Discussion > Trying to recover in Mississippi

I just recently decided to take therapeutic steps to kick my compulsive sexual behavior. I attempted some 12 step meetings but found them incompatible with my general world view. I'm an atheist, I know they don't work most of the time, I find them shaming, etc.

When I found your book I read it front to back as fast as I could, amazed at how logical it was compared to the woo woo of SAA. I made a list/journal of situations which make me feel powerless. After 3,000 words I saw a pattern; fear of being dominated, a core belief that I am incapable of being right / am always wrong, and a belief that all I can have for myself is what I hide from others / hold in isolation. This stems from childhood. I won't get into it. I just want to say, you're words led me to a profound understanding of what triggers my addiction.

Where I live psychoanalysts are hard to come by so for now I'm kind of on my own in my desire to get clean without the 12 Steps. I am seeing a counselor but as my understanding of the 12 Step methodology has increased my trust in her has waned (she says the 12 steps are the most successful recovery method available which is only true if by success she means, has created the most revenue, produced the most books/retreats/treatment centers).

Another counselor I know has suggested a Jungian Analyst he knows but I'm not interested in dreamwork/individuation. :( The point is, I feel a bit trapped, unable to get the help I need even. Thanks for the book, it's really great.

January 17, 2011 | Unregistered CommenterThomas H.