Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Therapists in 85284
![Photo of Kristin Meiner, LPC, MAPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7b3566c0-9d74-4553-afd5-b5840b2aa7c5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kristin Meiner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MAPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85284 (Online Only)
I encourage positive sexual growth and I love working with LGBTQIA+, BDSM/Kink, Poly/ENM, and swing communities.
You're already making great progress by reaching out! Hi, I'm Kristin, and I'm here to provide a judgment free atmosphere while helping you through your struggles. I pride myself on building strong rapport with clients, as I believe this is the most important aspect to beginning the therapeutic process and working toward real change. I'm in the helping profession mostly due to my own life experiences, which gives me the ability to have strong empathy for clients. I have a true passion for helping others. My approach is holistic, realistic and person-centered. I put an emphasis on positivity and building a solid set of coping skills.
I encourage positive sexual growth and I love working with LGBTQIA+, BDSM/Kink, Poly/ENM, and swing communities.
You're already making great progress by reaching out! Hi, I'm Kristin, and I'm here to provide a judgment free atmosphere while helping you through your struggles. I pride myself on building strong rapport with clients, as I believe this is the most important aspect to beginning the therapeutic process and working toward real change. I'm in the helping profession mostly due to my own life experiences, which gives me the ability to have strong empathy for clients. I have a true passion for helping others. My approach is holistic, realistic and person-centered. I put an emphasis on positivity and building a solid set of coping skills.
![Photo of Aaron Bachler, MC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a0533f1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Aaron Bachler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85284
Hello! I welcome adults and couples from all backgrounds, life experiences and affectional orientations. I have experience working with clients with various challenges including anxiety, depression, kink, self-esteem, relationship issues, adverse religious experiences, navigating challenges at work, boundaries and LGBTQIA+ concerns. I am focused on helping clients discover their true potential for growth and I strive to create a caring, compassionate and non-judgmental space for you to be the best version of yourself.
Hello! I welcome adults and couples from all backgrounds, life experiences and affectional orientations. I have experience working with clients with various challenges including anxiety, depression, kink, self-esteem, relationship issues, adverse religious experiences, navigating challenges at work, boundaries and LGBTQIA+ concerns. I am focused on helping clients discover their true potential for growth and I strive to create a caring, compassionate and non-judgmental space for you to be the best version of yourself.
![Photo of Keri Sipek, LAMFT, PMH-C, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52d55159-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Keri Sipek
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LAMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85284
Now offering daytime & evening appointments. Reaching out for help can be difficult & takes courage. I’m here to offer a safe space & provide support while you explore your issues. From there, you can begin to heal & create positive change in your life & relationships. My experience includes working with couples, & individual adults who have struggled with infidelity, relationship strain, sexual issues, parenting, depression, anxiety, & more. In addition, I work with women & couples struggling with infertility, postpartum anxiety, postpartum depression, traumatic birth recovery, & adjustment to parenthood.
Now offering daytime & evening appointments. Reaching out for help can be difficult & takes courage. I’m here to offer a safe space & provide support while you explore your issues. From there, you can begin to heal & create positive change in your life & relationships. My experience includes working with couples, & individual adults who have struggled with infidelity, relationship strain, sexual issues, parenting, depression, anxiety, & more. In addition, I work with women & couples struggling with infertility, postpartum anxiety, postpartum depression, traumatic birth recovery, & adjustment to parenthood.
![Photo of Kiera Thorn, MS, LPC, CCTS-I, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b57b573a-1d80-4b36-ae83-4b358a95c2db/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kiera Thorn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CCTS-I
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85284
Currently accepting new clients! I will show you how to make a positive difference in your life, whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, addiction, identity, trauma, or trying to create the best version of yourself. No matter your symptoms or difficulties we will work as a team to improve your well-being. My approach to therapy is tailored to your individual needs and desired outcomes. I utilize evidence-based treatments that include Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, and Solution-Focused.
Currently accepting new clients! I will show you how to make a positive difference in your life, whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, addiction, identity, trauma, or trying to create the best version of yourself. No matter your symptoms or difficulties we will work as a team to improve your well-being. My approach to therapy is tailored to your individual needs and desired outcomes. I utilize evidence-based treatments that include Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, and Solution-Focused.
![Photo of Stacy K Sledge, MC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/72288809-0d87-4f21-a556-e2e1e55cfff8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Stacy K Sledge
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85284
In this fast-paced world, many life challenges are at times more than one can handle. Whether it is processing past trauma or learning new strategies for coping with current stressors, you are taking the difficult first step. As a therapist of 20 years, I am committed to providing quality therapy to meet your needs with a personalized, solution-focused approach. I have twenty years of experience working with a variety of individuals, couples, and families of all ages. I also provide EMDR, a specialized type of trauma therapy. If you would like to know more about how we can work together, I look forward to connecting with you.
In this fast-paced world, many life challenges are at times more than one can handle. Whether it is processing past trauma or learning new strategies for coping with current stressors, you are taking the difficult first step. As a therapist of 20 years, I am committed to providing quality therapy to meet your needs with a personalized, solution-focused approach. I have twenty years of experience working with a variety of individuals, couples, and families of all ages. I also provide EMDR, a specialized type of trauma therapy. If you would like to know more about how we can work together, I look forward to connecting with you.
![Photo of Christina Kafalas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/769d1e8f-3769-4be4-a9e8-dd60cb251aed/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christina Kafalas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85284 (Online Only)
Have you been feeling lost or unsure of yourself? Do you feel like you’re drifting through life with little meaning or purpose? I specialize in working with people who want to improve their self-esteem and sense of self. I offer an affirming space for people who are part of the LGBTQIA+ community and polyamory/ethical non-monogamy community. I specialize in working with children and families and provide quality care for a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, social challenges, and identity issues. I’m also fluent in American Sign Language and can incorporate it into therapy sessions.
Have you been feeling lost or unsure of yourself? Do you feel like you’re drifting through life with little meaning or purpose? I specialize in working with people who want to improve their self-esteem and sense of self. I offer an affirming space for people who are part of the LGBTQIA+ community and polyamory/ethical non-monogamy community. I specialize in working with children and families and provide quality care for a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, social challenges, and identity issues. I’m also fluent in American Sign Language and can incorporate it into therapy sessions.
![Photo of Jessica Byrd, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a52ee804-ee37-4231-afb1-7b40b0f2223a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Byrd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85284 (Online Only)
My clients often struggle with unrealistic expectations that lead to frustration, burn-out, and indecision. They never quite feel “good enough” and are exhausted trying to do it all. I specialize in providing therapy for women who want to find balance and peace in their lives. I provide a collaborative, comfortable therapeutic space to support women who want to overcome cycles of anxiety, stress, and overwhelm that keep them feeling stuck and unfulfilled.
My clients often struggle with unrealistic expectations that lead to frustration, burn-out, and indecision. They never quite feel “good enough” and are exhausted trying to do it all. I specialize in providing therapy for women who want to find balance and peace in their lives. I provide a collaborative, comfortable therapeutic space to support women who want to overcome cycles of anxiety, stress, and overwhelm that keep them feeling stuck and unfulfilled.
![Photo of undefined - Compassion Centered Therapy for Women, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a13b437-1fea-4f44-a369-cac05cb92203/1/320x400.jpeg)
Compassion Centered Therapy for Women
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85284
I love working with women (ages 25 +) who want to move beyond trauma, anxiety, narcissistic abuse (parent/authoritarian only-not romantic relationships) and love working with women who have children or adult children with exceptional needs. I believe that with effort, consistency and the right tools, people can not just survive but thrive. I am licensed in both California and Arizona. I am a Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy teacher, having completed extensive training at Oxford University England. I have been a therapist for over 35 years and I have trained in many modalities.
I love working with women (ages 25 +) who want to move beyond trauma, anxiety, narcissistic abuse (parent/authoritarian only-not romantic relationships) and love working with women who have children or adult children with exceptional needs. I believe that with effort, consistency and the right tools, people can not just survive but thrive. I am licensed in both California and Arizona. I am a Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy teacher, having completed extensive training at Oxford University England. I have been a therapist for over 35 years and I have trained in many modalities.
![Photo of Christopher Trotman, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/427a65fc-ac04-4f71-a348-0c24c777469f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christopher Trotman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85284 (Online Only)
Hey there! If you're here, you may be starting (or continuing) a journey of self-discovery. As a dedicated licensed master social worker, I'm honored to assist you. I know reaching out for help can be difficult sometimes. If you’re willing to take that intimidating first step, I promise you- I will do my best in helping make it as easy and enjoyable for you as I possibly can. I aim to create a healing space, where we'll laugh together, you may cry, and you'll feel ready to overcome challenges. Shoot me an email and we'll schedule a free 15 min consultation! Now accepting clients in both MD and AZ
Hey there! If you're here, you may be starting (or continuing) a journey of self-discovery. As a dedicated licensed master social worker, I'm honored to assist you. I know reaching out for help can be difficult sometimes. If you’re willing to take that intimidating first step, I promise you- I will do my best in helping make it as easy and enjoyable for you as I possibly can. I aim to create a healing space, where we'll laugh together, you may cry, and you'll feel ready to overcome challenges. Shoot me an email and we'll schedule a free 15 min consultation! Now accepting clients in both MD and AZ
![Photo of Emma Hertzel, MSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ec40db6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Emma Hertzel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85284 (Online Only)
***Not currently accepting new patients at this time*** Whether it's a recent loss, a traumatic event, or even our own negative thinking, life circumstances can get in the way of living the life we want. When this becomes overwhelming, sometimes it's hard even to make the simplest decisions. Therapy can help you work through difficult emotions and unhealthy habits that lead to that "stuck" feeling. My job is to help you navigate through the things that get in the way of you living a valued life, a life where you wake up each day feeling confident and motivated to achieve your goals.
***Not currently accepting new patients at this time*** Whether it's a recent loss, a traumatic event, or even our own negative thinking, life circumstances can get in the way of living the life we want. When this becomes overwhelming, sometimes it's hard even to make the simplest decisions. Therapy can help you work through difficult emotions and unhealthy habits that lead to that "stuck" feeling. My job is to help you navigate through the things that get in the way of you living a valued life, a life where you wake up each day feeling confident and motivated to achieve your goals.
![Photo of Tehrina Terry, MC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fb4977b1-01ac-4afb-ad14-0226d373644a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tehrina Terry
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85284
I believe the therapeutic relationship can serve a healing role in a person’s life, and I do my best to create a safe space by providing a person-centered approach to meet your unique needs. I specialize in helping folks strengthen the relationships in their lives. This applies to friendships, families, partnerships, and marriages. Many of the folks I work with engage in ethical non-monogamy, and I provide an open, compassionate and non-judgmental space, as well as guidance in navigating a relationship choice that we do not have many models for. I also work extensively with folks who identify as LGBTQ+.
I believe the therapeutic relationship can serve a healing role in a person’s life, and I do my best to create a safe space by providing a person-centered approach to meet your unique needs. I specialize in helping folks strengthen the relationships in their lives. This applies to friendships, families, partnerships, and marriages. Many of the folks I work with engage in ethical non-monogamy, and I provide an open, compassionate and non-judgmental space, as well as guidance in navigating a relationship choice that we do not have many models for. I also work extensively with folks who identify as LGBTQ+.
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![Photo of undefined - Hope Rebuilt, LLC, MC, LPC-S, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/55b18458-6a61-44ae-b373-ab5e0843c8c4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hope Rebuilt, LLC
Counselor, MC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85284
It can be scary to take the first step towards change. And while you may be unsure how to create that change, seeking therapy is a courageous choice in that direction. We believe therapy can be fun & life-changing work. The providers at Hope Rebuilt are passionate about assisting our clients in meeting their goals and finding the courage to heal. Our clinicians hold training and experience in treating a wide variety of mental health issues, including anxiety, trauma, life stressors, relationship issues & eating disorders. Each provider brings a unique set of skills to assist you in your healing journey. We work with ages 6yr+.
It can be scary to take the first step towards change. And while you may be unsure how to create that change, seeking therapy is a courageous choice in that direction. We believe therapy can be fun & life-changing work. The providers at Hope Rebuilt are passionate about assisting our clients in meeting their goals and finding the courage to heal. Our clinicians hold training and experience in treating a wide variety of mental health issues, including anxiety, trauma, life stressors, relationship issues & eating disorders. Each provider brings a unique set of skills to assist you in your healing journey. We work with ages 6yr+.
![Photo of undefined - Adam Lovallo Counseling , MC, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/76d3749a-e9b1-418b-aa70-57cb45bb2a24/1/320x400.jpeg)
Adam Lovallo Counseling
Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85284 (Online Only)
I am Telehealth Therapist, licensed to serve Arizona residents. As a seasoned Licensed Professional Counselor for over 25 years, my job is to help you to address the challenges in your life by providing you with a safe space to discover and embrace your true authentic self first and foremost. I can help you achieve this by providing you with constructive feedback coupled with unconditional positive regard and encouragement. In therapy I will also help you to understand how your thoughts and behavior affect your feelings. So let's move you from a place of simply existing and enduring life to actually living life to its fullest!
I am Telehealth Therapist, licensed to serve Arizona residents. As a seasoned Licensed Professional Counselor for over 25 years, my job is to help you to address the challenges in your life by providing you with a safe space to discover and embrace your true authentic self first and foremost. I can help you achieve this by providing you with constructive feedback coupled with unconditional positive regard and encouragement. In therapy I will also help you to understand how your thoughts and behavior affect your feelings. So let's move you from a place of simply existing and enduring life to actually living life to its fullest!
![Photo of Dr. Luke R. Allen, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cb53d21e-a842-4baf-95db-0b5f9fa1a0a7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Luke R. Allen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85284 (Online Only)
My approach to therapy is based on Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT). A core idea in ACT is that trying too hard to get rid of or control our emotions tends to backfire. Instead of trying to get rid of unwanted thoughts and feelings (e.g., anxiety & depression), I will help you learn to react differently to them so that you can keep your focus on living a meaningful and fulfilling life based on what’s important to you. We will work together to set meaningful goals to address your concerns–whether they relate to life transitions, depression, anxiety, body image, grief/loss, job or academic stress, or gender & sexuality.
My approach to therapy is based on Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT). A core idea in ACT is that trying too hard to get rid of or control our emotions tends to backfire. Instead of trying to get rid of unwanted thoughts and feelings (e.g., anxiety & depression), I will help you learn to react differently to them so that you can keep your focus on living a meaningful and fulfilling life based on what’s important to you. We will work together to set meaningful goals to address your concerns–whether they relate to life transitions, depression, anxiety, body image, grief/loss, job or academic stress, or gender & sexuality.
![Photo of Scott D Church, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dfa8897-35c8-48f3-8278-09d9225f3a45/3/320x400.jpeg)
Scott D Church
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85284
Waitlist for new clients
Do you feel your mind is being pulled in a hundred different directions? Do you have a hard time handling your emotions, and does this cause problems in your relationships? Then, individual or couples therapy could be right for you! Therapy is about understanding, healing, and growing.
Do you feel your mind is being pulled in a hundred different directions? Do you have a hard time handling your emotions, and does this cause problems in your relationships? Then, individual or couples therapy could be right for you! Therapy is about understanding, healing, and growing.
![Photo of Taylor Branaghan, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4251f227-335b-41de-80ab-b50619956838/1/320x400.jpeg)
Taylor Branaghan
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85284
Feeling overwhelmed with anxiety? Haunted by the past? Or simply searching for a more fulfilling life? Are you ready to make a change? You are not alone, and I’m here to support you. I'm committed to guiding you towards personal growth. I use techniques that unlock newfound awareness of your thoughts and feelings, offering fresh perspectives and empowering you to align your choices with your values and goals.
Feeling overwhelmed with anxiety? Haunted by the past? Or simply searching for a more fulfilling life? Are you ready to make a change? You are not alone, and I’m here to support you. I'm committed to guiding you towards personal growth. I use techniques that unlock newfound awareness of your thoughts and feelings, offering fresh perspectives and empowering you to align your choices with your values and goals.
![Photo of Dr. Zoë Teresa Folts, DBH, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/da2bf0b8-bb5a-4fbe-85f5-cf1d4cdfa7c6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Zoë Teresa Folts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DBH, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85284
Dr. Folts sees clients facing a variety of issues with offices in Arizona and Florida. Life presents us with circumstances; at times challenging our relationships and ourselves. Therapy can be a catalyst in the discovery of creative and viable solutions, or in the personal work toward acceptance. Dr. Folts brings a wealth of experience and training. She has been a faculty member with Maricopa Community Colleges and counseled students, employees and faculty in her work with Arizona State University. Dr Folts' doctoral research included depression, anxiety, chronic/prolonged illness, as well as those facing terminal diagnosis.
Dr. Folts sees clients facing a variety of issues with offices in Arizona and Florida. Life presents us with circumstances; at times challenging our relationships and ourselves. Therapy can be a catalyst in the discovery of creative and viable solutions, or in the personal work toward acceptance. Dr. Folts brings a wealth of experience and training. She has been a faculty member with Maricopa Community Colleges and counseled students, employees and faculty in her work with Arizona State University. Dr Folts' doctoral research included depression, anxiety, chronic/prolonged illness, as well as those facing terminal diagnosis.
![Photo of Kayla Block, MC, LPC, ASDCS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54afc14e-79ff-4aff-a051-182aa82a0016/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kayla Block
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC, ASDCS
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85284 (Online Only)
Welcome! I'm Kayla Block, owner of Spectrum of Growth Counseling. I love working with adults struggling with understanding their neurodivergent identity. Whether you identify as "on the spectrum" or "neuro-spicy", I love helping clients connect with themselves on a deeper level. I also enjoy working with adults struggling with symptoms related to trauma and dissociation. I find that combining EMDR and IFS parts work can be extremely helpful in getting to "deeper" issues that talk therapy may not adequately address.
Welcome! I'm Kayla Block, owner of Spectrum of Growth Counseling. I love working with adults struggling with understanding their neurodivergent identity. Whether you identify as "on the spectrum" or "neuro-spicy", I love helping clients connect with themselves on a deeper level. I also enjoy working with adults struggling with symptoms related to trauma and dissociation. I find that combining EMDR and IFS parts work can be extremely helpful in getting to "deeper" issues that talk therapy may not adequately address.
![Photo of Mark Harris, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d611225-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mark Harris
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85284
Empowering Change is a trauma-informed practice that deeply respects and validates each client's unique life journey. We honor every individual's perspective, acknowledging that their interactions with the world are shaped by their past, including traumatic experiences. Each person's viewpoint is crafted through their life's narrative, shaping them into who they are destined to become. At times, individuals may seek support in defining their identity. Our mission is to assist our clients in realizing their true selves, unencumbered by their history.
Empowering Change is a trauma-informed practice that deeply respects and validates each client's unique life journey. We honor every individual's perspective, acknowledging that their interactions with the world are shaped by their past, including traumatic experiences. Each person's viewpoint is crafted through their life's narrative, shaping them into who they are destined to become. At times, individuals may seek support in defining their identity. Our mission is to assist our clients in realizing their true selves, unencumbered by their history.
![Photo of Lindsey Fay Burns, MS, LPC, NCC, PMH-C, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d50704e0-1af0-457d-8c29-9e7e4c542303/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lindsey Fay Burns
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85284
Hey there! As humans, we are living in truly unprecedented times, and I want you to know that you are not alone. I provide a safe place to support clients, as well as tools to help you feel empowered to engage in your healing. I will collaborate with you to identify goals and tailor services to meet your needs. My toolbox includes EMDR, CBT, narrative therapy, music and art therapy, skill-building, and experiential, humanistic approaches. I have specific training to support new parents with perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, infertility, pregnancy loss, the transition to parenthood, and trauma processing.
Hey there! As humans, we are living in truly unprecedented times, and I want you to know that you are not alone. I provide a safe place to support clients, as well as tools to help you feel empowered to engage in your healing. I will collaborate with you to identify goals and tailor services to meet your needs. My toolbox includes EMDR, CBT, narrative therapy, music and art therapy, skill-building, and experiential, humanistic approaches. I have specific training to support new parents with perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, infertility, pregnancy loss, the transition to parenthood, and trauma processing.
See more therapy options for 85284
Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Therapists
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 specialized 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 organizations that promote sex positivity or kink-allied lifestyles, and the importance they place on safety and cultural sensitivity.
How can individuals recognize 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 recognize 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.