Resources for Female Sex Addiction Recovery

This page contains resources that we have personally reviewed or that have been recommended to us.  Most of the listings contain a link to Christianbook.com, where your purchase will help support this website.

Breaking Free:  Making Liberty in Christ a Reality in Life  by Beth Moore
Although we have not personally reviewed this book, we have heard wonderful things about Beth's studies.   Regarding this book, Lifeway.com says "What has a "strong hold" on your life?  Breaking Free: Making Liberty in Christ a Reality in Life is a personal journey to help you identify  and remove spiritual obstacles and enjoy the abundant life promised every believer.  You'll discover several parallels between the captive Israelites and today's believers.  Breaking Free explores five benefits of our relationship with God and five obstacles that hinder that relationship."

Don't Call it Love: Recovery from Sexual Addiction by Patrick Carnes
"This ground-breaking work by the nation's leading professional expert on sexual addiction is based on the candid testimony of more than one thousand recovering sexual addicts in the first major scientific study of the disorder. This essential volume includes not only the revealing findings of Dr. Carnes's research but also advice from the addicts and co-addicts themselves as they work to overcome their compulsive behavior. Positive, hopeful, and practical, Don't Call It Love helps addicts, friends and family of addicts, the general public and the scientific community better understand all addictions, their causes, and the difficult path to recovery."

Every Young Woman's Battle: Guarding Your Mind, Heart, and Body in a Sex-Saturated World by Shannon Ethridge, Stephen Arterburn
"Guys aren't the only ones fighting for purity in today's sex-saturated society! Girls who just want to fit in and look attractive can be swept up in destructive relationships and behaviors---paying a terrible cost. Ethridge and Arterburn offer interviews, research, and godly advice to help young women avoid these pitfalls and achieve sexual integrity." An accompanying workbook is available.

Every Woman's Battle by Shannon Ethridge
"Using personal, real-life examples, Ethridge helps women---whether married, engaged, or planning to marry someday---understand four key aspects of female sexuality; consider defense strategies to protect their hearts; and cultivate healthy relationships with spouses, husbands-to-be, and (above all) Jesus."  An accompanying workbook is available.

Healing the Wounds of Divorce: A Spiritual Guide to Recovery  by Barbara Leahy Shlemon
This book was recommended to us by a respected colleague in prayer ministry. "All those who have experienced the pain of divorce, regardless of their age or sex, will find in Barbara Shlemon a sensitive and wise companion. Whether the wounds of divorce are new or old, her faith-story will help readers discover the healing compassion of God."

The Betrayal Bond by Patrick Carnes
"Exploitive relationships can create trauma bonds - chains of trust that link you to someone who is dangerous, abusive and toxic. Dr. Carnes will guide you toward freedom from an abusive cycle of destruction and betrayal. By its very nature, this journey to freedom and well-being takes courage and effort. Reading this book, and having its wisdom and guidance assist you at every step, will help make this journey easier by lending much-needed support and understanding. Dr. Carnes's deep compassion and abundant insights make this book invaluable to you as you take the courageous steps necessary to break free of your bonds and embrace healing."

The Wounded Heart: Hope for Adult Victims of Childhood Sexual Abuse
By Dr. Dan Allender
Almost everyone knows a victim of childhood sexual abuse; it has no religious or social boundaries. And sexual abuse is probably the most ''soul-deadening'' trauma there is. For adult victims, here is a way out of the rage, fear, and confusion. For their spouses, families, friends, and counselors, here are specific ways you can help the healing process. With Christ, there is indeed hope for the wounded heart. With a foreword by Dr. Larry Crabb. 255 pages, softcover from NavPress.

Will I cry tomorrow?: Healing Post-Abortion Trauma By Susan Stanford-Rue, Ph.D.
Many of the women who abort their babies later suffer from consuming guilt and depression. Others continue to live in denial, yet are unable to completely shut out the feelings and memories.  This book is Susan's poignant story of her own abortion experience.  She writes knowingly about God's unconditional, forgiving love, which led to her remarkable, long-term healing.  She offers hope to women who have had abortions, and helps counselors understand their pain. By proving that women as well as infants are the victims of abortions, this timely, evocative book guides readers in reaching out with compassion and insight.  (book only available through Dr. Stanford-Rue's office at 904-292-0085 (USA))