Sex addiction is often misunderstood, sensationalized, or dismissed altogether—but what’s the truth behind it? In this episode, we sit down with Tamara Cooper, a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), to unpack the often-misunderstood world of sex addiction. Together, we draw a clear line between compulsive sexual behavior and criminal sexual offending—emphasizing the critical roles of consent, legality, and boundaries. Tamara explains how sex addiction is not about desire or impulse alone; it’s a complex intimacy disorder deeply rooted ...
Sex addiction is often misunderstood, sensationalized, or dismissed altogether—but what’s the truth behind it? In this episode, we sit down with Tamara Cooper, a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), to unpack the often-misunderstood world of sex addiction. Together, we draw a clear line between compulsive sexual behavior and criminal sexual offending—emphasizing the critical roles of consent, legality, and boundaries. Tamara explains how sex addiction is not about desire or impulse alone; it’s a complex intimacy disorder deeply rooted in unresolved trauma, particularly childhood attachment trauma. We discuss how shame, secrecy, and distorted coping mechanisms can entrench the cycle—and why it’s essential to approach this topic with empathy, not judgment. Whether you're new to the conversation or trying to better understand someone you love, this episode challenges assumptions and offers real insight into a topic most people avoid.
About Tamara Cooper:
Tamara Cooper, LCSW, CSAT, CCPS, is the Director of Family Services at Seeking Integrity Los Angeles. With a decade of experience in the addiction recovery field and nearly three years specializing in sex addiction and betrayal trauma, Tamara brings both clinical expertise and deep compassion to her work. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Certified Sex Addiction Therapist, and Certified Clinical Partner Specialist, she works closely with men in inpatient treatment while also supporting the healing journeys of their betrayed partners. Tamara is passionate about helping women reclaim their strength and identity after betrayal, and she finds immense purpose in witnessing their growth and transformation. Her work is grounded in empathy, integrity, and a commitment to holistic recovery for individuals and families.
Contact Tamara:
tamara@seekingintegrity.com
Tamara Cooper, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Owensboro, KY, 42303 | Psychology Today
Betrayal Trauma Resources:
Dr. Kevin Skinner: https://www.drkevinskinner.com/about
Do you Suffer from Betrayal Trauma? Take the free Assessment:
https://partnerbetrayaltrauma.org/partner-betrayal-trauma-tests/
Do you struggle with sex addiction? Take the free assessment:
https://new.recoveryzone.com/PublicSurvey/SAST
Treatment Resources:
Sex Addiction & Drug Addiction Treatment | Seeking Integrity
Home | Treatment for Sexual Addiction | Gentle Path at The Meadows
SLAA is a 12-step program for individuals struggling with sex and love addiction:
https://slaafws.org
Patrick Carnes (“father of sex addiction therapy) website with many books and resources:
https://www.drpatrickcarnes.com
Stefanie Carnes is a leader in the betrayal trauma arena:
https://stefaniecarnes.com
International Institute for Trauma and Addiction Professionals Find a therapist tool:
https://iitap.com/page/TherapistDirectory
S-Anon is a 12-step program that provides support for family and friends of sex addicts:
https://sanon.org
