Aug. 7, 2026
10 a.m.-1:15 p.m. PT
$275
3 AASECT CEs
Facilitator: Paula Leech, LMFT, CST, CSTS
Sex and porn addiction remain hot topics, yet few evidence-based, sexually informed trainings exist to support the clinicians in charge of “treating” it. Fantasy, Porn, Sex Addiction is for progressive therapists who want a clearer understanding of these components of their clients’ inner and outer lives, and how to address them in ways that de-pathologize and honor the complexity of the human sexual and relational experience.
This workshop takes attendees on a deep dive into the myths and challenges surrounding porn consumption and the spectrum of behaviors associated with the blanket term “sex addiction.” Attendees also will gain a sense for the current methodology for treating what is largely referred to as “out-of-control sexual behavior” in the field of sex therapy.
Many of us understand fantasy, porn consumption, and “sex addiction” as distinctly separate ideas and concepts that, depending on the person, may or may not be linked. These aspects of sexual experience can quickly find themselves grouped together, undifferentiated, particularly in relationships — leading to panic, pain, and crisis for the people involved.
Sex therapists are often faced with questions like, “Can you help me stop fantasizing about other people? Stop masturbating?” “I’ve betrayed my partner by watching porn; can you help me shake this habit?” Out of desperation and fear, people attempt to distance themselves from major components of their sexual life and experience like these, but is this possible? Is it healthy?
Attendees will gain a clearer sense for why and how to treat these areas of sexual life as distinctly separate issues and areas of importance in terms of exploration, understanding, and clear agreement-setting in relationships.
Learning Objectives:
Describe how fantasy is an important part of human development from childhood through adulthood.
Explain at least two major differences between partnered sex and watching pornography for those who participate in both.
Name at least two reasons why the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT) has taken a position against Sex Addiction as a diagnosable disorder.
This course is open to all sexuality professionals. It is required for those completing the EDST Sex Therapy Certification.
This course meets the requirements of the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists (AASECT) and is approved for 3 CE credits. These CE credits may be applied toward AASECT certification and renewal of certification. Completion of this program does not ensure or guarantee AASECT certification. For further information please contact info@aasect.org.
This course covers the following AASECT Core Knowledge Areas:
A.Ethics and ethical behavior
B. Developmental sexuality from a bio-psycho-social perspective across the life course.
C. Socio-cultural, familial factors in relation to sexual values and behaviors.
K. Sexuality and technology (e.g., social media, generative AI).*
N. Learning theory and its application.
O. Professional communication and personal reflection skills.
This course covers the following AASECT Sex Therapy Training Skills:
B. Techniques of sex-related assessment and diagnosis of the “Psychosexual Disorders” described in the current edition of the DSM.
C. Theory and methods of approach to intervention in relationship systems experiencing sex and intimacy problems.
D. Theory and method of approach to medical intervention in the evaluation and treatment of psychosexual disorders.
E. Principles of consultation, collaboration, and referral.
F. Ethical decision-making and best practice.