Treatment for Out of Control Sexual Behavior (OCSB)

Group and individual therapy for adults who feel out of control regarding their consensual sexual thoughts, urges, or behavior. The OCSB model is focused on making and keeping agreements with oneself and others, and moving toward one’s vision for sexual health.

Out of Control Sexual Behavior (OCSB) Therapy

I work with people who are concerned about the frequency, intensity, or content of their consensual sexual behavior. Some report having a sex addiction, or have been told by a loved one they are a sex addict. Whatever label is used, there is generally a feeling of being out of control. I use the term OCSB to describe the general umbrella of experiences of feeling out of control. I also work with people who have a conflict between their behavior and their values or relationship agreements.

I have been working with the OCSB approach since 2015, and have been in a monthly consultation group with OCSB model developer Doug Braun-Harvey since 2018, for sex therapists and OCSB group leaders.

Group Therapy Online for OCSB

As a certified group psychotherapist, I co-lead an OCSB therapy group with Adam Scalese, PhD. This group is not meant to replace or compete with the addiction-treatment industry, nor is this a 12-step support group. Instead, this is a psychotherapy group designed for each member to work toward their own vision for sexual health, feel more in control, and keep agreements in their relationships and with themselves. A screening and assessment process is required for new group members. Group admission is handled on a rolling basis, after the screening and assessment process. People of all sexual orientations and genders are welcome.

OCSB Group Therapy Participitation Requirements

To participate, potential group members must be living in one of the PSYPACT states (licensure e-passport for qualified psychologists). Note that NY and MA are not yet part of PSYPACT but often have pending legislation.

OCSB Group Therapy Fees

Initial Screening
Free
5–10 minutes
Individual Zoom chat with Dr. Scalese or I to determine whether or not to move forward with the OCSB assessment process.
OCSB Assessment Sessions
$175/per session
45 minutes
3–5 (sometimes more) individual sessions to determine if OCSB group and/or individual therapy is the right fit, and if indicated, to get potential participants ready for group.
OCSB & Sexual Health Group Therapy
$85/per week
90 minutes
The initial group commitment is for 6 months, attending each week on time, for 90 minutes. Group members have 2 free absences during each 6-month period. After the initial 6 months is complete, each member decides to stay or exit the group, based on their progress toward their goals and moving toward their vision for sexual health.
Monthly OCSB & Sexual Health Support Group
$75/per month
90 minutes
After successfully completing the weekly group, a few members choose to join the monthly support group, when there is space available. Support group members commit to 6 group meetings at a time, with 2 excused (uncharged) absences during each 6-months period.

Not sure what to expect? Here are answers to common questions about OCSB group therapy...

How long does someone typically stay in the group?

While the minimum commitment is 6 months, the average time is about 10–12 months; some group members choose to stay for a 2–3 years or more; others move to the monthly group.

Why is there a 6-month commitment?

Given the nature of the concerns of group members, we require this commitment. It would otherwise be disruptive to the group to have new members "just try it out" for a few weeks. This group represents a significant commitment and members need to know that others in the group will be invested for a sufficient amount of time in order to feel safe and express vulnerable feelings and thoughts. Group members also need sufficient time to practice making and keeping agreements, as well as to experience attachment-related conflicts and repair of relationships in the group.

How many people attend the group?

There are typically between 5 and 7 members at any given time in the group. 8 is the maximum number (we have tried 9 members at different times, but it can feel too big).

Should I be in individual therapy in addition to the OCSB group?

While it is not a requirement, we strongly recommend that group members have individual therapy at least once per month. This can be done with one of the OCSB group leaders, or a therapist of their choosing.

How often are there openings in the group?

This fluctuates—on average about once every 3 months there is a new opening. Sometimes sooner, sometimes the wait can be 6 months or more.

How is this different from a support group?

In the OCSB therapy group, members create their own sexual health plan, including their own boundaries—the only requirement is that their boundaries are consistent with the 6 principles of sexual health. Group members also encouraged to talk to each other during group, sharing their feelings, reactions, support, and feedback with each other, facilitated by the group therapists.

Reach out to see if I can help.

Would you like to inquire about OCSB group therapy? Get in touch to explore next steps.