SM: Does the social stigma of sex addiction prevent people from admitting they have a problem?
Pinsky: Yes, it absolutely does. Plus we have this crazy orientation in our culture now that’s ‘hey, who are you to say what’s ok for one person.’ It’s foolish that we don’t help people more. There’re a million pathologies that are excused under, ‘hey, whatever you’re into.’

SM: What can a woman do if she thinks she’s in a relationship with an addict?
Pinsky: [Her partner] saying they’re going to change means nothing, they have to get treatment. And if they’re not willing to get treatment, get out. But realize you will need some treatment too because just like they’re attracted to these behaviors, there’s a reason you were attracted to this type of person. The relationship won’t work unless both of you are treated.

SM: Are there differences between male and female sex addicts?
Pinsky: It ultimately ends up in the same place, but often they come to it via different mechanisms. Men are driven toward orgasms and women are driven oftentimes toward intimacy and connection. So they enter via different doors but they end up in the same place.