Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Therapists in Ventura, CA

Photo of Kai Krupa, Associate Professional Clinical Counselor in Ventura, CA
Kai Krupa
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93001
I have in-person availability and will return your message! Let's collaborate together on how we can best meet your goals to live authentically and thrive. I support individual adults, adolescents, relationships, chosen and birth families. My work is rooted in the belief that therapy is a collaborative and transformative process. I am dedicated to helping clients navigate the complexities of their struggles. It’s my hope that through our work, you will find new pathways of resilience, freedom, growth, pleasure, balance, liberation and healing.
I have in-person availability and will return your message! Let's collaborate together on how we can best meet your goals to live authentically and thrive. I support individual adults, adolescents, relationships, chosen and birth families. My work is rooted in the belief that therapy is a collaborative and transformative process. I am dedicated to helping clients navigate the complexities of their struggles. It’s my hope that through our work, you will find new pathways of resilience, freedom, growth, pleasure, balance, liberation and healing.
(805) 856-6910 View (805) 856-6910
Photo of Dahkotahv Beckham, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Ventura, CA
Dahkotahv Beckham
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93004
As an openly transgender therapist, I know it can be difficult to find the right person to confide in. Wanting to be loved and accepted doesn’t make you needy, or extra, or selfish, or weak. It makes you human. To me, you are not just some random psychology textbook or theory. In our work together, my focus is to build goals and a relationship where you feel comfortable exploring what you think, feel, want, and need. My style as a therapist is warm, relaxed, and conversational. I use playfulness, imagery, art, metaphors, curiosity, creativity, self-compassion, and humor when appropriate to support the therapeutic process.
As an openly transgender therapist, I know it can be difficult to find the right person to confide in. Wanting to be loved and accepted doesn’t make you needy, or extra, or selfish, or weak. It makes you human. To me, you are not just some random psychology textbook or theory. In our work together, my focus is to build goals and a relationship where you feel comfortable exploring what you think, feel, want, and need. My style as a therapist is warm, relaxed, and conversational. I use playfulness, imagery, art, metaphors, curiosity, creativity, self-compassion, and humor when appropriate to support the therapeutic process.
(805) 243-1189 View (805) 243-1189
Photo of Matthew Metcalf, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ventura, CA
Matthew Metcalf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MDiv, LCSW, BICBTCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93001
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a certified DBT Therapist from The Linehan Board of Certification and a Beck Institute Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Certified Clinician who works specifically with adolescents and their families. I work with adolescents who have graduated from RTC/PHP/IOP. I am the Owner of Rincon DBT which is a online comprehensive DBT program for adolescents that has a OP, IOP, and PHP. I have an online class called Parenting with DBT as well as a DBT skills class for adolescents.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a certified DBT Therapist from The Linehan Board of Certification and a Beck Institute Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Certified Clinician who works specifically with adolescents and their families. I work with adolescents who have graduated from RTC/PHP/IOP. I am the Owner of Rincon DBT which is a online comprehensive DBT program for adolescents that has a OP, IOP, and PHP. I have an online class called Parenting with DBT as well as a DBT skills class for adolescents.
(805) 716-6368 View (805) 716-6368
Photo of Ventura Therapy Collective, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ventura, CA
Ventura Therapy Collective
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93003
Welcome to Ventura Therapy Collective! A collective group of therapists that work with Individuals/Couples/Families, offering holistic care, trauma informed treatment, skills based interventions and unconditional positive regard for your process
Welcome to Ventura Therapy Collective! A collective group of therapists that work with Individuals/Couples/Families, offering holistic care, trauma informed treatment, skills based interventions and unconditional positive regard for your process
(805) 222-0136 View (805) 222-0136
Photo of Angela R Medina, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ventura, CA
Angela R Medina
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93003  (Online Only)
As a compassionate and experienced Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I am dedicated to helping individual adults and teens navigate life’s challenges. My approach is grounded in empathy, practicality, and collaboration. I believe that healing begins with a safe and nonjudgmental space. You’ll find me approachable, empathetic, and genuinely invested in your well-being. Whether you’re dealing with relationship issues, anxiety, or depression, I’ll be there to listen and support you.
As a compassionate and experienced Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I am dedicated to helping individual adults and teens navigate life’s challenges. My approach is grounded in empathy, practicality, and collaboration. I believe that healing begins with a safe and nonjudgmental space. You’ll find me approachable, empathetic, and genuinely invested in your well-being. Whether you’re dealing with relationship issues, anxiety, or depression, I’ll be there to listen and support you.
(805) 608-4054 View (805) 608-4054
Maple Counseling Center of Ventura
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93003
Welcome to Maple Counseling Center created to provide quality care for the Medi-cal, Carelon, Gold Coast and uninsured client. We have a staff of 20 incredibly talented trainees, associates and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists, who are ready to assist you in creating the life you want! They have varied backgrounds and all share a passion to work hard for their clients. Located in Ventura, right off the Victoria exit. In person or Telehealth appointments available. We are adding registered associates to ease the wait time to be seen.
Welcome to Maple Counseling Center created to provide quality care for the Medi-cal, Carelon, Gold Coast and uninsured client. We have a staff of 20 incredibly talented trainees, associates and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists, who are ready to assist you in creating the life you want! They have varied backgrounds and all share a passion to work hard for their clients. Located in Ventura, right off the Victoria exit. In person or Telehealth appointments available. We are adding registered associates to ease the wait time to be seen.
(805) 666-1264 View (805) 666-1264
Photo of Rebecca Marrs, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ventura, CA
Rebecca Marrs
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93003
My ideal client is the person who deals with everyday struggles such as locking yourself out of the house or pulled over by the police for a tail light out. Maybe a tooth cracked or you can't find your passport. Life can be tough at times. Whatever the issue may be, we can collaborate to create goals in an effort to decrease unwanted symptoms and behaviors. My office is a safe space to share, be heard, understood, supported and validated.
My ideal client is the person who deals with everyday struggles such as locking yourself out of the house or pulled over by the police for a tail light out. Maybe a tooth cracked or you can't find your passport. Life can be tough at times. Whatever the issue may be, we can collaborate to create goals in an effort to decrease unwanted symptoms and behaviors. My office is a safe space to share, be heard, understood, supported and validated.
(805) 500-0377 View (805) 500-0377
Photo of Nyssa Von Doeren, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ventura, CA
Nyssa Von Doeren
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93003
I work with people that experience depression, anxiety, addiction, co-dependency, poor self esteem, relationship difficulties, and identity. Finding a therapist that you connect with is one of the most important aspects of therapy. Even more important is learning how to identify, process and manage feelings with someone you trust. I would like to help you through this process, offer perspective and give you skills to work through it.
I work with people that experience depression, anxiety, addiction, co-dependency, poor self esteem, relationship difficulties, and identity. Finding a therapist that you connect with is one of the most important aspects of therapy. Even more important is learning how to identify, process and manage feelings with someone you trust. I would like to help you through this process, offer perspective and give you skills to work through it.
(805) 222-0136 View (805) 222-0136
Photo of Kathleen Ekins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ventura, CA
Kathleen Ekins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93003
Kathleen Acosta Ekins, LCSW. I have been doing therapy with children, families, and adults for over 20 years. I work with clients who are experiencing childhood trauma, adult anxiety, depression, PTSD, life transitions, and grief. I use talk therapy as the main way I work with adults, with children I use play therapy and talk therapy. I use talk therapy (psychodynamic therapy) as the main way I work with adults, with children I use play therapy and talk therapy. I have been trained in many different approaches; trauma-informed therapy is one of the main modalities I use.
Kathleen Acosta Ekins, LCSW. I have been doing therapy with children, families, and adults for over 20 years. I work with clients who are experiencing childhood trauma, adult anxiety, depression, PTSD, life transitions, and grief. I use talk therapy as the main way I work with adults, with children I use play therapy and talk therapy. I use talk therapy (psychodynamic therapy) as the main way I work with adults, with children I use play therapy and talk therapy. I have been trained in many different approaches; trauma-informed therapy is one of the main modalities I use.
(805) 263-1373 View (805) 263-1373
Photo of Darren Santos, Associate Professional Clinical Counselor in Ventura, CA
Darren Santos
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC, MA
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93003  (Online Only)
You feel stuck, like something is wrong and you are not enough. You’re struggling, and you want things to be better, but you don’t know how to get there. You think to yourself you should be able to handle this, and you shouldn’t be feeling this way. You don’t know how to put it into words, or you don’t feel like there’s anyone you can talk to about it with. You want to feel understood, and be listened to without worry of being judged.
You feel stuck, like something is wrong and you are not enough. You’re struggling, and you want things to be better, but you don’t know how to get there. You think to yourself you should be able to handle this, and you shouldn’t be feeling this way. You don’t know how to put it into words, or you don’t feel like there’s anyone you can talk to about it with. You want to feel understood, and be listened to without worry of being judged.
(805) 301-9587 View (805) 301-9587
Photo of Joshua Sage Kendrick, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ventura, CA
Joshua Sage Kendrick
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93003
Waitlist for new clients
My approach to therapy is helping people explore thoughts, feelings and behavioral patterns between themselves, & our surroundings. Counseling will often be a guided process of how I can help clients utilize their coping skills & strength based tools that people may learn to employ immediately. Sessions are structured around evidence based techniques. I have extensive experience working with lgbtq+ issues surrounding gender identity & sexual orientation. I also have a background working with individuals, couples & families of loved ones dealing with various life changes, including depression, grief, addiction, & mental illnesses.
My approach to therapy is helping people explore thoughts, feelings and behavioral patterns between themselves, & our surroundings. Counseling will often be a guided process of how I can help clients utilize their coping skills & strength based tools that people may learn to employ immediately. Sessions are structured around evidence based techniques. I have extensive experience working with lgbtq+ issues surrounding gender identity & sexual orientation. I also have a background working with individuals, couples & families of loved ones dealing with various life changes, including depression, grief, addiction, & mental illnesses.
(805) 804-3650 View (805) 804-3650
Photo of Yoked Marriage and Family Life, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Ventura, CA
Yoked Marriage and Family Life
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93004
In her therapeutic role Adria enjoys equipping and empowering adults, families, and couples. The best things in life require an investment. Take the first step towards making that investment in yourself. You are worth it! I am excited to help you learn new ways to move through your past experiences, present day stressors, and heal mentally, emotionally, relationally, and spiritually.
In her therapeutic role Adria enjoys equipping and empowering adults, families, and couples. The best things in life require an investment. Take the first step towards making that investment in yourself. You are worth it! I am excited to help you learn new ways to move through your past experiences, present day stressors, and heal mentally, emotionally, relationally, and spiritually.
(805) 219-7266 View (805) 219-7266
Photo of Niloofar Alishahi, Art Therapist in Ventura, CA
Niloofar Alishahi
Art Therapist, MPS, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93001  (Online Only)
I'm passionate about helping people achieve emotional well-being, personal growth, and positive change. I believe everyone has the potential for resilience and inner strength, and I want to provide a safe and supportive space for clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
I'm passionate about helping people achieve emotional well-being, personal growth, and positive change. I believe everyone has the potential for resilience and inner strength, and I want to provide a safe and supportive space for clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
(805) 243-2062 View (805) 243-2062
Maple Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93003
Maple Counseling Center was created to meet the need for affordable, effective counseling. We accept Carelon, Gold coast, Medi-cal insurance and have sliding scale cash prices for those uninsured or not wanting to use their insurance. We consist of Marriage and Family Therapy Trainees, Associates and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist's. With 20 therapists to choose from we have someone to work with almost every need. See our website at www.maplecounseling.org so see profiles of our providers.
Maple Counseling Center was created to meet the need for affordable, effective counseling. We accept Carelon, Gold coast, Medi-cal insurance and have sliding scale cash prices for those uninsured or not wanting to use their insurance. We consist of Marriage and Family Therapy Trainees, Associates and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist's. With 20 therapists to choose from we have someone to work with almost every need. See our website at www.maplecounseling.org so see profiles of our providers.
(805) 429-6205 View (805) 429-6205
Photo of Carrington Singmaster, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ventura, CA
Carrington Singmaster
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93001  (Online Only)
Congratulations on taking the first step in finding solutions to life's challenges. Seeking support is a huge strength, which takes bravery, you are not alone. My most important consideration is cultivating a safe space for vulnerability and authenticity. I aim to create a collaborative space that fosters positive change to ultimately transition new skills, insight and behaviors out in to your every day life. I work with a broad range of clients including but not limited to: military personal and their families transitioning back in to civilian life, to incarcerated youth grappling with drug addition, violence and instability.
Congratulations on taking the first step in finding solutions to life's challenges. Seeking support is a huge strength, which takes bravery, you are not alone. My most important consideration is cultivating a safe space for vulnerability and authenticity. I aim to create a collaborative space that fosters positive change to ultimately transition new skills, insight and behaviors out in to your every day life. I work with a broad range of clients including but not limited to: military personal and their families transitioning back in to civilian life, to incarcerated youth grappling with drug addition, violence and instability.
(805) 633-3124 View (805) 633-3124
Photo of Kerry R Gough, Counselor in Ventura, CA
Kerry R Gough
Counselor, MA, LPCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93003  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Maybe you are needing support during this unknown and, for many people, scary time. Or, maybe you are needing a bigger change. Congratulations on taking your first step! It can be hard to select "the right therapist" from these giant lists. Sometimes it can be about chemistry and fit, and you just have to try with someone. I believe that you can find clarity and relief, and my own journey has taught me that healing and/or [some] relief is possible. I work with adults who are dealing with a variety of things such as depression or anxiety, relationship issues, low self esteem or shame, and/or feelings of "stuckness" or being lost.
Maybe you are needing support during this unknown and, for many people, scary time. Or, maybe you are needing a bigger change. Congratulations on taking your first step! It can be hard to select "the right therapist" from these giant lists. Sometimes it can be about chemistry and fit, and you just have to try with someone. I believe that you can find clarity and relief, and my own journey has taught me that healing and/or [some] relief is possible. I work with adults who are dealing with a variety of things such as depression or anxiety, relationship issues, low self esteem or shame, and/or feelings of "stuckness" or being lost.
(805) 793-0806 View (805) 793-0806
Photo of Karmen Fernandez Johnston, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Ventura, CA
Karmen Fernandez Johnston
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93003  (Online Only)
Karmen Fernandez Johnston is an AMFT practicing in person and virtually. She is passionate about helping others and dedicated to providing an empathetic and compassionate space for exploration and healing. Karmen is a culturally competent therapist that has worked with a variety of populations including preschoolers, adolescents, and adults with a variety of issues. She approaches therapy from the stance that one size doesn’t fit all and likes to tailor therapy to the needs of each unique individual taking from an array of treatment modalities. While providing treatment plans and care that meets the client's specific needs.
Karmen Fernandez Johnston is an AMFT practicing in person and virtually. She is passionate about helping others and dedicated to providing an empathetic and compassionate space for exploration and healing. Karmen is a culturally competent therapist that has worked with a variety of populations including preschoolers, adolescents, and adults with a variety of issues. She approaches therapy from the stance that one size doesn’t fit all and likes to tailor therapy to the needs of each unique individual taking from an array of treatment modalities. While providing treatment plans and care that meets the client's specific needs.
(805) 900-4037 View (805) 900-4037
Photo of Jeremy Bohrer, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Ventura, CA
Jeremy Bohrer
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93001  (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 Katrina Johnson, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Ventura, CA
Katrina Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93001
It is easy to feel overwhelmed when we are trying to navigate stress, transition, trauma, loss, or conflict. Through compassionate inquiry into our hearts, minds, and souls we can better understand the path forward to the life we want and the person we want to be. I am a warm, collaborative, and person-centered therapist who believes in the innate capacity of humans to heal, grow, and thrive. I will join you and help guide you to connect to your authentic self, inner wisdom, strengths, and compassion. I work with adults, teens, children, couples and families to find balance and a greater sense of well-being.
It is easy to feel overwhelmed when we are trying to navigate stress, transition, trauma, loss, or conflict. Through compassionate inquiry into our hearts, minds, and souls we can better understand the path forward to the life we want and the person we want to be. I am a warm, collaborative, and person-centered therapist who believes in the innate capacity of humans to heal, grow, and thrive. I will join you and help guide you to connect to your authentic self, inner wisdom, strengths, and compassion. I work with adults, teens, children, couples and families to find balance and a greater sense of well-being.
(805) 590-9341 View (805) 590-9341
Photo of Kali Lantrip, Psychologist in Ventura, CA
Kali Lantrip
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93001  (Online Only)
Life and relationships bring vulnerability, often accompanied by pain and betrayal. Unprocessed, these experiences shape our self-image and future connections. Hurt or trauma can leave us feeling small, lonely, and burdened by secrecy or shame. Collaboratively, I help clients unlock patterns and painful experiences, fostering awareness and facilitating their journey towards embracing a fuller, unencumbered life.
Life and relationships bring vulnerability, often accompanied by pain and betrayal. Unprocessed, these experiences shape our self-image and future connections. Hurt or trauma can leave us feeling small, lonely, and burdened by secrecy or shame. Collaboratively, I help clients unlock patterns and painful experiences, fostering awareness and facilitating their journey towards embracing a fuller, unencumbered life.
(805) 283-6806 View (805) 283-6806
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.