Integration of Client HIV Status in Sexual Dependency Outpatient Treatment: What is Your Relationship with HIV?

Abstract

The interaction between sexual addiction, compulsive sexual behavior, Hyperphilia, and the risk for HIV infection needs to be better understood. Using the general term of sexual dependency and applying motivational interviewing treatment interventions based upon the six stages of the wheel of change, the author presents an interactive treatment relationship among HIV cofactors, at each stage of the six stages for sexual dependency client readiness for change. Therapists, too, have a relationship with HIV. A therapist's understanding of HIV countertransferential experiences at each stage of treatment is emphasized.