Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Counselling in Midlothian

Photo of Stuart Benney - Stuart Benney Counselling & Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Stuart Benney Counselling & Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Bonnyrigg EH19
I work with adults experiencing anxiety, low mood, relationship difficulties, trauma, loss, low self-esteem, and life transitions. Many clients come feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected from themselves. My practice is welcoming to people from all walks of life, including LGBTQ+ individuals, neurodivergent people, and those in diverse relationships. Together, we create a safe, supportive space where you can explore your experiences, gain insight, build resilience, and move towards a life that feels more fulfilling and authentic.
I work with adults experiencing anxiety, low mood, relationship difficulties, trauma, loss, low self-esteem, and life transitions. Many clients come feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected from themselves. My practice is welcoming to people from all walks of life, including LGBTQ+ individuals, neurodivergent people, and those in diverse relationships. Together, we create a safe, supportive space where you can explore your experiences, gain insight, build resilience, and move towards a life that feels more fulfilling and authentic.
0131 381 2849 View 0131 381 2849
Photo of Dr Susan Mackay, Psychotherapist, PhD, HCPC-Art Therap.
Dr Susan Mackay
Psychotherapist, PhD, HCPC-Art Therap.
Penicuik EH26
Here is a safe place where you can bring what’s on your mind and together we can make sense of it to find a clearer way forward. Sometimes troubles can feel too stuck or confusing to find words for. In sessions with me, along with words, we can use art materials, or any to hand objects, like a pencil, a piece of paper or string to express what is happening for you. This can give a cathartic sense of difficulties as if lifted from you and shared. Working together in this way can support new ways of thinking and improve relationships through increased self-awareness and emotional mastery.
Here is a safe place where you can bring what’s on your mind and together we can make sense of it to find a clearer way forward. Sometimes troubles can feel too stuck or confusing to find words for. In sessions with me, along with words, we can use art materials, or any to hand objects, like a pencil, a piece of paper or string to express what is happening for you. This can give a cathartic sense of difficulties as if lifted from you and shared. Working together in this way can support new ways of thinking and improve relationships through increased self-awareness and emotional mastery.
01764 915903 View 01764 915903
Photo of Dr Chrissie Wanner, Counsellor, PhD, MNCPS Acc.
Dr Chrissie Wanner
Counsellor, PhD, MNCPS Acc.
Serves Area
Free initial online consultation to discuss your needs and how we might work together. I offer safe, steady, calm, warm, and non-judgemental support to work through current or past difficulties that might feel too big or complex to face alone. I'm happy to work with individuals from all backgrounds and walks of life, either online or in person. I'm also happy to work flexibly around childcare and/or work commitments.
Free initial online consultation to discuss your needs and how we might work together. I offer safe, steady, calm, warm, and non-judgemental support to work through current or past difficulties that might feel too big or complex to face alone. I'm happy to work with individuals from all backgrounds and walks of life, either online or in person. I'm also happy to work flexibly around childcare and/or work commitments.
01578 517317 View 01578 517317

Online Therapists

Photo of Noam Simon, Psychotherapist, MA, MNCPS Acc.
Noam Simon
Psychotherapist, MA, MNCPS Acc.
2 Endorsed
So often our difficulties make us feel stuck, bound in place. We can feel caught in a loop, and not know how to get free. We might even know what to do - but either can't seem to do it or it won't work. And sometimes we don't even know what is making us feel stuck and where to start. Problems with our health, mood, traumatic experiences, changes to our life circumstances like work or living arrangement, relationships, habits- any of these can make us feel stuck.
So often our difficulties make us feel stuck, bound in place. We can feel caught in a loop, and not know how to get free. We might even know what to do - but either can't seem to do it or it won't work. And sometimes we don't even know what is making us feel stuck and where to start. Problems with our health, mood, traumatic experiences, changes to our life circumstances like work or living arrangement, relationships, habits- any of these can make us feel stuck.
0131 381 3592 View 0131 381 3592
Photo of Genevieve Theresa Buée, Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Genevieve Theresa Buée
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Hello, I am an experienced therapist offering counselling sessions for adults and young people aged 14 and over. I provide professional insight and perspectives in approaching problems to enhance well being and create an overall positive change in understanding. This helps make meaning out of life in the "here and now" and also provides support with ongoing benefits in making life choices for the future. When situations or context do not have solutions, supporting the process of emotional healing is the focus of therapy.
Hello, I am an experienced therapist offering counselling sessions for adults and young people aged 14 and over. I provide professional insight and perspectives in approaching problems to enhance well being and create an overall positive change in understanding. This helps make meaning out of life in the "here and now" and also provides support with ongoing benefits in making life choices for the future. When situations or context do not have solutions, supporting the process of emotional healing is the focus of therapy.
0191 917 9391 View 0191 917 9391
Photo of Charlotte Webb, Counsellor, MBACP
Charlotte Webb
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Feeling off, low or anxious? Navigating relationships and boundaries, feeling overwhelming? Whether you're feeling misaligned with yourself, or something has happened that you need some space to process - that's what I'm here for, to hear. My approach to therapy has the strong belief at its core that you know you the best, and I'm not here to tell you what to do. What I am here to offer is a safe space to explore your thoughts, feelings and beliefs, and consider what you want things to be like for you. I'll ask questions, help you spot patterns and maybe gently challenge some processes to help you get back in the driver's seat.
Feeling off, low or anxious? Navigating relationships and boundaries, feeling overwhelming? Whether you're feeling misaligned with yourself, or something has happened that you need some space to process - that's what I'm here for, to hear. My approach to therapy has the strong belief at its core that you know you the best, and I'm not here to tell you what to do. What I am here to offer is a safe space to explore your thoughts, feelings and beliefs, and consider what you want things to be like for you. I'll ask questions, help you spot patterns and maybe gently challenge some processes to help you get back in the driver's seat.
0141 673 6080 View 0141 673 6080
Photo of David Morris, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
David Morris
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
3 Endorsed
One of the most important first steps toward positive change can be learning to value the person we already are. With a focus on the therapeutic relationship and in developing a trusting connection by being empathic, authentic and non-judgemental, I will support you in your journey toward increased self-acceptance and in working toward the changes you want to incorporate into your life as you move forward.
One of the most important first steps toward positive change can be learning to value the person we already are. With a focus on the therapeutic relationship and in developing a trusting connection by being empathic, authentic and non-judgemental, I will support you in your journey toward increased self-acceptance and in working toward the changes you want to incorporate into your life as you move forward.
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Photo of Paul Mcilvenny, Counsellor, MBACP
Paul Mcilvenny
Counsellor, MBACP
Glasgow G64
My typical clients are those affected with different forms of compulsive / addictive behaviours - these might include Porn, Sex and Love Addictions; Gambling, Eating Disorders, Alcohol & Narcotics abuse; or those who are Workaholics or compulsive Gamers or Shoppers. I work with both individuals and their partners. Clients usually first see me when they have reached a major crisis point in their lives and are seeking a person who has an understanding of their issues and how to help changes. Further details on my background and approach can be found online - just look up Trusted Therapeutics online.
My typical clients are those affected with different forms of compulsive / addictive behaviours - these might include Porn, Sex and Love Addictions; Gambling, Eating Disorders, Alcohol & Narcotics abuse; or those who are Workaholics or compulsive Gamers or Shoppers. I work with both individuals and their partners. Clients usually first see me when they have reached a major crisis point in their lives and are seeking a person who has an understanding of their issues and how to help changes. Further details on my background and approach can be found online - just look up Trusted Therapeutics online.
0141 280 5966 View 0141 280 5966
Photo of Kim Malcolm - Integrative Mind Therapies, Psychotherapist, MA, PNCPS Acc.
Integrative Mind Therapies
Psychotherapist, MA, PNCPS Acc.
I am an integrative counsellor, I specialise in many areas of difficulties within trauma, past and present. My strengths are qualifications and experience for all groups. I work within schools & private practice with children and young people for varying presenting issues. I have been a therapist for approximately 10 years in that time I continue to be passionate about my work. Life experience I think is important along with the quality of therapy, so brought together can make a difference to a persons well being, which my style of therapy is tailored to suit a wide range of modalities.
I am an integrative counsellor, I specialise in many areas of difficulties within trauma, past and present. My strengths are qualifications and experience for all groups. I work within schools & private practice with children and young people for varying presenting issues. I have been a therapist for approximately 10 years in that time I continue to be passionate about my work. Life experience I think is important along with the quality of therapy, so brought together can make a difference to a persons well being, which my style of therapy is tailored to suit a wide range of modalities.
07754 408537 View 07754 408537
Photo of Joseph Harney, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Joseph Harney
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Patient. Reliable. Approachable. I’m an experienced Irish psychologist, with a practice primarily focused on relationship difficulties. These create psychological challenges that can preoccupy us in daily life. Our self-understanding is built up through our relationships, through what gets reflected back to us from those closest to us. As a result, difficulties like infidelity, jealousy, envy, loneliness, repeating conflicts - these can cut to the core of who we are. Working together, I can support you to rebuild trust in yourself, and make greater sense of the difficult relational reality you find yourself in.
Patient. Reliable. Approachable. I’m an experienced Irish psychologist, with a practice primarily focused on relationship difficulties. These create psychological challenges that can preoccupy us in daily life. Our self-understanding is built up through our relationships, through what gets reflected back to us from those closest to us. As a result, difficulties like infidelity, jealousy, envy, loneliness, repeating conflicts - these can cut to the core of who we are. Working together, I can support you to rebuild trust in yourself, and make greater sense of the difficult relational reality you find yourself in.
01934 316726 View 01934 316726
Photo of Pavla Radostova, Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Pavla Radostova
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Feeling overwhelmed, stressed, hopeless? Alone, depressed, anxious? Together we can find a way out of stuckness and dark places. In the increasingly unsafe world I can offer a safe space to process your experiences and together we can explore ways of being and becoming who you are and how you want to be in the word. My name is Pavla and I am a psychotherapist and a counsellor with over 10 years of experience supporting my clients.
Feeling overwhelmed, stressed, hopeless? Alone, depressed, anxious? Together we can find a way out of stuckness and dark places. In the increasingly unsafe world I can offer a safe space to process your experiences and together we can explore ways of being and becoming who you are and how you want to be in the word. My name is Pavla and I am a psychotherapist and a counsellor with over 10 years of experience supporting my clients.
01436 647394 View 01436 647394
Photo of Eleanor Birkett, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Eleanor Birkett
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Online Only
Hello! I am a therapist specialising in the treatment of OCD. I also have extensive experience working with LGBT individuals. My name is Eleanor (she/her) welcome to my page! My job is to get to know you as a person, to understand what makes you you, and to accept you for who you are – unconditionally. There may be things going on in your life or your mind that are troubling to you. There may be many conflicting and challenging emotions with which you feel unable to cope. Whether these issues have only recently come to light, or you have been suffering for some time, healing and growth are always possible for everyone.
Hello! I am a therapist specialising in the treatment of OCD. I also have extensive experience working with LGBT individuals. My name is Eleanor (she/her) welcome to my page! My job is to get to know you as a person, to understand what makes you you, and to accept you for who you are – unconditionally. There may be things going on in your life or your mind that are troubling to you. There may be many conflicting and challenging emotions with which you feel unable to cope. Whether these issues have only recently come to light, or you have been suffering for some time, healing and growth are always possible for everyone.
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Photo of Stephen Queen, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Stephen Queen
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
2 Endorsed
As a senior accredited CBT Therapist, I have experience in the treatment of a wide range of conditions. Some of my recent work includes OCD, POCD, Anxiety, Depression, Self-Esteem, Phobias, Trauma, Stress, Confidence, Sex Addiction, Teenage Troubles and Emotional Deregulation. I work with children, teenagers and adults, and am happy to explore anything specific that you'd like to discuss.
As a senior accredited CBT Therapist, I have experience in the treatment of a wide range of conditions. Some of my recent work includes OCD, POCD, Anxiety, Depression, Self-Esteem, Phobias, Trauma, Stress, Confidence, Sex Addiction, Teenage Troubles and Emotional Deregulation. I work with children, teenagers and adults, and am happy to explore anything specific that you'd like to discuss.
01698 674511 View 01698 674511
Photo of Ruth Micallef, Counsellor, MBACP
Ruth Micallef
Counsellor, MBACP
Do you often feel a sense of guilt or shame around food? Do thoughts of food become intrusive or overwhelming? Are you often binging or eating until you feel uncomfortable or sick? Perhaps you are fixated on 'healthy' or 'clean' eating? Maybe you 'purge' by excessively exercising, restricting, making yourself sick, using laxatives, or have a history of yo-yo dieting? Perhaps you avoid whole food groups and are often called a 'fussy' or 'picky' eater? Or a combination of any of the above? It sounds like you are struggling with an Eating Disorder!
Do you often feel a sense of guilt or shame around food? Do thoughts of food become intrusive or overwhelming? Are you often binging or eating until you feel uncomfortable or sick? Perhaps you are fixated on 'healthy' or 'clean' eating? Maybe you 'purge' by excessively exercising, restricting, making yourself sick, using laxatives, or have a history of yo-yo dieting? Perhaps you avoid whole food groups and are often called a 'fussy' or 'picky' eater? Or a combination of any of the above? It sounds like you are struggling with an Eating Disorder!
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Photo of Zaid Al-Nayazi, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Zaid Al-Nayazi
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
3 Endorsed
Hello, I’m Zaid. Many of the people I work with have spent most of their lives adapting & shifting themselves to fit family, culture, work, or whatever space they’re in. It creates a particular kind of tiredness that comes from always trying to make sense of where you belong. If you’re neurodivergent, from a mixed or migrant background, or just carrying more than people realise, you might know that feeling well. I know something of that in-between space myself. It’s part of what brought me into therapy work, and it shapes how I sit with people. I integrate the person-centred approach and emotion-focused practice.
Hello, I’m Zaid. Many of the people I work with have spent most of their lives adapting & shifting themselves to fit family, culture, work, or whatever space they’re in. It creates a particular kind of tiredness that comes from always trying to make sense of where you belong. If you’re neurodivergent, from a mixed or migrant background, or just carrying more than people realise, you might know that feeling well. I know something of that in-between space myself. It’s part of what brought me into therapy work, and it shapes how I sit with people. I integrate the person-centred approach and emotion-focused practice.
0131 381 6580 View 0131 381 6580
Photo of Stephen Balfour, Counsellor, MBACP
Stephen Balfour
Counsellor, MBACP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Life can be difficult and painful at times and we could all benefit from a safe space to make sense of and process difficult emotions, develop our resilience and coping strategies. I am a qualified CBT Counsellor and predominantly work with clients using a CBT based approach but can also call upon skills and experience I have gained through additional training in clinical hypnotherapy, life coaching and person-centred counselling.
Life can be difficult and painful at times and we could all benefit from a safe space to make sense of and process difficult emotions, develop our resilience and coping strategies. I am a qualified CBT Counsellor and predominantly work with clients using a CBT based approach but can also call upon skills and experience I have gained through additional training in clinical hypnotherapy, life coaching and person-centred counselling.
01259 235995 View 01259 235995
Photo of Constantinos Leftheriotis, Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Constantinos Leftheriotis
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
2 Endorsed
Edinburgh EH10
If you're feeling anxious, low, overwhelmed, or stuck in patterns you can't seem to break, you're in the right place. My name is Constantinos. I'm a BACP Accredited Psychotherapist, which means I've met the highest professional standards set by the UK's leading counselling body. I work with people who are ready to understand themselves better, feel more in control, and live more freely. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, or self-esteem, I'm here to help. You don't have to have everything figured out before reaching out. You're not alone in this.
If you're feeling anxious, low, overwhelmed, or stuck in patterns you can't seem to break, you're in the right place. My name is Constantinos. I'm a BACP Accredited Psychotherapist, which means I've met the highest professional standards set by the UK's leading counselling body. I work with people who are ready to understand themselves better, feel more in control, and live more freely. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, or self-esteem, I'm here to help. You don't have to have everything figured out before reaching out. You're not alone in this.
0131 381 1755 View 0131 381 1755
Photo of Jamie Plaumer, Counsellor, MBACP
Jamie Plaumer
Counsellor, MBACP
Glasgow G42
My name is Jamie. I’m a psychodynamic counsellor (Registered Member MBACP) offering individual, online and in-person counselling in the Southside of Glasgow. I offer a reflective, non-judgemental space where you can feel deeply heard. My practice is rooted in the belief that lasting change begins with understanding the patterns that shape our lives. I work collaboratively to build trust, uncover meaning and support you towards a sense of authenticity and emotional resilience.
My name is Jamie. I’m a psychodynamic counsellor (Registered Member MBACP) offering individual, online and in-person counselling in the Southside of Glasgow. I offer a reflective, non-judgemental space where you can feel deeply heard. My practice is rooted in the belief that lasting change begins with understanding the patterns that shape our lives. I work collaboratively to build trust, uncover meaning and support you towards a sense of authenticity and emotional resilience.
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Photo of Amy Polson - Amy Polson at Soft Ground Practice, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Amy Polson at Soft Ground Practice
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Online Only
Integrative & trauma-informed therapy for deep-thinkers, highly-sensitive people and those who feel lost, alone or out of place. I provide a neurodiversity-affirming and LGBTQIA+ celebratory space for young professionals and students navigating anxiety, OCD, trauma, relationships and the search for meaning. At Soft Ground Practice, I honour the whole of who you are - not as a problem to be fixed, but as a person navigating a complex world. Together we can help you reconnect with your self, process painful experiences, and find a deeper sense of fulfilment.
Integrative & trauma-informed therapy for deep-thinkers, highly-sensitive people and those who feel lost, alone or out of place. I provide a neurodiversity-affirming and LGBTQIA+ celebratory space for young professionals and students navigating anxiety, OCD, trauma, relationships and the search for meaning. At Soft Ground Practice, I honour the whole of who you are - not as a problem to be fixed, but as a person navigating a complex world. Together we can help you reconnect with your self, process painful experiences, and find a deeper sense of fulfilment.
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Photo of Lisa Etherson
Lisa Etherson
Verified Verified
Tynemouth NE30
I use a sex positive, non-shaming approach to sex therapy and compulsive sexual behaviour.
I support people struggling with compulsive sexual behaviour—often known as sex or porn addiction. You might feel guilt or shame about porn use, find it hard to stop despite wanting to, or notice it causing problems in your life. My approach is sex-positive and nonjudgmental, focused on helping you reduce shame and build a relationship with your sexuality and sexual activity that you are more comfortable with. I also work with those experiencing shame about themselves, whether related to sex or other issues in life.
I use a sex positive, non-shaming approach to sex therapy and compulsive sexual behaviour.
I support people struggling with compulsive sexual behaviour—often known as sex or porn addiction. You might feel guilt or shame about porn use, find it hard to stop despite wanting to, or notice it causing problems in your life. My approach is sex-positive and nonjudgmental, focused on helping you reduce shame and build a relationship with your sexuality and sexual activity that you are more comfortable with. I also work with those experiencing shame about themselves, whether related to sex or other issues in life.
0191 743 6693 View 0191 743 6693

See more therapy options for Midlothian

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.