Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Therapists in Escondido, CA
I have extreme passion and enthusiasm for guiding clients through the journey of finding peace, balance, and happiness. My specialty areas include: Depression, Anxiety, Mindfulness/Meditation, Relationships and Communication, Behavior Modification, Self Esteem/Worthiness, Geriatric mental health, and Substance Use/Chemical Dependency. I am also fluent in American Sign Language and have a wealth of knowledge regarding the Deaf and CODA cultures.
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 specialty areas include: Depression, Anxiety, Mindfulness/Meditation, Relationships and Communication, Behavior Modification, Self Esteem/Worthiness, Geriatric mental health, and Substance Use/Chemical Dependency. I am also fluent in American Sign Language and have a wealth of knowledge regarding the Deaf and CODA cultures.
I received my doctorate degree from the California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant International University in San Diego.
I am deeply familiar with the polyamory and kink communities, and similar alternative lifestyle communities.
Hi, I’m Anitalyn (like Anita and Lyn put together into one word). I’m so glad you stopped by! I specialize in helping people cope with major life stressors, and even minor life stressors. Adjustment on any level can be really hard. My clients should leave my session feeling better about themselves and their lives, even if sometimes that means having to think about things in a way that can be hard. No matter what, every client should always feel valued and worthy. My style as a therapist is very down-to-earth, very focused on honoring the person you already are. Each session will very likely also include a poodle.
I am deeply familiar with the polyamory and kink communities, and similar alternative lifestyle communities.
Hi, I’m Anitalyn (like Anita and Lyn put together into one word). I’m so glad you stopped by! I specialize in helping people cope with major life stressors, and even minor life stressors. Adjustment on any level can be really hard. My clients should leave my session feeling better about themselves and their lives, even if sometimes that means having to think about things in a way that can be hard. No matter what, every client should always feel valued and worthy. My style as a therapist is very down-to-earth, very focused on honoring the person you already are. Each session will very likely also include a poodle.
I work with individuals, relationships, and families. My work focuses on helping clients find stability through new perspective(s). I typically start with clients by focusing on improving daily living through identifying impactful small choices. I am driven to provide the highest quality service to each individual person, be they seeing me as a relationship or alone.
I work with individuals, relationships, and families. My work focuses on helping clients find stability through new perspective(s). I typically start with clients by focusing on improving daily living through identifying impactful small choices. I am driven to provide the highest quality service to each individual person, be they seeing me as a relationship or alone.
The people who usually see me are tired of being fearful, angry, depressed, beaten down, etc., and are ready to face the past so that they can live a more joy-filled life. They are trapped in the past, directly or indirectly, reliving the pain and horrors. It is exhausting, and increasingly, it is the only way to see the world.
Understandably, they want to stop hurting and repeating the past and find a way forward. While they do not forget it, they want to be no longer trapped in the emotions accompanying memories. They want it to be a part of their past, not their present.
The people who usually see me are tired of being fearful, angry, depressed, beaten down, etc., and are ready to face the past so that they can live a more joy-filled life. They are trapped in the past, directly or indirectly, reliving the pain and horrors. It is exhausting, and increasingly, it is the only way to see the world.
Understandably, they want to stop hurting and repeating the past and find a way forward. While they do not forget it, they want to be no longer trapped in the emotions accompanying memories. They want it to be a part of their past, not their present.
If you give space to what hurts and honor the story of where you have been, you can move through and build a more authentic and centered life. If you have ever questioned if you were on the right path, wanted to break free of relational patterns that no longer serve you, wondered how to balance being a parent, partner, friend, sibling, coworker and other roles in these challenging times-you are in the right place. I named my practice Mosaic Therapy to embody what I believe is possible for all: invest in yourself and find an honest place to share, grieve, laugh, learn, and rebuild yourself into a beautiful work of art.
If you give space to what hurts and honor the story of where you have been, you can move through and build a more authentic and centered life. If you have ever questioned if you were on the right path, wanted to break free of relational patterns that no longer serve you, wondered how to balance being a parent, partner, friend, sibling, coworker and other roles in these challenging times-you are in the right place. I named my practice Mosaic Therapy to embody what I believe is possible for all: invest in yourself and find an honest place to share, grieve, laugh, learn, and rebuild yourself into a beautiful work of art.
How can we can we find joy and fulfillment in a turbulent and uncertain world? This is a question my clients and I explore together. As a therapist, I feel a strong sense of duty to work towards changing larger systemic issues, not just the way we feel about them. I specialize in working with neurodivergent folks and members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community. I'm passionate about helping people who want more out of life, but who may feel stuck imagining what “more” could even look like. In my practice, as well as in my own life, I prioritize rest and creative expression as acts of radial self care.
How can we can we find joy and fulfillment in a turbulent and uncertain world? This is a question my clients and I explore together. As a therapist, I feel a strong sense of duty to work towards changing larger systemic issues, not just the way we feel about them. I specialize in working with neurodivergent folks and members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community. I'm passionate about helping people who want more out of life, but who may feel stuck imagining what “more” could even look like. In my practice, as well as in my own life, I prioritize rest and creative expression as acts of radial self care.
You want to learn to be kinder to yourself, regulate your feelings, put yourself first without guilt, and heal from a past that’s holding you back. You are struggling to feel normal and can admit that sometimes you’re harder on yourself than you deserve.
I help teens, adults, and relationship structures explore their lives in order to improve their communication and strengthen their connections to themselves and their communities. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, neurodivergence, confusion about life, sexual difficulties, relationship stress, or major life transitions, I’m ready to meet you with warmth and care.
You want to learn to be kinder to yourself, regulate your feelings, put yourself first without guilt, and heal from a past that’s holding you back. You are struggling to feel normal and can admit that sometimes you’re harder on yourself than you deserve.
I help teens, adults, and relationship structures explore their lives in order to improve their communication and strengthen their connections to themselves and their communities. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, neurodivergence, confusion about life, sexual difficulties, relationship stress, or major life transitions, I’m ready to meet you with warmth and care.
People often feel disconnected from themselves or their partners—pulled away by the demands of daily life and left feeling ungrounded or unsure how to return to a sense of wholeness. They may carry shame, trauma, or struggle to find pleasure and closeness. Deep down, they long to feel safe within themselves, to reconnect with their authenticity, and to experience intimacy and love without fear or judgment. They want to come home—to their bodies, their relationships, and their sense of self.
People often feel disconnected from themselves or their partners—pulled away by the demands of daily life and left feeling ungrounded or unsure how to return to a sense of wholeness. They may carry shame, trauma, or struggle to find pleasure and closeness. Deep down, they long to feel safe within themselves, to reconnect with their authenticity, and to experience intimacy and love without fear or judgment. They want to come home—to their bodies, their relationships, and their sense of self.
More Therapists Nearby
I believe that therapy should be an adaptable process tailored to who someone is and what they need. I aim to meet clients with compassion and curiosity, creating an intentional, present, and client-centered space for healing. I am passionate about offering non-judgmental support and helping people live more authentically. I work collaboratively with clients to explore their uniqueness, build insight, and strengthen relationships. My approach empowers clients through open communication and a deep respect for their lived experiences, encouraging growth that extends beyond the individual.
I believe that therapy should be an adaptable process tailored to who someone is and what they need. I aim to meet clients with compassion and curiosity, creating an intentional, present, and client-centered space for healing. I am passionate about offering non-judgmental support and helping people live more authentically. I work collaboratively with clients to explore their uniqueness, build insight, and strengthen relationships. My approach empowers clients through open communication and a deep respect for their lived experiences, encouraging growth that extends beyond the individual.
You’re a gay man in mid-life.
You’ve done the work. You’ve built a life with depth, identity, and probably a few scars.
You’ve found strength in community—maybe in leather, chosen family, or relationships that don’t fit the mainstream mold.
And yet… certain patterns still show up. Emotional walls. Disconnection. That old feeling like something’s missing—or still running the show.
Daddy Issues Therapy is built for you.
We take your lived experience seriously and use evidence-based tools to help you heal, grow, and lead with emotional clarity—on your own terms.
You’re a gay man in mid-life.
You’ve done the work. You’ve built a life with depth, identity, and probably a few scars.
You’ve found strength in community—maybe in leather, chosen family, or relationships that don’t fit the mainstream mold.
And yet… certain patterns still show up. Emotional walls. Disconnection. That old feeling like something’s missing—or still running the show.
Daddy Issues Therapy is built for you.
We take your lived experience seriously and use evidence-based tools to help you heal, grow, and lead with emotional clarity—on your own terms.
It’s never just one thing that ails us, it’s never just one thing that heals us.
Many times it is easy to forget the path that was walked and the longevity of challenges that had to be worked through. As you begin your healing journey, know that this path requires longevity as well and the patience to honor each step, trusting that consistent effort and compassion for yourself will bring lasting transformation. I believe that the wholeness of the Self, comes from treating the mental, emotional, physical, and energetic bodies collectively. The shadow and forgotten wounds seek resolution as much as the symptoms.
It’s never just one thing that ails us, it’s never just one thing that heals us.
Many times it is easy to forget the path that was walked and the longevity of challenges that had to be worked through. As you begin your healing journey, know that this path requires longevity as well and the patience to honor each step, trusting that consistent effort and compassion for yourself will bring lasting transformation. I believe that the wholeness of the Self, comes from treating the mental, emotional, physical, and energetic bodies collectively. The shadow and forgotten wounds seek resolution as much as the symptoms.
Valeriya Pestrikova - NonMonogamy, Couples, Sex
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
7 Endorsed
Online Only
I offer therapy and coaching for individuals and couples, specializing in alternative lifestyles, including non-monogamy, polyamory, BDSM/ kink, and sex work.
Together we delve into the emotional depths of relationship dynamics, emphasizing open communication and trust. We challenge conventional norms and foster unique paths to intimacy and connection, ensuring a non-conservative, affirming space. My approach is integrative, rooted in Psychodynamic theory, tailored for those exploring alternative lifestyles.
I offer therapy and coaching for individuals and couples, specializing in alternative lifestyles, including non-monogamy, polyamory, BDSM/ kink, and sex work.
Together we delve into the emotional depths of relationship dynamics, emphasizing open communication and trust. We challenge conventional norms and foster unique paths to intimacy and connection, ensuring a non-conservative, affirming space. My approach is integrative, rooted in Psychodynamic theory, tailored for those exploring alternative lifestyles.
My training specializes in human sexuality, gender exploration, and kink or ethical non-monogamy curiosity.
Sexual liberation and exploration can help uncover psychosomatic healing and self empowerment. My priority is to offer a nurturing, non-judgmental and collaborative space where I support my clients integrate pleasure and autonomy into their lives. My services include, but aren't limited to, navigating desire discrepancies, processing sexual and relational trauma, releasing shame related to sexuality, supporting parents of LGBTQIA+ children and management of anxiety or depression. I work with individuals, couples, ENM configurations, sex workers, queer, trans or neurodivergent individuals.
My training specializes in human sexuality, gender exploration, and kink or ethical non-monogamy curiosity.
Sexual liberation and exploration can help uncover psychosomatic healing and self empowerment. My priority is to offer a nurturing, non-judgmental and collaborative space where I support my clients integrate pleasure and autonomy into their lives. My services include, but aren't limited to, navigating desire discrepancies, processing sexual and relational trauma, releasing shame related to sexuality, supporting parents of LGBTQIA+ children and management of anxiety or depression. I work with individuals, couples, ENM configurations, sex workers, queer, trans or neurodivergent individuals.
I'm ENM, Poly, LS/BDSM/ Kink aligned.
Are you longing for a deeper sense of self and struggling to identify or voice your own needs? Falling back into old patterns of thinking and behaving that derail your relationships, your life goals, or trigger diminished feelings of self-worth? Are you struggling to connect intimately with your partner and can't find the words to talk it about it without shame, blame or conflict? Do you struggle to feel connected to people in your life, feel isolated, or overly anxious? Has trauma or past experiences been the building blocks of unhelpful core beliefs you wish to change? You're not alone, let's talk!
I'm ENM, Poly, LS/BDSM/ Kink aligned.
Are you longing for a deeper sense of self and struggling to identify or voice your own needs? Falling back into old patterns of thinking and behaving that derail your relationships, your life goals, or trigger diminished feelings of self-worth? Are you struggling to connect intimately with your partner and can't find the words to talk it about it without shame, blame or conflict? Do you struggle to feel connected to people in your life, feel isolated, or overly anxious? Has trauma or past experiences been the building blocks of unhelpful core beliefs you wish to change? You're not alone, let's talk!
Do you ever feel trapped by societal expectations about how relationships "should" work, whether that's pressure to find "the one," get married, have kids, or maintain relationships that feel restrictive?
Experience anxiety around disclosure—constantly calculating what parts of yourself are safe to reveal in different contexts?
Have a pattern of people-pleasing or code-switching that leaves you exhausted and unsure of your own desires?
Question your sexuality, relationship orientation, or other aspects of identity but fear the consequences of exploration?
Feel isolated, unseen, or misunderstood despite having social connections?
Do you ever feel trapped by societal expectations about how relationships "should" work, whether that's pressure to find "the one," get married, have kids, or maintain relationships that feel restrictive?
Experience anxiety around disclosure—constantly calculating what parts of yourself are safe to reveal in different contexts?
Have a pattern of people-pleasing or code-switching that leaves you exhausted and unsure of your own desires?
Question your sexuality, relationship orientation, or other aspects of identity but fear the consequences of exploration?
Feel isolated, unseen, or misunderstood despite having social connections?
You're not going crazy- you're doing the best you can under crazy circumstances. I offer compassionate, open-minded therapy in Louisiana and California. My focus is to understand things from your perspective and work with you as a team to identify and meet your goals for growth.
I know from personal experience that finding a therapist can be overwhelming- especially when you need one. The good news: just being here means you're on the right track. To get you started, I offer a free 15 minute phone consultation, so reach out. Even if we aren't the right fit, I'll try to refer you to someone who might be.
You're not going crazy- you're doing the best you can under crazy circumstances. I offer compassionate, open-minded therapy in Louisiana and California. My focus is to understand things from your perspective and work with you as a team to identify and meet your goals for growth.
I know from personal experience that finding a therapist can be overwhelming- especially when you need one. The good news: just being here means you're on the right track. To get you started, I offer a free 15 minute phone consultation, so reach out. Even if we aren't the right fit, I'll try to refer you to someone who might be.
This includes queer and trans individuals, parents and partners of LGBTQ+ individuals, practitioners of ethical non-monogamy, and those involved in kink.
I offer therapy to individuals exploring various aspects of gender (transgender, cisgender, and gender diverse) and sexuality (LGBTQ+, ENM/Poly) as well as general mental health. My goal is to create a supportive environment where we can tackle challenges related to sexuality, relationships, personal growth, and overall mental health. Together, we’ll engage in empathetic, nonjudgmental conversations to identify areas for growth and celebrate your achievements. I’ll customize our sessions using diverse therapeutic techniques to meet your unique needs, values, and goals, helping you define your journey in life and relationships.
This includes queer and trans individuals, parents and partners of LGBTQ+ individuals, practitioners of ethical non-monogamy, and those involved in kink.
I offer therapy to individuals exploring various aspects of gender (transgender, cisgender, and gender diverse) and sexuality (LGBTQ+, ENM/Poly) as well as general mental health. My goal is to create a supportive environment where we can tackle challenges related to sexuality, relationships, personal growth, and overall mental health. Together, we’ll engage in empathetic, nonjudgmental conversations to identify areas for growth and celebrate your achievements. I’ll customize our sessions using diverse therapeutic techniques to meet your unique needs, values, and goals, helping you define your journey in life and relationships.
Updated:10/2/25 I believe that people want a life full of joy, challenge and deep connection with their loved ones and larger community. Unfortunately, many of us desire those qualities of life-but have trouble accessing them in the moment. I am here to encourage you to explore your joy, challenge areas where you struggle to connect and create a path to a life that is full of resonance and enthusiasm. If your goal is to address issues related to society and culture or have someone who deeply understands alternative lifestyles, those are my favorite types of clients. You can rely on my approach to be practical, candid and relatable.
Updated:10/2/25 I believe that people want a life full of joy, challenge and deep connection with their loved ones and larger community. Unfortunately, many of us desire those qualities of life-but have trouble accessing them in the moment. I am here to encourage you to explore your joy, challenge areas where you struggle to connect and create a path to a life that is full of resonance and enthusiasm. If your goal is to address issues related to society and culture or have someone who deeply understands alternative lifestyles, those are my favorite types of clients. You can rely on my approach to be practical, candid and relatable.
We offer telehealth therapy for queer and gender-diverse, kinky, nonmonogamous, and neurodiverse folks across California. While these aren’t the only topics we explore, they are areas where we bring deep, lived-experience expertise. That means you don’t have to explain your identity, define your terms, or worry about judgment. We’re here to see you as you are, support you in reaching your goals, and celebrate every step along the way.
We offer telehealth therapy for queer and gender-diverse, kinky, nonmonogamous, and neurodiverse folks across California. While these aren’t the only topics we explore, they are areas where we bring deep, lived-experience expertise. That means you don’t have to explain your identity, define your terms, or worry about judgment. We’re here to see you as you are, support you in reaching your goals, and celebrate every step along the way.
I'm a sex-positive therapist who is aware and affirming of: LGBTQIA+, ethical nonmonogamy, kink, and am Neurodiversity Affirming.
Imagine being in a space that feels open, accepting, free of judgment—where you can show up as your full self without ever needing to censor or adjust who you are. I understand how challenging it can be to find a therapeutic environment where you feel like you truly belong, and it’s deeply meaningful to witness the relief clients experience when they’re able to engage authentically in the therapeutic journey. My primary focus is supporting individuals navigating complex trauma, sexuality-related concerns, and Neurodiverse clients. I have completed and continue to pursue specialized training and education in Sex Therapy.
I'm a sex-positive therapist who is aware and affirming of: LGBTQIA+, ethical nonmonogamy, kink, and am Neurodiversity Affirming.
Imagine being in a space that feels open, accepting, free of judgment—where you can show up as your full self without ever needing to censor or adjust who you are. I understand how challenging it can be to find a therapeutic environment where you feel like you truly belong, and it’s deeply meaningful to witness the relief clients experience when they’re able to engage authentically in the therapeutic journey. My primary focus is supporting individuals navigating complex trauma, sexuality-related concerns, and Neurodiverse clients. I have completed and continue to pursue specialized training and education in Sex Therapy.
See more therapy options for Escondido
Nearby Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Therapists Searches for Escondido
- Cardiff By The Sea
- Del Mar
- Encinitas
- Fallbrook
- La Jolla
- Oceanside
- Poway
- Rancho Santa Fe
- San Marcos
- Santee
- Solana Beach
- Vista
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.