Roswell, Georgia - February 18, 2026 - Relationship expert and licensed therapist Jousline Savra, MA, LMFT addresses a topic that is increasingly affecting relationships across the country: recognizing when a man’s struggle with pornography crosses the line from a private habit into a problem that is hurting his marriage.

In communities, workplaces, and living rooms, couples are silently asking the same question: Is this an addiction? More importantly, they are wondering how to tell if it is harming their marriage and what they can do about it.

As a trusted therapist with years of experience helping couples navigate complex relational issues, Jousline Savra sees firsthand how pornography struggles influence emotional safety, intimacy, and trust in relationships. While pornography use does not always meet clinical criteria for addiction, when the behavior begins to negatively impact connection, priorities, and emotional well-being, it can leave deep relational scars.

“There is a difference between occasional use and a pattern of behavior that undermines connection,” Savra says. “When a man’s pornography habit begins to interfere with how he relates to his partner emotionally, sexually, and socially, it often goes beyond personal choice and becomes a relational concern.”

Key Signs a Pornography Struggle Is Hurting a Marriage

According to Savra, several indicators suggest that pornography may be damaging a marriage:

• Secrecy and Shame: Hiding usage from a partner, deleting browser history, or feeling ashamed when asked about it can create emotional distance and erode trust.

• Emotional Withdrawal: Even when physically present, partners may feel emotionally unavailable or disconnected, replacing shared intimacy with solitary behaviors.

• Escalating Use: Increasing time spent on pornography, especially at the expense of shared activities, date nights, or family time, can reveal a shift in priorities.

• Reduced Sexual Connection: When sexual desire, responsiveness, or satisfaction within the marriage decreases, and pornography becomes a primary source of sexual stimulation, emotional intimacy often suffers.

• Defensiveness and Conflict: Attempts to minimize, justify, or dismiss concerns about pornography frequently lead to conflict rather than open and honest communication.

“These signs are not just personal habits,” explains Savra. “They reflect an emotional climate in the home that can feel unsafe, hurtful, and isolating for a spouse. Recognizing these patterns early is essential in seeking help and healing.”

Addressing the Issue Constructively

Savra emphasizes that couples do not need to navigate these challenges alone. Professional support can help both partners understand underlying emotions, improve communication, and rebuild trust. Her practice offers specialized marriage counseling services designed to address the emotional impact of pornography on relationships and foster healthier patterns of connection.

Effective counseling allows couples to:

• Develop honest and non-judgmental dialogue
• Identify unmet emotional needs driving behavior
• Create shared goals for rebuilding intimacy
• Establish healthy boundaries and mutual accountability

“These conversations are difficult, but they are also some of the most healing conversations couples can have,” Savra notes. “With guidance, couples can move from isolation and distrust toward understanding, empathy, and shared growth.”

A Broader Conversation About Behavior and Relationship Health

It is important to clarify that not all pornography use automatically signals addiction. However, when patterns of behavior begin to disrupt daily life, emotional connection, and relational stability, it is vital to take it seriously.

Savra’s approach encourages couples to look beyond labels and focus on impact. Is the behavior causing repeated hurt? Is it interfering with intimacy, communication, or shared life goals? Answering these questions can be the first step in resolving entrenched conflict and fostering greater connection.

For individuals, couples, pastors, or community leaders looking to understand or support someone struggling with these issues, Savra’s work provides compassionate guidance rooted in real-world experience and clinical insight.

About Jousline Savra, MA, LMFT

Jousline Savra is a licensed marriage and family therapist dedicated to helping couples strengthen relationships, navigate relational challenges, and build emotional resilience. Her compassionate approach emphasizes understanding, empathy, and practical tools for growth.

To learn more about her background, values, and therapeutic philosophy. Jousline works with individuals and couples from diverse backgrounds, offering personalized care that honors both personal healing and shared relational flourishing.

Contact Information:

Jousline Savra, LMFT

1014 Canton Street
Roswell, GA 30075
United States

Jousline Savra
(626) 433-3051
https://www.jouslinesavra.com/