Individual Therapy FAQ
What is “DST” and why do you use this model?
“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).
How does this differ from traditional sex addiction treatment or talking therapies?
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.
Can my partner be involved in the process?
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.
Do you offer full therapeutic disclosure services?
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.
Do you offer couples therapy?
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.
Are you able to work with both partners at the same time?
I don’t work individually with both partners within a relationship due to the conflicts and triangulation that may occur.
Can you work with clients from different countries?
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.
How would we meet for the session?
I currently offer all of my sessions remotely using the Zoom platform.
How long does a session last for?
Individual sessions are scheduled for either 50 minutes or 80 minutes.
How do I begin?
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.
From Harm to Healing Group Program FAQ
How does the group program work?
Each client signs up for a specific group and will attend that group once per week for 90 minutes at the same time each week. All of the groups are hosted on zoom. Every member will have access to the CJT course and therefore be working with the same material.
Each group session will start with a short structured check-in from each member and then the rest of the group time will be used to work through specific topics covered in the course, process individual and relational issues that might be arising, and providing ongoing accountability and guidance with the development and maintenance of each persons treatment plan.
How much does it cost?
The subscription cost for the group program is £180 per 4 weeks. If the group isn’t running for any reason (due to a public holiday or the facilitator being unavailable for example) the subscription simply carries forward 1 week, so each payment will always give access to 4 group sessions.
There is also an initial cost of £250 for access to the CJT course and £75 for an initial assessment call to determine whether the group program is a good fit for each client.
Is this a therapy program?
Whilst this program is offered as a subsidiary of Chris Jones Therapy, the groups themselves are accountability and coaching groups rather than therapy. This program should be viewed as an adjunct to personal therapy rather than as a replacement for it and is particularly targeted at clients who already have therapeutic support but are looking to incorporate the DST model and group work in particular into their treatment plan.
What is “DST” and why are the groups based on this model?
“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 model 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).
Are the groups open to clients from different countries?
As these are coaching and accountability groups they’re open to any clients regardless of geographical location. Please note however that any acceptance to the program is based on individual assessment.
What are the group guidelines for members?
When joining the group program you will receive a document laying out the guidelines in more detail, but as a starting point, here are some of the foundational guidelines for the group:
– Consistently high attendance is expected from all members.
– Integrity and honesty within the group is a foundational principle and an expectation of all group members.
– Adhering to the treatment plan and the model will remain the foundation of all group work.
– We also focus on developing your ability to deal healthily with the post-traumatic reality of the relationship.
– Discussing challenges within the relationship is important, however partner bashing is NOT tolerated.
Can my partner be involved in the process?
Confidentiality is a prerequisite of group attendance so the discussing of other group members outside of the sessions is strictly prohibited, even with the intimate partner. That being said, discussion of what you’re working on in the group and what you’re learning is encouraged. Your partner is also welcome to view the course materials and watch the videos so this can provide a good opportunity for discussion and connection if appropriate.
Finally, if you’re accepted for membership to this group program, your partner is welcome to schedule a 30 minute consultation call to discuss the program and any concerns that they might have.
How do I apply?
In order to apply for this program, please visit the CONTACT ME page in order to reach out. If there are group spaces available we can then organize an initial assessment call.