Disclosing Secrets: Guidelines for Therapists Working with Sex Addicts and Co-addicts

Abstract

Therapists who treat clients with addictive or compulsive behaviors often are faced with the dilemma of whether a person should disclose secrets about the sexual behaviors to others. If a disclosure is determined, then when, what, and how to disclose are issues clients must face. This article discusses issues related to the therapist, including transference and countertransference, disclosure of the therapist's personal history, and the therapist's values regarding keeping secrets from one member of a couple. Practice guidelines outlined for clinicians include obtaining and gathering history, the importance of establishing goals with clients, timing of disclosure, how much to disclose, and how to disclose. Other ethical situations and steps to rebuild relationships are discussed.