Understanding, Assessing, and Treating Sexual Compulsivity - May 18, 2026

A 3.5-Hour Training with Dr. Michele Waldron

Virtual via Zoom | 12:00pm-3:45pm

Presentation: This presentation provides a structured, clinically grounded overview of sexual compulsivity, with an emphasis on accurate terminology, comprehensive assessment, and evidence-informed treatment planning. Participants will begin by examining the conceptual and clinical distinctions between the terms sex addiction and sexual compulsivity, including how each framework influences diagnosis, stigma, and therapeutic approach. The session then outlines the key components of a thorough sexological assessment, highlighting the importance of biopsychosocial factors, sexual history-taking, comorbid conditions, risk assessment, and the role of cultural and relational context in case formulation. Emphasis is placed on developing a nuanced, non-pathologizing understanding of sexual behavior patterns. Finally, the presentation introduces a three-phase treatment model for sexual compulsivity. This model addresses stabilization and harm reduction, deeper psychotherapeutic work targeting underlying drivers (such as trauma, attachment disruptions, or affect regulation), and long-term integration focused on sustainable sexual health and relational functioning. Overall, the presentation equips clinicians with a clear conceptual framework and practical tools to assess and treat sexual compulsivity with clinical rigor, sensitivity, and ethical awareness.

As a result of this training, participants will be able to:

1. Define the difference between the terms Sex Addiction and Sexual Compulsivity;
2. Describe components of a comprehensive sexological assessment; and
3. Describe a three-phase treatment approach to sexual compulsivity.

3.5 Contact Hours Available

CRSW Performance Domains: 4
LADC/MLADC Categories of Competence: 13 & 15-18
Certified Prevention Specialist Domains: 6
NBCC: LICSW/L-MFT/LCMHC (Category A) & Psychologist (Category A) 

NH Alcohol & Drug Abuse Counselors Association has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider. ACEP No 6754. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. NHADACA is solely responsible for all aspects of the program.

This course has been approved by New Hampshire Alcohol & Drug Abuse Counselors Association (NHADACA), as a NAADAC Approved Education Provider, for educational credits. NAADAC Provider #23792, NHADACA is responsible for all aspects of the programming.

This training is financed under a contract with the State of NH, Department of Health and Human Services, with funds provided in part by the State of NH and/or such funding sources as were available or required, e.g., the United States Department of Health and Human Services.