2011

A theoretical lens, or rather a theoretical orientation, is vital for a clinician to establish for themselves to ensure consistency in treatment and a strategic method of treatment. It is typical for specific theories to be identified as predominately successful with specific diagnoses. As of yet, no theory has been identified as the predominant match for clients working through sexual addiction or compulsivity. This paper is designed to reintroduce and reinforce Friedman’s (1999) encouragement of Gestalt Therapy as the perfect fit for treating sexual addiction. It is warranted to review his assertion considering that 11 years have passed, there has been an expansion of client need, and there is a mere 17 years total since sexual compulsivity first gained attention. First, a client case study will be shared as a vehicle to frame the usefulness of Gestalt’s tenets as a match for conceptualizing sexual compulsivity.