Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Therapists in Forest Park, IL
I work with adults who are high-functioning yet caught in persistent patterns — in relationships, in stress responses, or in the way they relate to themselves. My areas of focus include addiction recovery, codependency, shame, emotional neglect, boundary-setting, and the long-term impact of complex trauma.
My approach is trauma-informed, relational, and grounded in nervous system science. We examine how earlier experiences shaped your coping strategies, attachment dynamics, and core beliefs. When past experiences continue to feel activated or unresolved, I integrate EMDR to support deeper processing and lasting change.
I work with adults who are high-functioning yet caught in persistent patterns — in relationships, in stress responses, or in the way they relate to themselves. My areas of focus include addiction recovery, codependency, shame, emotional neglect, boundary-setting, and the long-term impact of complex trauma.
My approach is trauma-informed, relational, and grounded in nervous system science. We examine how earlier experiences shaped your coping strategies, attachment dynamics, and core beliefs. When past experiences continue to feel activated or unresolved, I integrate EMDR to support deeper processing and lasting change.
Are you struggling with depression and/or anxiety? Trauma, life transitions, grief, identity, relationships, culture, and self-concept all play a role in how we experience life. We can explore these topics together. I have experience supporting adolescents, young adults, and adults in mid-life navigate challenges and create change in their lives. Using CBT, ACT, EMDR, and motivational interviewing while grounded in person-centered and a culturally inclusive foundation, I have worked with people from diverse backgrounds. I am LGBTQ positive and aware.
Are you struggling with depression and/or anxiety? Trauma, life transitions, grief, identity, relationships, culture, and self-concept all play a role in how we experience life. We can explore these topics together. I have experience supporting adolescents, young adults, and adults in mid-life navigate challenges and create change in their lives. Using CBT, ACT, EMDR, and motivational interviewing while grounded in person-centered and a culturally inclusive foundation, I have worked with people from diverse backgrounds. I am LGBTQ positive and aware.
I am continually amazed by the human capacity to grow, change, and flourish in the midst of personal and societal challenges. Particularly as we grapple with the developmental challenges that emerge throughout our lives. Circumstances such as new relationships, pregnancy and adoption, career changes, midlife shifts, retirement, and older age are all normal and create opportunities for growth. All of this can be stressful and we often need extra support in the midst of these experiences. In a counseling relationship with me, we will walk through this journey together, focusing our work on what brings joy and contentment to your life.
I am continually amazed by the human capacity to grow, change, and flourish in the midst of personal and societal challenges. Particularly as we grapple with the developmental challenges that emerge throughout our lives. Circumstances such as new relationships, pregnancy and adoption, career changes, midlife shifts, retirement, and older age are all normal and create opportunities for growth. All of this can be stressful and we often need extra support in the midst of these experiences. In a counseling relationship with me, we will walk through this journey together, focusing our work on what brings joy and contentment to your life.
The majority of my training and work experience has specifically focused on the assessment and treatment of trauma/PTSD as well as complex PTSD. I believe my job is to walk alongside my clients as they unpack their traumatic experiences, while providing continued safety and validation, all at their own pace. I have worked in a wide variety of settings treating trauma from prisons/jails, to community mental health centers, to the VA and various outpatient settings. I have worked with all types of survivors with various different traumatic experiences and symptom presentations and utilize several types of treatment approaches.
The majority of my training and work experience has specifically focused on the assessment and treatment of trauma/PTSD as well as complex PTSD. I believe my job is to walk alongside my clients as they unpack their traumatic experiences, while providing continued safety and validation, all at their own pace. I have worked in a wide variety of settings treating trauma from prisons/jails, to community mental health centers, to the VA and various outpatient settings. I have worked with all types of survivors with various different traumatic experiences and symptom presentations and utilize several types of treatment approaches.
You’ve done the work. Read the books, set the boundaries, maybe even had years of therapy. Things are better — and you still sense there’s a layer you haven’t yet reached. I work with therapists, neurodivergent people, and those navigating identity shifts that don’t fit neatly into old frameworks. People who are done with surface-level and ready to go somewhere real. At Starks Therapy Group, we offer depth-oriented, experiential care for adults ready to move past insight into genuine change.
You’ve done the work. Read the books, set the boundaries, maybe even had years of therapy. Things are better — and you still sense there’s a layer you haven’t yet reached. I work with therapists, neurodivergent people, and those navigating identity shifts that don’t fit neatly into old frameworks. People who are done with surface-level and ready to go somewhere real. At Starks Therapy Group, we offer depth-oriented, experiential care for adults ready to move past insight into genuine change.
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Welcome! I am a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience supporting adults and families through a wide range of life’s challenges.
I specialize in working with clients navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship concerns, LGBTQIA+ experiences, and personal growth. My approach is warm, collaborative, and solution-focused, with an emphasis on creating a space where you feel understood and supported. Whether we communicate in English or ASL, I look forward to helping you reach your goals.
Welcome! I am a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience supporting adults and families through a wide range of life’s challenges.
I specialize in working with clients navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship concerns, LGBTQIA+ experiences, and personal growth. My approach is warm, collaborative, and solution-focused, with an emphasis on creating a space where you feel understood and supported. Whether we communicate in English or ASL, I look forward to helping you reach your goals.
The right therapeutic relationship can be a powerful place for healing and growth. When you feel truly and fully seen, understood, and supported, new possibilities start to open- ones that are aligned with what matters to you most.
If you've been feeling overwhelmed, like you're hiding parts of yourself, or unsure of your next steps, you're not alone. Finding a therapist can feel daunting, especially when you're not sure who will really "get" you.
The right therapeutic relationship can be a powerful place for healing and growth. When you feel truly and fully seen, understood, and supported, new possibilities start to open- ones that are aligned with what matters to you most.
If you've been feeling overwhelmed, like you're hiding parts of yourself, or unsure of your next steps, you're not alone. Finding a therapist can feel daunting, especially when you're not sure who will really "get" you.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), Certified Sexologist (ABS), Experienced Registered Yoga Teacher (E-RYT 200), and have been a psychotherapist in private practice for almost ten years. I am also the owner, CEO, and Clinical Director of Mindful Therapy & Wellness. I have extensive experience as a rehabilitation counselor on Chicago's northside, have taught graduate level counseling courses at DePaul University, and have been a yoga instructor for over 15 years.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), Certified Sexologist (ABS), Experienced Registered Yoga Teacher (E-RYT 200), and have been a psychotherapist in private practice for almost ten years. I am also the owner, CEO, and Clinical Director of Mindful Therapy & Wellness. I have extensive experience as a rehabilitation counselor on Chicago's northside, have taught graduate level counseling courses at DePaul University, and have been a yoga instructor for over 15 years.
I am informed and affirming of LGBTQIA+ and kink communities.
As a LCPC, AaSECT Certified Sex Therapist, and CRC offer trauma informed, attachment oriented care for partners and individuals. I blend evidence based therapy with somatic, sex therapy, and mindfulness tools. LGBTQIA+ and kink informed and affirming. Virtual, flexible scheduling. We build skills, heal ruptures, and grow intimacy, at your pace.
I am informed and affirming of LGBTQIA+ and kink communities.
As a LCPC, AaSECT Certified Sex Therapist, and CRC offer trauma informed, attachment oriented care for partners and individuals. I blend evidence based therapy with somatic, sex therapy, and mindfulness tools. LGBTQIA+ and kink informed and affirming. Virtual, flexible scheduling. We build skills, heal ruptures, and grow intimacy, at your pace.
Whether you’re feeling disconnected in your relationship, navigating challenges around trust, intimacy, or desire, or working through past trauma, I’m here to support you every step of the way. I believe your story holds the key to understanding the patterns in your relationships and that together, we can transform those patterns into new possibilities for growth and connection. In our work, I offer a holistic, client-centered, trauma-informed approach that integrates multiple therapeutic modalities, including attachment theory, emotionally focused therapy (EFT), psychodynamic therapy, and evidence-based treatments for trauma.
Whether you’re feeling disconnected in your relationship, navigating challenges around trust, intimacy, or desire, or working through past trauma, I’m here to support you every step of the way. I believe your story holds the key to understanding the patterns in your relationships and that together, we can transform those patterns into new possibilities for growth and connection. In our work, I offer a holistic, client-centered, trauma-informed approach that integrates multiple therapeutic modalities, including attachment theory, emotionally focused therapy (EFT), psychodynamic therapy, and evidence-based treatments for trauma.
I work with individuals and couples who are seeking insight, healing, and relational harmony, especially those in LGBTQIA+, kink, and ENM communities.
I use DBT and CBT through an anti-racist and anti-capitalist lens. I practice Emotionally Focused Therapy with couples. I work with individuals, couples, non-monogamous relationships, high-conflict relationships, and groups. I offer gender-affirming care, and support kink/polyam clients. For trauma, I use CPT. I am a licensed social worker too.
I work with individuals and couples who are seeking insight, healing, and relational harmony, especially those in LGBTQIA+, kink, and ENM communities.
I use DBT and CBT through an anti-racist and anti-capitalist lens. I practice Emotionally Focused Therapy with couples. I work with individuals, couples, non-monogamous relationships, high-conflict relationships, and groups. I offer gender-affirming care, and support kink/polyam clients. For trauma, I use CPT. I am a licensed social worker too.
I am a licensed clinical social worker and certified addiction counselor with eight years of experience. My expertise includes trauma, depression, ADHD, alcohol & substance use, and supporting someone with addiction. Using a client-directed, person-centered approach, our sessions will help you explore goals for yourself and significant relationships.
I am a licensed clinical social worker and certified addiction counselor with eight years of experience. My expertise includes trauma, depression, ADHD, alcohol & substance use, and supporting someone with addiction. Using a client-directed, person-centered approach, our sessions will help you explore goals for yourself and significant relationships.
Therapy should be a place to not only get to know yourself but to grow, change, and flourish. If you have been looking to reconnect with yourself in a space free from outside noise and judgement this is the place for you! I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ individuals, survivors of intimate partner trauma, and those navigating PTSD, anxiety, depression, as well as the unique experiences of being neurodivergent. We will work collaboratively to honor your individual needs and identities, and create a space where you feel safe, valued, and empowered to live authentically.
Therapy should be a place to not only get to know yourself but to grow, change, and flourish. If you have been looking to reconnect with yourself in a space free from outside noise and judgement this is the place for you! I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ individuals, survivors of intimate partner trauma, and those navigating PTSD, anxiety, depression, as well as the unique experiences of being neurodivergent. We will work collaboratively to honor your individual needs and identities, and create a space where you feel safe, valued, and empowered to live authentically.
I’m passionate about providing sex- and kink-positive therapy, particularly to the LGBTQIA+ community and those exploring relational dynamics, gender identity, and sexuality.
My practice utilizes a mix of modalities from a base of queer and feminist theory. I aim to tailor the therapeutic process to each client’s strengths, needs, and intersectional identities. My academic foundations in cognitive neuroscience afford me a unique clinical perspective and ground my understanding of attachment and trauma.
I’m passionate about providing sex- and kink-positive therapy, particularly to the LGBTQIA+ community and those exploring relational dynamics, gender identity, and sexuality.
My practice utilizes a mix of modalities from a base of queer and feminist theory. I aim to tailor the therapeutic process to each client’s strengths, needs, and intersectional identities. My academic foundations in cognitive neuroscience afford me a unique clinical perspective and ground my understanding of attachment and trauma.
I believe that everyone deserves a space where they can center their needs, explore their experiences, and move toward healing in a way that feels authentic to them. In a world that often discourages emotional expression, particularly for those from historically marginalized communities, I strive to create a therapeutic environment where clients feel affirmed, empowered, and challenged to explore the roots of their emotions. My approach is grounded in the belief that healing happens from the inside out and is strengthened by community, connection, and collaboration.
I believe that everyone deserves a space where they can center their needs, explore their experiences, and move toward healing in a way that feels authentic to them. In a world that often discourages emotional expression, particularly for those from historically marginalized communities, I strive to create a therapeutic environment where clients feel affirmed, empowered, and challenged to explore the roots of their emotions. My approach is grounded in the belief that healing happens from the inside out and is strengthened by community, connection, and collaboration.
You are good. Rarely do folks act in ways that don't make sense to them. Maybe you are experiencing frustration in relationships. Maybe you are feeling overwhelmed by sadness, fears, or exhaustion. You are human. In this space you will be heard and validated as you discover more about yourself and develop compassion for the parts of you that may seem most dark. And sometimes the path to wellness is to allow ourselves to be discovered more deeply.
You are good. Rarely do folks act in ways that don't make sense to them. Maybe you are experiencing frustration in relationships. Maybe you are feeling overwhelmed by sadness, fears, or exhaustion. You are human. In this space you will be heard and validated as you discover more about yourself and develop compassion for the parts of you that may seem most dark. And sometimes the path to wellness is to allow ourselves to be discovered more deeply.
I work with an eclectic array of mental health topics, including sexual health and wellness, anxiety, depression, intimacy, kink, traditional & non-traditional relationships, mood regulation, DBT mindfulness, and life transitions.
Hello! I am a forensic psychotherapist in practice with Naperville Counseling Center. I aim to provide support and encouragement as individuals work on their mental health. Building a strong rapport is essential to creating trust, and I believe developing a healthy connection with each client is key. I enjoy integrating humor into therapy to break up some of the heaviness the world brings. Coming from a forensic background, I have experience working with intense areas of need, support, and planning. I also have a passion for assisting clients in building and/or rebuilding their relationships with sexual health and sexual wellness.
I work with an eclectic array of mental health topics, including sexual health and wellness, anxiety, depression, intimacy, kink, traditional & non-traditional relationships, mood regulation, DBT mindfulness, and life transitions.
Hello! I am a forensic psychotherapist in practice with Naperville Counseling Center. I aim to provide support and encouragement as individuals work on their mental health. Building a strong rapport is essential to creating trust, and I believe developing a healthy connection with each client is key. I enjoy integrating humor into therapy to break up some of the heaviness the world brings. Coming from a forensic background, I have experience working with intense areas of need, support, and planning. I also have a passion for assisting clients in building and/or rebuilding their relationships with sexual health and sexual wellness.
If you are interested in exploring issues related to gender identity, sexuality, kink, couples and relationship work, polyamory/nonmonogamy, or trauma, please reach out to schedule a consultation; I look forward to hearing from you!
Hi, I’m Sinéad! As a queer and trans woman, I am driven to practice social work in a way that moves towards liberation for all marginalized members of our communities, with the knowledge that the field of social work has contributed as much, if not more, to our collective oppression as to our healing.
If you are interested in exploring issues related to gender identity, sexuality, kink, couples and relationship work, polyamory/nonmonogamy, or trauma, please reach out to schedule a consultation; I look forward to hearing from you!
Hi, I’m Sinéad! As a queer and trans woman, I am driven to practice social work in a way that moves towards liberation for all marginalized members of our communities, with the knowledge that the field of social work has contributed as much, if not more, to our collective oppression as to our healing.
You may be feeling emotionally overwhelmed: struggling with anxiety, low mood, self-doubt, attention and focus challenges, substance use concerns, or the lingering effects of stress and trauma. Perhaps relationships feel complicated, parenting feels heavier than expected, or you’re quietly questioning your identity and sense of self. You might find it difficult to put words to what you’re feeling, or feel stuck in patterns that no longer serve you. You want a space where you can slow down, feel understood, and begin making sense of your experiences without pressure or judgment.
You may be feeling emotionally overwhelmed: struggling with anxiety, low mood, self-doubt, attention and focus challenges, substance use concerns, or the lingering effects of stress and trauma. Perhaps relationships feel complicated, parenting feels heavier than expected, or you’re quietly questioning your identity and sense of self. You might find it difficult to put words to what you’re feeling, or feel stuck in patterns that no longer serve you. You want a space where you can slow down, feel understood, and begin making sense of your experiences without pressure or judgment.
I am passionate about supporting the LGBTQIA+ community and am enthusiastically poly/ kink, BDSM & ABDL affirming.
My therapeutic style is humanistic and strengths-based, which means I lead with empathy, authenticity and acceptance. My approach is depth-based, often tracing current patterns to coping strategies developed in childhood. I use attachment theory, IFS/parts work, somatic elements and narrative therapy to help clients regulate, explore, and create change.
I am passionate about supporting the LGBTQIA+ community and am enthusiastically poly/ kink, BDSM & ABDL affirming.
My therapeutic style is humanistic and strengths-based, which means I lead with empathy, authenticity and acceptance. My approach is depth-based, often tracing current patterns to coping strategies developed in childhood. I use attachment theory, IFS/parts work, somatic elements and narrative therapy to help clients regulate, explore, and create change.
See more therapy options for Forest Park
Nearby Sex-Positive & Kink-Friendly Therapists Searches for Forest Park
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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.