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Dr. Shea Conway, PsyD

Clinical Psychologist & Forensic Evaluator

Sex Therapy Services

Compassionate Support for Sexual Health and Intimacy

Sex Therapy

Confidential & Non-Judgmental Psychotherapy

Providing a safe place to explore unwanted relationships with:

Pornography Sensual Massages Sexting Adult Entertainment Infidelity Chat Groups Attraction to Minors Public Exposure Peeping and others

Appointments

Call or Text: 530-409-4308

Therapy is provided via secure video.

Working with teenagers and adults.

Understanding Specific Concerns

Use of Pornography

According to recent studies, the increasing consumption of Internet pornography, mainly in the male population, can be linked to compulsive sexual behavior. Some findings suggest that Internet pornography consumption might represent a defense mechanism against excessive stress, helping to cope with stressful events, regulate mood, and decrease depression and anxiety.

However, users often report that self-exposure to pornographic material can create feelings of guilt and internal conflict, suggesting that psychosocial stress and possibly traumatic experiences may play a significant role in Internet pornography addiction. Stressful experiences, anxiety, and depression are strongly related to pornography consumption, and conflicting emotional experiences as well as identity problems can significantly increase vulnerability to addictive sexual behavior.

One study found roughly 11% of men and 3% of women reported agreeing with the statement "I am addicted to pornography."

Exhibitionism ("Public Exposure")

Exhibitionism involves gaining sexual gratification from showing one's genitals or private areas to others. Individuals who participate in exhibitionism enjoy being seen or fantasize about being seen by others in a sexual manner. This can manifest as urges to be seen nude or performing a particular act.

When exhibitionistic sexual interest is acted on with a non-consenting person or interferes with a person's quality of life or normal functioning, it can be diagnosed as Exhibitionistic Disorder.

Research indicates 2.1% of women and 4.1% of men admitted to becoming sexually aroused from the exposure of their genitals to a stranger.

Minor Attraction

"Minor-attracted person" is a neutral term used to distinguish between individuals who have a romantic/sexual attraction to those under the age of consent ("minors") and those who sexually abuse minors. It is a common misconception that anyone who sexually abuses a child is minor-attracted; however, research indicates that the vast majority of those who sexually abuse children are not minor-attracted but are rather situational offenders. Additionally, most minor-attracted persons do not harm or abuse children.

An attraction to minors generally becomes apparent in puberty and adolescence. Minor-attracted persons do not choose their attraction and are often very distressed by its presence. This distress can unfortunately lead to depression, anxiety, isolation, alcohol/substance abuse, and fear of discrimination. Although distressed and often in need of support, many minor-attracted persons are too afraid to seek professional therapy.

Research indicates that at least 20% of males have some degree of sexual attraction towards children and/or early adolescents, while an estimated 0.5% to 5% have a primary attraction.

Sexting

Sexting is the sharing and receiving of sexually explicit messages and nude or partially nude images via cell phone. Sexting can have both positive and negative psychological effects. While some individuals may experience enhanced feelings of intimacy, attraction, and connection through sexting, others may experience negative impacts like depression, anxiety, and lower self-esteem. Sexting can negatively affect your mental health, relationships, and future, and can even have legal consequences.

Sensual Massages

Sensual massages, when involving sexual acts or going beyond the scope of professional massage, can lead to various psychological problems, including shame, guilt, and difficulty in forming healthy relationships. The anonymity and potential for secrecy can also contribute to addictive behaviors and a sense of isolation. Furthermore, these experiences can trigger or exacerbate existing mental health issues like PTSD and anxiety, especially if the massage is not consensual or involves exploitation. The pursuit of these experiences can become habitual and addictive, leading to a cycle of seeking validation and emotional connection through anonymous sex, which can be harmful in the long run.