FAQs

Novus Mindful Life Institute is a professional mental health group practice specializing in the treatment of sex addiction, pornography addiction, compulsive sexual behavior, and betrayal trauma. We provide individual therapy, couples therapy, group therapy, and coaching workshops focused on recovery and relational repair. Our clinicians also support clients working through anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges.

A Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) is a licensed clinician who has completed advanced, specialized training in the assessment and treatment of sex and pornography addiction, based on the work of Dr. Patrick Carnes. Novus was co-founded by a CSAT Supervisor, and our team is trained in evidence-based, trauma-informed approaches to compulsive sexual behavior and partner betrayal trauma. This is focused, specialized care — not general talk therapy.

Both. We provide individual therapy, couples therapy, and specialized support for betrayed partners. Research — and our experience — shows that when both partners have support, relationships have a much better chance of healing. We also offer recovery groups and coaching workshops so each person can get the right level of care.

Yes. Discovering infidelity or compulsive sexual behavior is often a traumatic experience, and we treat it that way. We provide trauma-informed, partner-sensitive care for betrayed partners, including individual therapy, partner coaching, and group support. Our clinicians are trained in partner betrayal trauma models, and you do not need your partner to be in treatment to begin your own healing.

Yes — and we have seen it happen many times. Healing does not come from pretending it did not happen or rushing to move on. It comes from honest disclosure done the right way, trauma-informed support for the betrayed partner, genuine accountability from the partner who broke trust, and skilled guidance for the relationship. Many couples who do this work build a more honest, more connected relationship than they had before.

A Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist (CSAT) is a Licensed Therapist who has gone through additional rigorous certification and training programs offered by the International Institute for Trauma and Addiction Professionals (IITAP).

CSATs are highly trained trauma treatment experts who support clients working through difficulties that untrained clinicians may overlook. CSATs have a deep understanding of the root causes, experiences, patterns, and trauma that can lead to compulsive sexual behaviors.

Our CSAT team is betrayal trauma-focused and can help partners of betrayal heal the overwhelming trauma that comes with a partner addicted to sex or pornography.

Yes. Group therapy is one of the most effective components of recovery from sex and pornography addiction. We offer recovery groups for individuals working on compulsive behavior as well as support options for partners. Groups are led by trained clinicians and provide structure, accountability, and connection with others who understand what you are going through.

Our individualized Intensive Outpatient Program is a structured, higher level of care for people who need more support than weekly therapy provides. Each program is customized and may combine individual psychotherapy, psychoeducation, recovery groups, coaching, and intensive workshops. It allows you to get intensive treatment while continuing to live at home and work. Contact us for a consultation to see whether IOP is the right fit.

Getting started is simple. Call or text us at (562) 431-5100, or reach out through our website. You will speak with our intake coordinator, who will listen to what is going on, answer your questions, and match you with the therapist best suited to your needs. There is no pressure and no obligation.

Yes. We offer secure telehealth sessions in addition to in-person therapy at our Garden Grove, California office. Online sessions are a convenient option for clients with busy schedules, and many clients use a combination of both.

Our office is located at 12832 Valley View Street, Suite 107, Garden Grove, CA 92845, serving Orange County and the greater Long Beach area in person, with telehealth available for clients elsewhere in California. You can reach us by phone or text at (562) 431-5100.

Costs vary depending on the service and level of care. The easiest way to get accurate information for your situation is a free consultation call — we will walk you through options and fees, and provide any documentation you may need for out-of-network reimbursement through your insurance.

Yes. Confidentiality is the foundation of our work, and it is protected by law and professional ethics. What you share with your therapist stays private, with only the narrow exceptions required by law, which your therapist will explain clearly at your first session. We know reaching out about sexual behavior or betrayal takes courage, and we work hard to make Novus a safe, non-judgmental place to begin.

Every person and every relationship is different, so there is no single timeline. Some clients come for focused, short-term work; recovery from addiction or betrayal trauma is typically a longer process measured in months rather than weeks. Your therapist will work with you to set clear goals and review progress regularly, and your treatment plan will adjust as your needs change.

Yes. You do not need a diagnosis — or certainty — to ask for help. If sexual behavior, pornography use, or the aftermath of betrayal is causing distress in your life or your relationship, a confidential conversation is a good first step. Our intake coordinator can help you understand your options, and an assessment with a trained clinician can bring clarity about what is going on and what kind of support would help.