Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Therapists in Los Angeles, CA

Photo of Maya Attia - Maya Attia- Poly & ENM Therapist, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Maya Attia- Poly & ENM Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Online Only
You’ve read all the books and did all the research, but being in an open relationship is more complicated than it sounded. You thought you had it all figured out, but it turns out you’re just as lost as before. It was supposed to be an exciting time to explore and spice things up, but right now, you’re overwhelmed with anxiety and fear. You’re scared this will ruin your relationship, and jealousy has become a familiar presence. Something has to change.
You’ve read all the books and did all the research, but being in an open relationship is more complicated than it sounded. You thought you had it all figured out, but it turns out you’re just as lost as before. It was supposed to be an exciting time to explore and spice things up, but right now, you’re overwhelmed with anxiety and fear. You’re scared this will ruin your relationship, and jealousy has become a familiar presence. Something has to change.
(949) 832-6138 View (949) 832-6138
Photo of Carrie Smolen, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, MS
Carrie Smolen
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, MS
3 Endorsed
Online Only
My background has lent itself to a specialty in working with sex and relationships (LGBTQ, kink, and non-traditional relationship structure affirming), pregnancy, postpartum, new parents, challenging family dynamics, entertainment industry professionals, eating orders and disordered eating, body image struggles, anxiety, depression, and teens.
Relationships are hard. It’s a cliché for a reason, and an understatement at that. Even relationships that are generally very strong and loving take a lot of work and energy to maintain. My intention in session with you, whether as a couple, family, or other intimate unit, is to help facilitate communication in a way that helps you work toward shared goals and a more harmonious dynamic. I hope to create a collaborative environment in which you, both each and collectively, feel attentively listened to and emotionally held. I want to help you get on and stay on the same page, even when your perspectives feel misaligned.
My background has lent itself to a specialty in working with sex and relationships (LGBTQ, kink, and non-traditional relationship structure affirming), pregnancy, postpartum, new parents, challenging family dynamics, entertainment industry professionals, eating orders and disordered eating, body image struggles, anxiety, depression, and teens.
Relationships are hard. It’s a cliché for a reason, and an understatement at that. Even relationships that are generally very strong and loving take a lot of work and energy to maintain. My intention in session with you, whether as a couple, family, or other intimate unit, is to help facilitate communication in a way that helps you work toward shared goals and a more harmonious dynamic. I hope to create a collaborative environment in which you, both each and collectively, feel attentively listened to and emotionally held. I want to help you get on and stay on the same page, even when your perspectives feel misaligned.
(323) 530-2998 View (323) 530-2998
Photo of Elin Kiyoko Campbell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Elin Kiyoko Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I'm a sex-positive therapist who is aware and affirming of: LGBTQIA+, ethical non-monogamy, and kink.
Imagine being in a space that feels open, accepting, and 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 truly feel like you belong, and it’s deeply meaningful to witness the relief clients experience when they’re able to engage authentically in the therapeutic journey. My practice primarily focuses on supporting individuals navigating sex, sexuality-related concerns, as well as 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 non-monogamy, and kink.
Imagine being in a space that feels open, accepting, and 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 truly feel like you belong, and it’s deeply meaningful to witness the relief clients experience when they’re able to engage authentically in the therapeutic journey. My practice primarily focuses on supporting individuals navigating sex, sexuality-related concerns, as well as Neurodiverse clients. I have completed and continue to pursue specialized training and education in Sex Therapy.
(415) 570-6476 View (415) 570-6476
Photo of Sterling Davon Walker, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Sterling Davon Walker
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Los Angeles, CA 90046
I work with a diverse group of clients addressing challenges of identity, sexuality/ kink/fetish, anxiety, intimacy and relationships.
I am a couple's therapist here to help you dismantle the sex-negativity or social bias that prevents you from moving forward. I am psychodynamic and trauma-informed therapist with experience working with diverse populations. I create a safe and supportive space that acknowledges your unique background and life experience, building your health and strength to allow you to explore and develop paradigms and beliefs to support your goals and aspirations
I work with a diverse group of clients addressing challenges of identity, sexuality/ kink/fetish, anxiety, intimacy and relationships.
I am a couple's therapist here to help you dismantle the sex-negativity or social bias that prevents you from moving forward. I am psychodynamic and trauma-informed therapist with experience working with diverse populations. I create a safe and supportive space that acknowledges your unique background and life experience, building your health and strength to allow you to explore and develop paradigms and beliefs to support your goals and aspirations
(323) 859-1211 View (323) 859-1211
Photo of Melissa Anne Behrends-Gelfman, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Melissa Anne Behrends-Gelfman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Online Only
I have over 30 years of experience in the field of mental health, helping people from age 0 - 90 plus, My passion is for helping those who have had sexual trauma, childhood abuse, etc, as well as I am sex positive, kink positive, open, friendly and caring.
My ideal client is someone who is willing to empty their mental cup and be prepared to do some good, productive work on the issues that cause them to continue living lives that are barely functioning. I am NOT the expert of anyone's lives; however, I can offer insight into the experiences that have molded me to become the person I am today. I am extremely transparent, not easily offended, and willing to do the hard work, alongside my clients to help them take the reign of their lives back.
I have over 30 years of experience in the field of mental health, helping people from age 0 - 90 plus, My passion is for helping those who have had sexual trauma, childhood abuse, etc, as well as I am sex positive, kink positive, open, friendly and caring.
My ideal client is someone who is willing to empty their mental cup and be prepared to do some good, productive work on the issues that cause them to continue living lives that are barely functioning. I am NOT the expert of anyone's lives; however, I can offer insight into the experiences that have molded me to become the person I am today. I am extremely transparent, not easily offended, and willing to do the hard work, alongside my clients to help them take the reign of their lives back.
(760) 462-3647 View (760) 462-3647
Photo of Rachelle Ann Ramos, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS
Rachelle Ann Ramos
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS
Online Only
I would describe the therapy I offer as client centered, nonjudgmental, collaborative, affirming, multiculturally responsive, and sex positive.
Clients who seek me out for therapy often identify with historically underrepresented groups such as Black, Indigenous, people of transnational-immigrant diaspora, LGBTQIA+ individuals/couples/CNM configurations, sex workers, and more. My therapy services include but are not limited to supporting individuals/couples/CNM configurations navigating life transitions, processing trauma to release the influence of the past on the present, as well as finding/developing their emotional balance. I have experience working with Consensually Nonmonogamous Configurations as well as Kinky populations in regard to my relational work.
I would describe the therapy I offer as client centered, nonjudgmental, collaborative, affirming, multiculturally responsive, and sex positive.
Clients who seek me out for therapy often identify with historically underrepresented groups such as Black, Indigenous, people of transnational-immigrant diaspora, LGBTQIA+ individuals/couples/CNM configurations, sex workers, and more. My therapy services include but are not limited to supporting individuals/couples/CNM configurations navigating life transitions, processing trauma to release the influence of the past on the present, as well as finding/developing their emotional balance. I have experience working with Consensually Nonmonogamous Configurations as well as Kinky populations in regard to my relational work.
(619) 732-3255 View (619) 732-3255
Photo of Erica Haas, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Erica Haas
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi there, I’m happy you’re here! I’m a therapist who’s all about helping people feel empowered. I have a background in both clinical mental health and corporate wellness. I take a flexible, integrative approach to therapy, blending mindfulness, somatic practices, and values-based strategies to fit each person’s unique needs. I am sex-positive, LGBTQIA+ affirmative, and welcoming to all non-traditional relationships and lifestyles.
Hi there, I’m happy you’re here! I’m a therapist who’s all about helping people feel empowered. I have a background in both clinical mental health and corporate wellness. I take a flexible, integrative approach to therapy, blending mindfulness, somatic practices, and values-based strategies to fit each person’s unique needs. I am sex-positive, LGBTQIA+ affirmative, and welcoming to all non-traditional relationships and lifestyles.
(949) 828-3943 View (949) 828-3943
Photo of Vashauna Nicole Williams - Centered Soul Counseling , Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Centered Soul Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Online Only
Do you have a desire to explore BDSM/ Kink but are unsure of how to bring it up with your partner or how to explore it within yourself?
My approach is rooted in respect for diverse relationship structures and aims to support clients in developing communication skills and fostering intimacy within themselves and their relationships. I am passionate about helping individuals live their most genuine, sexually fulfilling lives. I am a LGBTQ+ affirming and kink and BDSM friendly therapist.
Do you have a desire to explore BDSM/ Kink but are unsure of how to bring it up with your partner or how to explore it within yourself?
My approach is rooted in respect for diverse relationship structures and aims to support clients in developing communication skills and fostering intimacy within themselves and their relationships. I am passionate about helping individuals live their most genuine, sexually fulfilling lives. I am a LGBTQ+ affirming and kink and BDSM friendly therapist.
(310) 742-0974 View (310) 742-0974
Photo of Stephanie Trecha, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Stephanie Trecha
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
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? Are you 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, anger or conflict? Are you struggling to feel connected to people in your life, feeling isolated, or overly anxious? Has trauma or past experiences been the building blocks of unhelpful core beliefs you wish to change? Let's talk and explore your needs and goals.
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? Are you 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, anger or conflict? Are you struggling to feel connected to people in your life, feeling isolated, or overly anxious? Has trauma or past experiences been the building blocks of unhelpful core beliefs you wish to change? Let's talk and explore your needs and goals.
(442) 313-2556 View (442) 313-2556
Photo of Robert Wolf, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCTP
Robert Wolf
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCTP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I'm Poly, ENM, kink friendly, sex worker allied.
A safe space to be fully yourself—no explanations required. I’m Rob Wolf, a queer-identified Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with advanced training in Trauma-Informed care and Sex Therapy. I specialize in working with LGBTQAI+ adults as well as Neurodivergent people. That being said, I welcome ALL types of people in my practice. I offer therapy from a holistic approach. Together we'll explore how your mind, body, and spirit are navigating the complex intersections of identity, relationships, trauma, and emotional wellbeing, shaping the way you live, love, and connect.
I'm Poly, ENM, kink friendly, sex worker allied.
A safe space to be fully yourself—no explanations required. I’m Rob Wolf, a queer-identified Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with advanced training in Trauma-Informed care and Sex Therapy. I specialize in working with LGBTQAI+ adults as well as Neurodivergent people. That being said, I welcome ALL types of people in my practice. I offer therapy from a holistic approach. Together we'll explore how your mind, body, and spirit are navigating the complex intersections of identity, relationships, trauma, and emotional wellbeing, shaping the way you live, love, and connect.
(341) 218-5333 View (341) 218-5333
Photo of Ashley Ramos - Ashley Ramos, Certified Sex Therapist, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Ashley Ramos, Certified Sex Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
For couples, I provide support in bridging differences in sexual desire, improving communication, and navigating transitions like ethical non-monogamy or BDSM/ kink dynamics with trust and openness.
Are you feeling disconnected from your body, your desires, or your partner? At Insightful Intimacy Therapy, I specialize in helping individuals and couples rebuild intimacy and explore their relationships. I am ready to support you through the difficult journey of examining relationship patterns, confronting insecurities, and prioritizing your values. I’ll help you address communication breakdowns, set boundaries, and strengthen emotional connections one relationship at a time. Together, we’ll uncover what’s been holding you back, empowering you to engage more fully with yourself and the people who matter most.
For couples, I provide support in bridging differences in sexual desire, improving communication, and navigating transitions like ethical non-monogamy or BDSM/ kink dynamics with trust and openness.
Are you feeling disconnected from your body, your desires, or your partner? At Insightful Intimacy Therapy, I specialize in helping individuals and couples rebuild intimacy and explore their relationships. I am ready to support you through the difficult journey of examining relationship patterns, confronting insecurities, and prioritizing your values. I’ll help you address communication breakdowns, set boundaries, and strengthen emotional connections one relationship at a time. Together, we’ll uncover what’s been holding you back, empowering you to engage more fully with yourself and the people who matter most.
(818) 858-1471 View (818) 858-1471
Photo of Sterling Walker, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Sterling Walker
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I also work with sex positive and poly communities and create a safe space for the development of new paradigms and beliefs.
I am a couple’s therapist here to help you heal relationship stress that prevents you from moving further forward in your partnership. These emotions leave you feeling insecure, shameful, lonely, unworthy and stuck in unhealthy patterns of behavior. Trauma can have negative emotional and physical effects and can lead to family/relationship issues. I specialize in solution-focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness and CBT. These approaches allow me to work with the client to decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression and other health/behavioral issues.
I also work with sex positive and poly communities and create a safe space for the development of new paradigms and beliefs.
I am a couple’s therapist here to help you heal relationship stress that prevents you from moving further forward in your partnership. These emotions leave you feeling insecure, shameful, lonely, unworthy and stuck in unhealthy patterns of behavior. Trauma can have negative emotional and physical effects and can lead to family/relationship issues. I specialize in solution-focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness and CBT. These approaches allow me to work with the client to decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression and other health/behavioral issues.
(310) 879-5156 View (310) 879-5156
Photo of Emily Sculthorpe, Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Emily Sculthorpe
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
As a sex positive, LGBTQ-affirmative therapist, I have extensive training and experience working with the LGBTQ community, folks exploring polyamory/CNM, and the BDSM & kink community.
Hi, I'm Emily. I'm an LGBTQ-affirmative sex therapist with a passion for fostering healthy relationships. You may be here because you're struggling in your intimate relationships, realizing you aren't getting what you want but don't know how to fix it. Maybe you feel confused or ashamed about your sexuality. Maybe you don't even know yourself sexually, or struggle to talk about sex at all. If this sounds like you, I know exactly what you're doing through and I'm here to help. You deserve a safe space to explore your inner intimate and sexual landscape without fear, shame, or judgment. I am honored to support you in this journey.
As a sex positive, LGBTQ-affirmative therapist, I have extensive training and experience working with the LGBTQ community, folks exploring polyamory/CNM, and the BDSM & kink community.
Hi, I'm Emily. I'm an LGBTQ-affirmative sex therapist with a passion for fostering healthy relationships. You may be here because you're struggling in your intimate relationships, realizing you aren't getting what you want but don't know how to fix it. Maybe you feel confused or ashamed about your sexuality. Maybe you don't even know yourself sexually, or struggle to talk about sex at all. If this sounds like you, I know exactly what you're doing through and I'm here to help. You deserve a safe space to explore your inner intimate and sexual landscape without fear, shame, or judgment. I am honored to support you in this journey.
(424) 855-0784 View (424) 855-0784
Photo of Natalie Badawy, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Natalie Badawy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
4 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90027
I'm sex-positive and supportive of all lifestyle and relationship paths inclusive of monogamy, ethical non-monogamy, LGBTQIA, and kink.
Many of us carry emotional wounds in our bodies, and only by connecting mind and body can we feel whole again. I use techniques like Jungian depth work, inner child healing, Internal Family Systems (IFS), relational, and somatic therapy to foster a lasting safe internal connection. When you’re in tune with your whole self, you’re empowered to heal relationships with others and the world around you, building resilience and deeper intimacy.
I'm sex-positive and supportive of all lifestyle and relationship paths inclusive of monogamy, ethical non-monogamy, LGBTQIA, and kink.
Many of us carry emotional wounds in our bodies, and only by connecting mind and body can we feel whole again. I use techniques like Jungian depth work, inner child healing, Internal Family Systems (IFS), relational, and somatic therapy to foster a lasting safe internal connection. When you’re in tune with your whole self, you’re empowered to heal relationships with others and the world around you, building resilience and deeper intimacy.
(818) 214-8665 View (818) 214-8665
Photo of Kailey Hockridge, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, EdM, LPCC
Kailey Hockridge
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, EdM, LPCC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I thrive in my work with creative, compassionate adults who are experiencing anxiety, burnout, or relationship stress. We may be a fit to work together if you are looking for a safer space to examine feelings of dissatisfaction or disconnect, and are curious about how to foster a greater sense of self-esteem and worthiness. I particularly enjoy working with self-described high achievers, and women in historically male-dominated industries. If you're ready to navigate your life more comfortably, gain confidence in communicating your needs, and build skills to better cope with your feelings - I look forward to supporting you in that.
I thrive in my work with creative, compassionate adults who are experiencing anxiety, burnout, or relationship stress. We may be a fit to work together if you are looking for a safer space to examine feelings of dissatisfaction or disconnect, and are curious about how to foster a greater sense of self-esteem and worthiness. I particularly enjoy working with self-described high achievers, and women in historically male-dominated industries. If you're ready to navigate your life more comfortably, gain confidence in communicating your needs, and build skills to better cope with your feelings - I look forward to supporting you in that.
(323) 676-2388 View (323) 676-2388
Photo of Filippo M Forni, Marriage & Family Therapist, CST, LMFT
Filippo M Forni
Marriage & Family Therapist, CST, LMFT
4 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Whether you're struggling with sexual well-being, relationship dynamics, or nontraditional partnerships like kink and polyamory, I provide expert, compassionate support.
I offer a sex-positive, inclusive, and expert approach to sex and intimacy therapy, helping you cultivate deeper connection, pleasure, and authenticity in your relationships. Whether you're exploring desires, overcoming challenges, or reigniting passion, I provide a safe, supportive space for growth, healing, and personal fulfillment.
Whether you're struggling with sexual well-being, relationship dynamics, or nontraditional partnerships like kink and polyamory, I provide expert, compassionate support.
I offer a sex-positive, inclusive, and expert approach to sex and intimacy therapy, helping you cultivate deeper connection, pleasure, and authenticity in your relationships. Whether you're exploring desires, overcoming challenges, or reigniting passion, I provide a safe, supportive space for growth, healing, and personal fulfillment.
(424) 353-2349 View (424) 353-2349
Photo of Ross Crothers, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Ross Crothers
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
My practice is built on values drawn from sex-positive, kink-savvy, body-positive, queer and trans-affirming care.
I specialize in working with individuals, couples, and families on topics related to sexuality, gender identity, body image, and non-traditional relationships and boundary-setting. Additionally, I have experience and training working with substance use disorders, sexual addiction, depression and anxiety, co-dependency, and sexual and religious trauma.
My practice is built on values drawn from sex-positive, kink-savvy, body-positive, queer and trans-affirming care.
I specialize in working with individuals, couples, and families on topics related to sexuality, gender identity, body image, and non-traditional relationships and boundary-setting. Additionally, I have experience and training working with substance use disorders, sexual addiction, depression and anxiety, co-dependency, and sexual and religious trauma.
(562) 414-6537 View (562) 414-6537
Photo of Ming Loong Teo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Ming Loong Teo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I am a neurodivergent (AuDHD) therapist who specializes in the treatment of trauma & working with survivors of narcissistic abuse and emotional manipulation. I also specialize in working with neurodivergent individuals and couples. I believe strongly in the importance of addressing the systems of institutional racism & systemic poverty that exist in our current society. I acknowledge racial trauma & the consistent traumatization which often results due to living as an ethnic minority in the U.S.
I am a neurodivergent (AuDHD) therapist who specializes in the treatment of trauma & working with survivors of narcissistic abuse and emotional manipulation. I also specialize in working with neurodivergent individuals and couples. I believe strongly in the importance of addressing the systems of institutional racism & systemic poverty that exist in our current society. I acknowledge racial trauma & the consistent traumatization which often results due to living as an ethnic minority in the U.S.
(818) 938-8785 View (818) 938-8785
Photo of Briana Ferron, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Briana Ferron
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90042
In my office, individuals and couples of all identities—straight, gay, bi, queer, trans, non-binary, poly, kink—are welcomed with warmth, respect, and zero judgment.
Are you craving change but feel trapped in old patterns? Does the idea of doing things differently feel overwhelming, even when you know something has to shift? You're not alone—and you don't have to figure it out alone, either. As an EMDR-certified therapist, I specialize in helping clients move through fear, release stuck trauma, and reconnect with their strengths so they can build more meaningful relationships—with themselves and with others.
In my office, individuals and couples of all identities—straight, gay, bi, queer, trans, non-binary, poly, kink—are welcomed with warmth, respect, and zero judgment.
Are you craving change but feel trapped in old patterns? Does the idea of doing things differently feel overwhelming, even when you know something has to shift? You're not alone—and you don't have to figure it out alone, either. As an EMDR-certified therapist, I specialize in helping clients move through fear, release stuck trauma, and reconnect with their strengths so they can build more meaningful relationships—with themselves and with others.
(747) 223-6411 View (747) 223-6411
Photo of Erica M Folinsky, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, CCMHIMP, BCS
Erica M Folinsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, CCMHIMP, BCS
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I'm a non binary, queer, AuDHD clinician who practices from a sex positive, trauma informed perspective and comes with an impressive list of trainings and certifications, but more importantly, I'm a regular human who's here to connect with you on a genuine and authentic level.
Many report not feeling comfortable opening up about the things that you need help with the most. We live in a judgmental world, it’s hard to connect to people in this post pandemic world. Being a truly trauma informed therapist that helps people make connections with their thoughts, emotions, & bodies has allowed me to help people make positive changes.
I'm a non binary, queer, AuDHD clinician who practices from a sex positive, trauma informed perspective and comes with an impressive list of trainings and certifications, but more importantly, I'm a regular human who's here to connect with you on a genuine and authentic level.
Many report not feeling comfortable opening up about the things that you need help with the most. We live in a judgmental world, it’s hard to connect to people in this post pandemic world. Being a truly trauma informed therapist that helps people make connections with their thoughts, emotions, & bodies has allowed me to help people make positive changes.
(323) 210-3673 View (323) 210-3673

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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.