What is a CSAT Therapist?
If you’re searching for therapy related to compulsive sexual behavior, pornography addiction, or the relational trauma that often surrounds it, you may have come across the term CSAT therapist. But what does that actually mean, and how is a CSAT different from a general therapist?
Let’s break it down.
What Is a CSAT Therapist?
CSAT stands for Certified Sex Addiction Therapist. A CSAT therapist is a licensed mental health professional who has received specialized, advanced training in treating compulsive sexual behaviors and the relational and trauma impacts that accompany them.
CSAT therapists work with:
Individuals struggling with compulsive or out-of-control sexual behaviors (including pornography, infidelity, cybersex, and other behaviors)
Partners who have experienced betrayal trauma
Couples navigating recovery, disclosure, and rebuilding trust
Unlike general therapy, CSATs have studied interventions that have demonstrated effectiveness in treating people with these specific issues. CSATs have (and continue to) intensively study cutting edge research and strategies to support people just like you.
What Makes CSAT Therapy Different?
CSAT therapy is not about shame, moral judgment, or “willpower.” It is grounded in:
Attachment theory
Trauma and neurobiology
Relapse prevention and recovery planning
Clear boundaries and accountability
Partner-sensitive treatment
CSAT therapists are trained to treat both sides of the impact:
The person engaging in compulsive sexual behavior
The partner who may be experiencing symptoms similar to PTSD after discovery or disclosure
This dual focus is one of the things that most distinguishes CSAT therapy from more general approaches.
What Is the CSAT Certification Process?
Becoming a CSAT is a rigorous overseen by the International Institute for Trauma and Addiction Professionals (IITAP).
To become certified, therapists complete a series of intensive CSAT training modules that cover:
Sexual addiction and compulsive sexual behavior models
Assessment and diagnosis
Trauma and attachment theory
Partner betrayal trauma
Group therapy models
Disclosure and therapeutic disclosure processes
Ethics and boundaries in sex addiction treatment
3. Engage in Ongoing Supervision
CSAT candidates must complete supervision with an approved CSAT supervisor, often while actively treating clients in this specialty.
4. Demonstrate Competence
Certification requires case presentations, evaluations, and demonstration that the therapist can competently apply the CSAT model in real-world clinical settings.
5. Commit to Ongoing Education
Even after certification, CSAT therapists are required to pursue continuing education to maintain their credential and stay current with evolving research and best practices.
Why Does CSAT Certification Matter?
Sexual addiction and betrayal trauma are complex and emotionally charged issues. Many clients report that working with a therapist without specialized training can sometimes feel invalidating, confusing, or even harmful.
CSAT certification signals that a therapist has:
Advanced training beyond graduate school
Specific competence in this area of treatment
An understanding of both addiction and trauma
A structured, research-informed approach to recovery
For many clients, this specialized training makes the difference between feeling misunderstood and finally feeling seen.
Is CSAT Therapy Right for You?
You might consider working with a CSAT therapist (like Heather) if:
You feel stuck in cycles of sexual behavior you can’t seem to stop
Pornography or sexual behaviors are interfering with your relationships or daily life
You’ve discovered a partner’s secret sexual behavior and feel traumatized, anxious, or destabilized
You’re looking for a therapist who understands both accountability and compassion
CSAT therapy is not about labeling or punishment—it’s about healing, honesty, and long-term change.
