Sexual Anorexia

Sexual Anorexia, also known as Sexual Aversion Disorder, is almost the opposite of sexual compulsion. It is a state of aversion and avoidance of being sexually intimate with another person. It's typically a reaction to previous trauma where the abused had no control.  This individual may not trust others and does not allow others to be close to her or him (physically, emotionally, or sexually). The sexual anorexic may also avoid masturbation.  They find it difficult to have sexual pleasure and can be sexually apathetic.

Sexual Anorexics have a pattern of resisting anything sexual.  They continue this avoidance even though they may know it's self-destructive to their significant other or marriage.   These individuals go to great lengths to avoid sexual contact or attention to their sexuality.  Often having negative attitudes or judgments toward sexuality--their own or others.  They may experience extreme shame and self-loathing about their bodies, sexual attributes, and experiences. They have difficulty mixing intimacy with sex. It's common for individuals to flip flop back in forth from sexual compulsion to complete avoidance of sex, having difficulty with balance, moderation and intimacy.

Sexual Anorexia is not related to low sexual desire.  Those who have inhibited sexual desire have a low libido and may avoid sex with their partners. This is very common in couples. They have no interest because their desire has been extinguished.  Those who have low sexual desire may be intimate with their partner but avoid becoming sexual because they are unable to stimulate sexual desire within themselves.  They may be avoiding a partner who wants sex more than they do, but they are also trying to avoid having to face low sexual pleasure.

Elana and her team utilize Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Brainspotting, Emotion Focused Therapy, Somatic Experiencing, Mindfulness, Cognitive-Behavioral, Internal Family Systems, and Attachment treatments to assist clients with Sexual Anorexia. Elana is certified by the International Institute for Trauma & Addiction Professionals (IITAP) and the American Association of Sexuality, Educators, Counselors and Therapists (AASECT).