What we do

Our practice aims to help anyone experiencing problems with compulsive sexual behaviour (CSB), or what some people call sex or porn addiction. Our objective is to create a non-shaming, healing environment where problematic behaviours can be explored through talking therapy. The therapy model I use is shame containment theory (SCT) an evidence-based therapy that can be successfully applied to CSB. By applying shame containment theory, you will be able to understand what sexual behaviours are being used to help you manage unwanted emotions, such as boredom or anger, and what are your authentic sexual interests. SCT allows us to work on the shame that keeps people stuck in the compulsion of sexual behaviour, meaning that people can stop using sex compulsively. Whilst simultaneously addressing the shame that comes from peoples genuine sexual interests, allowing for a healthy relationship with your authentic sexuality.

Click below to access my peer reviewed paper Shame Containment Theory - A new approach to shame

https://firingthemind.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Article-Open-Access.pdf

About Lisa Etherson Sex Therapy

I'm a qualified psychosexual therapist with over 20 years of experience working with people with emotional difficulties, including addiction. This has prompted my commitment to working with people with compulsive sexual behaviour.

Having completed a post-graduate diploma in psychosexual therapy, I'm now a PhD researcher, exploring shame and compulsive sexual behaviour. As a result, I have developed shame containment theory, which I use in my practice with people who are experiencing compulsive sexual behaviour.

In order to thrive as people, we must nurture ourselves and our intimate connections with others. Sometimes, this is difficult to do and what is often needed is what Alice Miller would call a helping witness, someone who has been there before you, who can understand and help you to make sense of what you are feeling and why.

I take great care to provide a therapeutic environment that is compassionate and sensitive to ensure that growth and healing can take place. By entering into my own process of self-discovery and emotional healing, I have an authentic approach to therapy, which helps me to help others who are experiencing difficulties in their lives.