Betrayal: the feelings of the partner of a sex addict
As with any compulsion or dependence, the consequences of a sexual addiction do not only affect the addict. In fact, many times for couples in the northwest, the partner of the sex addict can feel some of the heaviest weights of the addiction, which can interject a feeling of betrayal into the relationship, destroying the trust that once existed between partners.
The first step to recovery for sexual addicts is admitting that a problem or issue exists. Many times, the addict is unable to admit the problem — be it an abuse of pornography or addiction to masturbating — on his or her own, which leaves room for the addict’s partner to discover the problem.
This often leads to a deep sense of betrayal — a partner may learn the addict has repeatedly lied to them or hid the addiction, often over long periods of time.
For couples in Coeur d’Alene or Spokane, this feeling of betrayal is normal. The discovery of the addiction is difficult information to understand and comprehend.
However, there is always hope and programs that can help sex addicts and their partners work through the recovery process together to rebuild the trust and successful relationship that used to exist.
Coeur d’Alene Counseling offers a variety of programs, suitable for couples, partners of those experiencing a sexual addiction or the addicts themselves. Whatever the case may be, the professional team at Coeur d’Alene Counseling is available to help. Contact our team today to find the program best suited for you.