Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Therapists in Escondido, CA

Photo of Tracey Downs, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tracey Downs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92027
My Name is Tracey Downs, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Los Angeles, CA, serving clients statewide via teletherapy. I work with clients of all ages, and I specialize in life transitions, anxiety, and stress management. I take an eclectic approach to meeting you as you are and helping you find your path forward to wellness. I believe you are the expert on your own life, and it is my honor to help you find your way.
My Name is Tracey Downs, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Los Angeles, CA, serving clients statewide via teletherapy. I work with clients of all ages, and I specialize in life transitions, anxiety, and stress management. I take an eclectic approach to meeting you as you are and helping you find your path forward to wellness. I believe you are the expert on your own life, and it is my honor to help you find your way.
(442) 218-3561 View (442) 218-3561
Photo of Andrea Bayon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea Bayon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92026
Andrea Bayón (she/her/ella) is an LCSW and practices holistically within the framework of body, mind & spirit. Starting first with gentle nervous system soothing, Andrea works somatically (body-based) to help individuals reconnect with their internal experience. Andrea strives to offer an inclusive space, centering & honoring the experience of those who identify as BIPOC, Latinx, LGBTQIA+, 2S, as well as those embodying other historically marginalized identities.
Andrea Bayón (she/her/ella) is an LCSW and practices holistically within the framework of body, mind & spirit. Starting first with gentle nervous system soothing, Andrea works somatically (body-based) to help individuals reconnect with their internal experience. Andrea strives to offer an inclusive space, centering & honoring the experience of those who identify as BIPOC, Latinx, LGBTQIA+, 2S, as well as those embodying other historically marginalized identities.
(760) 642-1201 View (760) 642-1201
Photo of Stephan Paul Ouellette, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephan Paul Ouellette
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92027
Hello, my name is Stephan Paul Ouellette. I have been a licensed clinical social worker in the state of California since 2000. I approach therapy from a client-centered, collaborative, empathic, and strengths-based perspective. I have 25-plus years of experience working with folks living with HIV/AIDS and from the LGBTQ-plus communities. My primary focus is helping clients to proactively respond to such conditions as depression, anxiety, grief and bereavement, substance use and abuse concerns, and adjustment to chronic and sometimes life-threatening health conditions.
Hello, my name is Stephan Paul Ouellette. I have been a licensed clinical social worker in the state of California since 2000. I approach therapy from a client-centered, collaborative, empathic, and strengths-based perspective. I have 25-plus years of experience working with folks living with HIV/AIDS and from the LGBTQ-plus communities. My primary focus is helping clients to proactively respond to such conditions as depression, anxiety, grief and bereavement, substance use and abuse concerns, and adjustment to chronic and sometimes life-threatening health conditions.
(442) 245-3645 View (442) 245-3645
Photo of Jacqueline Frias Gonzalez, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jacqueline Frias Gonzalez
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92027
Hello there! My name is Jackie Frias Gonzalez and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a focus on studying relationships with both the self and others. As your therapist, I aim to strike a balance between authenticity and professionalism to create a safe and comfortable space where you can be your true self while also gaining the skills to navigate the challenges you are facing. Whether you are struggling with personal issues or relationship conflicts, I am here to support you on your journey toward healing and growth.
Hello there! My name is Jackie Frias Gonzalez and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a focus on studying relationships with both the self and others. As your therapist, I aim to strike a balance between authenticity and professionalism to create a safe and comfortable space where you can be your true self while also gaining the skills to navigate the challenges you are facing. Whether you are struggling with personal issues or relationship conflicts, I am here to support you on your journey toward healing and growth.
(442) 223-0886 View (442) 223-0886
Photo of Stacy Elliott, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stacy Elliott
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92027
Hi, my name is Stacy Elliott, and I'm a Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who is based in Northern California but sees clients statewide via Telehealth. I work with adolescents, teens, and adults. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, school/work issues as well as relationship issues with self and others. I use mindfulness, coping strategies, body-based interventions (Somatic), and CBT to help my clients begin to feel better. My therapeutic approach varies based on the needs of my clients and what they desire out of therapy.
Hi, my name is Stacy Elliott, and I'm a Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who is based in Northern California but sees clients statewide via Telehealth. I work with adolescents, teens, and adults. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, school/work issues as well as relationship issues with self and others. I use mindfulness, coping strategies, body-based interventions (Somatic), and CBT to help my clients begin to feel better. My therapeutic approach varies based on the needs of my clients and what they desire out of therapy.
(442) 223-0374 View (442) 223-0374
Photo of Summer Silva, PsyD, Psychologist
Summer Silva
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92027  (Online Only)
I have extreme passion and enthusiasm for guiding clients through the journey of finding peace, balance, and happiness. My areas of focus: Trauma/Abuse/PTSD, Eating Disorders, Borderline PD. I am also fluent in American Sign Language and have a wealth of knowledge regarding the Deaf and CODA cultures. My specialty areas include: Substance Use/Chemical Dependency, Mindfulness and Meditation, Relationships and Communication, Behavior Modification, Depression, and Anxiety. Homeopathy and Flower Essence practitioner; a natural way to stimulate healing emotionally and physically. Non-local appointments available. I received my doctorate degree from the California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant International University in San Diego.
I have extreme passion and enthusiasm for guiding clients through the journey of finding peace, balance, and happiness. My areas of focus: Trauma/Abuse/PTSD, Eating Disorders, Borderline PD. I am also fluent in American Sign Language and have a wealth of knowledge regarding the Deaf and CODA cultures. My specialty areas include: Substance Use/Chemical Dependency, Mindfulness and Meditation, Relationships and Communication, Behavior Modification, Depression, and Anxiety. Homeopathy and Flower Essence practitioner; a natural way to stimulate healing emotionally and physically. Non-local appointments available. I received my doctorate degree from the California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant International University in San Diego.
(760) 237-8865 View (760) 237-8865
Photo of Robert Hirsch, LCP, Psychologist
Robert Hirsch
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92027
My name is Robert (Bob) Hirsch, and I have a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology. I have been in practice for 25 years and have worked with adults primarily from many communities. My overall approach involves cognitive behavioral therapy combined with coaching techniques. I see therapy as a dialogue - supporting people in the direction they want to pursue. I work with adults both in the straight and LGBTQ communities and have a lot of cross-cultural experience.
My name is Robert (Bob) Hirsch, and I have a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology. I have been in practice for 25 years and have worked with adults primarily from many communities. My overall approach involves cognitive behavioral therapy combined with coaching techniques. I see therapy as a dialogue - supporting people in the direction they want to pursue. I work with adults both in the straight and LGBTQ communities and have a lot of cross-cultural experience.
(442) 276-5817 View (442) 276-5817
Photo of Samantha Cote, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Samantha Cote
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92025
My name is Samantha Cote and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I focus on a client-centered, trauma-informed, and integrative approach to therapy to help make progress toward feeling better. The foundation of my approach to therapy involves client-centered, solution-focused, trauma-informed, and strength-based. I used an integrated perspective of therapy that includes different tools from a variety of different therapeutic approaches because it's important to recognize that we are all unique. Everyone has different goals, life experiences, situations, relationships, cultural backgrounds, communication styles, etc.
My name is Samantha Cote and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I focus on a client-centered, trauma-informed, and integrative approach to therapy to help make progress toward feeling better. The foundation of my approach to therapy involves client-centered, solution-focused, trauma-informed, and strength-based. I used an integrated perspective of therapy that includes different tools from a variety of different therapeutic approaches because it's important to recognize that we are all unique. Everyone has different goals, life experiences, situations, relationships, cultural backgrounds, communication styles, etc.
(626) 788-8716 View (626) 788-8716
Photo of Michelle Gentle, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Gentle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92025
Hi, my name is Michelle Gentle. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Orange County, California working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and I’m passionate about supporting clients during whatever life challenges arise. I am LGBTQ+ affirming. My approach to therapy is holistic and varies based on the needs of each client I work with. I utilize a trauma-informed, developmental, and attachment-based lens. Common modalities I use include are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Somatic Therapy, and Narrative Therapy.
Hi, my name is Michelle Gentle. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Orange County, California working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and I’m passionate about supporting clients during whatever life challenges arise. I am LGBTQ+ affirming. My approach to therapy is holistic and varies based on the needs of each client I work with. I utilize a trauma-informed, developmental, and attachment-based lens. Common modalities I use include are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Somatic Therapy, and Narrative Therapy.
(650) 457-5816 View (650) 457-5816
Photo of Maribel Peraza Bradberry - Intimate Insights, PhD, Psychologist
Intimate Insights
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92029
There is much in our world that pulls us away from ourselves..from truly feeling grounded. Coming home is meant to describe the process of connection and healing that can happen when we set aside all the daily distractions and step back into ourselves. Once home, within ourselves, we can finally begin to connect, understand, and heal. This allows space for vulnerability, growth, and love. Whether you are having difficulties moving beyond shame and trauma, having difficulties enjoying sexual activity or want to better connect with your partner(s), I am here to listen, educate and guide at your pace to a whole new way of living.
There is much in our world that pulls us away from ourselves..from truly feeling grounded. Coming home is meant to describe the process of connection and healing that can happen when we set aside all the daily distractions and step back into ourselves. Once home, within ourselves, we can finally begin to connect, understand, and heal. This allows space for vulnerability, growth, and love. Whether you are having difficulties moving beyond shame and trauma, having difficulties enjoying sexual activity or want to better connect with your partner(s), I am here to listen, educate and guide at your pace to a whole new way of living.
(858) 682-5873 View (858) 682-5873
Photo of John Joseph, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
John Joseph
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92027
Aloha, I am John Joseph, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. My commitment to providing quality mental health services to individuals, couples, and families has greatly influenced my approach to therapy. I believe that it is important to understand how past events have shaped our perception of people, relationships, and the world. Through this awareness, we can begin our journey toward change and establish healthy and meaningful relationships.
Aloha, I am John Joseph, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. My commitment to providing quality mental health services to individuals, couples, and families has greatly influenced my approach to therapy. I believe that it is important to understand how past events have shaped our perception of people, relationships, and the world. Through this awareness, we can begin our journey toward change and establish healthy and meaningful relationships.
(510) 350-3218 View (510) 350-3218

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Robyn Buresh, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Robyn Buresh
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92127
Looking for a sex-positive therapist? I offer an open and accepting space in which you can be, or discover, your most authentic self. If you are struggling with issues of identity, have been harmed by messages about your body or sex, or are living with the aftermath of a traumatic event, I am here to offer my training and expertise to help you move from a place of pain and hardship into a place of peace and connection, both with me and with yourself. Therapy is more than just a place for talking. This is a place to experience safety and being seen. Allow me to join you on your journey of deeper introspection and self awareness.
Looking for a sex-positive therapist? I offer an open and accepting space in which you can be, or discover, your most authentic self. If you are struggling with issues of identity, have been harmed by messages about your body or sex, or are living with the aftermath of a traumatic event, I am here to offer my training and expertise to help you move from a place of pain and hardship into a place of peace and connection, both with me and with yourself. Therapy is more than just a place for talking. This is a place to experience safety and being seen. Allow me to join you on your journey of deeper introspection and self awareness.
(760) 652-9680 View (760) 652-9680
Photo of Dr. Ida Fariba, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Ida Fariba
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108  (Online Only)
For couples, I support in improving intimacy and exploring other lifestyles that you both may want to incorporate, things like kink, BDSM, polyamory or open relationships, and ethical non-monogamy.
I specialize in sex, BDSM, kink, and ethical non-monogamy. Taking the first step toward transformation is the hardest part, and you just did it! I use an integrative and holistic approach to help you pull out the weeds from the roots. I work from a foundation of attachment theory and I utilize Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). I am trained in Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and also incorporate the body, yoga, mindfulness, meditation, and music all as tools to expand and explore what is happening in your life.
For couples, I support in improving intimacy and exploring other lifestyles that you both may want to incorporate, things like kink, BDSM, polyamory or open relationships, and ethical non-monogamy.
I specialize in sex, BDSM, kink, and ethical non-monogamy. Taking the first step toward transformation is the hardest part, and you just did it! I use an integrative and holistic approach to help you pull out the weeds from the roots. I work from a foundation of attachment theory and I utilize Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). I am trained in Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and also incorporate the body, yoga, mindfulness, meditation, and music all as tools to expand and explore what is happening in your life.
(858) 683-1915 View (858) 683-1915
Photo of Jenna Suway, PhD, Psychologist
Jenna Suway
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Marcos, CA 92096
I help adolescents and adults navigate difficulties in their lives. Some of the treatment areas in which I work relate to identity, anxiety, transitions, values, trauma, and mood. My goal is to create an open and safe environment from which to explore, process, and learn. It is an honor to get to know you and to work collaboratively to address whatever brings you to therapy. I look forward to talking with you.
I help adolescents and adults navigate difficulties in their lives. Some of the treatment areas in which I work relate to identity, anxiety, transitions, values, trauma, and mood. My goal is to create an open and safe environment from which to explore, process, and learn. It is an honor to get to know you and to work collaboratively to address whatever brings you to therapy. I look forward to talking with you.
(442) 313-2372 View (442) 313-2372
Photo of Christina Edwards - Personal Evolution Psychotherapy, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Christina Edwards - Personal Evolution Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
San Marcos, CA 92069
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed out or sad to the point that you can't live the life you want? Do you want to feel better & have a life worth living? Personal Evolution Psychotherapy (PEP) is a team of therapists that use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to overcome social anxiety, depression, communication & relationship issues, family conflict, panic, excessive worry & depression. Visit Us at www.PersonalEvolutionPsychotherapy.com. We provide much more than traditional talk therapy & help you get results to help control your emotions & your life. By doing this we can help more quickly. Call us today to schedule an appt.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed out or sad to the point that you can't live the life you want? Do you want to feel better & have a life worth living? Personal Evolution Psychotherapy (PEP) is a team of therapists that use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to overcome social anxiety, depression, communication & relationship issues, family conflict, panic, excessive worry & depression. Visit Us at www.PersonalEvolutionPsychotherapy.com. We provide much more than traditional talk therapy & help you get results to help control your emotions & your life. By doing this we can help more quickly. Call us today to schedule an appt.
(619) 787-6676 View (619) 787-6676
Photo of Brian McCloud, MEd, APCC
Brian McCloud
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd, APCC
Verified Verified
San Marcos, CA 92078  (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Brian. My roots trace back to southeastern Turtle Island, West Africa, and Europe. Thank you for considering me as a partner in your healing process. With lived experience in liminal spaces, I often work with people in transition related to their relationships, identities, careers, or values. My practice is grounded in the therapeutic relationship, recognizing and nurturing your inner capacity for healing and well-being. My approach is strength-based, rooted in trauma theory, and acknowledges the interrelatedness of all aspects of self, family systems, and cultural influences
Hello, my name is Brian. My roots trace back to southeastern Turtle Island, West Africa, and Europe. Thank you for considering me as a partner in your healing process. With lived experience in liminal spaces, I often work with people in transition related to their relationships, identities, careers, or values. My practice is grounded in the therapeutic relationship, recognizing and nurturing your inner capacity for healing and well-being. My approach is strength-based, rooted in trauma theory, and acknowledges the interrelatedness of all aspects of self, family systems, and cultural influences
(415) 877-8134 View (415) 877-8134
Photo of Savannah Schwenning, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Savannah Schwenning
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92127
I believe that our relationships and connections with our self and others play a pivotal role in finding our meaning and fulfillment. Relationships can be so rewarding, exciting and love filled and can also be very complex, lonely and overwhelming. I recognize the value in working on ourselves and relationships through identifying our needs, wants and fears. It’s my goal to work collaboratively to create an experience that is comforting and beneficial, my hope is for you to be the best version of yourself. I bring a combination of client-centered and humanistic approaches in addition to evidence-based tools from the Gottman Method.
I believe that our relationships and connections with our self and others play a pivotal role in finding our meaning and fulfillment. Relationships can be so rewarding, exciting and love filled and can also be very complex, lonely and overwhelming. I recognize the value in working on ourselves and relationships through identifying our needs, wants and fears. It’s my goal to work collaboratively to create an experience that is comforting and beneficial, my hope is for you to be the best version of yourself. I bring a combination of client-centered and humanistic approaches in addition to evidence-based tools from the Gottman Method.
(858) 422-3781 View (858) 422-3781
Photo of Lindsey Schmidt - Lindsey Schmidt Counseling, Inc., MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lindsey Schmidt Counseling, Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Marcos, CA 92078  (Online Only)
I am a collaborative, creative, and empathetic therapist. I believe that in order to effectively meet your goals; sessions should be personalized based on your individual needs. I believe that the key to personal growth and success is to find balance and inner happiness within ourselves. As a therapist, my role is to provide a nurturing environment allowing the opportunity for self-exploration and growth. My style is holistic as I belief that the mind, body, and emotions are all interconnected. If this approach aligns with your goals for therapy, I would love to connect with you and help you along your journey to better health.
I am a collaborative, creative, and empathetic therapist. I believe that in order to effectively meet your goals; sessions should be personalized based on your individual needs. I believe that the key to personal growth and success is to find balance and inner happiness within ourselves. As a therapist, my role is to provide a nurturing environment allowing the opportunity for self-exploration and growth. My style is holistic as I belief that the mind, body, and emotions are all interconnected. If this approach aligns with your goals for therapy, I would love to connect with you and help you along your journey to better health.
(619) 916-4983 View (619) 916-4983
Photo of Ashley Halverson, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Halverson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92127
Parenthood and family building is shown as this easy goal full of joy and magic, but your experience has been the exact opposite. You are surprised at how you feel: overwhelmed, anxious, angry, alone, devastated. You find yourself consumed with the “what ifs” and guilt. Scary thoughts come up and you feel a deep loss that is difficult to put to words. You wonder: Will you ever feel normal again? And what will normal even look like? In our work together, you can learn coping strategies, examine beliefs that leave us feeling stuck, process trauma, develop self compassion, and build confidence in your parenting abilities.
Parenthood and family building is shown as this easy goal full of joy and magic, but your experience has been the exact opposite. You are surprised at how you feel: overwhelmed, anxious, angry, alone, devastated. You find yourself consumed with the “what ifs” and guilt. Scary thoughts come up and you feel a deep loss that is difficult to put to words. You wonder: Will you ever feel normal again? And what will normal even look like? In our work together, you can learn coping strategies, examine beliefs that leave us feeling stuck, process trauma, develop self compassion, and build confidence in your parenting abilities.
(858) 683-6281 View (858) 683-6281
Photo of Julia Rosengren, PsyD, Psychologist
Julia Rosengren
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
Poway, CA 92064
I specialize in addiction/dual diagnosis, but treat various mental health problems as well (depression, anxiety, relationship problems, etc.). I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and a psychodynamic approach, but I alter treatment depending on your needs. Feeling stagnant as well as drug and alcohol concerns are often a result of deeper struggles such as depression, anxiety, self-esteem, trauma, and obstacles in your daily life. If you are feeling stuck and are grappling with how to move forward I can help guide you through it. *Please say your name when prompted when you call, otherwise your call will not go through.*
I specialize in addiction/dual diagnosis, but treat various mental health problems as well (depression, anxiety, relationship problems, etc.). I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and a psychodynamic approach, but I alter treatment depending on your needs. Feeling stagnant as well as drug and alcohol concerns are often a result of deeper struggles such as depression, anxiety, self-esteem, trauma, and obstacles in your daily life. If you are feeling stuck and are grappling with how to move forward I can help guide you through it. *Please say your name when prompted when you call, otherwise your call will not go through.*
(858) 609-8405 View (858) 609-8405
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.