Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Counselling in New South Wales

Photo of Niko Antalffy - Fringe Therapy, Counsellor in New South Wales
Niko Antalffy - Fringe Therapy
Counsellor, PhD, PACFA
Verified Verified
South Coogee, NSW 2034  (Online Only)
I provide online therapy for ‘fringe’ clients: LGBTQI+, non-monogamy/poly, BDSM/kink, neurodivergent, disability/chronic health conditions, sex workers and various ethnic and lifestyle backgrounds, helping with a range of psychological and emotional difficulties. I use a trauma-informed humanistic approach with evidence-based therapies for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, overwhelm, and relationship issues. Nothing is too strange or too intersectional as I practice radical acceptance and have a wealth of deep experience and understanding of all the above ‘fringe’ issues and backgrounds.
I provide online therapy for ‘fringe’ clients: LGBTQI+, non-monogamy/poly, BDSM/kink, neurodivergent, disability/chronic health conditions, sex workers and various ethnic and lifestyle backgrounds, helping with a range of psychological and emotional difficulties. I use a trauma-informed humanistic approach with evidence-based therapies for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, overwhelm, and relationship issues. Nothing is too strange or too intersectional as I practice radical acceptance and have a wealth of deep experience and understanding of all the above ‘fringe’ issues and backgrounds.
(02) 9100 0504 View (02) 9100 0504
Photo of Tribe Wellness, Counsellor in New South Wales
Tribe Wellness
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Surry Hills, NSW 2010  (Online Only)
Are you looking for LGBTQ+ affirming counselling? We are here to help you feel less stuck in shame and more content with being who are. To support you in reducing your anxiety, depression and other mental health challenges so that you can take proactive steps towards a more well future. We are an online mental health care provider that offers certified counselling across Australia. Our focus is on providing community-competent care that is inclusive and safe for LGBTQ+ adults and their allies.
Are you looking for LGBTQ+ affirming counselling? We are here to help you feel less stuck in shame and more content with being who are. To support you in reducing your anxiety, depression and other mental health challenges so that you can take proactive steps towards a more well future. We are an online mental health care provider that offers certified counselling across Australia. Our focus is on providing community-competent care that is inclusive and safe for LGBTQ+ adults and their allies.
(02) 9100 0933 View (02) 9100 0933
Photo of Melissa Therapy , Counsellor in New South Wales
Melissa Therapy
Counsellor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sydney, NSW 2000
I am a Relationships Therapist and Sexologist. I am extremely passionate about helping clients have healthier more fulfilling relationships. I work with all types of relationships from monogamy to consensual non monogamy. I also work with couples who are experiencing sexual concerns including mismatched desire, erectile difficulties, painful sex, performance anxiety and out of control sexual behaviors. I am passionate about diversity and equality and aim to walk beside my clients on their journey providing a non-judgmental, supportive and safe environment. I am sex-positive, LGBTIQ, Poly and BDSM friendly.
I am a Relationships Therapist and Sexologist. I am extremely passionate about helping clients have healthier more fulfilling relationships. I work with all types of relationships from monogamy to consensual non monogamy. I also work with couples who are experiencing sexual concerns including mismatched desire, erectile difficulties, painful sex, performance anxiety and out of control sexual behaviors. I am passionate about diversity and equality and aim to walk beside my clients on their journey providing a non-judgmental, supportive and safe environment. I am sex-positive, LGBTIQ, Poly and BDSM friendly.
(02) 9100 0185 View (02) 9100 0185
Photo of Su (Xufeng Su) - Multilingual Therapist, Psychologist in New South Wales
Su (Xufeng Su) - Multilingual Therapist
Psychologist, PsyBA Prov
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
I specialize in working with clients from minority communities, including cultural minorities, kink communities, and trans, intersex and gender diverse communities.
I am a provisional psychologist who is committed to delivering genuine person-centered and strength-based therapy and providing a space that is safe, welcoming and free from judgment or stigma. As a therapist, I aim to assist and support clients in exploring their unique values and identities. Through my lived experience, I have a deep understanding of the imbalance and distress we can feel when experiencing oppression or being unable to live our authentic lives. When supporting my clients – instead of assuming the expert position – I partner with them, exploring their potential and understanding who they want to be.
I specialize in working with clients from minority communities, including cultural minorities, kink communities, and trans, intersex and gender diverse communities.
I am a provisional psychologist who is committed to delivering genuine person-centered and strength-based therapy and providing a space that is safe, welcoming and free from judgment or stigma. As a therapist, I aim to assist and support clients in exploring their unique values and identities. Through my lived experience, I have a deep understanding of the imbalance and distress we can feel when experiencing oppression or being unable to live our authentic lives. When supporting my clients – instead of assuming the expert position – I partner with them, exploring their potential and understanding who they want to be.
(02) 9159 6625 View (02) 9159 6625
Photo of The Kink Counsellor (Lexie Ashwell-Jones), Counsellor in New South Wales
The Kink Counsellor (Lexie Ashwell-Jones)
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Chippendale, NSW 2008  (Online Only)
I bring a broad perspective into my therapeutic practice; with qualifications in performing arts, sexology, education and counselling, and lived experience in the areas of neurodivesity, non-monogamy, LGBTIQA+ identities and BDSM/kink.
Life is messy and imperfect. Sexuality and identity is a lifelong journey. So many of us are limited in our exploration due to shame, stigma, or lack of sexuality education. I believe in a sex-positive approach which acknowledges and celebrates the diversity of human sexuality, identity and expression. When we are informed, empowered and validated, we live happier and more authentic lives.
I bring a broad perspective into my therapeutic practice; with qualifications in performing arts, sexology, education and counselling, and lived experience in the areas of neurodivesity, non-monogamy, LGBTIQA+ identities and BDSM/kink.
Life is messy and imperfect. Sexuality and identity is a lifelong journey. So many of us are limited in our exploration due to shame, stigma, or lack of sexuality education. I believe in a sex-positive approach which acknowledges and celebrates the diversity of human sexuality, identity and expression. When we are informed, empowered and validated, we live happier and more authentic lives.
(02) 9100 0765 View (02) 9100 0765
Photo of Stickbymecounselling - Johanna , Counsellor in New South Wales
Stickbymecounselling - Johanna
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pyrmont, NSW 2009
Johanna focuses on working with singles, couples, and families. She also works with men's sexual health difficulties, delayed ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, and out-of-control sexual behaviours like porn addiction in addition to family therapy, fertility challenges, and low libido, women's sexual health issues, including preconceptions and conception, hypoactive sexual desire disorder .Johanna is sex worker friendly. Johanna is capable of working with poly/open partnerships and is LGBTQ, kink, and fetish friendly. Johanna also works with clients of the NDIS.
Johanna focuses on working with singles, couples, and families. She also works with men's sexual health difficulties, delayed ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, and out-of-control sexual behaviours like porn addiction in addition to family therapy, fertility challenges, and low libido, women's sexual health issues, including preconceptions and conception, hypoactive sexual desire disorder .Johanna is sex worker friendly. Johanna is capable of working with poly/open partnerships and is LGBTQ, kink, and fetish friendly. Johanna also works with clients of the NDIS.
(02) 9100 0121 View (02) 9100 0121
Photo of Johnny Kieran-Black, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New South Wales
Johnny Kieran-Black
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Darlington, NSW 2008
I am passionate about practicing in a trauma-informed, anti-oppressive and sex positive way; attuned to a client-centred pace toward healing, growth, recovery and self-discovery.
My name is Johnny (he/they). I am an Accredited EMDR and Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) Practitioner. I am interested in working LGBTQIA+ people, young people, survivors of trauma, people experiencing relationship difficulties, people wanting to learn more about who they are, people who use addictive behaviours as a way of managing, including drugs, alcohol, self-harm, eating disordered behaviours and thoughts of suicide. I understand how hard it can be to talk about traumatic experiences and I strive to bring warmth, partnership, acceptance and compassion to all my work.
I am passionate about practicing in a trauma-informed, anti-oppressive and sex positive way; attuned to a client-centred pace toward healing, growth, recovery and self-discovery.
My name is Johnny (he/they). I am an Accredited EMDR and Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) Practitioner. I am interested in working LGBTQIA+ people, young people, survivors of trauma, people experiencing relationship difficulties, people wanting to learn more about who they are, people who use addictive behaviours as a way of managing, including drugs, alcohol, self-harm, eating disordered behaviours and thoughts of suicide. I understand how hard it can be to talk about traumatic experiences and I strive to bring warmth, partnership, acceptance and compassion to all my work.
(02) 9100 0621 View (02) 9100 0621
Photo of Arlyn Owens in New South Wales
Arlyn Owens
Verified Verified
Erskineville, NSW 2043
I specialise in themes of communication, shame & identity, with experience & special interest in Kink/Fetish, BDSM, Non-Monogamy, Polyamory, and Queer/LGBTQIA+ communities.
I’m a Psychosexual Therapist & Educator, Gestalt Therapist and Registered Nurse. I’ve been a practicing Therapist since 2019, with over 10yrs experience in the health system. I see individuals, couples & polycules for counselling & education around sexuality & relationships, and general mental health.
I specialise in themes of communication, shame & identity, with experience & special interest in Kink/Fetish, BDSM, Non-Monogamy, Polyamory, and Queer/LGBTQIA+ communities.
I’m a Psychosexual Therapist & Educator, Gestalt Therapist and Registered Nurse. I’ve been a practicing Therapist since 2019, with over 10yrs experience in the health system. I see individuals, couples & polycules for counselling & education around sexuality & relationships, and general mental health.
View
Photo of Safari Lee, Counsellor in New South Wales
Safari Lee
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Annandale, NSW 2038  (Online Only)
I'm an LGBTQIA+, kink, sex-worker and diverse relationships ally.
Do you need some calm in the middle of what you are facing? It can be really helpful to talk about ways to cope, manage symptoms, and ways to get life back in balance. Whether it's a recent family, work, health or life issue, or this has been going on for a long time, we can aim to make sense of what is happening. We can look at obstacles and plan a way forward.
I'm an LGBTQIA+, kink, sex-worker and diverse relationships ally.
Do you need some calm in the middle of what you are facing? It can be really helpful to talk about ways to cope, manage symptoms, and ways to get life back in balance. Whether it's a recent family, work, health or life issue, or this has been going on for a long time, we can aim to make sense of what is happening. We can look at obstacles and plan a way forward.
(02) 9100 0930 View (02) 9100 0930
Photo of Naomi Crellin, Counsellor in New South Wales
Naomi Crellin
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Leichhardt, NSW 2040
I welcome a diverse spectrum of individuals to my practice. Some areas of focus of mine are issues relating to gender, sexuality, postnatal depression, performance anxiety, and couples therapy with a focus on atypical family and relationship structures. I am a sex positive, body positive, gender-affirming, neurodiversity-affirming, LGBTQIA+ affirming counsellor for 18+ folk who are looking for warm, non-judgemental support.
I welcome a diverse spectrum of individuals to my practice. Some areas of focus of mine are issues relating to gender, sexuality, postnatal depression, performance anxiety, and couples therapy with a focus on atypical family and relationship structures. I am a sex positive, body positive, gender-affirming, neurodiversity-affirming, LGBTQIA+ affirming counsellor for 18+ folk who are looking for warm, non-judgemental support.
(02) 9100 0493 View (02) 9100 0493
Photo of Thinking Feeling Moving, Counsellor in New South Wales
Thinking Feeling Moving
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000  (Online Only)
LGBTQIA plus Safe Space, Sex Positive, GSRD aware.
Email or WhatsApp for an appointment +447543800297 lisa(at)thinkingfeelingmoving.com I work remotely online. Contact for an initial free 30 min chat. I am a Clinical Sexologist, Relationship Therapist, Counsellor, Yoga Teacher, Yoga Therapist, and Educator.
LGBTQIA plus Safe Space, Sex Positive, GSRD aware.
Email or WhatsApp for an appointment +447543800297 lisa(at)thinkingfeelingmoving.com I work remotely online. Contact for an initial free 30 min chat. I am a Clinical Sexologist, Relationship Therapist, Counsellor, Yoga Teacher, Yoga Therapist, and Educator.
View
Photo of Sexual Psychology: Clinical Psycho & Sex Therapist, Psychologist in New South Wales
Sexual Psychology: Clinical Psycho & Sex Therapist
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
I specialise in all thing sexual and approach treatment from a whole person perspective, incorporating social, environmental, relationship, & mental health in treatment: Desire; Erection; Ejaculation; Porn Addiction; OCD (HOCD, POCD); PTSD (CSA, Sexual Assault); Kink; (a)Sexuality; Gender; Sex illness/disability; Paraphilia; STIs; Sex workers; Polyamory.
Hi I'm George! Sexual problems can really get you down, they reduce confidence and self worth, and are a burden of secrecy that can leave you feeling like there is something wrong with you. Well I'm here to tell you that sexual problems are the norm, and can be resolved. As a clinical psychologist and sex therapist I am in the unusual position of having extensive experience/training in general mental health and sexual function, gender, sexuality, and relationships and hold Masters degrees in both clinical psychology and sexual health.
I specialise in all thing sexual and approach treatment from a whole person perspective, incorporating social, environmental, relationship, & mental health in treatment: Desire; Erection; Ejaculation; Porn Addiction; OCD (HOCD, POCD); PTSD (CSA, Sexual Assault); Kink; (a)Sexuality; Gender; Sex illness/disability; Paraphilia; STIs; Sex workers; Polyamory.
Hi I'm George! Sexual problems can really get you down, they reduce confidence and self worth, and are a burden of secrecy that can leave you feeling like there is something wrong with you. Well I'm here to tell you that sexual problems are the norm, and can be resolved. As a clinical psychologist and sex therapist I am in the unusual position of having extensive experience/training in general mental health and sexual function, gender, sexuality, and relationships and hold Masters degrees in both clinical psychology and sexual health.
(02) 8294 6974 View (02) 8294 6974
Photo of Sue White, Counsellor in New South Wales
Sue White
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Woonona, NSW 2517
I am a sex positive and LQBQTIA inclusive counselor, I am very aware of trauma and provide a trauma safe space, I have a lot of lived experience and after undergoing my own healing processes and undertaking formal counseling study I am here to help you.
Feeling stuck and battling with issues that are stopping you from living the life you know is waiting for you? Why not work through those problems in a supported way to get to where you want to be. Perhaps you are overcoming grief, wanting help with an addiction, needing help with personal relationships or wanting to build confidence, overcome anxiety and step out into the world feeling positive and calm. I'm here to help you in a non judgmental and inclusive way to overcome barriers and move forward.
I am a sex positive and LQBQTIA inclusive counselor, I am very aware of trauma and provide a trauma safe space, I have a lot of lived experience and after undergoing my own healing processes and undertaking formal counseling study I am here to help you.
Feeling stuck and battling with issues that are stopping you from living the life you know is waiting for you? Why not work through those problems in a supported way to get to where you want to be. Perhaps you are overcoming grief, wanting help with an addiction, needing help with personal relationships or wanting to build confidence, overcome anxiety and step out into the world feeling positive and calm. I'm here to help you in a non judgmental and inclusive way to overcome barriers and move forward.
(02) 4210 5759 View (02) 4210 5759
Photo of Kate Hollingsworth, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New South Wales
Kate Hollingsworth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Glebe, NSW 2037
Hi there, I'm Kate (she/her) and I provide unconventional counselling for unconventional teens and young adults. Helping you to claim space in society as your authentic self, without compromising who you are. I specialise in youth mental health, LGBTQI+ specific counselling; and childhood trauma. Counselling with me can look like a lot of different things. It can involve learning new coping strategies; working through trauma; helping you to set boundaries; exploring identity and befriending parts of yourself that have been unsupported; finding the path that's right for you in a world of social norms and expectations.
Hi there, I'm Kate (she/her) and I provide unconventional counselling for unconventional teens and young adults. Helping you to claim space in society as your authentic self, without compromising who you are. I specialise in youth mental health, LGBTQI+ specific counselling; and childhood trauma. Counselling with me can look like a lot of different things. It can involve learning new coping strategies; working through trauma; helping you to set boundaries; exploring identity and befriending parts of yourself that have been unsupported; finding the path that's right for you in a world of social norms and expectations.
(02) 9100 0127 View (02) 9100 0127
Photo of Daniel Di Pietro, Psychotherapist in New South Wales
Daniel Di Pietro
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sydney, NSW 2000
Daniel is a sexologist and psychotherapist who enjoys working empathically and collaboratively with individuals and partnerships of all cultural, gender, and sexual identities to provide support for their sexological needs. He specialises in working with sexological presentations around male sexual health, sexual and gender identity, intimacy, pleasure, desire discrepancy, kink and fetish-related behaviours, sexual functioning and relational challenges. Taking a non-judgmental and holistic approach, he assists his clients by providing tools to access their potential in overcoming the difficulties faced in their lives.
Daniel is a sexologist and psychotherapist who enjoys working empathically and collaboratively with individuals and partnerships of all cultural, gender, and sexual identities to provide support for their sexological needs. He specialises in working with sexological presentations around male sexual health, sexual and gender identity, intimacy, pleasure, desire discrepancy, kink and fetish-related behaviours, sexual functioning and relational challenges. Taking a non-judgmental and holistic approach, he assists his clients by providing tools to access their potential in overcoming the difficulties faced in their lives.
(03) 7003 2160 View (03) 7003 2160
Photo of Wendy Rosa Bas, Counsellor in New South Wales
Wendy Rosa Bas
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000  (Online Only)
I have a special interest in working with those who have an alternative relationship style and structure (non-monogamy, open relationships, polyamory, BDSM/kink).
I am a registered counsellor working with adult clients experiencing challenges in their intimate life and relationships. I am passionate about supporting people in navigating their relationship(s) and live a life according to their values. I can help you with the following; relationship anxiety, co-dependency, navigating alternative relationship styles and practices, boundary issues, low self-esteem, loss of intimacy, jealousy, mismatched libido, ...
I have a special interest in working with those who have an alternative relationship style and structure (non-monogamy, open relationships, polyamory, BDSM/kink).
I am a registered counsellor working with adult clients experiencing challenges in their intimate life and relationships. I am passionate about supporting people in navigating their relationship(s) and live a life according to their values. I can help you with the following; relationship anxiety, co-dependency, navigating alternative relationship styles and practices, boundary issues, low self-esteem, loss of intimacy, jealousy, mismatched libido, ...
View
Photo of MoonGrove Counselling - Tamara , Counsellor in New South Wales
MoonGrove Counselling - Tamara
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000  (Online Only)
I support individuals and partners to navigate the unique challenges faced by those wanting to explore relationship styles other than the socially accepted heterosexual monogamous relationship, such as Kink, BDSM, swinging, multi-partner relationships, or polyamory, especially those in mixed-orientation and queer relationships.
We are all constantly evolving and this can present difficult challenges, often impacted by family, social and cultural conditioning, religious and gender-based beliefs, roles, and biases. You might want to challenge this conditioning and these constraints. Understanding this within ourself, our relationships, and our families can be complex. You might realise that your sexual, relationship, and gender identities and preferences may be different from societal expectations, so you may struggle internally to accept who you are and your ability to live authentically. We need safe and appropriate support to navigate these changes.
I support individuals and partners to navigate the unique challenges faced by those wanting to explore relationship styles other than the socially accepted heterosexual monogamous relationship, such as Kink, BDSM, swinging, multi-partner relationships, or polyamory, especially those in mixed-orientation and queer relationships.
We are all constantly evolving and this can present difficult challenges, often impacted by family, social and cultural conditioning, religious and gender-based beliefs, roles, and biases. You might want to challenge this conditioning and these constraints. Understanding this within ourself, our relationships, and our families can be complex. You might realise that your sexual, relationship, and gender identities and preferences may be different from societal expectations, so you may struggle internally to accept who you are and your ability to live authentically. We need safe and appropriate support to navigate these changes.
(03) 7302 8903 View (03) 7302 8903
Photo of Esther Ogilvie in New South Wales
Esther Ogilvie
MSc
Verified Verified
Newcastle, NSW 2300
Do you suffer from unprocessed trauma or feel stuck, anxious, depressed? Are you experiencing sex or gender identity issues, interpersonal struggles or emotional dysregulation? This includes relationships with fear, self-doubt, shame and guilt, and major life transitions. Through our sessions you will see a change in your nervous system and emotional regulation, self-awareness of patterns and behaviours, self-compassion and a larger vitality for life. I offer support for individuals and couples experiencing relationship challenges particularly ethical non monogamy and kink. Couples will experience a new found sense of understanding.
Do you suffer from unprocessed trauma or feel stuck, anxious, depressed? Are you experiencing sex or gender identity issues, interpersonal struggles or emotional dysregulation? This includes relationships with fear, self-doubt, shame and guilt, and major life transitions. Through our sessions you will see a change in your nervous system and emotional regulation, self-awareness of patterns and behaviours, self-compassion and a larger vitality for life. I offer support for individuals and couples experiencing relationship challenges particularly ethical non monogamy and kink. Couples will experience a new found sense of understanding.
View
Photo of Bronwyn Bickle, Counsellor in New South Wales
Bronwyn Bickle
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
Hi, I'm Bronwyn and I specialize in ethical non-monogamy (ENM) and chronic illness through online and in-person counselling. All neurodivergent, LGBTQI+, kink and BDSM folks are extremely welcome in my practice! ENM covers a range of relationship structures that fall outside of social norms, such as open-relationships, polyamory and swingers. Therapeutic topics often include jealousy, boundary setting, trust, attachment and sexual discovery. My work in the ENM field led me to author a book "The Beginner's Guide to Ethical Non-Monogamy". In this space I'm also known as 'The Polyamory Practitioner'; join me on Instagram and Facebook.
Hi, I'm Bronwyn and I specialize in ethical non-monogamy (ENM) and chronic illness through online and in-person counselling. All neurodivergent, LGBTQI+, kink and BDSM folks are extremely welcome in my practice! ENM covers a range of relationship structures that fall outside of social norms, such as open-relationships, polyamory and swingers. Therapeutic topics often include jealousy, boundary setting, trust, attachment and sexual discovery. My work in the ENM field led me to author a book "The Beginner's Guide to Ethical Non-Monogamy". In this space I'm also known as 'The Polyamory Practitioner'; join me on Instagram and Facebook.
(08) 7523 4519 View (08) 7523 4519
Photo of Amanda Grogan, Counsellor in New South Wales
Amanda Grogan
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
I specialize in sex and intimacy counselling for non-monogamy, polyamory, kink and fetish. I am non-judgmental and believe with clear communication and boundaries these are healthy and beautiful relationship models and experiences. I also specialize in health counselling for chronic illness, chronic pain and invisible illness. I'm passionate about helping people navigate illness diagnosis, develop coping skills and the link between mind and body for pain management. I am empathetic, kind and understanding – and have lived experience with endometriosis which makes me uniquely qualified to work within the community.
I specialize in sex and intimacy counselling for non-monogamy, polyamory, kink and fetish. I am non-judgmental and believe with clear communication and boundaries these are healthy and beautiful relationship models and experiences. I also specialize in health counselling for chronic illness, chronic pain and invisible illness. I'm passionate about helping people navigate illness diagnosis, develop coping skills and the link between mind and body for pain management. I am empathetic, kind and understanding – and have lived experience with endometriosis which makes me uniquely qualified to work within the community.
(07) 5655 7635 View (07) 5655 7635

See more therapy options for New South Wales

Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Counsellors

Why might an individual want to see a sex-positive, kink-allied therapist?

A sex-positive or kinky individual may want to see a sex-positive, kink-allied therapist because the client may feel safer and more supported discussing their experiences and challenges. A therapist who identifies as kink-friendly will have experience with clients having diverse sexual preferences and will likely be nonjudgmental and supportive about issues brought to the table. It is important to note that sex-positive, kink-allied individuals may find equal success with therapists who do not have such specialised knowledge and background. The most important factor in the success of therapy is for the client and practitioner to form a strong, trusting bond.

Do therapists have special training to gain expertise in sex-positive, kink-allied treatment?

Generally, no. There are limited training programs and unofficial accreditations that therapists can pursue, but a therapist’s expertise will ultimately come from their previous experience with similar clients, their engagement with organisations that promote sex positivity or kink-allied lifestyles, and the importance they place on safety and cultural sensitivity.

How can individuals recognise a good sex-positive, kink-allied therapist?

An experienced therapist is able to help clients explore their sexual identity and expression and relieve any discomfort or stigma attached to discussing such matters and the client’s overall challenges. A therapist who is sex-positive and kink-allied is able to create an environment that honors a client’s experience and sexual preferences. To recognise a good therapist, clients can simply ask directly about topics and issues important to them and gauge their comfort level and connection with a clinician based on the responses.

Can clients benefit from having a therapist with a focus on sex positivity and alternative sexual lifestyles?

Some individuals may feel most comfortable knowing that the clinician they’re working with has a commitment to creating an atmosphere of sex positivity and has experience with relationship diversity and alternative relationship structures. Working with a sex-positive, kink-allied therapist may help clients respect their own challenges and improve identity-affirming treatment.