Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Therapists in Oakland, CA
Anthony Magnia
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610 (Online Only)
LGBTQ+ folx, allies, and members of the kink & polyamorous communities - you're all welcome here!.
I specialize in helping teens (12+) and adults achieve mental health goals, build relationships, and heal from past pain. I have a special affinity for QTBIPOC and neurodivergent geeks, gamers, cosplayers, and furries. I am training to become a Certified Geek Therapist. We do things like using therapeutic games, elements of your fandoms, and visualization exercises to explore who you are, express yourself, and increase self-confidence.
LGBTQ+ folx, allies, and members of the kink & polyamorous communities - you're all welcome here!.
I specialize in helping teens (12+) and adults achieve mental health goals, build relationships, and heal from past pain. I have a special affinity for QTBIPOC and neurodivergent geeks, gamers, cosplayers, and furries. I am training to become a Certified Geek Therapist. We do things like using therapeutic games, elements of your fandoms, and visualization exercises to explore who you are, express yourself, and increase self-confidence.
Ashley Ramos, Sex & Intimacy Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94607 (Online Only)
When was the last time you felt intimately connected in your life? Sometimes stressors in our relationships, careers, personal histories, and more can get in the way. Together we can explore and process the obstacles limiting your ability to let go and enjoy life. We will challenge any anxiety, sadness, guilt, and negative beliefs that disempower you from showing up as your authentic self.
When was the last time you felt intimately connected in your life? Sometimes stressors in our relationships, careers, personal histories, and more can get in the way. Together we can explore and process the obstacles limiting your ability to let go and enjoy life. We will challenge any anxiety, sadness, guilt, and negative beliefs that disempower you from showing up as your authentic self.
I am very open to work with LGBTQ+ identified clients and am well versed in issues related to sexual identity, gender variance, transitions, coming out, school bullying, family conflict, non-monagamy/polyamory, BDSM/ kink, HIV, and other issues that touch the community.
I view therapy as a collaborative relationship, seeking to form a partnership to explore your struggles, moving towards growth and healing. I am experienced in working with anxiety, depression, substance issues, grief/loss, relationship difficulties, trauma, oppression, chronic medical conditions, sexuality, eating disorders, and adoption issues. In addition to individual therapy, I work with couples, and relationships of all configurations. I am especially interested in clients who would like to incorporate Somatic Experiencing into their therapy.
I am very open to work with LGBTQ+ identified clients and am well versed in issues related to sexual identity, gender variance, transitions, coming out, school bullying, family conflict, non-monagamy/polyamory, BDSM/ kink, HIV, and other issues that touch the community.
I view therapy as a collaborative relationship, seeking to form a partnership to explore your struggles, moving towards growth and healing. I am experienced in working with anxiety, depression, substance issues, grief/loss, relationship difficulties, trauma, oppression, chronic medical conditions, sexuality, eating disorders, and adoption issues. In addition to individual therapy, I work with couples, and relationships of all configurations. I am especially interested in clients who would like to incorporate Somatic Experiencing into their therapy.
Catherine (Cat) Haueter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
I love working with those who don't always feel comfortable or "seen" in clinical settings: LGBTQ+ folks, kink/BDSM practitioners, sex workers, POC, poly/open/nontraditional relationship architects, people with disabilities, Burners, self-proclaimed weirdos, and anyone struggling with or exploring identity.
I believe that experiencing loving, nurturing relationships is the best part of being alive. I also recognize that for many of us, creating and maintaining such relationships can be incredibly hard. I view psychotherapy as a means to explore whatever is currently blocking our path to healthy, fulfilling and supportive connections--both to others and to ourselves. Sometimes that means building skills we never learned in the first place. Other times that means examining challenging past experiences. Whatever the circumstances, I am here to support your journey toward growth, fulfillment, and ultimately, greater joy.
I love working with those who don't always feel comfortable or "seen" in clinical settings: LGBTQ+ folks, kink/BDSM practitioners, sex workers, POC, poly/open/nontraditional relationship architects, people with disabilities, Burners, self-proclaimed weirdos, and anyone struggling with or exploring identity.
I believe that experiencing loving, nurturing relationships is the best part of being alive. I also recognize that for many of us, creating and maintaining such relationships can be incredibly hard. I view psychotherapy as a means to explore whatever is currently blocking our path to healthy, fulfilling and supportive connections--both to others and to ourselves. Sometimes that means building skills we never learned in the first place. Other times that means examining challenging past experiences. Whatever the circumstances, I am here to support your journey toward growth, fulfillment, and ultimately, greater joy.
Stefanie Schlief
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618 (Online Only)
I am an associate Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in sex therapy, harm reduction, trauma-informed care, PTSD, and LGBTQIA+ issues. I am currently accepting both couples and individuals at my practice. My work is non-judgmental, client focused, sex positive, open to those practicing ethical non-monogamy and polyamory, kink-positive, SWer supportive, and welcomes humans of all cultural backgrounds. I love to help people navigate through their relationships both casual and serious, and offer support and care in making tough changes or choices. Together we can explore shame, identity, and what scares or challenges us.
I am an associate Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in sex therapy, harm reduction, trauma-informed care, PTSD, and LGBTQIA+ issues. I am currently accepting both couples and individuals at my practice. My work is non-judgmental, client focused, sex positive, open to those practicing ethical non-monogamy and polyamory, kink-positive, SWer supportive, and welcomes humans of all cultural backgrounds. I love to help people navigate through their relationships both casual and serious, and offer support and care in making tough changes or choices. Together we can explore shame, identity, and what scares or challenges us.
Neal Hailey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611 (Online Only)
I am passionate about working with all the letters (LGBTQIQA etc), as well as with those in open, poly, and kink relationships.
As a therapist, I am here to witness and support your process of transformation and growth. A large part of the benefit of therapy comes from your experience of the therapeutic relationship, for this reason I always strive to nurture, and explore this relationship with you through honest, open, and straightforward communication.
I am passionate about working with all the letters (LGBTQIQA etc), as well as with those in open, poly, and kink relationships.
As a therapist, I am here to witness and support your process of transformation and growth. A large part of the benefit of therapy comes from your experience of the therapeutic relationship, for this reason I always strive to nurture, and explore this relationship with you through honest, open, and straightforward communication.
I am kink and sex positive.
My clients sometimes think of themselves as outsiders, and in our sessions they find validation, safety, and hope. We collaborate on issues like finding community, discovering your voice, and freeing your internal advocate. Everyone can use extra support from time to time, and that's what I'm here for. Let’s be curious about your challenges and search together for solutions that come from the context of your life.
I am kink and sex positive.
My clients sometimes think of themselves as outsiders, and in our sessions they find validation, safety, and hope. We collaborate on issues like finding community, discovering your voice, and freeing your internal advocate. Everyone can use extra support from time to time, and that's what I'm here for. Let’s be curious about your challenges and search together for solutions that come from the context of your life.
I am a queer, polyamorous, and integrative transpersonal clinician; I specialize in the areas of polyamory, kink, navigating trauma, consent, and entheogenic integration.
You’re fumbling, feeling clunky, ashamed, lost in transition, and searching for answers. You’ve been told you’re too much, too scattered, and too picky, when in reality, you may very well know what you want and it seems others just can’t meet you there. Together we will explore and unfold acceptance and awareness around ALL of your parts, especially the most intense ones. What you’re searching for is out there, let’s take these next steps on your journey.
I am a queer, polyamorous, and integrative transpersonal clinician; I specialize in the areas of polyamory, kink, navigating trauma, consent, and entheogenic integration.
You’re fumbling, feeling clunky, ashamed, lost in transition, and searching for answers. You’ve been told you’re too much, too scattered, and too picky, when in reality, you may very well know what you want and it seems others just can’t meet you there. Together we will explore and unfold acceptance and awareness around ALL of your parts, especially the most intense ones. What you’re searching for is out there, let’s take these next steps on your journey.
Preston Lopez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610 (Online Only)
Greetings and welcome! I'm Preston, a therapist proudly rocking my queer and brown identities. In my work with clients, my top priority is fostering a safe, vibrant connection in which to explore the therapeutic process. I adopt a holistic approach, always striving to understand both individuals and their place within broader societal systems. Through a social justice lens, I assist individuals in recognizing and overcoming the impact of internalized oppression on their identities and relationships.
Greetings and welcome! I'm Preston, a therapist proudly rocking my queer and brown identities. In my work with clients, my top priority is fostering a safe, vibrant connection in which to explore the therapeutic process. I adopt a holistic approach, always striving to understand both individuals and their place within broader societal systems. Through a social justice lens, I assist individuals in recognizing and overcoming the impact of internalized oppression on their identities and relationships.
Jessee Lovegood
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610 (Online Only)
I approach my work with a social justice lens and am sex-, kink-, and body-positive.
Folks come to therapy for a variety of reasons that all boil down to change, whether they're struggling to handle it or make it. Many of my clients' lives don't align with societal norms, either intentionally coloring outside the lines or struggling to fit in. Folks may find themselves overwhelmed, dealing with big emotions, the effects of complex or single-event trauma, complex medical issues, or chronic pain. I am passionate about working with the LGBTQ+ - including trans kids and their families, disabled, and neurodiverse populations. I like to work with individuals, couples, polycules, and families of all shapes and sizes.
I approach my work with a social justice lens and am sex-, kink-, and body-positive.
Folks come to therapy for a variety of reasons that all boil down to change, whether they're struggling to handle it or make it. Many of my clients' lives don't align with societal norms, either intentionally coloring outside the lines or struggling to fit in. Folks may find themselves overwhelmed, dealing with big emotions, the effects of complex or single-event trauma, complex medical issues, or chronic pain. I am passionate about working with the LGBTQ+ - including trans kids and their families, disabled, and neurodiverse populations. I like to work with individuals, couples, polycules, and families of all shapes and sizes.
I offer therapy in CA and coaching internationally through an online format. My primary focus is supporting people with issues related to non-monogamy through a trauma informed lens. My practice is kink, queer, trans, monogamy, poly, open relationship, RA, neurodivergent, and quirk friendly. I’m passionate about sharing tools that can help others experience secure relationships in whatever structures feel like the best fit for the unique values, desires, and ways of being of the individuals involved. My ideal clients are simply people who want to show up as their most authentic & actualized selves.
I offer therapy in CA and coaching internationally through an online format. My primary focus is supporting people with issues related to non-monogamy through a trauma informed lens. My practice is kink, queer, trans, monogamy, poly, open relationship, RA, neurodivergent, and quirk friendly. I’m passionate about sharing tools that can help others experience secure relationships in whatever structures feel like the best fit for the unique values, desires, and ways of being of the individuals involved. My ideal clients are simply people who want to show up as their most authentic & actualized selves.
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Stephanie Pepitone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94605
My practice is trauma-informed, DBT-informed, feminist, body and sex positive, with a focus on somatic awareness and expressive arts.
Reaching out for support may feel difficult but you are totally worth it. I can provide you with a place where you will be listened to with compassion and understanding. Through our work together I will bring gentle curiosity to the areas of your life you want to explore. This can look like nurturing any tender wounds, fostering belonging for abandoned parts of yourself, embracing acceptance for things you can't change, and building skills needed for constructing the life and relationships you desire.
My practice is trauma-informed, DBT-informed, feminist, body and sex positive, with a focus on somatic awareness and expressive arts.
Reaching out for support may feel difficult but you are totally worth it. I can provide you with a place where you will be listened to with compassion and understanding. Through our work together I will bring gentle curiosity to the areas of your life you want to explore. This can look like nurturing any tender wounds, fostering belonging for abandoned parts of yourself, embracing acceptance for things you can't change, and building skills needed for constructing the life and relationships you desire.
Danika Grundemann
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94608 (Online Only)
Welcome! I specialize in working with folx who are LGBTQA+ and who are struggling with anxiety, depression and/or a history of trauma. I love supporting those who are either making the transition from monogamy to non-monogamy or need support in their existing CMN relationships. I'm also kink and BDSM competent and enjoy helping others heal shame and foster empowerment in their unique sexuality. I think of psychotherapy as a necessary form of social activism toward a larger goal of equity for people of all races, genders, sexual/relational orientations, levels of ability, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
Welcome! I specialize in working with folx who are LGBTQA+ and who are struggling with anxiety, depression and/or a history of trauma. I love supporting those who are either making the transition from monogamy to non-monogamy or need support in their existing CMN relationships. I'm also kink and BDSM competent and enjoy helping others heal shame and foster empowerment in their unique sexuality. I think of psychotherapy as a necessary form of social activism toward a larger goal of equity for people of all races, genders, sexual/relational orientations, levels of ability, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
You are not your problems, the problem is the problem! Together we can begin to discern the difference and take action toward change. I am a white, genderqueer therapist dedicated to facilitating personal, interpersonal and collective healing through relationships and organizing. I specialize in supporting people experiencing issues related to boundaries, self-respect, burnout, anger, social/racial justice, healing trauma, identity development, existential questions, sexuality, gender identity, and life transitions. LGBTQ, poly, and kink identities welcome. More at: www.tidepooltherapy.com and www.traumaconsciouspraxis.com
You are not your problems, the problem is the problem! Together we can begin to discern the difference and take action toward change. I am a white, genderqueer therapist dedicated to facilitating personal, interpersonal and collective healing through relationships and organizing. I specialize in supporting people experiencing issues related to boundaries, self-respect, burnout, anger, social/racial justice, healing trauma, identity development, existential questions, sexuality, gender identity, and life transitions. LGBTQ, poly, and kink identities welcome. More at: www.tidepooltherapy.com and www.traumaconsciouspraxis.com
I also work with members of the BDSM, kink, and poly communities and create a safe space for the development of new paradigms and beliefs.
Throughout our lives, we all have experienced feelings of depression, anxiety, and anger. 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 members of the BDSM, kink, and poly communities and create a safe space for the development of new paradigms and beliefs.
Throughout our lives, we all have experienced feelings of depression, anxiety, and anger. 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.
How you feel towards yourself can profoundly impact your relationships, work, school, and more. And a lot can make it hard to feel your best. You might be: Exhausted by a relentless self-critical voice...Considering your next steps to feel authentically aligned with your gender and sexuality...Struggling with boundaries and people-pleasing... Stressed and stuck in your closest relationships...Curious about non-monogamy but unsure where to start...Looking for nonjudgmental guidance navigating dynamics within polyamory and kink — not to mention managing all of this under capitalism. No wonder you'd like support!
How you feel towards yourself can profoundly impact your relationships, work, school, and more. And a lot can make it hard to feel your best. You might be: Exhausted by a relentless self-critical voice...Considering your next steps to feel authentically aligned with your gender and sexuality...Struggling with boundaries and people-pleasing... Stressed and stuck in your closest relationships...Curious about non-monogamy but unsure where to start...Looking for nonjudgmental guidance navigating dynamics within polyamory and kink — not to mention managing all of this under capitalism. No wonder you'd like support!
Josephine Kelly
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, ASW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610 (Online Only)
Other areas of experience and interest are: kink/BDSM, neurodivergent/ADHD/AuDHD, poly and alternative relationship structures, existential anxiety and depression, biracial/multiracial/multicultural folks, and people who are artists.
Queer, trans, and nonbinary folks to the front! Do you want to live an authentic and empowered life but you’re not sure how? Are you having trouble figuring out your purpose in this chaotic world? A traumatic past doesn't have to define your future. Whether you're rebuilding your bodily autonomy after sexual violence, resisting internalized oppressive narratives, or wanting to cultivate a more compassionate connection with your body I'm ready to be a collaborator on your journey. Let's figure out where you're living out of alignment with your values and develop ways to have a kinder, more honest relationship with yourself.
Other areas of experience and interest are: kink/BDSM, neurodivergent/ADHD/AuDHD, poly and alternative relationship structures, existential anxiety and depression, biracial/multiracial/multicultural folks, and people who are artists.
Queer, trans, and nonbinary folks to the front! Do you want to live an authentic and empowered life but you’re not sure how? Are you having trouble figuring out your purpose in this chaotic world? A traumatic past doesn't have to define your future. Whether you're rebuilding your bodily autonomy after sexual violence, resisting internalized oppressive narratives, or wanting to cultivate a more compassionate connection with your body I'm ready to be a collaborator on your journey. Let's figure out where you're living out of alignment with your values and develop ways to have a kinder, more honest relationship with yourself.
I work with individuals and couples across many backgrounds, particularly within queer and trans community, kink and polyamory, and people who are in recovery and survivors.
Hi there, I’m glad you’re here. I know that looking for a therapist can be hard, especially when you’re hurting or feeling low. I may be able to help. You might feel lonely, anxious, or full of guilt…or you might not know what you feel. You may be confused about the choices you make in life, or you may feel frustrated with the unjust world you live in. Many critical thought patterns, painful feelings, and unwanted behaviors started out as survival strategies to protect us during difficult life experiences. These strategies helped us cope in the past, but can lead to conflict and suffering in the present.
I work with individuals and couples across many backgrounds, particularly within queer and trans community, kink and polyamory, and people who are in recovery and survivors.
Hi there, I’m glad you’re here. I know that looking for a therapist can be hard, especially when you’re hurting or feeling low. I may be able to help. You might feel lonely, anxious, or full of guilt…or you might not know what you feel. You may be confused about the choices you make in life, or you may feel frustrated with the unjust world you live in. Many critical thought patterns, painful feelings, and unwanted behaviors started out as survival strategies to protect us during difficult life experiences. These strategies helped us cope in the past, but can lead to conflict and suffering in the present.
Audre Mowry
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611 (Online Only)
Finding a therapist can be a hard and vulnerable process, and I feel honored that you are considering me. I believe that psychotherapy is a collaborative relationship which starts with the connection we build together. My approach to therapy prioritizes sex positivity and gender inclusive practices. I love to work with clients that identify in the queer, kinky/BDSM and poly/non-monogmomous communities! I earned my BA Women and Gender Studies at Mills College in Oakland, and my MA in Psychology from The Wright Institute in Berkeley. I worked in sex-positive activism, heading programs, and running workshops and trainings.
Finding a therapist can be a hard and vulnerable process, and I feel honored that you are considering me. I believe that psychotherapy is a collaborative relationship which starts with the connection we build together. My approach to therapy prioritizes sex positivity and gender inclusive practices. I love to work with clients that identify in the queer, kinky/BDSM and poly/non-monogmomous communities! I earned my BA Women and Gender Studies at Mills College in Oakland, and my MA in Psychology from The Wright Institute in Berkeley. I worked in sex-positive activism, heading programs, and running workshops and trainings.
I also work with folx involved in the kink community, BDSM lifestyle and practices, members of sex-positive community, and sex workers.
I provide sex-positive therapy to individuals, relationships, and adult families. Most of my clients have non-mainstream sexual, gender, and/or relationship identities. Many identify as non-monogamous, are considering opening or creatively designing their relationship(s); I help them to create agreements, move through jealousy, heal from infidelities, build trust, and improve communication with partners and metamours. I work with queer, transgender, and nonbinary clients just beginning to question and explore their identities, and those who have been out for years and need therapy from a clinician familiar with queer issues.
I also work with folx involved in the kink community, BDSM lifestyle and practices, members of sex-positive community, and sex workers.
I provide sex-positive therapy to individuals, relationships, and adult families. Most of my clients have non-mainstream sexual, gender, and/or relationship identities. Many identify as non-monogamous, are considering opening or creatively designing their relationship(s); I help them to create agreements, move through jealousy, heal from infidelities, build trust, and improve communication with partners and metamours. I work with queer, transgender, and nonbinary clients just beginning to question and explore their identities, and those who have been out for years and need therapy from a clinician familiar with queer issues.
See more therapy options for Oakland
Nearby Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Therapists Searches for Oakland
- Alameda
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- Berkeley
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- Emeryville
- Kensington
- Lafayette
- Moraga
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- Piedmont
- San Francisco
- San Leandro
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.