There are many 12-step support groups for people working on recovery from pornography use and sex addiction. Most organizations also have family support groups or betrayal trauma groups for those who are affected by a loved one’s addiction or unhealthy sexual behavior. All of these groups base their program on the original Alcoholics Anonymous model, adapted for the unique needs of this issue.
Our partner Relay helps you recover anywhere with their app.
Most of these programs are free of charge. Some accept donations to help continue the work.
Each organization and group is unique. These groups have helped many people. It may take a little time to feel comfortable or to find the right group. Keep trying until you find the right one for you!
If you’re not ready to join an in-person group, you want to stay more anonymous, or you don’t have a 12-step group in your area, read below to find our recommended virtual recovery groups!
Guidelines for choosing a 12-step program
Read our blog on the importance of groups that create connection
Differences in the organizations
Listen to our Breaking the Silence Podcast
Young adults talking about healing the impact of pornography on lives and relationships – and working for real love and healthy sexuality.
12-step Programs
Contact these organizations to see if there are active groups in your area. Many also have phone or online meetings.
SA Lifeline (SAL)
SA Lifeline (Sex Addiction Lifeline) has meetings for men working on recovery, and betrayal trauma/family support groups for women. They have both in-person meetings and online meetings.
Sexaholics Anonymous (SA)
SA has groups all over the world for men and women working on recovery. They have in-person, phone, and email meetings.
Sex Addicts Anonymous (SAA)
SAA has groups for both men and women working on recovery.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Addiction Recovery Program (LDS ARP)
The LDS ARP program has meetings for both men and women working on recovery, and family support groups. Some meetings focus on pornography addiction while others are general addiction groups for any kind of addiction. They have both in-person and phone meetings.
Virtual Recovery Programs
Attending an in-person 12-step group can be daunting for many reasons; you might feel shame, you may be concerned for your privacy, or you could be in an area where no groups are available.
If you’re experiencing those worries, try a virtual recovery group. You can still find great accountability partners and build deep relationships, without the emotional and logistical difficulty of face-to-face meetings.
Our most recommended virtual recovery group program is Relay. The program uses an app to match you with a group of peers in a similar stage of life and recovery, and it gives you tools to stay connected and accountable. They provide a 1-week free trial, and you can email hello@joinrelay.app if you need extra financial assistance to join a group after the trial. Learn more here.