“DST” stands for Deceptive Sexuality and Trauma and is the name of the model developed by Dr. Omar Minwalla of the institute for sexual health (minwallamodel.com). I believe this type of treatment most accurately and ethically incorporates traditional sexual compulsivity treatment whilst also broadening the scope to identify and treat both sexual entitlement (as a concept unique from sexual compulsivity or addiction) and also the corresponding deceptive and/or abusive behaviours that so often keep the intimate partner in the dark and lead to power imbalances in the relationship.

It also contains a clear and structured framework for understanding and processing the traumatic repercussions to the intimate partner, the relationship, and the family system, therefore providing the scope and the clinical tools to treat clients presenting with compulsive sexual behaviour, as well as partners presenting with deceptive sexuality trauma (often referred to as betrayal trauma).

Traditional sex addiction treatment tends to be almost exclusively focused on the sexual component and the ceasing of the clients identified problematic sexual behaviours (i.e. achieving “sobriety”.) DST treatment widens the scope and seeks to treat both the “CES” (compulsive-entitled sexuality) and the corresponding “IAD” (integrity-abuse disorder) thereby creating safer conditions for the intimate partner and a safer foundation for the relationship.

Because the DST model identifies deceptive sexuality as a form of abuse, the treatment approach is also significantly different from traditional talking therapies. We use a structured treatment program that focuses on stopping abuse and creating safety. Clients are therefore expected to adhere to a thorough treatment plan and to do significant work between sessions.

Whenever we’re working with any kind of abusive behaviour it’s imperative that the victims voice be welcomed into the process, therefore when working with clients presenting with deceptive sexuality I will always offer to have an initial call with their partner if it’s something that the partner is open to. Partners may also be involved in the assessment work in order to build as accurate a picture as possible of the harmful behaviours that have occurred.

I do offer full therapeutic disclosure services however please note that as a general rule I will only do disclosures as one part of an ongoing treatment plan. That means that in practice I will rarely if ever take on a client purely to do a disclosure. It’s also a requirement that the partner receiving the disclosure has their own therapeutic support with whom I’m able to liaise.

The treatment program offered here is for individuals engaging in deceptive sexuality and that makes up the majority of my client load. I also offer therapeutic sessions for intimate partners who have been impacted by deceptive sexuality trauma. I will occasionally work with couples in appropriate cases but this is strictly on a case by case basis.

I don’t work individually with both partners within a relationship due to the conflicts and triangulation that may occur.

Different countries have different regulations around therapeutic work so it depends on the specific regulations where you’re based. I’m based in the UK and registered with the BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) and so any work undertaken with me would be in line with the BACP’s ethical guidelines and standards of practice.

If you’re interested in working with me and you’re based outside of the UK, please reach out and we can discuss the options that might be available as there are many countries where I’m able to work therapeutically. Additionally, I do offer some limited spaces for coaching for those based in countries where I can’t work therapeutically, particularly the US and Canada.

I currently offer all of my sessions remotely using the Zoom platform.

Individual sessions are scheduled for 50 minutes. Group sessions are scheduled for 90 minutes.

You can see the specific services I offer and how the treatment program works by viewing the SERVICES page. If you’re interested in working with me, you can then get in touch via the CONTACT ME page. If I have availability we can setup an initial consultation call where we can discuss whether this is the right program for you.