Why social media is not a good idea for tweens
The use of social media has drastically increased the risks of forming certain addictive behaviors among kids today—particularly tweens. Ultimately, it is not a good idea for tweens to be involved with social media because their brains are simply too immature to use it.Read More
Are You a Teen Hooked on Pornography?
Can you really become addicted to pornography? Is it risky behavior? Let’s consider the story of a teenage boy that we’ll call Richard, who was 10 years old when he first saw pornographic image. Read More
What parents of preteens need to know about pornography
When I think of the numerous parents that I have spoken to in recent years, I see some things that parents could do differently that might prevent their preteen from falling victim to this addiction. While no prevention plan guarantees a porn-proof child, taking these steps can help.Read More
Teens, Emotional Pain and Pornography
We hurt ourselves when we compulsively rely on sexual obsession and fantasy as a way of managing our emotional lives. It can become like a drug—dulling and numbing painful emotions. The negative consequences of obsessive fantasizing can keep us locked and heighten our emotional pain.Read More
Road map for change starts with commitment and conviction
You know that no one else can do this for you. Yes, HELP IS NEEDED! There is no illusion that it will be easy to win this war. However, if you are committed to “fight the good fight of faith” (1 Timothy 6:12), then victory is possible with support. You can be successful with the help of a counselor, an accountability person or mentor, your parent(s), and above all God.Read More
Part 2: Tips for finding the right Accountability Partner
The best accountability partners are good listeners. They are encouragers who willingly make themselves available when needed.Read More
Part 1: Why it’s important to have an Accountability Partner
To really grow in recovery, we strongly recommend that you find a person who will serve as your accountability partner (AP). When looking for an AP, it’s best to find someone who is the same sex as you and who is someone you deeply respect.Read More
Dads, It’s Time to Lead
Our culture is loud and persuasive when it comes to telling their story about sex. We must answer that story with God’s better story, his story of sacred sex. Dads, be confident! You have what it takes to accomplish this great purpose. God has given you his Holy Spirit who will help. He will enable you to teach your teen a positive and sacred view of sex.Read More
Parental involvement is key to treating teen pornography addiction
While the problem may be a challenge to quantify, there is considerable evidence that the world has changed—especially for children and teens. Many parents often find themselves struggling to know what to do to help their kids.Read More
6 Stages of Recovery for Partners of Addicts
In her book “Mending a Shattered Heart,” Dr. Stefanie Carnes defines six identifiable stages of recovery for the partners of sexual addicts. In our experience at Restoring Hearts Counseling, these stages are experienced by most women who call us for help. Consider the case of two recent clients—we’ll call them “Susan” and “Bill.”Read More