All of the following books have been a great benefit to me in my own personal recovery and my I highly suggest having them on your bookshelf and reading through them thoroughly and openly.

All the best! -Steve

"Every Man's Battle" - by Stephen Arterburn

This is a very good starter book for those wanting to learn about sexual addiction and recovery. It well describes the common battles men face with lust, pornography and promiscuity, and gives very practical ways to reclaim and keep one's sexual integrity. Written from a Christian perspective, it is filled with key scripture verses that are worthy of memorization. Although the text is focused largely on helping married men obtain their sexual integrity, there are plenty of "nuggets" for singles to glean as well.

"Breaking Free" - by Russell Willingham

A very good Christian-based book that covers the practical, emotional and spiritual issues related for most who struggle with sex and pornography addiction. The author concludes, quite fittingly, that one must come to terms with the healing love and grace of Jesus Christ to obtain true freedom from sexual addiction. Mere intellectual ascent of God's grace is not enough, Willingham contends, and he urges men to truly embrace God's liberating biblical truths in their hearts.

"The White Book" - by Sexaholics Anonymous

I have never been involved with a 12-step group, but I have found this resource, known only as the "White Book" to be a very inspiring and down-to-earth piece of literature. The authors cogently describe the deeper emotional and spiritual issues that sexual addicts often experience, and challenge those in recovery to seek personal transformation ... and not just sobriety. The book elaborates on the biblically-based twelve steps, with helpful anecdotes, reflections and exhortations.

"101 Freedom Exercises" - by Doug Weiss

This workbook is frequently used in some sexual addiction recovery groups, and provides very practical "what to do" types of exercises to help one obtain long-term freedom from sexual addiction. Exercises focus on practical techniques to maintain sobriety, exploring the deeper origins that led one to their addiction, and other healing/growth issues from a Christian perspective.

"Wild At Heart" - by John Eldredge

I actually recommend all of John Eldredge's books for those seeking growth and freedom from any kind of addiction. "Wild At Heart" covers many issues and challenges men in our culture face today, and it is very relevant for those struggling with sexual addiction. This book is dead-on in addressing matters for those needing to learn, understand and grow from the deeper hurts and wounds that drive men into despair, hopelessness, sexual addiction, workaholic behavior and other maladies.

If I can be of any help to you in the area of getting free of sexual addiction, please don't hesitate to contact me. I offer individual counseling and groups via teleconference and would be happy to work with you.

Steve Garufi, M.A. L.P.C.
Journey Of Hope Counseling
Ph: (719) 395-2426
eMail: stevegarufi-at-juno-dot-com

(Photo: The Rocky Mountain high country at Independence Pass in Colorado.)