Treatment for kleptomania can include medication, therapy or a combination of the two. However, there are few controlled studies on any of the treatments for kleptomania. Therefore, it is difficult to state with any degree of certainty how useful they are for people who suffer from this disorder.

Some research indicates that antidepressant medications may be beneficial for the treatment of kleptomania in some patients. The medication naltrexone may also be effective in treating kleptomania. Used to treat opioid and alcohol addiction, naltrexone blocks the rush or “high” feeling that can make these addictions pleasurable.

Psychotherapy can occur in one-on-one or group settings. Types of psychotherapy used to treat kleptomania may include:

• Behavior therapy. Focuses on changing undesired behaviors through rewards. Desensitization is a type of behavior therapy that can be especially helpful to patients with kleptomania. It involves repeated exposure to environments (such as a store) that may trigger stealing, while in a relaxed state. This can help control the urge to steal by lessening the tension that precipitates the act.
  
  
• Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT). Explores the link between thoughts and actions. This method can help a person with kleptomania understand that the impulse to steal will pass, and that stealing is not the only way to reduce the impulse.
  
  
• Family therapy. Explores problems with regard to the patient’s personal relationships. This can help identify relationship stressors that may contribute to kleptomania.