Dr. Stefanie Carnes - Is Sex Addiction a Real Disorder?

Dr. Stefanie Carnes discusses the controversy of defining sex addiction as a disorder, why it's important to seek treatment, and how it can be related to trauma and underlying issues.

Dr. Carnes is the president of the International Institute for Trauma and Addiction Professionals (IITAP), a training institute and professional organization for addiction professionals. The clinical architect for Willow House at The Meadows, she works with sexually addicted clients and their families, helping those struggling with sex, love, and intimacy disorders.

A licensed marriage and family therapist and an AAMFT-approved supervisor, Dr. Carnes’ areas of expertise include working with patients and families dealing with multiple co-occurring addictions including eating disorders, chemical dependency, and intimacy issues. She is also a certified sex addiction therapist and supervisor, specializing in therapy for couples and families dealing with sexual addiction. A popular conference speaker at both the state and national levels, Dr. Carnes is also the author of numerous publications including the books Mending a Shattered Heart: A Guide for Partners of Sex Addicts, Facing Heartbreak: Steps to Recovery for Partners of Sex Addicts, and Facing Addiction: Starting Recovery From Alcohol and Drugs.

Dr. Stefanie Carnes is the president of the International Institute for Trauma and Addiction Professionals (IITAP), a training institute and professional organization for addiction professionals. At Meadows Behavioral Healthcare, she works with sexually addicted clients and their families at both Willow House and our Gentle Path program.

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