Which therapy can help. Kind of issue?

Masturbation in itself is not considered harmful or unhealthy. However, when a behavior starts feeling repetitive, difficult to control, emotionally distressing, or driven more by habit/compulsion than actual desire, it can be helpful to address it psychologically rather than only through willpower. From what you described (5–6 times a month, low sexual urge, but difficulty stopping completely), this sounds more like a habitual or compulsive coping pattern than “high sexual drive.” The guilt and frustration attached to it often make the cycle stronger. The therapies that commonly help in such cases are: • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – helps identify triggers, automatic thoughts, emotional states, boredom/stress patterns, and habit loops associated with the behavior. CBT is one of the most commonly recommended approaches for compulsive sexual or repetitive behaviors. ([PMC][1]) • Habit Reversal & Behavioral Therapy – focuses on breaking the automatic cycle by replacing urges with alternative responses, improving impulse control, and reducing trigger exposure. • Mindfulness-Based Therapy / ACT (Acceptance & Commitment Therapy) – useful when urges happen automatically or when guilt/shame increases the compulsion. Mindfulness-based approaches have shown benefit in reducing compulsive sexual behaviors and emotional distress. ([ResearchGate][2]) • If obsessive thoughts are present, therapists may also assess for anxiety or OCD-related patterns, because sometimes the struggle becomes more about “control” and guilt than sexuality itself. ([Medical News Today][3]) Regarding success rate: therapy generally works well when the person is motivated, consistent, and open about triggers instead of hiding them. Many people improve significantly within a few months because the focus is usually on changing behavioral patterns, emotional regulation, and daily routines—not suppressing sexuality completely. ([PMC][1]) Also, trying to stop “100% forever” sometimes creates a rebound effect. Therapy often works better when the goal is healthier control, reduced compulsion, and freedom from guilt rather than extreme suppression.

A good psychologist or sex therapist can help you work on: • urge management • trigger identification • reducing compulsive habits • emotional regulation • guilt/shame restructuring • healthier routines and coping mechanisms

You are already self-aware and motivated, which is a positive sign for recovery.

Consult psychotherapist

Hello, Thank you for sharing your concern so honestly. It sounds frustrating to feel like you are repeatedly engaging in a behaviour that you want to control, especially when it is followed by guilt and disappointment. From what you described, the pattern may be more related to a habitual or compulsive behavioural cycle rather than only strong sexual urges. Sometimes behaviours become linked with stress relief, routine, emotional coping, or automatic habits, even when the desire itself is not very strong. The good news is that therapy can be helpful in understanding and managing these patterns. Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) is commonly used to work on: • identifying triggers and automatic patterns • managing urges and compulsive behaviour • reducing guilt and self-criticism • building healthier coping strategies and routines In some cases, if repetitive thoughts or compulsive urges are very strong, a mental health professional may also assess for anxiety or OCD-related features. Therapy success often depends on factors such as consistency, self-awareness, motivation for change, and understanding the emotional or behavioural patterns behind the habit. Many people do experience improvement with proper therapeutic support and gradual behavioural changes. Try not to approach yourself with excessive shame or self-criticism, as guilt can sometimes strengthen the cycle further. Warm regards, Dr Namita Ranjan Counselling Psychologist

Connect with you

Your difficulties seem connected to repetitive thought loops, avoidance patterns and emotional overwhelm which can make consistency very hard. Therapy focused on thought patterns, behaviour routines and emotional regulation may help you gradually regain a sense of control.