Shannon O’Connor is a licensed clinical social worker, licensed clinical addiction specialist, certified clinical supervisor, and certified sex addiction therapist residing in Eastern North Carolina. Shannon obtained her Bachelor of Science in criminal justice with a minor in alcohol and drug studies from East Carolina University in 2000. She pursued her Master of Social Work degree from the same esteemed institution in 2007, specializing in mental health. Currently, she is a Doctoral Candidate at the University of Kentucky pursuing her Doctorate of Social Work. Shannon is employed with Marine & Family Programs at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, bringing unique expertise to her clinical practice. Shannon provides clinical counseling services to active-duty service members, their dependents, and retirees. Her focus on treatment includes addressing stressors, depression, anxiety, domestic violence prevention/intervention with victims and offenders, and sex addiction treatment. Additionally, she provides clinical supervision in the community to social workers and addiction professionals in the process of obtaining their full licensure. Shannon’s research interest is exploring the prevalence of sex addiction in military communities and the impact it has on mission readiness. With over 15 years of working with the military on sex addiction issues, she is passionate and dedicated to working with service members and their spouses to overcome the obstacles sex addiction can have on a marriage and career. She provides individual and couples treatment to assist in the healing journey, recovery, and implementing new strategies to move forward while creating an environment of safety, understanding, and resiliency.
DSW Showcase Student Presentation
Shannon O’Connor
MSW, LCSW, LCAS, CCS, CSAT, Doctoral Candidate
Exploring the prevalence of sex addiction within the active-duty military population and the impact on mission readiness, providing treatment from a psychodynamic and systems theory framework.
Concentration - Military Behavioral Health
- Tuesday, April 29, 2025 -
- 2:30 pm
Abstract
The phenomenon of sex addiction has garnered significant attention from mental health and addiction professionals over the past decade. Numerous social workers are dedicated to aiding individuals struggling with this addiction in their recovery journeys and efforts to regain autonomy. However, within military contexts and among active-duty personnel, this area of behavioral health remains relatively underexplored. The primary objective of this presentation is to explain the scope and ramifications of sex addiction among active-duty service members, emphasizing the necessity of treatment through established clinical frameworks and examining available support systems. Furthermore, the presentation will explore innovative digital methodologies for service delivery, where considerations of accessibility and privacy are paramount for the military community. This population must be afforded equitable access to treatment on federal installations, where services are provided at no cost and are readily accessible. Given the pervasive issues associated with pornography and other compulsive sexual behaviors, it is essential for social workers to lead initiatives within military communities, ensuring that individuals have access to treatment and a secure environment to address their needs. The research presented aims to assess and illuminate this pressing issue, offering valuable insights for military personnel, social workers, researchers, educators, and other addiction specialists. By tackling the unique challenges posed by problematic sexual behavior, we can formulate targeted, evidence-based strategies and interventions that foster healing and resilience.