Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Therapists in Outer Mission, San Francisco, CA

Photo of Therapy Lab San Francisco, Psychologist in Outer Mission, San Francisco, CA
Therapy Lab San Francisco
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Outer Mission, San Francisco, CA 94112  (Online Only)
Therapy Lab offers individual teletherapy that's based on a plan. Visit our website (therapylab.com) to explore a menu of treatment plans based on common goals for therapy. With your input, we'll make a plan that's based on your goals, your timeline, and your budget. Our science-based plans are designed to support you in overcoming distress (anxiety, relationship problems, work stress) so you walk away with emotional health and insight. At your first session, your exceptionally qualified therapist will get to know you and pick or design a plan that’s customized to your situation.
Therapy Lab offers individual teletherapy that's based on a plan. Visit our website (therapylab.com) to explore a menu of treatment plans based on common goals for therapy. With your input, we'll make a plan that's based on your goals, your timeline, and your budget. Our science-based plans are designed to support you in overcoming distress (anxiety, relationship problems, work stress) so you walk away with emotional health and insight. At your first session, your exceptionally qualified therapist will get to know you and pick or design a plan that’s customized to your situation.
(213) 376-3455 View (213) 376-3455
Photo of Susan Diane Utter, Marriage & Family Therapist in Outer Mission, San Francisco, CA
Susan Diane Utter
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Outer Mission, San Francisco, CA 94112  (Online Only)
Today many people are wondering what in the world is happening out there. People seem to be separating into two very different camps; and have lost the ability to consider point of view except for their own. Families are divided, friendships ended, as we hang on to the diminishing picture of how things used to be. There is no returning to how it used to be, everything is changing. Helpers such as myself can offer a space of no judgement to explore how to navigate these times. One of my favorite sayings is "just when you think it's falling apart, it's really falling together." Does this resonate with you? If so, I may be your helper.
Today many people are wondering what in the world is happening out there. People seem to be separating into two very different camps; and have lost the ability to consider point of view except for their own. Families are divided, friendships ended, as we hang on to the diminishing picture of how things used to be. There is no returning to how it used to be, everything is changing. Helpers such as myself can offer a space of no judgement to explore how to navigate these times. One of my favorite sayings is "just when you think it's falling apart, it's really falling together." Does this resonate with you? If so, I may be your helper.
(805) 395-4318 View (805) 395-4318
Photo of Brenda Santillan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Outer Mission, San Francisco, CA
Brenda Santillan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Outer Mission, San Francisco, CA 94110
My name is Brenda Santillan, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist based in Los Angeles, CA, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults ages 18-60 and specialize in anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, and lgbtqia+ issues using person-centered, trauma-informed psychotherapy to assist clients in healing. As a therapist, my approach varies based on the needs of each client I work with. I most frequently use more personal-centered, psychodynamic as modalities to help me understand a client's point of view.
My name is Brenda Santillan, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist based in Los Angeles, CA, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults ages 18-60 and specialize in anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, and lgbtqia+ issues using person-centered, trauma-informed psychotherapy to assist clients in healing. As a therapist, my approach varies based on the needs of each client I work with. I most frequently use more personal-centered, psychodynamic as modalities to help me understand a client's point of view.
(415) 993-5571 View (415) 993-5571
Photo of Lindsay Hesser, Marriage & Family Therapist in Outer Mission, San Francisco, CA
Lindsay Hesser
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Outer Mission, San Francisco, CA 94131  (Online Only)
I believe shared humor and relational connection are key for effective therapy. My goal is to meet you where you are, with a grounded, pragmatic approach. Together, we will collaborate to make your daily life more manageable and fulfilling by addressing outdated coping skills, self-sabotaging behaviors, overwhelming emotions, stressful situations, and lingering traumas. I also offer coaching services for professionals, those in the healthcare/wellness field, and graduate students. I enjoy supporting clients through the processes of self-development, self-innovation, radical acceptance, and growth.
I believe shared humor and relational connection are key for effective therapy. My goal is to meet you where you are, with a grounded, pragmatic approach. Together, we will collaborate to make your daily life more manageable and fulfilling by addressing outdated coping skills, self-sabotaging behaviors, overwhelming emotions, stressful situations, and lingering traumas. I also offer coaching services for professionals, those in the healthcare/wellness field, and graduate students. I enjoy supporting clients through the processes of self-development, self-innovation, radical acceptance, and growth.
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Photo of Molly Paris, Marriage & Family Therapist in Outer Mission, San Francisco, CA
Molly Paris
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Outer Mission, San Francisco, CA 94110
Sharing our inner experiences with someone can often feel frightening, which is exactly why I place such an importance on connection and acceptance in the therapeutic process. I aim to create a safe environment that will invite my clients to delve deeper into their personal narrative, as I truly believe we are not built to process emotions alone. As humans, we all have a propensity to grow and become our true selves, unfortunately we aren’t always gifted with the circumstances to allow it. I am passionate about creating a space for not only self-discovery and self-acceptance, but to allow clients to feel seen, heard, and valued.
Sharing our inner experiences with someone can often feel frightening, which is exactly why I place such an importance on connection and acceptance in the therapeutic process. I aim to create a safe environment that will invite my clients to delve deeper into their personal narrative, as I truly believe we are not built to process emotions alone. As humans, we all have a propensity to grow and become our true selves, unfortunately we aren’t always gifted with the circumstances to allow it. I am passionate about creating a space for not only self-discovery and self-acceptance, but to allow clients to feel seen, heard, and valued.
(415) 855-3806 View (415) 855-3806
Photo of Scott Macomber, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Outer Mission, San Francisco, CA
Scott Macomber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Outer Mission, San Francisco, CA 94131  (Online Only)
I am not a “blank slate”, distant and analyzing therapist. I am present and “in it” with my clients. Being real helps my clients see and experience they aren’t alone. Compassion, empathy, emotional awareness, and heart-centeredness are the fundamental ingredients of my therapy. Mindfulness-based techniques are critical to how I help clients slow down, recognize what emotions are coming up, and better tolerate them. While I have experience working with a wide range of concerns, my main expertise is in couples work, trauma, anxiety, depression, and performance anxiety/stage fright.
I am not a “blank slate”, distant and analyzing therapist. I am present and “in it” with my clients. Being real helps my clients see and experience they aren’t alone. Compassion, empathy, emotional awareness, and heart-centeredness are the fundamental ingredients of my therapy. Mindfulness-based techniques are critical to how I help clients slow down, recognize what emotions are coming up, and better tolerate them. While I have experience working with a wide range of concerns, my main expertise is in couples work, trauma, anxiety, depression, and performance anxiety/stage fright.
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Photo of Jessica Tracy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Outer Mission, San Francisco, CA
Jessica Tracy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Outer Mission, San Francisco, CA 94112
Psychotherapy can be a truly life changing process. It works to gradually loosen stuck patterns in one's life, leaving more room for vitality and creativity. You may be trying to heal from past wounds, experiencing anxiety, loneliness, depression, or relationship difficulties. Or perhaps you feel relatively stable but have a sense that something deeper is missing.
Psychotherapy can be a truly life changing process. It works to gradually loosen stuck patterns in one's life, leaving more room for vitality and creativity. You may be trying to heal from past wounds, experiencing anxiety, loneliness, depression, or relationship difficulties. Or perhaps you feel relatively stable but have a sense that something deeper is missing.
(415) 969-9142 View (415) 969-9142
Photo of Rhea St. Julien, Marriage & Family Therapist in Outer Mission, San Francisco, CA
Rhea St. Julien
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Outer Mission, San Francisco, CA 94112
My speciality is working with women and non-binary people who have experienced trauma. I use a range of modalities, including EMDR, Expressive Arts Therapy, and Trauma-Informed Talk Therapy, to help my patients see real change. My approach is engaged, relational, and embodied.
My speciality is working with women and non-binary people who have experienced trauma. I use a range of modalities, including EMDR, Expressive Arts Therapy, and Trauma-Informed Talk Therapy, to help my patients see real change. My approach is engaged, relational, and embodied.
(415) 858-6773 View (415) 858-6773
Photo of Lisa Shields, Psychologist in Outer Mission, San Francisco, CA
Lisa Shields
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Outer Mission, San Francisco, CA 94112  (Online Only)
Therapy is your journey. If you invite me to walk along beside you, I will offer to you my best critical thinking, understanding, compassion and theoretical knowledge based on 20 years of working in this field. I am adept at pointing out signposts, synchronicities, other paths and directions that you may not have noticed along the way. Sometimes we need another set of eyes to tell us when we are just about to step in something gooey and stinky. And other times we need help getting it off the bottoms of our shoes so that we can continue onward.
Therapy is your journey. If you invite me to walk along beside you, I will offer to you my best critical thinking, understanding, compassion and theoretical knowledge based on 20 years of working in this field. I am adept at pointing out signposts, synchronicities, other paths and directions that you may not have noticed along the way. Sometimes we need another set of eyes to tell us when we are just about to step in something gooey and stinky. And other times we need help getting it off the bottoms of our shoes so that we can continue onward.
(415) 795-2830 View (415) 795-2830
Photo of Syd McClune, Marriage & Family Therapist in Outer Mission, San Francisco, CA
Syd McClune
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Outer Mission, San Francisco, CA 94112  (Online Only)
People often come to me after trying a lot of different approaches to improve their mental health. Creative people. Queers. Folks with complex identities. Highly sensitive people. People who feel like outsiders at their core. People who feel stuck in ways that are difficult to articulate. Using various therapeutic modalities, including mindfulness, Esalen-trained Gestalt therapy, transpersonal therapy, and somatically informed attachment relational work I help them find ways to feel better and engage with their lives in newer, deeper ways. I assist them in finding a soft place to land and a sense of trust within themselves.
People often come to me after trying a lot of different approaches to improve their mental health. Creative people. Queers. Folks with complex identities. Highly sensitive people. People who feel like outsiders at their core. People who feel stuck in ways that are difficult to articulate. Using various therapeutic modalities, including mindfulness, Esalen-trained Gestalt therapy, transpersonal therapy, and somatically informed attachment relational work I help them find ways to feel better and engage with their lives in newer, deeper ways. I assist them in finding a soft place to land and a sense of trust within themselves.
(628) 250-2267 View (628) 250-2267
Photo of Rachel England, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Outer Mission, San Francisco, CA
Rachel England
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Outer Mission, San Francisco, CA 94112  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that every person has the capacity to change from within. I see my role as a therapist to walk alongside and hold space for you to connect with yourself - to your body, your inner resources, and your wisdom. Together, we can make meaning of your past while increasing safety and joy in the present so that you can step into your chosen future. Many of my clients experience doubts about their worthiness and their ability to change engrained patterns or heal from past wounds. They struggle with people-pleasing, codependency, perfectionism, chronic shame, unexpressed grief, and connecting to their intuition.
I believe that every person has the capacity to change from within. I see my role as a therapist to walk alongside and hold space for you to connect with yourself - to your body, your inner resources, and your wisdom. Together, we can make meaning of your past while increasing safety and joy in the present so that you can step into your chosen future. Many of my clients experience doubts about their worthiness and their ability to change engrained patterns or heal from past wounds. They struggle with people-pleasing, codependency, perfectionism, chronic shame, unexpressed grief, and connecting to their intuition.
(818) 960-1584 View (818) 960-1584
Photo of Claudia E Rivas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Outer Mission, San Francisco, CA
Claudia E Rivas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Outer Mission, San Francisco, CA 94112  (Online Only)
Hello. I'm Claudia. Hola! Hablo español. Helping others and being a support has always been my passion. For the past 20 years, I have worked in the mental health field, helping individuals and families during times of crisis, brought on by various stressors, mental health conditions and/or past or current trauma(s). I believe healing from trauma, whether it is a single or complex trauma, can happen in many forms. I see you as the expert in your life and me as a support person who is happy to share knowledge and tools.
Hello. I'm Claudia. Hola! Hablo español. Helping others and being a support has always been my passion. For the past 20 years, I have worked in the mental health field, helping individuals and families during times of crisis, brought on by various stressors, mental health conditions and/or past or current trauma(s). I believe healing from trauma, whether it is a single or complex trauma, can happen in many forms. I see you as the expert in your life and me as a support person who is happy to share knowledge and tools.
(415) 969-3659 View (415) 969-3659
Photo of Anne-Marie C Basso, Marriage & Family Therapist in Outer Mission, San Francisco, CA
Anne-Marie C Basso
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Outer Mission, San Francisco, CA 94112  (Online Only)
You are one of a kind. No one experiences the world quite like you do. So it is important you find a therapist you feel is capable of understanding your unique lived experience so that together we can work towards change. I see the moment you enter my office as an opening into a more fulfilling life. Whatever brings you to therapy, whether the wish to overcome anxiety or depression, change repetitive relationship patterns, unblock creativity, or come to terms with a divorce/breakup, or other seismic shift in circumstances, my hope is to create a trusting relationship.
You are one of a kind. No one experiences the world quite like you do. So it is important you find a therapist you feel is capable of understanding your unique lived experience so that together we can work towards change. I see the moment you enter my office as an opening into a more fulfilling life. Whatever brings you to therapy, whether the wish to overcome anxiety or depression, change repetitive relationship patterns, unblock creativity, or come to terms with a divorce/breakup, or other seismic shift in circumstances, my hope is to create a trusting relationship.
(415) 639-9861 View (415) 639-9861
Photo of Tayyibah Chase, Marriage & Family Therapist in Outer Mission, San Francisco, CA
Tayyibah Chase
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Outer Mission, San Francisco, CA 94112  (Online Only)
I offer clients a comfortable space to be their authentic selves in a world that often doesn't support authenticity. I believe in the importance of exploring the various aspects of our identities, both visible and invisible. We talk about the impacts of culture and relationships on your emotional well-being. Together we might explore relationship and attachment patterns and identify ways to make shifts. With a background in expressive arts therapy, I utilize creative approaches such as writing and drawing to process emotions. I also introduce practical skill building, so that you have tangible tools to walk away with.
I offer clients a comfortable space to be their authentic selves in a world that often doesn't support authenticity. I believe in the importance of exploring the various aspects of our identities, both visible and invisible. We talk about the impacts of culture and relationships on your emotional well-being. Together we might explore relationship and attachment patterns and identify ways to make shifts. With a background in expressive arts therapy, I utilize creative approaches such as writing and drawing to process emotions. I also introduce practical skill building, so that you have tangible tools to walk away with.
(510) 390-7486 View (510) 390-7486
Photo of Stacey Ann Spilly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Outer Mission, San Francisco, CA
Stacey Ann Spilly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Outer Mission, San Francisco, CA 94112
I believe healing is a multifaceted process that requires a holistic and collaborative approach. I help individuals and couples overcome challenges like anxiety, depression, relationship stress, trauma, grief and loss, or life transitions. I will listen and engage with you authentically to help build a safe and trusting alliance. I use a trauma-informed and client-centered approach to better understand your unique situation and personal goals. I believe we are mind, body, and spirit and my aim is to treat the whole person so that we can live in balance with ourselves, our environment, and feel a sense of integration.
I believe healing is a multifaceted process that requires a holistic and collaborative approach. I help individuals and couples overcome challenges like anxiety, depression, relationship stress, trauma, grief and loss, or life transitions. I will listen and engage with you authentically to help build a safe and trusting alliance. I use a trauma-informed and client-centered approach to better understand your unique situation and personal goals. I believe we are mind, body, and spirit and my aim is to treat the whole person so that we can live in balance with ourselves, our environment, and feel a sense of integration.
(510) 529-3770 View (510) 529-3770
Photo of Dr. Kayzim Suárez-Reyes, Psychologist in Outer Mission, San Francisco, CA
Dr. Kayzim Suárez-Reyes
Psychologist, PhD, ASD-CS, ADHDCCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Outer Mission, San Francisco, CA 94112  (Online Only)
It's so hard to find someone to trust with our innermost feelings and problems! As someone who has been a client too, I know a genuine and knowledgeable therapist is hard to find but so necessary. We make so many thinking errors that influence our behaviors and feelings. It's so automatic you hardly notice unless taught! Focusing on what's working and what needs to be tweaked, you can achieve a healthier and happier outlook on life. Do you want to laugh (and maybe sometimes cry) to get through the hard things? I'm compassionate and non-judgemental but direct. If you are ready to do the work, I am ready to help you!
It's so hard to find someone to trust with our innermost feelings and problems! As someone who has been a client too, I know a genuine and knowledgeable therapist is hard to find but so necessary. We make so many thinking errors that influence our behaviors and feelings. It's so automatic you hardly notice unless taught! Focusing on what's working and what needs to be tweaked, you can achieve a healthier and happier outlook on life. Do you want to laugh (and maybe sometimes cry) to get through the hard things? I'm compassionate and non-judgemental but direct. If you are ready to do the work, I am ready to help you!
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Photo of Octave - Financial District SF Clinic, Psychologist in Outer Mission, San Francisco, CA
Octave - Financial District SF Clinic
Psychologist, PhD, PsyD, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Outer Mission, San Francisco, CA 94112  (Online Only)
Octave is a modern practice creating a new standard for mental health care that’s both high-quality and accessible. With in-person and virtual clinics in California, Connecticut, Florida, New Jersey, New York, Texas, and Washington D.C., we partner with you to develop personalized plans that can include individual, couples, and family therapy to best suit your needs. Grounded in science, our approach enables you to experience profound change that is just as measurable as it is meaningful. Learn more at www.findoctave.com
Octave is a modern practice creating a new standard for mental health care that’s both high-quality and accessible. With in-person and virtual clinics in California, Connecticut, Florida, New Jersey, New York, Texas, and Washington D.C., we partner with you to develop personalized plans that can include individual, couples, and family therapy to best suit your needs. Grounded in science, our approach enables you to experience profound change that is just as measurable as it is meaningful. Learn more at www.findoctave.com
(415) 634-1043 View (415) 634-1043
Photo of Candace Taggart, Marriage & Family Therapist in Outer Mission, San Francisco, CA
Candace Taggart
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Outer Mission, San Francisco, CA 94112  (Online Only)
I take a warm, empathic, unconditional stance in my therapeutic approach. My client is the expert in their life and I will help guide them to connect with their strengths while providing warmth and safety in the therapeutic alliance. We will reach for evidence based practices, explore needs, and work towards set goals. I encourage an open and trusting relationship through frequent check-ins regarding client’s perspective on what is working well or not.
I take a warm, empathic, unconditional stance in my therapeutic approach. My client is the expert in their life and I will help guide them to connect with their strengths while providing warmth and safety in the therapeutic alliance. We will reach for evidence based practices, explore needs, and work towards set goals. I encourage an open and trusting relationship through frequent check-ins regarding client’s perspective on what is working well or not.
(858) 330-6850 View (858) 330-6850
Photo of Jeremy Bohrer, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Outer Mission, San Francisco, CA
Jeremy Bohrer
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Outer Mission, San Francisco, CA 94112  (Online Only)
100% Online Telehealth. Hi! I take it since you're here reading this that you are looking for a therapist. Don't be nervous, it's a piece of cake. I was once like you doing the exact same thing and I understand. Are you feeling overwhelmed by life or simply looking to explore some "bumps in the road?" Life isn't always a straight line and often times we need to step off the trail and take a look at the bigger picture. I can help you do that whether you need to dive into subconscious childhood trauma or learn new mindfulness practices. Give me a call, shoot me a text, or send me an email and let's talk about how I can help.
100% Online Telehealth. Hi! I take it since you're here reading this that you are looking for a therapist. Don't be nervous, it's a piece of cake. I was once like you doing the exact same thing and I understand. Are you feeling overwhelmed by life or simply looking to explore some "bumps in the road?" Life isn't always a straight line and often times we need to step off the trail and take a look at the bigger picture. I can help you do that whether you need to dive into subconscious childhood trauma or learn new mindfulness practices. Give me a call, shoot me a text, or send me an email and let's talk about how I can help.
(805) 749-7072 View (805) 749-7072
Photo of Dr. Elizabeth Aranda, Psychologist in Outer Mission, San Francisco, CA
Dr. Elizabeth Aranda
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Outer Mission, San Francisco, CA 94112
My clients are courageous people who want to live sustainably in their truth and authenticity. Often nervous, but ready for change. In my style of practice we work to improve your understanding of yourself and identify what is inhibiting you from living your best life. We explore internal processes like your feelings & beliefs as well as systemic processes that impact LGBTQ+ BIPOC identit(ies), relationships, and life experiences. I take a similar approach to my assessments which are both strength-based and neuro-diversity affirming. All services aim to move you towards your unique treatment goals and improving your mental health.
My clients are courageous people who want to live sustainably in their truth and authenticity. Often nervous, but ready for change. In my style of practice we work to improve your understanding of yourself and identify what is inhibiting you from living your best life. We explore internal processes like your feelings & beliefs as well as systemic processes that impact LGBTQ+ BIPOC identit(ies), relationships, and life experiences. I take a similar approach to my assessments which are both strength-based and neuro-diversity affirming. All services aim to move you towards your unique treatment goals and improving your mental health.
(341) 999-5425 View (341) 999-5425

See more therapy options for Outer Mission, San Francisco

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.