Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Therapists in Santa Monica, CA
Big life transitions such as trauma, death, health changes, and/or sexual identity often bring challenges, questions, and identity confusion. Whether those changes are voluntary or forced on us, we often find that the previous patterns and coping skills no longer work as effectively in the new "normal". I help people grow and adapt so they can create a sense of safety, control, and optimism for the future. I typically work with people who want more effective tools to improve their health and well-being so they can focus on meaning and purpose again.
Big life transitions such as trauma, death, health changes, and/or sexual identity often bring challenges, questions, and identity confusion. Whether those changes are voluntary or forced on us, we often find that the previous patterns and coping skills no longer work as effectively in the new "normal". I help people grow and adapt so they can create a sense of safety, control, and optimism for the future. I typically work with people who want more effective tools to improve their health and well-being so they can focus on meaning and purpose again.
NEW Sept 2026! Has sex become a bit of a sore subject? Maybe you're starting to withdraw from your partner because you're sick of getting rejected. Or you are just overthinking every little thing about your sex life. Or you might even feel guilty for not meeting your partner's needs for sex. Unfortunately, sex can become a sensitive subject and it's often hard to find a safe space to explore it. But you know that ignoring it is only going to make things worse. With 20+ years of counseling experience, I don't just listen, but I help you identify the underlying patterns keeping you stuck. And together we start shifting those patterns.
NEW Sept 2026! Has sex become a bit of a sore subject? Maybe you're starting to withdraw from your partner because you're sick of getting rejected. Or you are just overthinking every little thing about your sex life. Or you might even feel guilty for not meeting your partner's needs for sex. Unfortunately, sex can become a sensitive subject and it's often hard to find a safe space to explore it. But you know that ignoring it is only going to make things worse. With 20+ years of counseling experience, I don't just listen, but I help you identify the underlying patterns keeping you stuck. And together we start shifting those patterns.
I do not equate “healthy” with “normal”, nor aim to be prescriptive about how you “ought“ to experience being in this world. Living along the fringes of normativity isn’t an easy choice. But it can be a worthy choice, fulfilling and purposeful! Yet it may also be accompanied by high costs that feel compromising to dignity & self-worth.
I do not equate “healthy” with “normal”, nor aim to be prescriptive about how you “ought“ to experience being in this world. Living along the fringes of normativity isn’t an easy choice. But it can be a worthy choice, fulfilling and purposeful! Yet it may also be accompanied by high costs that feel compromising to dignity & self-worth.
I work collaboratively with clients navigating the complexities of identity; offering guidance, sex positive support and validation.
I am a dedicated therapist specializing in trauma informed care using EMDR, sex & gender affirmative therapy and addiction & recovery support. With a passion for helping individuals navigate the complexities of their experiences, I bring a unique blend of empathy, expertise, and compassion to my practice. I have honed my skills in trauma therapy, providing a safe and supportive environment for my clients to process their past experiences and find healing. I understand the profound impact of trauma and I’m committed to empowering individuals to reclaim their sense of self, and move forward with resilience.
I work collaboratively with clients navigating the complexities of identity; offering guidance, sex positive support and validation.
I am a dedicated therapist specializing in trauma informed care using EMDR, sex & gender affirmative therapy and addiction & recovery support. With a passion for helping individuals navigate the complexities of their experiences, I bring a unique blend of empathy, expertise, and compassion to my practice. I have honed my skills in trauma therapy, providing a safe and supportive environment for my clients to process their past experiences and find healing. I understand the profound impact of trauma and I’m committed to empowering individuals to reclaim their sense of self, and move forward with resilience.
You are anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, and feeling disconnected. It might be difficult to express what and how you have been feeling, which perpetuates the original distress. Sources of these feelings may begin with trauma, life transitions, or conflict with yourself or loved ones. These feelings can make us feel stagnant, but there is hope. The beautiful part of this is that you are willing to seek help and ultimately find meaning and purpose in your human experience. I will meet you right where you are at.
You are anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, and feeling disconnected. It might be difficult to express what and how you have been feeling, which perpetuates the original distress. Sources of these feelings may begin with trauma, life transitions, or conflict with yourself or loved ones. These feelings can make us feel stagnant, but there is hope. The beautiful part of this is that you are willing to seek help and ultimately find meaning and purpose in your human experience. I will meet you right where you are at.
Life is too short to live it feeling unsatisfied, confused, depleted and or powerless. Sometimes you can manage, but other times you want to turn to someone who will provide an compassionate, non-judgmental space for you to (re)connect with your deepest, most authentic self. Maybe you're in a relationship which feels stagnant, emotionally/physically disconnected or is burdened by accumulated hurts and betrayals, and you and your partner are seeking clarity, support and a new way of being either together or apart. Being skillful in relationships with others (and oneself) has become essential, and is central to our well being.
Life is too short to live it feeling unsatisfied, confused, depleted and or powerless. Sometimes you can manage, but other times you want to turn to someone who will provide an compassionate, non-judgmental space for you to (re)connect with your deepest, most authentic self. Maybe you're in a relationship which feels stagnant, emotionally/physically disconnected or is burdened by accumulated hurts and betrayals, and you and your partner are seeking clarity, support and a new way of being either together or apart. Being skillful in relationships with others (and oneself) has become essential, and is central to our well being.
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist, Clinical Sex Addiction Therapist - Supervisor, and licensed MFT with a private practice in Santa Monica, California since 1994. I offer interpersonal psychotherapy with individuals, families, and groups as well as psychological testing and assessment. My areas of expertise include: substance and process addictions, trauma/abuse, positive psychology, impaired professionals and first-responders, as well as grief/loss, disfigurement, and cross-cultural issues. I provide traditional, forensic, and pre-employment psychological assessment as well as Collaborative/Therapeutic evaluations.
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist, Clinical Sex Addiction Therapist - Supervisor, and licensed MFT with a private practice in Santa Monica, California since 1994. I offer interpersonal psychotherapy with individuals, families, and groups as well as psychological testing and assessment. My areas of expertise include: substance and process addictions, trauma/abuse, positive psychology, impaired professionals and first-responders, as well as grief/loss, disfigurement, and cross-cultural issues. I provide traditional, forensic, and pre-employment psychological assessment as well as Collaborative/Therapeutic evaluations.
Clients often tell me they feel comfortable with me in the first session, and I believe that's because I show up as myself. I meet each person where they are and explore what's going on beneath the surface, using a mix of support, humor, and practical tools guided by what feels most useful to you, while gently challenging you to keep moving toward your goals.
Whether we're talking through career burnout, life stressors, identity shifts, or relationship challenges, I'm here to walk alongside you as you build something more grounded and true to who you are. Having worked years in corporate, I understand those pressures firsthand.
Clients often tell me they feel comfortable with me in the first session, and I believe that's because I show up as myself. I meet each person where they are and explore what's going on beneath the surface, using a mix of support, humor, and practical tools guided by what feels most useful to you, while gently challenging you to keep moving toward your goals.
Whether we're talking through career burnout, life stressors, identity shifts, or relationship challenges, I'm here to walk alongside you as you build something more grounded and true to who you are. Having worked years in corporate, I understand those pressures firsthand.
I am gender, neurodiversity, and sex/ kink affirming.
What if they don’t like me? What if they think I'm stupid? Living with the constant pressure to please everyone can feel overwhelming and exhausting. Your inner critic is relentless, feeding a persistent fear of making a mistake. The need to get everything right all the time can be debilitating. Even after trying to change, you still find yourself chasing approval and struggling to set healthy boundaries. But there is another way - a way to let go of the burden of other’s expectations and begin trusting yourself instead.
I am gender, neurodiversity, and sex/ kink affirming.
What if they don’t like me? What if they think I'm stupid? Living with the constant pressure to please everyone can feel overwhelming and exhausting. Your inner critic is relentless, feeding a persistent fear of making a mistake. The need to get everything right all the time can be debilitating. Even after trying to change, you still find yourself chasing approval and struggling to set healthy boundaries. But there is another way - a way to let go of the burden of other’s expectations and begin trusting yourself instead.
Drawing from recent developments in neuroscience, I utilize a variety of modalities to help people re-connect with themselves and others. As a certified Imago Relationship Therapist, I specialize in helping couples re-build safety, improve communication, and decrease tension. I also integrate Internal Family Systems (IFS), a powerful approach that helps clients understand the different "parts" of themselves and lead from a place of calm, compassionate Self. Whether you're seeking individual growth or working to transform your relationship, healing is possible. Please feel free to call for a free consultation.
Drawing from recent developments in neuroscience, I utilize a variety of modalities to help people re-connect with themselves and others. As a certified Imago Relationship Therapist, I specialize in helping couples re-build safety, improve communication, and decrease tension. I also integrate Internal Family Systems (IFS), a powerful approach that helps clients understand the different "parts" of themselves and lead from a place of calm, compassionate Self. Whether you're seeking individual growth or working to transform your relationship, healing is possible. Please feel free to call for a free consultation.
Maybe you're finding it hard to shake a persistent sense of worry, feeling stuck, unmotivated, burnt out, or emotionally exhausted as stress shows up in your body and relationships. Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, a difficult life transition, or grief and loss, our work together will build coping strategies, greater self-esteem, and a deeper sense of inner strength. The same holds true for relationships: how can you feel desire for your partner when conflict, disconnection, or an unfulfilling sex life stand in the way? We'll work to rebuild trust, improve communication, and deepen your understanding of one another.
Maybe you're finding it hard to shake a persistent sense of worry, feeling stuck, unmotivated, burnt out, or emotionally exhausted as stress shows up in your body and relationships. Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, a difficult life transition, or grief and loss, our work together will build coping strategies, greater self-esteem, and a deeper sense of inner strength. The same holds true for relationships: how can you feel desire for your partner when conflict, disconnection, or an unfulfilling sex life stand in the way? We'll work to rebuild trust, improve communication, and deepen your understanding of one another.
It is my greatest privilege to join someone on their journey; to help them find their way around the boulders, over the stumbling blocks and out of the crevasses that have derailed goals, clouded views or kept them from happiness. To see them make the changes they have dreamed of. Together we can examine patterns, identify sources of hope, build on strengths, challenge fears and create road maps which you can use to take those next powerful, healing steps. I specialize in working with individuals and couples struggling with Borderline Personality Disorder, mood and anxiety disorders, trauma and relational issues.
It is my greatest privilege to join someone on their journey; to help them find their way around the boulders, over the stumbling blocks and out of the crevasses that have derailed goals, clouded views or kept them from happiness. To see them make the changes they have dreamed of. Together we can examine patterns, identify sources of hope, build on strengths, challenge fears and create road maps which you can use to take those next powerful, healing steps. I specialize in working with individuals and couples struggling with Borderline Personality Disorder, mood and anxiety disorders, trauma and relational issues.
Life has a way of quietly accumulating. Stress, anxiety, grief, relationship strain, career uncertainty, sometimes it all builds up until something that used to feel manageable no longer does. If you've been running on empty so long it feels normal, or caught between who you are and who you want to be, you're not alone.
I work with thoughtful, self-aware adults who are often doing well by most external measures, yet something feels off. They may be navigating overwhelm, depression, difficult relationship patterns, grief, or a career transition that feels both necessary and terrifying.
Life has a way of quietly accumulating. Stress, anxiety, grief, relationship strain, career uncertainty, sometimes it all builds up until something that used to feel manageable no longer does. If you've been running on empty so long it feels normal, or caught between who you are and who you want to be, you're not alone.
I work with thoughtful, self-aware adults who are often doing well by most external measures, yet something feels off. They may be navigating overwhelm, depression, difficult relationship patterns, grief, or a career transition that feels both necessary and terrifying.
I’m not a regular therapist. I’m a cool therapist (get the Mean Girls reference? ;) I help people who, like me, are rainbow-colored in a black and white world. Have your creativity, individuality, and freakiness been crushed under the pressure to be “normal”? I’m not here for that. I practice and preach self-love, self-acceptance, and a shame-free life.
My specialties are sexuality, couples’ therapy, and neurodiversity. I assist people on the autism spectrum, those working through sexual dysfunction, individuals with sexual trauma or shame, and couples looking to improve their relationships and intimacy.
I’m not a regular therapist. I’m a cool therapist (get the Mean Girls reference? ;) I help people who, like me, are rainbow-colored in a black and white world. Have your creativity, individuality, and freakiness been crushed under the pressure to be “normal”? I’m not here for that. I practice and preach self-love, self-acceptance, and a shame-free life.
My specialties are sexuality, couples’ therapy, and neurodiversity. I assist people on the autism spectrum, those working through sexual dysfunction, individuals with sexual trauma or shame, and couples looking to improve their relationships and intimacy.
Integrate- Wilhelmina De Castro, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Integrate /ˈin(t)əˌɡrāt/: to become whole Modern day life is not for the faint of heart. Thinking clearly and finding sustainable peace and harmony often seems impossible. This often leads to anxiety, depression, decreased self worth, increased self criticism, loneliness and addiction and feeling stuck. Many times we are left with a feeling of being fragmented and broken and needing to be “fixed”. At Integrate, we have the unwavering belief that we are already whole. We believe that every person has profound “inner healing intelligence” that can be cultivated to help a person heal, thrive and connect.
Integrate /ˈin(t)əˌɡrāt/: to become whole Modern day life is not for the faint of heart. Thinking clearly and finding sustainable peace and harmony often seems impossible. This often leads to anxiety, depression, decreased self worth, increased self criticism, loneliness and addiction and feeling stuck. Many times we are left with a feeling of being fragmented and broken and needing to be “fixed”. At Integrate, we have the unwavering belief that we are already whole. We believe that every person has profound “inner healing intelligence” that can be cultivated to help a person heal, thrive and connect.
Being human is exciting and beautiful... and challenging! My work is grounded in respect and empathy for how individuals, couples, and families pave a path in life. Together we make change possible by bringing your unique, personal knowledge and experience into awareness, and then moving through the stuckness of painful trauma, unkind thoughts, or feelings of powerlessness before problems. Together we will work to reconnect you to the whole experience of being human: feeling emotions, attuning to thoughts and beliefs, creating healthy relationships, and recognizing your whole life story in its complexity of joy, sorrow, and growth.
Being human is exciting and beautiful... and challenging! My work is grounded in respect and empathy for how individuals, couples, and families pave a path in life. Together we make change possible by bringing your unique, personal knowledge and experience into awareness, and then moving through the stuckness of painful trauma, unkind thoughts, or feelings of powerlessness before problems. Together we will work to reconnect you to the whole experience of being human: feeling emotions, attuning to thoughts and beliefs, creating healthy relationships, and recognizing your whole life story in its complexity of joy, sorrow, and growth.
Many of my clients come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, anxious, emotionally exhausted, or stuck in patterns they can’t seem to break. I work with adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, burnout, grief, life transitions, and self-esteem challenges. My approach is warm, direct, and collaborative. I strive to create a space where clients feel genuinely understood while also helping them build insight, develop healthier coping strategies, improve relationships, and move toward a life that feels more grounded, fulfilling, and authentic.
Many of my clients come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, anxious, emotionally exhausted, or stuck in patterns they can’t seem to break. I work with adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, burnout, grief, life transitions, and self-esteem challenges. My approach is warm, direct, and collaborative. I strive to create a space where clients feel genuinely understood while also helping them build insight, develop healthier coping strategies, improve relationships, and move toward a life that feels more grounded, fulfilling, and authentic.
Love working with individuals, couples, and families, helping them to navigate life transitions, relationship challenges, and emotional overwhelm. I take a trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and social justice–oriented approach to therapy, with an emphasis on authenticity, connection, and collaboration. My style is warm and grounded, blending empathy, creativity, and humor to create a space where clients feel safe to explore and heal.
Love working with individuals, couples, and families, helping them to navigate life transitions, relationship challenges, and emotional overwhelm. I take a trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and social justice–oriented approach to therapy, with an emphasis on authenticity, connection, and collaboration. My style is warm and grounded, blending empathy, creativity, and humor to create a space where clients feel safe to explore and heal.
Hannah Nicolaci, EMDR Trauma
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
8 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401
You've learned to hold it all together, staying "fine," performing perfectionism & hustling for your worth, while feeling anxious, exhausted, or stuck in people-pleasing & self-doubt. Maybe you grew up with critical, emotionally unavailable, or unpredictable caregivers, or later found yourself in toxic or abusive relationships.
Over time, you learned to walk on eggshells, your nervous system began bracing for rejection even in safe moments, & you started overthinking everything. Despite what your inner critic says, there's nothing wrong with you. There's something wrong with how you were treated. We can heal those wounds together.
You've learned to hold it all together, staying "fine," performing perfectionism & hustling for your worth, while feeling anxious, exhausted, or stuck in people-pleasing & self-doubt. Maybe you grew up with critical, emotionally unavailable, or unpredictable caregivers, or later found yourself in toxic or abusive relationships.
Over time, you learned to walk on eggshells, your nervous system began bracing for rejection even in safe moments, & you started overthinking everything. Despite what your inner critic says, there's nothing wrong with you. There's something wrong with how you were treated. We can heal those wounds together.
Depression, fear, and anxiety are common and uncomfortable emotions experienced in life. My counseling and treatment is designed to facilitate your recovery, reigniting the motivation, perspective, and joy you once had. After enduring painful and traumatic circumstances in our lives, many individuals struggle with lingering symptoms. My objective is to support you in addressing these symptoms and guiding you toward healing and being present.
Depression, fear, and anxiety are common and uncomfortable emotions experienced in life. My counseling and treatment is designed to facilitate your recovery, reigniting the motivation, perspective, and joy you once had. After enduring painful and traumatic circumstances in our lives, many individuals struggle with lingering symptoms. My objective is to support you in addressing these symptoms and guiding you toward healing and being present.
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Nearby Sex-Positive & Kink-Friendly Therapists Searches for Santa Monica
- Baldwin Hills
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- El Segundo
- Inglewood
- Marina Del Rey
- Pacific Palisades
- Venice
- West Hollywood
- West Los Angeles
- Windsor Hills
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.