Conversations on Sex, Addiction, and Relationships

The Truth About Amends in Sex Addiction Recovery - Can You Ever Make It Right?

What does it really mean to make amends after betrayal? In this deeply vulnerable and honest episode, therapists explore the amends process from both the addict’s perspective and the betrayed partner’s experience. It's not just about apologies or flowers—it’s about understanding the full emotional impact, taking responsibility, and learning how to rebuild trust over time.

We unpack the emotional weight behind amends in sex addiction recovery, why it can’t be rushed, and how true healing requires empathy, accountability, and a whole lot of humility. If you’ve ever asked, “How do I make things right after breaking trust?” — this conversation is for you.

Whether you’re on your own recovery journey or supporting someone through theirs, this episode offers a grounded, compassionate perspective on one of the hardest parts of the healing process.

#SexAddictionRecovery #AmendsProcess #BetrayalTrauma #RelationshipHealing #MakingAmends #RecoveryJourney #TraumaInformedCare #12StepRecovery #EmotionalHealing #AccountabilityMatters #TherapistTalks #HealingFromInfidelity #TrustRecovery

"Talking About Being the Adult Child of a Sex Addict and the Legacy of Sex Addiction with Culle L. Vande Garde "

What happens when you grow up in a home where sex addiction, secrecy, and emotional disconnection define the family dynamic? In this intimate conversation, the author of Light in the Dark: The Hidden Legacy of Adult Children of Sex Addicts share how the book came to life—and why it's opening doors for healing across generations.

Featuring Culle L. Vande Garde, one of the co-authors and a certified sex addiction therapist, this episode explores the 12 core characteristics of adult children of sex addicts, the invisible weight of carried shame, and what it truly means to reclaim your voice, your story, and your right to healing.

Whether you’re a clinician, a survivor, or someone trying to make sense of your past, this discussion brings clarity, compassion, and hope. Learn how shame gets passed down, what recovery really looks like, and how to begin rewriting your narrative—one truth at a time.

#LightInTheDarkBook #AdultChildrenOfSexAddicts #GenerationalHealing #CarriedShame #SexAddictionRecovery #TraumaAwareness #FamilyOfOriginWork #EmotionalHealing #BreakingTheCycle #ShameResilience #InnerChildHealing #RecoveryJourney #TherapistTalks #MentalHealthMatters #Hidden #Culle L.VandeGarde

Carried Shame and How It Shapes Your Childhood and Relationships

Today we talk about the concept of "carried shame"—a form of inherited emotional pain that can follow us from childhood into our adult lives. Through powerful storytelling and deep clinical insight, we explore the difference between healthy shame and carried shame, and how upbringing, parenting styles, and unspoken family dynamics shape our sense of self-worth.

Featuring a vulnerable account from someone who began their healing journey as a young adult, this conversation brings clarity to a topic many of us feel but rarely name. If you’ve ever questioned why certain triggers run deep, or why you carry guilt that doesn’t feel like yours, this episode is for you.

It’s time to unpack the emotional contagion we absorb from our environment—and learn how true healing begins with awareness, self-compassion, and the courage to repair.


#CarriedShame #EmotionalHealing #ChildhoodTrauma #GenerationalShame #CodependencyRecovery #InnerChildHealing #MentalHealthMatters #ShameResilience #TherapyJourney #SelfWorth #HealingFromWithin #ParentingAndHealing #TraumaAwareness

Being A Child of A Sex Addict

Today we speak on the long-term impact of sex addiction on children who grow up in hypersexualized households - a topic rarely discussed, but deeply important.

We discuss the 12 characteristics of being an adult child of a sex addict.

Whether you're a therapist, someone in recovery, or just curious about how family dynamics and hidden trauma can shape us, this episode offers education, validation, and a call for more open, compassionate conversations.

#SexAddictionRecovery #TraumaBonding #GenerationalHealing #MentalHealthAwareness #ACSA #TherapyTalk #ChildhoodTrauma #FamilyDynamics #EmotionalHealing #ShameRecovery #SexualHealth #TherapistLife #HealingJourney

Is Avoidance A Part of Sex Addiction?

Why do so many people struggling with addiction also struggle with avoidance? In this deep dive, we explore how avoidance manifests in addiction, relationships, and emotional healing—and why overcoming it is critical for long-term recovery.

Avoidance may have once been a coping mechanism, but in addiction and relationships, it often leads to more harm than protection. How can individuals recognize their patterns and move towards true healing?

How Fear Shapes Addiction & Relationships

Is avoidance at the root of sex and love addiction? In this episode, we explore how different attachment styles influence addiction and why avoidance—whether emotional, relational, or physical—plays a significant role in both addiction and intimacy disorders.

Many struggling with addiction are unconsciously protecting themselves from deeper pain. But how does this avoidance impact their relationships, and what steps can they take to break free from these patterns? 

You Aren't There For Me!

Is avoidance a core trait of addiction? In this discussion, we explore how avoidance manifests in sex addiction and other compulsive behaviors—whether it's emotional avoidance, distraction, or withdrawing from relationships and responsibilities.

Many people struggling with addiction use avoidance as a way to escape pain, fear, and emotional discomfort. But is avoidance the same as distraction? And how can breaking this pattern lead to real healing? 

#AddictionRecovery #Avoidance #MentalHealth #EmotionalHealing #Sobriety

Are 12 step meetings necessary?

"Welcome to our February Mailbag episode, where we tackle your most pressing questions on addiction, therapy, and relationships! 💬

In this discussion, we cover:
🔹 Does skipping 12-step programs increase relapse risk?
🔹 Should addicts share what they discuss in therapy with their partners?
🔹 Can privacy and transparency coexist in recovery?
🔹 When is divorce the right choice after betrayal?
🔹 The impact of group therapy vs. individual therapy in long-term healing.

We dive deep into the complexities of sobriety, trust, and relational healing. Whether you’re navigating recovery, supporting a loved one, or seeking clarity on relationship dynamics, this episode is packed with valuable insights!

Got more questions? Drop them in the comments or email us at Conversations.SAR@gmail.com.

#AddictionRecovery #Therapy #12StepProgram #RelationshipHealing #MentalHealth"

Why Isn't A Sex Addict Sharing?

When it comes to addiction recovery, how much transparency should there be between partners? Should an addict share what they’re working on in therapy, at their 12 step meetings, or is it a private space for personal growth?

While therapy is a personal journey, shutting out a partner completely can create barriers to healing. How can couples navigate this balance for a healthier relationship?

#AddictionRecovery #Transparency #TrustInRelationships #MentalHealth #Sobriety #SexAddiction #BetrayalTrauma

12 step sex addiction meetings needed for sobriety?

Is attending a 12-step program essential for addiction recovery, or can therapy alone be enough? In this episode, we break down the key factors that contribute to long-term sobriety and discuss the role of community, therapy, and personal commitment in preventing relapse.

This episode is answering our a mailbag question. Send your questions to conversations.sar@gmail.com. We will answer them!

#AddictionRecovery #12StepProgram #RelapsePrevention #Sobriety #MentalHealth