Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Therapists in Vancouver, BC

Photo of Surya Light Govender, Art Therapist, MSc, DVATI, RTC
Surya Light Govender
Art Therapist, MSc, DVATI, RTC
2 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5K
I am a psychotherapist who combines art therapy and talk therapy with body awareness. I enjoy working with adult clients with overlapping identities and particularly welcome people living with addictions or in recovery, BIPOC, sex workers, folks exploring their sexual or gender identity, and people living with anxiety. I am biracial, queer, able bodied, cisgendered, and a settler on this land. I am also a parent with a deep understanding of the ways our chosen and birth families shape us.
I am a psychotherapist who combines art therapy and talk therapy with body awareness. I enjoy working with adult clients with overlapping identities and particularly welcome people living with addictions or in recovery, BIPOC, sex workers, folks exploring their sexual or gender identity, and people living with anxiety. I am biracial, queer, able bodied, cisgendered, and a settler on this land. I am also a parent with a deep understanding of the ways our chosen and birth families shape us.
(548) 490-3498 View (548) 490-3498
Photo of Amy Riding, Pre-Licensed Professional, Student, RCC
Amy Riding
Pre-Licensed Professional, Student, RCC
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6C
I am comfortable with both neurotypical and neurodivergent styles of communication, and I am well-informed on disenfranchised grief, heteronormativity, chronic illness, ENM, kink, SW, and sexuality.
Have you ever heard, “You can’t have ADHD because...,” “You don’t look autistic,” or other absurd comments? If so, I see you. If you’re seeking a neuroaffirming and trauma-informed counsellor to help navigate undiagnosed, misdiagnosed, or late diagnosed neurodivergence, struggles with identity, interpersonal relationships, motivation, procrastination, and burnout, let’s see if we vibe. My goal is to offer a space where you feel seen and supported, regardless of diagnosis.
I am comfortable with both neurotypical and neurodivergent styles of communication, and I am well-informed on disenfranchised grief, heteronormativity, chronic illness, ENM, kink, SW, and sexuality.
Have you ever heard, “You can’t have ADHD because...,” “You don’t look autistic,” or other absurd comments? If so, I see you. If you’re seeking a neuroaffirming and trauma-informed counsellor to help navigate undiagnosed, misdiagnosed, or late diagnosed neurodivergence, struggles with identity, interpersonal relationships, motivation, procrastination, and burnout, let’s see if we vibe. My goal is to offer a space where you feel seen and supported, regardless of diagnosis.
(506) 406-7302 View (506) 406-7302
Photo of Evelyn Taylor, Counsellor, MC, RCC, CCC
Evelyn Taylor
Counsellor, MC, RCC, CCC
6 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5T
I thrive working with folks navigating identity, shame, sex, neurodiversity, trauma, and relationships - intimacy & desire, communication, polyamory/CNM, kink, and transforming conflict into connection.
I primarily work with adults, couples, and teens that have concerns with relationships, sex, identity, body image, attachment, self-esteem, and life changes. I'm here to support you in harvesting the most meaning and growth from therapy using practical, evidence-based techniques, authentic connection, and a touch of humour. For individuals, we'll work through life's complexities and untangle narratives you have internalized, perhaps unconsciously, that impacts how you show up in the world. For couples, I support you to look deeper into reactions and arguments to find what you're really longing for: connection, appreciation, safety.
I thrive working with folks navigating identity, shame, sex, neurodiversity, trauma, and relationships - intimacy & desire, communication, polyamory/CNM, kink, and transforming conflict into connection.
I primarily work with adults, couples, and teens that have concerns with relationships, sex, identity, body image, attachment, self-esteem, and life changes. I'm here to support you in harvesting the most meaning and growth from therapy using practical, evidence-based techniques, authentic connection, and a touch of humour. For individuals, we'll work through life's complexities and untangle narratives you have internalized, perhaps unconsciously, that impacts how you show up in the world. For couples, I support you to look deeper into reactions and arguments to find what you're really longing for: connection, appreciation, safety.
(778) 910-9755 View (778) 910-9755
Photo of Melanie Tan, Pre-Licensed Professional
Melanie Tan
Pre-Licensed Professional
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6B
Waitlist for new clients
My focus is on sex therapy, so I'm very comfy in the space of sexual concerns, shame, kink, or other topics.
My own life experience is a huge part of why I'm so passionate about this work. As a demisexual, bicultural person (Canadian/Singaporean), I get how complex it is to walk between different worlds. Living with chronic pain has taught me a ton about the mind-body connection. I'm also queer and demisexual, so a rainbow sticker isn't here as a platitude.
My focus is on sex therapy, so I'm very comfy in the space of sexual concerns, shame, kink, or other topics.
My own life experience is a huge part of why I'm so passionate about this work. As a demisexual, bicultural person (Canadian/Singaporean), I get how complex it is to walk between different worlds. Living with chronic pain has taught me a ton about the mind-body connection. I'm also queer and demisexual, so a rainbow sticker isn't here as a platitude.
(236) 205-5484 View (236) 205-5484
Photo of Sara Bruno, Counsellor, MC
Sara Bruno
Counsellor, MC
2 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6C
My ideal client is open-minded, creative, and seeks to explore themselves in a deep, meaningful way. They may struggle with boundaries and hyperactivity, and are looking for support in their relationship with desire and intimacy. Sex-positive and spiritually inclined, they appreciate a holistic approach to healing. I attract clients who are ready to sit with the darker parts of themselves and want a therapist who is compassionate, playful, and focused on long-term relational goals. They value a safe, non-judgmental space to explore their identities, desires, and relationships.
My ideal client is open-minded, creative, and seeks to explore themselves in a deep, meaningful way. They may struggle with boundaries and hyperactivity, and are looking for support in their relationship with desire and intimacy. Sex-positive and spiritually inclined, they appreciate a holistic approach to healing. I attract clients who are ready to sit with the darker parts of themselves and want a therapist who is compassionate, playful, and focused on long-term relational goals. They value a safe, non-judgmental space to explore their identities, desires, and relationships.
(249) 444-2426 View (249) 444-2426
Photo of Al Zwiers - ah-ha! Counselling & Consulting, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
ah-ha! Counselling & Consulting
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Online Only
It's okay to struggle. Sometimes we all just need a hand. I hold space for people to be heard and understood, to find personal insight and growth, and to get unstuck.
It's okay to struggle. Sometimes we all just need a hand. I hold space for people to be heard and understood, to find personal insight and growth, and to get unstuck.
(579) 700-6562 View (579) 700-6562
Photo of Madison Chen, Counsellor, MCP, RCC
Madison Chen
Counsellor, MCP, RCC
3 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6C
We'll create a safe space together to explore your emotions, thoughts, and troubling experiences. Everyone is strong, resilient, and creative, and we can all strive to be the best version of ourselves. No one is permanently “ill”; we are just temporarily discouraged by our life circumstances and trapped in unhelpful cycles.
We'll create a safe space together to explore your emotions, thoughts, and troubling experiences. Everyone is strong, resilient, and creative, and we can all strive to be the best version of ourselves. No one is permanently “ill”; we are just temporarily discouraged by our life circumstances and trapped in unhelpful cycles.
(709) 500-0454 View (709) 500-0454
Photo of Yassie Pirani, Counsellor, RCC, RSW
Yassie Pirani
Counsellor, RCC, RSW
3 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5L
You don't have to figure out life's challenges alone - you deserve to have your pain witnessed. Together we’ll build a strong relationship and untangle the parts of you that feel stuck, so that you can make the best choices and changes for your life. It is my goal for you feel truly heard, supported, and empowered to grow in the ways that matter most to you. Whatever uncertainty, change, pain, or opportunity you are experiencing - I am prepared to listen deeply with compassion, curiosity, and care. My approach is trauma-informed - bringing together mind and body based therapy to best support your unique situation.
You don't have to figure out life's challenges alone - you deserve to have your pain witnessed. Together we’ll build a strong relationship and untangle the parts of you that feel stuck, so that you can make the best choices and changes for your life. It is my goal for you feel truly heard, supported, and empowered to grow in the ways that matter most to you. Whatever uncertainty, change, pain, or opportunity you are experiencing - I am prepared to listen deeply with compassion, curiosity, and care. My approach is trauma-informed - bringing together mind and body based therapy to best support your unique situation.
(365) 661-4658 View (365) 661-4658
Photo of Emily B Anderson - Road to Hana, Vancouver, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RCC
Road to Hana, Vancouver
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RCC
2 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6E
My Ideal client is someone who genuinely desires emotional growth and healthy change in their life. I feel most confident in guiding clients through their attachment trauma, providing tools to change negative thought patterns, and addressing unhelpful self-beliefs. I enjoy exploring attachment styles with clients, and bringing awareness to the impact of relationship dynamics on thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and who we invite into our lives. I am always happy to support the building of a higher quality of life together, and finding the tools that work best for each client.
My Ideal client is someone who genuinely desires emotional growth and healthy change in their life. I feel most confident in guiding clients through their attachment trauma, providing tools to change negative thought patterns, and addressing unhelpful self-beliefs. I enjoy exploring attachment styles with clients, and bringing awareness to the impact of relationship dynamics on thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and who we invite into our lives. I am always happy to support the building of a higher quality of life together, and finding the tools that work best for each client.
(807) 805-3069 View (807) 805-3069
Photo of Emily Baum, Counsellor, MACP, RCC, EMDR, Gottman
Emily Baum
Counsellor, MACP, RCC, EMDR, Gottman
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6Z
Seeking healing and connection? Struggling with the aftermath of traumatic experiences? Overwhelmed by emotions and disruptive anxiety? Relationships in need of repair? You're not alone! Whatever is going on in your world, we’ll figure out the next best step, together. I work with individuals and couples seeking support on their healing journeys, a sense of control over their thoughts and behaviours, improved relationships, increased emotional well-being and, ultimately, a more fulfilling life. The path to healing may seem overwhelming and you don't have to go it alone; I'm here to help you write new chapters in your best story.
Seeking healing and connection? Struggling with the aftermath of traumatic experiences? Overwhelmed by emotions and disruptive anxiety? Relationships in need of repair? You're not alone! Whatever is going on in your world, we’ll figure out the next best step, together. I work with individuals and couples seeking support on their healing journeys, a sense of control over their thoughts and behaviours, improved relationships, increased emotional well-being and, ultimately, a more fulfilling life. The path to healing may seem overwhelming and you don't have to go it alone; I'm here to help you write new chapters in your best story.
(548) 490-6538 View (548) 490-6538
Photo of Becca Beckford, Counsellor, BA, MACP, RCC, CCC
Becca Beckford
Counsellor, BA, MACP, RCC, CCC
2 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6J
Finding the right therapist can be a daunting task. As a Black and queer therapist, I work to help those who are in need of a safe space to open up about difficult issues that they have faced in their life. I work from a trauma-informed and anti-oppressive lens in order to create a safe environment for every client I work with. I especially enjoy working with LGBTQIA2S+ folks, BIPOC folks, and sex workers, and I welcome anyone outside of these communities to reach out for support as well.
Finding the right therapist can be a daunting task. As a Black and queer therapist, I work to help those who are in need of a safe space to open up about difficult issues that they have faced in their life. I work from a trauma-informed and anti-oppressive lens in order to create a safe environment for every client I work with. I especially enjoy working with LGBTQIA2S+ folks, BIPOC folks, and sex workers, and I welcome anyone outside of these communities to reach out for support as well.
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Photo of Kelly Xiao, Counsellor, MACP, RCC
Kelly Xiao
Counsellor, MACP, RCC
Vancouver, BC V6J
Systemic impacts of larger society can create and maintain the problems we face in our mental health. As a queer person of colour, I understand that feeling understood by another person can be an incredibly transformative experience. I aim to create this environment with each of my clients by utilizing a trauma-informed and collaborative approach. I will individualize my training to your goals and unique experiences to help you live a life that feels more aligned with what you envision for yourself.
Systemic impacts of larger society can create and maintain the problems we face in our mental health. As a queer person of colour, I understand that feeling understood by another person can be an incredibly transformative experience. I aim to create this environment with each of my clients by utilizing a trauma-informed and collaborative approach. I will individualize my training to your goals and unique experiences to help you live a life that feels more aligned with what you envision for yourself.
(587) 507-8578 View (587) 507-8578
Photo of Jeff Darcy - Curiosity Counselling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RCSW
Curiosity Counselling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RCSW
2 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6J
23 years experience helping you heal, grow, and find balance. Curious how curiosity itself can spark transformation? As a therapist with a background that bridges both engineering and psychology, I bring clarity, compassion, and hope to life’s challenges. Be curious, not judgmental. Together, we’ll work to ease anxiety, lift depression, manage stress, and build more meaningful relationships. I draw on approaches such as CBT, EMDR, IFS, and mindfulness. Clients often tell me I help “make sense of the chaos” by blending structure with warmth. If this resonates, let’s connect for a free 15-minute consultation.
23 years experience helping you heal, grow, and find balance. Curious how curiosity itself can spark transformation? As a therapist with a background that bridges both engineering and psychology, I bring clarity, compassion, and hope to life’s challenges. Be curious, not judgmental. Together, we’ll work to ease anxiety, lift depression, manage stress, and build more meaningful relationships. I draw on approaches such as CBT, EMDR, IFS, and mindfulness. Clients often tell me I help “make sense of the chaos” by blending structure with warmth. If this resonates, let’s connect for a free 15-minute consultation.
(778) 784-5208 View (778) 784-5208
Photo of Anna Kinloch, Pre-Licensed Professional, MACP, Intern
Anna Kinloch
Pre-Licensed Professional, MACP, Intern
2 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5W
Anxiety? Been there. Depression...been there too. Big decisions, divorce, relationship ambivalence (staying or going), lostness...all roads I've traveled along and now I'm here - with the academic and professional training - to support you through your own growth. Our inner lives can feel complex and confusing - getting support makes sense! With support you can begin to relax into a more integrated nervous system when facing life's challenges which ultimately allows you to feel "MORE like you". Healing is integration as opposed to feeling pulled into emotion, reaction, and over identification with criticism and others opinions.
Anxiety? Been there. Depression...been there too. Big decisions, divorce, relationship ambivalence (staying or going), lostness...all roads I've traveled along and now I'm here - with the academic and professional training - to support you through your own growth. Our inner lives can feel complex and confusing - getting support makes sense! With support you can begin to relax into a more integrated nervous system when facing life's challenges which ultimately allows you to feel "MORE like you". Healing is integration as opposed to feeling pulled into emotion, reaction, and over identification with criticism and others opinions.
(431) 640-2800 View (431) 640-2800
Photo of Avery Viet Chaplan-Hoang, Counsellor, MA, CCC
Avery Viet Chaplan-Hoang
Counsellor, MA, CCC
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6J
I have experience working with children, teens and young adults who are dealing with social and emotional issues, while striving to strengthen their internal locus of control. Outside of counselling, I work with individuals in the Vancouver Downtown Eastside who are living with addiction and housing insecurity. Through this work, I have developed an appreciation that mental health challenges can be exacerbated by both internal and external factors, such as past trauma and poverty.
I have experience working with children, teens and young adults who are dealing with social and emotional issues, while striving to strengthen their internal locus of control. Outside of counselling, I work with individuals in the Vancouver Downtown Eastside who are living with addiction and housing insecurity. Through this work, I have developed an appreciation that mental health challenges can be exacerbated by both internal and external factors, such as past trauma and poverty.
(506) 516-1654 View (506) 516-1654
Photo of Victoria Elizabeth Klausen, Pre-Licensed Professional, BA
Victoria Elizabeth Klausen
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6Z
Welcome. I’m glad you’re here. If you’re reading this, you may be doing your best to keep everything together on the outside while quietly struggling on the inside. Many of my clients come to me with questions like: “Why do I work so hard to meet everyone else’s expectations?” “My life looks fine—so why does it feel like something’s missing?” “Why do I hold myself back because I’m worried what others will think?” “How do I figure out what I actually want and live in a way that feels true to me?” If any of these feel familiar, you’re not alone—and therapy can help.
Welcome. I’m glad you’re here. If you’re reading this, you may be doing your best to keep everything together on the outside while quietly struggling on the inside. Many of my clients come to me with questions like: “Why do I work so hard to meet everyone else’s expectations?” “My life looks fine—so why does it feel like something’s missing?” “Why do I hold myself back because I’m worried what others will think?” “How do I figure out what I actually want and live in a way that feels true to me?” If any of these feel familiar, you’re not alone—and therapy can help.
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Photo of Ana Claudia Naoufal, Counsellor, MA, RCC
Ana Claudia Naoufal
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Online Only
Sometimes, when you find yourself in the dark you think you have been buried, when actually, you have always been planted and given an opportunity to grow.I am here to help you find your way out of the dark and guide you back to yourself, to the light, and towards an aligned and authentic life.I will walk with you through the journey towards healing, growth, and the freedom that comes with becoming who you were born to be, reintegrating you with the true essence of love, kindness, and a life worth living, which is often found on the other side of the pain.Together we co-create a sacred space where both of us show up as we are.
Sometimes, when you find yourself in the dark you think you have been buried, when actually, you have always been planted and given an opportunity to grow.I am here to help you find your way out of the dark and guide you back to yourself, to the light, and towards an aligned and authentic life.I will walk with you through the journey towards healing, growth, and the freedom that comes with becoming who you were born to be, reintegrating you with the true essence of love, kindness, and a life worth living, which is often found on the other side of the pain.Together we co-create a sacred space where both of us show up as we are.
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Photo of Erik Schindler, Counsellor, MBA, MCP, RCC
Erik Schindler
Counsellor, MBA, MCP, RCC
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6Z
Change. Do you have the feeling that something has to change… but you’re not quite sure what it is? Or you have a good idea what and where you want to be… but don’t know what changes to make to get there? Are obsessions and compulsions ruling your life? Or are you struggling with feelings of depression or anxiety? Are your relationships – intimate, family, work – suffering? And are you ready to take that first step towards change? You've come to the right place.
Change. Do you have the feeling that something has to change… but you’re not quite sure what it is? Or you have a good idea what and where you want to be… but don’t know what changes to make to get there? Are obsessions and compulsions ruling your life? Or are you struggling with feelings of depression or anxiety? Are your relationships – intimate, family, work – suffering? And are you ready to take that first step towards change? You've come to the right place.
(581) 798-5862 View (581) 798-5862
Photo of Priya Gill, Counsellor, BA, MCP, RCC
Priya Gill
Counsellor, BA, MCP, RCC
2 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5V
Whether you come from a queer, poly, kink, or sex work background, are exploring identity, ancestral or cultural wounds, or are living with patterns shaped by early attachment or trauma, our work together will be grounded in safety, compassion, and deep respect for who you are.
My approach is holistic, integrative and relational—drawing from EMDR, IFS/Parts Work, Emotion Focused, somatic approaches- and always tailored to your unique experience. I also bring a trauma-informed, culturally attuned lens to therapy, honoring how your story is shaped not just by personal history but by family, community, and systems.
Whether you come from a queer, poly, kink, or sex work background, are exploring identity, ancestral or cultural wounds, or are living with patterns shaped by early attachment or trauma, our work together will be grounded in safety, compassion, and deep respect for who you are.
My approach is holistic, integrative and relational—drawing from EMDR, IFS/Parts Work, Emotion Focused, somatic approaches- and always tailored to your unique experience. I also bring a trauma-informed, culturally attuned lens to therapy, honoring how your story is shaped not just by personal history but by family, community, and systems.
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Photo of Niseema Emery - Sensual Soul Wellness, RTC
Sensual Soul Wellness
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5N
Relationships can be complex and navigating them can feel daunting, to say the least. When a relationship has been in a state of disconnection for a period of time, it can feel impossible to even know where to begin. It could be that you seem to have the same argument over and over again, your sex life has fizzled out, infidelity, general life changes that have impacted your ability to connect. Or maybe you just feel bored and unsatisfied. I work with people of all genders who are interested in improving their relationships and/or sex life, no matter where they are at. Single, coupled and everywhere in between.
Relationships can be complex and navigating them can feel daunting, to say the least. When a relationship has been in a state of disconnection for a period of time, it can feel impossible to even know where to begin. It could be that you seem to have the same argument over and over again, your sex life has fizzled out, infidelity, general life changes that have impacted your ability to connect. Or maybe you just feel bored and unsatisfied. I work with people of all genders who are interested in improving their relationships and/or sex life, no matter where they are at. Single, coupled and everywhere in between.
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See more therapy options for Vancouver

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.