taboo head-on, from the role of technology and dating apps to how shame and secrecy keep people stuck.
Eric notes that "people are not honest about sex because it still has a moral weight to it," and stresses the importance of normalising the struggle so people can ask for help. You’ll also hear practical guidance for parents monitoring screen time, partners coping with betrayal or confusion, and individuals wondering what "healthy" sexual behaviour might look like.
Eric highlights trauma as a major underlying issue and explains how structured therapy, family involvement and clear boundaries can support healing while still allowing a fulfilling sex life. If sex, shame and secrecy are hitting a little close to home, could this be the nudge to talk openly and reach for support?
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