Simon Müller

My work focuses on supporting people who struggle with compulsive pornography use and related digital addictions such as social media overuse—behaviors that often reinforce each other through similar mechanisms of avoidance, stimulation, and emotional regulation. While my primary focus is porn addiction, I treat it in the broader context of digital compulsivity and emotional coping. At the core of my approach is psychoeducation and deep self-understanding. We explore what drives compulsive sexual behavior—not as a moral failing, but as a strategy the nervous system has learned to cope with emotional pain, stress, loneliness, shame, or lack of direction. When clients understand why they turn to porn, the path to change becomes clearer: together we develop practical tools to break the cycle, reduce dependence, and—in many cases—stop consumption altogether. Shame is often one of the strongest forces keeping people stuck. I help clients step out of self-judgment and into a more compassionate understanding of themselves, so that recovery is not driven by self-punishment but by the desire for a healthier, more meaningful sexuality. There is nothing “wrong” with you—porn is a powerful coping mechanism, and learning new ways to regulate emotions can open the door to genuine intimacy and a fulfilling sexual life. My work is grounded in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). This includes: - learning to identify emotions and bodily states instead of numbing them - understanding why certain feelings arise - developing new emotional regulation strategies beyond sexual stimulation - clarifying personal values and choosing behaviors aligned with them - building mindfulness and awareness instead of reacting automatically This process often includes guiding clients through the natural phases of recovery: breaking old habits, experiencing shifts or even a temporary loss of sexual interest (“flatline”), and gradually rebuilding sexuality that is authentic, connected, and genuinely satisfying rather than driven by compulsion. For many, this also involves exploring fetishes or sexual preferences developed through years of patterned porn consumption—and understanding which desires reflect personal values versus conditioned stimulation patterns. Beyond addiction recovery, my goal is to help clients create a life that is rich in meaning, grounded in values, emotionally resilient, and aligned with who they truly want to become. When people learn to face emotions, pursue purpose, and build inner stability, they no longer need to rely on behaviors that harm them in the long run. Ultimately, my work is not just about reducing porn use—it’s about supporting you in becoming the person you could be if shame, avoidance, and compulsive patterns were no longer in the way.

2 years in psychotherapy research 1 year working with clients

M.Sc. Psychology