Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Therapists in Denver, CO
Britt Masters MA, LPC at Actualize Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80218 (Online Only)
I love working with people of a variety of lifestyles and paths, including but not limited to: artists & creatives, LGBTQ+, kink & BDSM, people in transition, trauma histories, and alternative spirituality.
I’m in the business of changing lives and teaching you how to thrive. There is power in the realization that you yourself can learn how to thrive. I'm here to remind you of that and help you find the manageable steps that work for you in order to grow and heal. As a veteran therapist with over 10 years of experience in trauma-informed therapy, I have many creative and evidence-based tools you will benefit from and even enjoy.
I love working with people of a variety of lifestyles and paths, including but not limited to: artists & creatives, LGBTQ+, kink & BDSM, people in transition, trauma histories, and alternative spirituality.
I’m in the business of changing lives and teaching you how to thrive. There is power in the realization that you yourself can learn how to thrive. I'm here to remind you of that and help you find the manageable steps that work for you in order to grow and heal. As a veteran therapist with over 10 years of experience in trauma-informed therapy, I have many creative and evidence-based tools you will benefit from and even enjoy.
Amanda Earle
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LAC, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80209 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
In addition to specializing in Kink-focused therapy, I primarily work with individuals who identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community, as well as those who are beginning to explore or currently practicing various forms of Consensual Non-Monogamy (i.
How can I better understand my own Kinks and desires?... What happens if I get clear on these and then my partner(s) can’t accept me?... I provide a safe and non-judgmental space to help you address these questions and others. Over the years, I have had the privilege of working with people who enjoy a variety of kinks and fetishes, ranging from ABDL and age players, to Furries and Pups, to Hotwives and more. I am well-versed in supporting Switches navigate the duality of their needs; Doms manage the vulnerability of Top Drop; and Subs negotiate contracts with intentionality.
In addition to specializing in Kink-focused therapy, I primarily work with individuals who identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community, as well as those who are beginning to explore or currently practicing various forms of Consensual Non-Monogamy (i.
How can I better understand my own Kinks and desires?... What happens if I get clear on these and then my partner(s) can’t accept me?... I provide a safe and non-judgmental space to help you address these questions and others. Over the years, I have had the privilege of working with people who enjoy a variety of kinks and fetishes, ranging from ABDL and age players, to Furries and Pups, to Hotwives and more. I am well-versed in supporting Switches navigate the duality of their needs; Doms manage the vulnerability of Top Drop; and Subs negotiate contracts with intentionality.
Ryan J Misegadis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80205 (Online Only)
In the realm of sex therapy, my area of focus is "non-traditional" relationships, Polyamory, ENM, and kink.
Sometimes, things happen, and we are forced to deal with things we never thought possible. At my core I identify as a trauma therapist, my goal for my clients is to find the root of what prevents us from living and being our most authentic selves. When we survive hardship, our body holds on to tools that got us through, even if they no longer serve us. Sometimes they are right for the situation, other times they can make things worse. Together, we will slow things down enough to find what works best for you and change reactions to responses.
In the realm of sex therapy, my area of focus is "non-traditional" relationships, Polyamory, ENM, and kink.
Sometimes, things happen, and we are forced to deal with things we never thought possible. At my core I identify as a trauma therapist, my goal for my clients is to find the root of what prevents us from living and being our most authentic selves. When we survive hardship, our body holds on to tools that got us through, even if they no longer serve us. Sometimes they are right for the situation, other times they can make things worse. Together, we will slow things down enough to find what works best for you and change reactions to responses.
Beth Bloomfield-Fox
Licensed Professional Counselor, MBA, LPC, LMHC, CST
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80014 (Online Only)
My style of therapy is to empower individuals and couples to navigate kink, polyamory, and sexual wellness within their relationships as well as support gender transition.
My ideal clients are adults seeking support in navigating complex relationship dynamics and personal growth. I specialize in kink, polyamory, and non-traditional relationship structures, offering a safe space for exploration and self-discovery. I am passionate about working with individuals across the gender spectrum, including those transitioning. My expertise in sexuality and intimacy allows me to provide comprehensive care tailored to each client's unique needs.
My style of therapy is to empower individuals and couples to navigate kink, polyamory, and sexual wellness within their relationships as well as support gender transition.
My ideal clients are adults seeking support in navigating complex relationship dynamics and personal growth. I specialize in kink, polyamory, and non-traditional relationship structures, offering a safe space for exploration and self-discovery. I am passionate about working with individuals across the gender spectrum, including those transitioning. My expertise in sexuality and intimacy allows me to provide comprehensive care tailored to each client's unique needs.
Tanner Straight
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80203
My goal is to improve relationships, sex, intimacy, sexuality and gender identity to enhance quality of life. I strive to create a safe and accepting space to explore and discover an authentic lifestyle within these aspects of life. Through a sex positive approach, the goal is to reduce shame and enhance authenticity. Beginning with the exploration with relationship to self, my clients are able to enhance their relationships with others. Challenging the messages, beliefs and values family and societal has created allows for clients to learn and create their own narrative for the life that aligns with them.
My goal is to improve relationships, sex, intimacy, sexuality and gender identity to enhance quality of life. I strive to create a safe and accepting space to explore and discover an authentic lifestyle within these aspects of life. Through a sex positive approach, the goal is to reduce shame and enhance authenticity. Beginning with the exploration with relationship to self, my clients are able to enhance their relationships with others. Challenging the messages, beliefs and values family and societal has created allows for clients to learn and create their own narrative for the life that aligns with them.
Amanda N Ream
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MEd
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80206 (Online Only)
Are you seeking to improve your relationship with yourself and others? Want to make positive shifts in your life and need further support? Struggle with feeling fulfilled and connected in our fast-paced world? Seeking a different, more holistic approach to treating mental health concerns, that takes into account your mind, body, and spirit? Looking to explore your sexuality or address sexuality-related concerns? Cope with chronic health issues or support someone who does? Want to cultivate more vulnerability and reduce feelings of shame? Just want a connective, introspective space to explore life's questions?
Are you seeking to improve your relationship with yourself and others? Want to make positive shifts in your life and need further support? Struggle with feeling fulfilled and connected in our fast-paced world? Seeking a different, more holistic approach to treating mental health concerns, that takes into account your mind, body, and spirit? Looking to explore your sexuality or address sexuality-related concerns? Cope with chronic health issues or support someone who does? Want to cultivate more vulnerability and reduce feelings of shame? Just want a connective, introspective space to explore life's questions?
Grace Ballard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CST
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80202
I specialize in working with gender identities, consensual nonmonogamy and varied relationship structures, as well as diverse sexual practices such as kink and BDSM.
If you want to cultivate more freedom in your life, and better understand yourself and your relationships, you've come to the right place. I walk alongside you to explore your inner world. We will discover why you do what you do, and whether you want to keep doing it. Together, we learn how you impact others and yourself. I ask questions that elucidate your deeper motivations. I help you understand what you actually want so that you can get it. If you're ready to go deeper, but you're not sure how to go about it, I can help.
I specialize in working with gender identities, consensual nonmonogamy and varied relationship structures, as well as diverse sexual practices such as kink and BDSM.
If you want to cultivate more freedom in your life, and better understand yourself and your relationships, you've come to the right place. I walk alongside you to explore your inner world. We will discover why you do what you do, and whether you want to keep doing it. Together, we learn how you impact others and yourself. I ask questions that elucidate your deeper motivations. I help you understand what you actually want so that you can get it. If you're ready to go deeper, but you're not sure how to go about it, I can help.
I am passionate about working with folks who are in polyamory/non monogamous, BDSM/ kink, and LGBTQ+ communities.
I am an AASECT certified sex and relationships therapist working with clients in Colorado and virtually in Florida. You deserve to have space to explore different parts of who you are- without shame and stigma. Together, we can cultivate tools that are the best fit for you and your relationships. In my practice, I take a compassionate yet direct, non-judgmental approach. Overall, I hope to help you explore your relationship dynamics, patterns of behavior, and emotions to help you work through the places you feel "stuck". I use somatic psychotherapy, internal family systems, and work from a feminist, intersectional lens.
I am passionate about working with folks who are in polyamory/non monogamous, BDSM/ kink, and LGBTQ+ communities.
I am an AASECT certified sex and relationships therapist working with clients in Colorado and virtually in Florida. You deserve to have space to explore different parts of who you are- without shame and stigma. Together, we can cultivate tools that are the best fit for you and your relationships. In my practice, I take a compassionate yet direct, non-judgmental approach. Overall, I hope to help you explore your relationship dynamics, patterns of behavior, and emotions to help you work through the places you feel "stuck". I use somatic psychotherapy, internal family systems, and work from a feminist, intersectional lens.
Lucy Introcaso - Queer | Gender Couples Therapy
Clinical Social Work Candidate, LCSW, MSW, MFTC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80209
I am poly-competent, pro-pleasure, and kink-friendly, too! I want to guide my clients to self-empowerment by being integrative in my approach and modeling authenticity.
Hi there, I'm Lucy! Are you queer, neurodivergent, kinky, or poly and tired of having your therapist not get you? I want to welcome you as you are. I have helped countless clients reclaim their sexual connection & feel more secure. Secure attachment is the foundation needed to experience passion with a foundation of safety. I work with all relationship constellations. My goal is to help you step more fully into a strong foundation both in your relationship and various intersecting identities. Another specialization of mine is gender and love working with people as they step into affirmation both in relationship and in their lives.
I am poly-competent, pro-pleasure, and kink-friendly, too! I want to guide my clients to self-empowerment by being integrative in my approach and modeling authenticity.
Hi there, I'm Lucy! Are you queer, neurodivergent, kinky, or poly and tired of having your therapist not get you? I want to welcome you as you are. I have helped countless clients reclaim their sexual connection & feel more secure. Secure attachment is the foundation needed to experience passion with a foundation of safety. I work with all relationship constellations. My goal is to help you step more fully into a strong foundation both in your relationship and various intersecting identities. Another specialization of mine is gender and love working with people as they step into affirmation both in relationship and in their lives.
Adam Stanford
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LAC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80205 (Online Only)
I only meet online and I accept insurance for individuals but not for couples. I work best with clients who are dedicated to developing new skills that are proven to help with couples issues, anxiety, depression, borderline, bipolar, and addiction. I'm highly competent with and welcome clients of diverse backgrounds including but not limited to LGBTQ+, non-monogamous, sex positive, kink aware, and type 1 Autism (Asperger's). My clients learn how to develop healthier thinking patterns and integrate new behaviors that effectively improve relationships and manage difficult emotions.
I only meet online and I accept insurance for individuals but not for couples. I work best with clients who are dedicated to developing new skills that are proven to help with couples issues, anxiety, depression, borderline, bipolar, and addiction. I'm highly competent with and welcome clients of diverse backgrounds including but not limited to LGBTQ+, non-monogamous, sex positive, kink aware, and type 1 Autism (Asperger's). My clients learn how to develop healthier thinking patterns and integrate new behaviors that effectively improve relationships and manage difficult emotions.
Basil Ross Counseling, LLC
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80210 (Online Only)
If you are facing challenges of living outside of the cultural norm, I can help! Navigating identity and relational challenges can be extra complex when you are non-monogamous, kinky, trans, or queer. Together, we will identify what is important to you, and explore ways of being that support healing and living authentically. As a nonbinary, queer, polyamory-positive, kink-aware, trauma-informed professional, I can offer a unique perspective for those of us who exist outside of traditional roles.
If you are facing challenges of living outside of the cultural norm, I can help! Navigating identity and relational challenges can be extra complex when you are non-monogamous, kinky, trans, or queer. Together, we will identify what is important to you, and explore ways of being that support healing and living authentically. As a nonbinary, queer, polyamory-positive, kink-aware, trauma-informed professional, I can offer a unique perspective for those of us who exist outside of traditional roles.
15 Second Videos
Britt Masters MA, LPC at Actualize Counseling LLC
Ryan J Misegadis
Amanda N Ream
Lucy Introcaso - Queer | Gender Couples Therapy
Adam Stanford
Basil Ross Counseling, LLC
Zachary Rothwell
Kelsey Rellas - Poly | Queer Specialist
Neil Cannon
Laura X. Williams - Racial Justice Attachment Therapy
Patricia S. Duggan
Crista Reid
Christian Lee Vasquez
Kaley Selner
Krissi Franzen
Dr. Rachael Meir
Samantha Sitarik
Taylor Spaziani With Connected Roots
Katy London
Trysta Wedding
Shaina Crisp
Amanda Sapale
Amber Lightbody
Nat Roth
Leah Raulerson
Caroline Taylor Matthes
Brea Giancaterino Emdr
Eric Eichler
Jessie Briegel
Paige O'Hagan
Lauren Timkovich
Electra Byers
Marina Blake
Meaghan Rice
Aaron Eigler - Affordable Sex | Relational Therapist
Kathleen Shea - Somatic Therapist
Sophia Koh
Shelsea Ochoa
Mary Beth Johnson
Kevin Jessup
Mindfully - Denver, CO
Brave Embodiment Counseling LLC
Kylee Nelson
Israa Hussein
Lizzie Joan Stevenson
Carly Whitlock
Artemis Psychology - Dr. Mallaree Blake
Heather Reynolds Denver Rapid Resolution Therapy
Ashley Hansen
Mitchel Paulson
I work with adults struggling with relationship issues, addiction, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Many of my clients have become very successful despite difficult childhoods and are curious how therapy can help to reduce their suffering, heal from past traumas, and learn healthier ways of attachment. I use elements of EMDR therapy in my approach. I am kink allied and sex positive. I invite you to come as you are. I will respect, support, and encourage you during our time in therapy.
I work with adults struggling with relationship issues, addiction, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Many of my clients have become very successful despite difficult childhoods and are curious how therapy can help to reduce their suffering, heal from past traumas, and learn healthier ways of attachment. I use elements of EMDR therapy in my approach. I am kink allied and sex positive. I invite you to come as you are. I will respect, support, and encourage you during our time in therapy.
Kelsey Rellas - Poly | Queer Specialist
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80209
I am competent in the areas of kink, non-traditional relationship structures, and queer identity.
I love working with women and queer couples who are seeking to become more empowered in their sex lives, relationships and reconnecting to their pleasure. Do you desire experiences in relationships that are tender, connected, compassionate and uplifting? I work with couples who want to strengthen the foundation of their relationship(s) and mend the cracks. I also work with individuals within their intersection of identities to reclaim an embodied experience of what it means to belong in this world and feel genuine pleasure in their bodies. Another speciality of mine is working with women looking to feel more empowered after trauma.
I am competent in the areas of kink, non-traditional relationship structures, and queer identity.
I love working with women and queer couples who are seeking to become more empowered in their sex lives, relationships and reconnecting to their pleasure. Do you desire experiences in relationships that are tender, connected, compassionate and uplifting? I work with couples who want to strengthen the foundation of their relationship(s) and mend the cracks. I also work with individuals within their intersection of identities to reclaim an embodied experience of what it means to belong in this world and feel genuine pleasure in their bodies. Another speciality of mine is working with women looking to feel more empowered after trauma.
Sophie Ernstrom
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211
I’ve worked with people processing gender identity, polyamory/CNM, systematic forms of oppression, neurodivergence, bisexual erasure, sex work, kink, and sexuality in general.
Connection is one of the most powerful forms of healing. Whether you are feeling isolated, stressed, or overwhelmed in your life, healing often begins with sharing the burden with another person. You’ve taken the first and sometimes the hardest step towards starting therapy. I’m glad you’re here. I am a queer therapist and it is my greatest joy to work with my queer community. I work with people who hold intersecting identities and have experienced a wide range of concerns including trauma, PTSD, gender dysphoria, polyamory/CNM/ENM, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. I offer individual, relationship, and group therapy.
I’ve worked with people processing gender identity, polyamory/CNM, systematic forms of oppression, neurodivergence, bisexual erasure, sex work, kink, and sexuality in general.
Connection is one of the most powerful forms of healing. Whether you are feeling isolated, stressed, or overwhelmed in your life, healing often begins with sharing the burden with another person. You’ve taken the first and sometimes the hardest step towards starting therapy. I’m glad you’re here. I am a queer therapist and it is my greatest joy to work with my queer community. I work with people who hold intersecting identities and have experienced a wide range of concerns including trauma, PTSD, gender dysphoria, polyamory/CNM/ENM, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. I offer individual, relationship, and group therapy.
Dominique Guillen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211 (Online Only)
I am a sex positive therapist and work with individuals of varying relationship orientations.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I value a strengths-based, person-centered approach to treatment. You are the expert of your experience and you have what it takes to achieve your therapy goals. We don’t exist in isolation and we don’t heal in isolation, which is why I work with my clients from a systemic framework.
I am a sex positive therapist and work with individuals of varying relationship orientations.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I value a strengths-based, person-centered approach to treatment. You are the expert of your experience and you have what it takes to achieve your therapy goals. We don’t exist in isolation and we don’t heal in isolation, which is why I work with my clients from a systemic framework.
ONLY accepting queer, poly, or peripartum COUPLE referrals! Are you in an ENM or poly relationship? Are you questioning your sexual orientation or gender identity? Are you questioning your relationship? Do you want a therapist who gets it? Are you struggling with your relationship after recently giving birth or adopting a child? Does it not seem like the rosy picture everyone painted for you? Are you afraid that you might never be YOU again? I can help! I am a queer, sex-positive therapist with over ten years of experience working with families in the postpartum time period. Let me help you brave this time of life.
ONLY accepting queer, poly, or peripartum COUPLE referrals! Are you in an ENM or poly relationship? Are you questioning your sexual orientation or gender identity? Are you questioning your relationship? Do you want a therapist who gets it? Are you struggling with your relationship after recently giving birth or adopting a child? Does it not seem like the rosy picture everyone painted for you? Are you afraid that you might never be YOU again? I can help! I am a queer, sex-positive therapist with over ten years of experience working with families in the postpartum time period. Let me help you brave this time of life.
Neil Cannon
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, CST-S
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80209
Common concerns that clients seek help with range from sexual desire discrepancy, and low libido to kink and BDSM, Out of Control Sexual Behavior, infidelity, and sexual fetishes.
Dr. Neil Cannon is an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist & Supervisor. Neil is Clinical Director of the Cannon Institute. Neil and the team work with individuals & couples on any matter related to sex, intimacy & relationships. Neil is well known as a leader throughout the field of sex therapy. Neil is a published author and nationally known thought leader, mentor/supervisor. Neil is an instructor at the University of Michigan's Sexual Health Certificate Program and has served as the Colorado Section Leader for the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors & Therapists (AASECT) since 2007.
Common concerns that clients seek help with range from sexual desire discrepancy, and low libido to kink and BDSM, Out of Control Sexual Behavior, infidelity, and sexual fetishes.
Dr. Neil Cannon is an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist & Supervisor. Neil is Clinical Director of the Cannon Institute. Neil and the team work with individuals & couples on any matter related to sex, intimacy & relationships. Neil is well known as a leader throughout the field of sex therapy. Neil is a published author and nationally known thought leader, mentor/supervisor. Neil is an instructor at the University of Michigan's Sexual Health Certificate Program and has served as the Colorado Section Leader for the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors & Therapists (AASECT) since 2007.
Laura X. Williams - Racial Justice Attachment Therapy
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LMFT, LAC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80209
As a transracial adoptee, I am a great fit for couples navigating a variety of issues, including polyamory, infidelity, desire discrepancy, power dynamics in kink, and relational trauma, as well as individuals considering their sexuality, gender, or racial/multicultural identities.
Hello! My name is Laura X. Williams, and I am a Licensed Addiction Counselor and Relational Psychotherapist in the Denver area. My ideal clients are those who seek to explore potential in their own identity and relationships with an emphasis on love, sexual health, and gender. I work with couples wanting to build trust and/or are navigating polyamorous relationships; families who are seeking stronger unity about gender and communication; and individuals who hold intersecting identities, including gender, race, and adoption. We are here to repair, heal, and explore our potential for peace, trust, and well-being together.
As a transracial adoptee, I am a great fit for couples navigating a variety of issues, including polyamory, infidelity, desire discrepancy, power dynamics in kink, and relational trauma, as well as individuals considering their sexuality, gender, or racial/multicultural identities.
Hello! My name is Laura X. Williams, and I am a Licensed Addiction Counselor and Relational Psychotherapist in the Denver area. My ideal clients are those who seek to explore potential in their own identity and relationships with an emphasis on love, sexual health, and gender. I work with couples wanting to build trust and/or are navigating polyamorous relationships; families who are seeking stronger unity about gender and communication; and individuals who hold intersecting identities, including gender, race, and adoption. We are here to repair, heal, and explore our potential for peace, trust, and well-being together.
Specializing in relationships, kink, and LGBTQIA identity, I offer a safe and affirming space where every client feels seen, heard, and valued.
With advanced practice and research in relationships, my client is someone who recognizes the intricate tapestry of their own experiences and seeks a compassionate therapist to navigate the complexities of their inner world. They may come to me with a multitude of issues, but at the heart of it, they are persons yearning for understanding, acceptance, and meaningful connections. In their quest for healing and growth, my clients often grapple with challenge such as anxiety, depression, substance use, and relationship distress.
Specializing in relationships, kink, and LGBTQIA identity, I offer a safe and affirming space where every client feels seen, heard, and valued.
With advanced practice and research in relationships, my client is someone who recognizes the intricate tapestry of their own experiences and seeks a compassionate therapist to navigate the complexities of their inner world. They may come to me with a multitude of issues, but at the heart of it, they are persons yearning for understanding, acceptance, and meaningful connections. In their quest for healing and growth, my clients often grapple with challenge such as anxiety, depression, substance use, and relationship distress.
Chadley Zobolas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, MFTC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80210
I'm a racial justice and 2SLGBTQ+ allied therapist, sex positive, and Health at Every Size (HAES) informed.
In my work as a therapist and through my own life experiences, I’ve found that so much of our pain as humans stems from a deep sense of disconnection, both from ourselves and from each other. I know it can feel like you’re in this alone- I’ve been there, and I’m here to tell you that you don’t have to be. Therapy can provide an incredible space to heal and grow through safe & affirming connection with someone else. I’m honored to hold this space for clients and I believe you deserve support.
I'm a racial justice and 2SLGBTQ+ allied therapist, sex positive, and Health at Every Size (HAES) informed.
In my work as a therapist and through my own life experiences, I’ve found that so much of our pain as humans stems from a deep sense of disconnection, both from ourselves and from each other. I know it can feel like you’re in this alone- I’ve been there, and I’m here to tell you that you don’t have to be. Therapy can provide an incredible space to heal and grow through safe & affirming connection with someone else. I’m honored to hold this space for clients and I believe you deserve support.
See more therapy options for Denver
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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.