If sexual thoughts or sexual activity feel out of control—or a loved one is affected—you’re not alone. New Convictions Recovery supports individuals and partners with licensed therapists, group therapy options, practical coping strategies, and a respectful, judgment-free process.We provide addiction counseling in Somerville, NJ, guided by New Convictions Recovery founder Roland Achtau, LCSW, LCADC, with a focus on privacy, mental health, and sustainable change.Request a Private Appointment
Personalized care for compulsive behaviors may also involve medication management, when appropriate, to help with anxiety, depression, or intrusive, obsessive thoughts. In these cases, we coordinate closely with medical professionals so your treatment plan is safe, consistent, and effective. A meaningful recovery process usually weaves together several key elements of individualized behavioral support, designed to help you move from crisis-driven choices to a more grounded daily life. Core components often include:
- Individual counseling: exploring triggers, processing unresolved trauma, and learning practical coping tools you can use at home, at work, or while unwinding in places like Somerville’s downtown cafes.
- Relapse prevention: creating a clear roadmap for high‑risk situations, early warning signs, and strategies you can rely on whether you are walking through Duke Farms, visiting the Somerville Green, or commuting through the Somerville Station area.
- Accountability: using structured tools and regular check‑ins that help you stay consistent and aligned with your values, even when urges or stress levels rise.
- Partner support: offering education, boundary setting, and safety planning so partners of those struggling with sexual compulsivity can heal and rebuild trust.
- Aftercare: maintaining progress through ongoing sessions and community resources in and around Somerville, NJ, lowering the risk of returning to harmful patterns.
For many people, the real turning point is learning to sit with distress without turning to compulsive behaviors. Over time, this often means improving emotional regulation, repairing important relationships, and strengthening a sense of identity and self‑worth so that life feels fuller and more meaningful than any urge or compulsion.
How New Convictions Recovery Helps in Somerville, NJ
New Convictions Recovery offers a private, personalized approach—without the “assembly line” feel that some larger programs create.
Roland Achtau, LCSW, LCADC leads a team of addiction professionals who focus on practical change, not shame.
What clients often value most
- Clear next steps and a structured process (not vague advice)
- Respectful care for individuals, couples, and families
- Options for telehealth sessions for easier access across Somerville, NJ
- Coordination with other mental health professionals when needed
Learn more about our approach on the About Us page,
or explore related services under Services.
Support Groups and Trusted Resources
Many people combine therapy sessions with a 12-step program or skills-based community supports.
These resources can be a powerful layer of accountability between appointments.
- Sex Addicts Anonymous (SAA): peer support and structured recovery meetings
(saa-recovery.org) - SMART Recovery: evidence-informed tools for behavior change
(smartrecovery.org) - International Institute for Trauma and Addiction Professionals (IITAP): education and provider information
(iitap.com) - Therapist directory: find licensed therapists by specialty and location
(psychologytoday.com)
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between a high sex drive and an addiction?
A high libido isn’t the issue by itself. The red flags are loss of control, secrecy, and negative consequences—especially when behavior continues despite harm.
Do I need to “hit rock bottom” before therapy helps?
No. Early support often prevents escalation and reduces harm. Many people start when they notice growing distress, relationship strain, or unwanted behavior they can’t stop.
Can therapy help if pornography is the main problem?
Yes. Treatment can address triggers, compulsive habits, emotional regulation, and underlying factors like anxiety, trauma, or depression—while building healthier routines.
What if my partner doesn’t trust me anymore?
Rebuilding trust is a process. Couples counseling can help create transparency agreements, boundaries, and a repair plan—while also supporting partners affected by betrayal trauma.
Is group therapy required?
Not always, but it can be very effective. Many people benefit from group counseling or support groups because it reduces isolation and strengthens accountability.
Do you offer telehealth in Somerville, NJ?
In many cases, yes. Telehealth can make it easier to keep consistent sessions while maintaining privacy and flexibility.
How do I choose the right therapist?
Look for licensed clinicians with experience in compulsive sexual behaviors and related mental health concerns. It also matters that you feel safe, respected, and understood.
Take the Next Step
If you’re ready to change—or you’re worried about someone you love—support is available.
Reach out to New Convictions Recovery to discuss options, timing, and a plan that fits your situation.
Pros and Cons of Starting Therapy
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Clear guidance, structure, and support from trained professionals | Requires time and consistent follow-through |
| Tools for coping strategies, relapse prevention, and emotional regulation | Cost can be a factor depending on coverage and needs |
| Improved relationships and better mental health stability | Discussing past trauma or abuse can feel uncomfortable at first |
| Support for partners and couples navigating repair | Finding the right fit may take a few consultations |
Our NJ Locations
We Proudly Serve New Jersey
A local support network is crucial when working through an addiction. As such, we limit our service area to include the towns surrounding Somerville, NJ.
Other towns we serve: