Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Therapists in California
I'm sex-worker positive, queer and kink friendly.
It may seem a world away and yet here you are; On the brink of a new day, in which courageous, interdependent, and radical connection to the life you’ve always wanted, is only an email away.
I'm sex-worker positive, queer and kink friendly.
It may seem a world away and yet here you are; On the brink of a new day, in which courageous, interdependent, and radical connection to the life you’ve always wanted, is only an email away.
Queer relational therapist. Trauma-Informed. Identity-Affirming. Finding yourself stuck in the same old patterns? Trying to rebuild trust? Wanting to fall back in love (with each other or yourself)? I work with folks in all kinds of relationships (romantic, friendships, family) as well as individuals who are navigating break-ups or interpersonal challenges.
Constantly in fight, flight, freeze, or fawn? Struggling to feel safe in your body? Feeling haunted by your past? I also work with people who have experienced trauma (relational, sexual, societal) and are looking for a safe space to begin or continue exploring these topics.
Queer relational therapist. Trauma-Informed. Identity-Affirming. Finding yourself stuck in the same old patterns? Trying to rebuild trust? Wanting to fall back in love (with each other or yourself)? I work with folks in all kinds of relationships (romantic, friendships, family) as well as individuals who are navigating break-ups or interpersonal challenges.
Constantly in fight, flight, freeze, or fawn? Struggling to feel safe in your body? Feeling haunted by your past? I also work with people who have experienced trauma (relational, sexual, societal) and are looking for a safe space to begin or continue exploring these topics.
The majority of my clients identify as LGBTQIA+, Black, Indigenous or People of Color (BIPOC) and I work with individuals of all ages. Clients tend to be navigating mental health symptoms like low mood and motivation, panic, worries and dissociation. Common issues are related to daily stressors like financial, work/school stressors; social anxiety (family of origin, immigration and cultural stressors), and self-esteem. Symptoms are frequently related to existing within mainstream expectations of cisgender, white, heteropatriarchy, able-bodied, financially privileged, capitalist culture.
The majority of my clients identify as LGBTQIA+, Black, Indigenous or People of Color (BIPOC) and I work with individuals of all ages. Clients tend to be navigating mental health symptoms like low mood and motivation, panic, worries and dissociation. Common issues are related to daily stressors like financial, work/school stressors; social anxiety (family of origin, immigration and cultural stressors), and self-esteem. Symptoms are frequently related to existing within mainstream expectations of cisgender, white, heteropatriarchy, able-bodied, financially privileged, capitalist culture.
Let's slow down together and reconnect with the inner resources that support healing, growth, and meaningful change. I offer a compassionate, collaborative space grounded in Internal Family Systems (IFS), somatic therapy, depth psychology and expressive arts, inviting you to listen deeply to your body, emotions, imagination, and inner world. Together we cultivate curiosity, courage, and presence so that even the most vulnerable parts of you can be met with acceptance, restoring trust where it has been lost. Rather than trying to fix what may feel broken, we create the conditions for healing to unfold naturally from within.
Let's slow down together and reconnect with the inner resources that support healing, growth, and meaningful change. I offer a compassionate, collaborative space grounded in Internal Family Systems (IFS), somatic therapy, depth psychology and expressive arts, inviting you to listen deeply to your body, emotions, imagination, and inner world. Together we cultivate curiosity, courage, and presence so that even the most vulnerable parts of you can be met with acceptance, restoring trust where it has been lost. Rather than trying to fix what may feel broken, we create the conditions for healing to unfold naturally from within.
Are you (or your child) feeling overwhelmed by the many crises of our time? I specialize in whole-bodied therapy to address symptoms related to anxiety, grief, and trauma for adults, youth, and families. Many of the people I work with identify as "sensitive" and have been called "overly sensitive" by an insensitive world. As a therapist, I do not aim to support people in simply "feeling better" or getting rid of their emotions of grief, anxiety, or sadness. Instead, I aim to support the uncovering, expression, and channeling of these sacred emotions as fuel to repair the wounds of both our individual lives and of the world.
Are you (or your child) feeling overwhelmed by the many crises of our time? I specialize in whole-bodied therapy to address symptoms related to anxiety, grief, and trauma for adults, youth, and families. Many of the people I work with identify as "sensitive" and have been called "overly sensitive" by an insensitive world. As a therapist, I do not aim to support people in simply "feeling better" or getting rid of their emotions of grief, anxiety, or sadness. Instead, I aim to support the uncovering, expression, and channeling of these sacred emotions as fuel to repair the wounds of both our individual lives and of the world.
As he trekked through the California wilderness, John Muir said, “Going out is really going in.” Psychotherapy is a similar adventure, but one where going in is really going out. The internal journey of self-awareness leads to external change and healing. My hope is that each person experiences the thrill of growth and exploration of their mind. My training in psychodynamic, attachment, Internal Family Systems, and trauma informed techniques has offered me the “gear” required to guide a summit into the psychic mountains, with the pace and route we determine together.
As he trekked through the California wilderness, John Muir said, “Going out is really going in.” Psychotherapy is a similar adventure, but one where going in is really going out. The internal journey of self-awareness leads to external change and healing. My hope is that each person experiences the thrill of growth and exploration of their mind. My training in psychodynamic, attachment, Internal Family Systems, and trauma informed techniques has offered me the “gear” required to guide a summit into the psychic mountains, with the pace and route we determine together.
It is easy to feel anxious, overwhelmed, and stressed, especially in today’s world. We might even be aware we are stuck in patterns that no longer benefit us. During these times, talking to a therapist can help. I am guided by my belief that our families and our social & cultural systems impact our ability to live fulfilling lives. My goal is to develop a safe and secure therapeutic relationship where we can uncover and address the sources of your challenges and past traumas on your terms. Through our work together, we can also develop goals and plans to empower you to improve your relationships with yourself and others.
It is easy to feel anxious, overwhelmed, and stressed, especially in today’s world. We might even be aware we are stuck in patterns that no longer benefit us. During these times, talking to a therapist can help. I am guided by my belief that our families and our social & cultural systems impact our ability to live fulfilling lives. My goal is to develop a safe and secure therapeutic relationship where we can uncover and address the sources of your challenges and past traumas on your terms. Through our work together, we can also develop goals and plans to empower you to improve your relationships with yourself and others.
Burnout, exhaustion and overwhelm are all too common for many of us right now. Career success and advancement maybe doesn’t feel as satisfying as you thought it would. Joy, and purpose might feel just out of reach. What would it look like to live a successful, satisfying life? How would it feel to intentionally and confidently make personal and professional choices devoid of others’ expectations or limitations?
Burnout, exhaustion and overwhelm are all too common for many of us right now. Career success and advancement maybe doesn’t feel as satisfying as you thought it would. Joy, and purpose might feel just out of reach. What would it look like to live a successful, satisfying life? How would it feel to intentionally and confidently make personal and professional choices devoid of others’ expectations or limitations?
Are you seeking support to improve your mental & emotional health, increase your performance, or achieve life balance? Looking to build stronger interpersonal or conflict resolution skills, strengthen your relationships, or function more effectively at work or school? If you're ready for personal growth, identity development, or simply looking for a safe, affirming space to heal, unlearn limiting beliefs, & connect to your authentic self.
I offer therapy in person in West Los Angeles & virtually in CA, FL, VT and ID. My services are focused on being culturally & LGBTQIA2s+ affirming, anti-racist, empowering & individualized.
Are you seeking support to improve your mental & emotional health, increase your performance, or achieve life balance? Looking to build stronger interpersonal or conflict resolution skills, strengthen your relationships, or function more effectively at work or school? If you're ready for personal growth, identity development, or simply looking for a safe, affirming space to heal, unlearn limiting beliefs, & connect to your authentic self.
I offer therapy in person in West Los Angeles & virtually in CA, FL, VT and ID. My services are focused on being culturally & LGBTQIA2s+ affirming, anti-racist, empowering & individualized.
You might be someone who looks like you’re handling everything on the outside, but internally something feels off or harder to ignore. I work with high-functioning adults navigating burnout, imposter syndrome, identity pressure, and patterns of people-pleasing in creative and performance-driven environments. Many operate in fields where performance is constantly evaluated and identity becomes closely tied to output. Together, we explore not only what’s happening now, but the deeper patterns that may be keeping you stuck.
You might be someone who looks like you’re handling everything on the outside, but internally something feels off or harder to ignore. I work with high-functioning adults navigating burnout, imposter syndrome, identity pressure, and patterns of people-pleasing in creative and performance-driven environments. Many operate in fields where performance is constantly evaluated and identity becomes closely tied to output. Together, we explore not only what’s happening now, but the deeper patterns that may be keeping you stuck.
My clients come from communities which have often not been well served by traditional mental healthcare - queer, trans, non-monogamous, polyamorous, and kinky people seeking support have sought me out knowing there is no need to explain or justify who they are. I specialize in working with religious trauma, asexuality, neurodiversity, and burn out as well. I am trauma informed and work from an intersectional lens to help my clients process trauma, work through major life transitions, and explore identity and personal goals.
My clients come from communities which have often not been well served by traditional mental healthcare - queer, trans, non-monogamous, polyamorous, and kinky people seeking support have sought me out knowing there is no need to explain or justify who they are. I specialize in working with religious trauma, asexuality, neurodiversity, and burn out as well. I am trauma informed and work from an intersectional lens to help my clients process trauma, work through major life transitions, and explore identity and personal goals.
If you don't want to settle for an old-school, conservative, pro-trumper as a therapist, I've got you! I work with high-functioning Depression, Anxiety, CPTSD, and ADHD in the LGBTQ+ community (& allies). High functioning doesn't mean the pain is any easier; you're just really good at suppressing it and showing up for everyone else. Masking is a common form of coping that leads to the question, "Why do I feel this way?" You're doing everything right, showing up for everyone, but being the strong one gets exhausting. You deserve a space that's just yours, where you get to explore past trauma and internal patterns that keep you stuck.
If you don't want to settle for an old-school, conservative, pro-trumper as a therapist, I've got you! I work with high-functioning Depression, Anxiety, CPTSD, and ADHD in the LGBTQ+ community (& allies). High functioning doesn't mean the pain is any easier; you're just really good at suppressing it and showing up for everyone else. Masking is a common form of coping that leads to the question, "Why do I feel this way?" You're doing everything right, showing up for everyone, but being the strong one gets exhausting. You deserve a space that's just yours, where you get to explore past trauma and internal patterns that keep you stuck.
Hi! My name is Michael Southerland, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist working in the Los Angeles, CA area. This means I focus primarily on relationships, be it individuals having difficulty with rough spots in life, couples, children, and families. I am comfortable working with almost any problem. However, my specialties include depression, anxiety, substance abuse and addiction, codependency, ADHD, and especially LGBT + engender identity. Don't hesitate to reach out to me and ask me if I have experience in working with clients like you. I'm looking forward to hearing.
Hi! My name is Michael Southerland, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist working in the Los Angeles, CA area. This means I focus primarily on relationships, be it individuals having difficulty with rough spots in life, couples, children, and families. I am comfortable working with almost any problem. However, my specialties include depression, anxiety, substance abuse and addiction, codependency, ADHD, and especially LGBT + engender identity. Don't hesitate to reach out to me and ask me if I have experience in working with clients like you. I'm looking forward to hearing.
Have you been told you are doing the best you can, but it does not feel like enough? Or fixate on what is wrong in your life or avoid it completely because you do not have the answers or solutions you need? You are not alone if you answered yes. It is sometimes hard to know how to best approach life generally or problems specifically when you feel stuck and uncertain of what to do. Finding solutions requires more than problem solving. Looking within and connecting with yourself engages the soul. This is often essential to uncover the answers you are searching for. This is where Sasha can help.
Have you been told you are doing the best you can, but it does not feel like enough? Or fixate on what is wrong in your life or avoid it completely because you do not have the answers or solutions you need? You are not alone if you answered yes. It is sometimes hard to know how to best approach life generally or problems specifically when you feel stuck and uncertain of what to do. Finding solutions requires more than problem solving. Looking within and connecting with yourself engages the soul. This is often essential to uncover the answers you are searching for. This is where Sasha can help.
People enter my therapy practice for all sorts of reasons. You may be at an impasse or a crossroads due to the loss of a relationship, a big life decision or general anxiety that you can no longer bear on your own. You may be suffering from the wounds of homophobia, transphobia, racism, white supremacy and patriarchy, on top of other traumas and early childhood wounds. Regardless, I seek to offer a safe space for you to access a deeper understanding of yourself and your underlying needs and motives, as well as a personal sense of freedom and empowerment.
People enter my therapy practice for all sorts of reasons. You may be at an impasse or a crossroads due to the loss of a relationship, a big life decision or general anxiety that you can no longer bear on your own. You may be suffering from the wounds of homophobia, transphobia, racism, white supremacy and patriarchy, on top of other traumas and early childhood wounds. Regardless, I seek to offer a safe space for you to access a deeper understanding of yourself and your underlying needs and motives, as well as a personal sense of freedom and empowerment.
Are you finding yourself in painful patterns that are hard to break? Feeling lost or perhaps afraid of being misunderstood or not truly seen? My work often involves identifying the root of what's not working anymore. Guiding the compassionate understanding of your experience. How strategies (aka patterns) that might have protected you in the past, now block your deepest desires. We will collaborate on how to create real change in your life. I work with women, men, couples, families, friendships and other dynamics. I have a lot of passion for the healing of individual & cultural wounds between women & men. What are you longing for?
Are you finding yourself in painful patterns that are hard to break? Feeling lost or perhaps afraid of being misunderstood or not truly seen? My work often involves identifying the root of what's not working anymore. Guiding the compassionate understanding of your experience. How strategies (aka patterns) that might have protected you in the past, now block your deepest desires. We will collaborate on how to create real change in your life. I work with women, men, couples, families, friendships and other dynamics. I have a lot of passion for the healing of individual & cultural wounds between women & men. What are you longing for?
You may feel stuck in cycles of self-criticism, weighed down by anxiety, depression, or perfectionism. These struggles can leave you exhausted, isolated, and unsure of how to move forward. With over 15 years of experience using Expressive Arts Therapy, I help clients loosen old patterns, calm overwhelming emotions, and reconnect with resilience and creativity. Through movement, imagery, writing, and play—combined with evidence-based practices—you can discover new ways of being and restore a sense of possibility.
You may feel stuck in cycles of self-criticism, weighed down by anxiety, depression, or perfectionism. These struggles can leave you exhausted, isolated, and unsure of how to move forward. With over 15 years of experience using Expressive Arts Therapy, I help clients loosen old patterns, calm overwhelming emotions, and reconnect with resilience and creativity. Through movement, imagery, writing, and play—combined with evidence-based practices—you can discover new ways of being and restore a sense of possibility.
In an era of profound loneliness, I support those feeling the weight of the "other" - whether navigating queer identity, kink, or complex power dynamics.
I specialize in identifying patterns that keep life stagnant. By analyzing attachment styles and aligning your values with your actions, I help you create lasting change. My style is humanistic and direct, balancing compassionate witnessing with honest challenge. Together, we explore the stories that shape your life to reconnect you to yourself.
In an era of profound loneliness, I support those feeling the weight of the "other" - whether navigating queer identity, kink, or complex power dynamics.
I specialize in identifying patterns that keep life stagnant. By analyzing attachment styles and aligning your values with your actions, I help you create lasting change. My style is humanistic and direct, balancing compassionate witnessing with honest challenge. Together, we explore the stories that shape your life to reconnect you to yourself.
Do you feel lost or stuck? Disconnected? Perhaps unfulfilled or unable to break free from a pattern or seem to keep attracting the same cycles? I see you. And I'm here to support you in breaking free from what isn't working so you can come back home to your truest self. I am deeply passionate about relationships & want to help you to gain more clarity & confidence around communication, needs, boundaries & intimacy. Yes, wounding happens in relationship BUT so does healing - whether to self or other & this is where the magic lies & why I am intentional about creating a conscious, deep, trusted (& fun!) relationships with my clients.
Do you feel lost or stuck? Disconnected? Perhaps unfulfilled or unable to break free from a pattern or seem to keep attracting the same cycles? I see you. And I'm here to support you in breaking free from what isn't working so you can come back home to your truest self. I am deeply passionate about relationships & want to help you to gain more clarity & confidence around communication, needs, boundaries & intimacy. Yes, wounding happens in relationship BUT so does healing - whether to self or other & this is where the magic lies & why I am intentional about creating a conscious, deep, trusted (& fun!) relationships with my clients.
Clients who enjoy working with me are often folks of all ages who’ve been in therapy for a long time, or folks who are therapists themselves. Many have tried traditional talk therapy and still feel like something hasn’t fully shifted, which is what opens them up to more experiential, holistic methods of release.
Clients who enjoy working with me are often folks of all ages who’ve been in therapy for a long time, or folks who are therapists themselves. Many have tried traditional talk therapy and still feel like something hasn’t fully shifted, which is what opens them up to more experiential, holistic methods of release.
