Terry L. Gatewood
LCSW CSAT SEP

A Leader in Sex Addiction and Sex Offender Treatment
Terry Gatewood is a leading expert in the specialized field of sex addiction and the treatment of sexual offending behaviors. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in recovery and a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) through the International Institute for Trauma and Addiction Professionals (IITAP), Terry is dedicated to addressing the unique challenges faced by individuals labeled as sex offenders. He is also a Certified Independent Treatment Provider from the California Sex Offender Management Board (CASOMB).

​

One of the distinctive facets of Terry’s practice is his training as a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP), which utilizes Somatic Experiencing Methodology (SEM) to help clients heal from trauma. SEM is a body-centered approach that focuses on resolving the physiological effects of trauma by helping individuals become more attuned to their bodily sensations, thereby regaining emotional regulation and resilience. This specialized training equips Terry to address the underlying trauma that often contributes to addiction and sexual offending behaviors, allowing for deeper healing and transformation in his clients.

 ​

Personal Experience Meets Professional Expertise

Terry brings nearly two decades of recovery from his own struggles with sex and meth addiction, which inspires his compassionate approach to treatment. He deeply understands the devastation, despair, and hopelessness that individuals grappling with sexual offenses experience—not just for themselves but also for their partners, families, and communities. This lived experience allows Terry to create a non-judgmental and supportive atmosphere where clients can confront their behaviors and begin the healing process.

​

Comprehensive Treatment Approach

At Ridgeback Recovery, where Terry serves as Founder and Clinical Director, he provides a structured, evidence-based program specifically tailored for male sex addicts and offenders. His work emphasizes the connection between unresolved trauma and the compulsive behaviors that often characterize sexual offending. By integrating traditional therapeutic techniques with Somatic Experiencing, Terry helps clients regulate their emotional responses and process trauma effectively. This comprehensive approach targets the root causes of their behaviors, equipping clients with healthier coping mechanisms and pathways to recovery.

​

Expertise in Treating Sex Offenders

Terry Gatewood’s expertise in treating sex offenders is integral to the comprehensive care provided at Ridgeback Recovery. He recognizes that understanding and addressing the behaviors associated with sexual offending requires a multifaceted approach aimed at rehabilitation and community safety. Terry emphasizes the necessity of effective intervention to not only mitigate the risks of recidivism but also to assist individuals in navigating the complex emotional and psychological barriers that contribute to their actions. Under his leadership, the Ridgeback Recovery Sex Offender Treatment Program (SOTP) employs evidence-based practices like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to challenge cognitive distortions and enhance empathy. Furthermore, Terry has designed a residential environment for nonviolent clients, ensuring a safe and supportive space for recovery. By incorporating various therapeutic modalities, such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and the Good Lives Model, Terry tailors treatment to each client’s unique circumstances, helping them develop essential coping skills to manage their urges and reintegrate into society. His understanding of trauma and its effects on behavior complements Ridgeback Recovery’s holistic approach, enabling clients to address not only their offending behaviors but also the underlying issues that fuel them, paving the way for sustainable recovery and a safer community.

​

A Legacy of Pioneering Work

Previously, Terry founded Blue Tiger Recovery, an outpatient treatment facility focusing on compulsive sexual behaviors, including offending behaviors. Under his leadership, that pioneering initiative not only treated individuals but also contributed to the professional landscape by partnering with IITAP to provide essential training for therapists in handling complicated sexual issues. This effort laid the groundwork for his ongoing mission with Ridgeback Recovery, creating a shame-free environment that prioritizes accountability, compassion, and healing.

​

A Commitment to Healing

Terry blends his therapeutic expertise with his lived experience to provide a comprehensive approach to recovery for sex offenders. By fostering understanding and empathy, he bridges the gap between offenders and their communities, working tirelessly to support clients, their partners, and loved ones in their journeys toward recovery.

 

Inspired by Experience, and Fostering Hope

Terry and his dedicated team at Ridgeback Recovery are here to assure you that you are not alone—true recovery is not just a possibility; it’s within reach.