Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Therapists in Portland, ME
Now Accepting New Clients! (Current availability - morning, nighttime, and weekend sessions) Hello! I'm Katie Sankare and I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 11 years of experience working with individuals and couples. I strive to create a safe, encouraging, and non-judgmental environment where you feel heard and understood. My goal is to create a space where we can explore past experiences, navigate current challenges, and learn new skills to improve your mental health and emotional well-being. I look forward to connecting with you soon!
Now Accepting New Clients! (Current availability - morning, nighttime, and weekend sessions) Hello! I'm Katie Sankare and I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 11 years of experience working with individuals and couples. I strive to create a safe, encouraging, and non-judgmental environment where you feel heard and understood. My goal is to create a space where we can explore past experiences, navigate current challenges, and learn new skills to improve your mental health and emotional well-being. I look forward to connecting with you soon!
Welcome! I am here to help Rhode Islanders and Mainers understand themselves in a safe and supportive space. Together we will identify your values and set goals rooted in self compassion. We will sit with emotions rather than fighting against them. And we will build tools for setting boundaries, communicating needs, and increasing self esteem. In addition to conversation rooted in evidence based therapy modalities, we will explore mindfulness, body work, and creative expression in sessions. I take a warm, conversational approach to our time together and leave space for humor and joy in the healing process.
Welcome! I am here to help Rhode Islanders and Mainers understand themselves in a safe and supportive space. Together we will identify your values and set goals rooted in self compassion. We will sit with emotions rather than fighting against them. And we will build tools for setting boundaries, communicating needs, and increasing self esteem. In addition to conversation rooted in evidence based therapy modalities, we will explore mindfulness, body work, and creative expression in sessions. I take a warm, conversational approach to our time together and leave space for humor and joy in the healing process.
You might look like you have it all together—but inside, it's a different story. You struggle to set boundaries, compare yourself to others, and secretly feel like you're falling short. Maybe dating has left you anxious and discouraged, you're questioning your path or purpose, or your confidence at work has slowly eroded. Sound familiar? I understand the pain of not feeling good enough and burnt out from trying to hold everything together. My approach blends insight-oriented work with practical tools from CBT, ACT, mindfulness, and somatic therapies to create a treatment that tailored to you, not a one-size-fits-all approach.
You might look like you have it all together—but inside, it's a different story. You struggle to set boundaries, compare yourself to others, and secretly feel like you're falling short. Maybe dating has left you anxious and discouraged, you're questioning your path or purpose, or your confidence at work has slowly eroded. Sound familiar? I understand the pain of not feeling good enough and burnt out from trying to hold everything together. My approach blends insight-oriented work with practical tools from CBT, ACT, mindfulness, and somatic therapies to create a treatment that tailored to you, not a one-size-fits-all approach.
In my work with individuals and partners, I bring a warm and grounding presence to each relationship. I trust in the innate capacity of each of us to heal and grow; this belief guides my work in supporting folks navigating complex trauma, grief, chronic illness, and relationship issues. Feeling understood and valued within a supportive, nurturing environment allows us to access deeper exploration and healing, emotional release, & the integration of new mind-body connections. Regardless of how ingrained and automatic your patterns might be, and how stuck you might feel, a more peaceful life is possible.
In my work with individuals and partners, I bring a warm and grounding presence to each relationship. I trust in the innate capacity of each of us to heal and grow; this belief guides my work in supporting folks navigating complex trauma, grief, chronic illness, and relationship issues. Feeling understood and valued within a supportive, nurturing environment allows us to access deeper exploration and healing, emotional release, & the integration of new mind-body connections. Regardless of how ingrained and automatic your patterns might be, and how stuck you might feel, a more peaceful life is possible.
Are you questioning your gender or sexual orientation, struggling with sexual behavior or substance use that feels out of control, or feeling deeply alone in relationships? You may want closeness while also expecting to be rejected, misunderstood, shamed, or abandoned. Maybe you're wanting to overcome past experiences that were traumatic. If you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or self-doubt, you've come to the right place. I offer a place where we can slow things down, talk honestly about what you’re experiencing, and begin to untangle these patterns and struggles together—so you don’t have to hold them on your own.
Are you questioning your gender or sexual orientation, struggling with sexual behavior or substance use that feels out of control, or feeling deeply alone in relationships? You may want closeness while also expecting to be rejected, misunderstood, shamed, or abandoned. Maybe you're wanting to overcome past experiences that were traumatic. If you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or self-doubt, you've come to the right place. I offer a place where we can slow things down, talk honestly about what you’re experiencing, and begin to untangle these patterns and struggles together—so you don’t have to hold them on your own.
Erika Santosuosso-EMDR-Trauma-CSAT-Sex
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT, EMDRIA
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
If you’re struggling with relational trauma—whether from betrayal, infidelity, unhealthy relationship patterns, compulsivity, or attachment wounds—you may feel like you’ve lost your sense of safety, trust, or even yourself. Healing is possible. I work with individuals and couples who are ready to understand the impact of these experiences, process painful emotions, and build healthier, more secure relationships. Using trauma-focused, evidence-based approaches, I provide a compassionate, collaborative space where you can reconnect with yourself, strengthen your relationships, and move forward with greater confidence and hope.
If you’re struggling with relational trauma—whether from betrayal, infidelity, unhealthy relationship patterns, compulsivity, or attachment wounds—you may feel like you’ve lost your sense of safety, trust, or even yourself. Healing is possible. I work with individuals and couples who are ready to understand the impact of these experiences, process painful emotions, and build healthier, more secure relationships. Using trauma-focused, evidence-based approaches, I provide a compassionate, collaborative space where you can reconnect with yourself, strengthen your relationships, and move forward with greater confidence and hope.
At this time, I am accepting Forensic clients (Court mandated, parole, probation, DCPP) New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Maine via telehealth (video) or phone sessions at Dilks & White Counseling, Assessment and Consultation Services 856-209-3637.
For Psychoeducational Evaluations, ADHD testing, IQ testing, and General Mental Health therapy, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, CBT, DBT, EMDR, Sandplay therapy, Somatic Experiencing therapy, Trauma Informed Care, and TraumaPlay therapy please contact me at Bridge to Balance, Inc at 856-354-0664. I can provide Clinical Supervision for LACs in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Maine
At this time, I am accepting Forensic clients (Court mandated, parole, probation, DCPP) New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Maine via telehealth (video) or phone sessions at Dilks & White Counseling, Assessment and Consultation Services 856-209-3637.
For Psychoeducational Evaluations, ADHD testing, IQ testing, and General Mental Health therapy, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, CBT, DBT, EMDR, Sandplay therapy, Somatic Experiencing therapy, Trauma Informed Care, and TraumaPlay therapy please contact me at Bridge to Balance, Inc at 856-354-0664. I can provide Clinical Supervision for LACs in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Maine
I seek to be anti-racist, sex-positive, fat-positive, polyamory/non-monogamous/ kink competent, and committed to non-pathologizing approaches
My therapeutic style is warm, grounded and direct, and I have a particular focus on work with shame, alienation, and existential questions. I work to co-create a therapeutic space for speaking freely without judgement. Connecting in the present moment opens the possibility of awareness and immediate relief while also addressing underlying dynamics. I specialize in working with artists, LGBTQ+ people, organizers, and people who have experienced trauma, including religious trauma.
I seek to be anti-racist, sex-positive, fat-positive, polyamory/non-monogamous/ kink competent, and committed to non-pathologizing approaches
My therapeutic style is warm, grounded and direct, and I have a particular focus on work with shame, alienation, and existential questions. I work to co-create a therapeutic space for speaking freely without judgement. Connecting in the present moment opens the possibility of awareness and immediate relief while also addressing underlying dynamics. I specialize in working with artists, LGBTQ+ people, organizers, and people who have experienced trauma, including religious trauma.
Certified Sex Therapist, Empowering Individuals & Couples, LGBTQIA, Kink, & Poly Affirming, Specializing in Trauma & Relationship Healing
Are you seeking a compassionate, affirming space to explore your relationships, sexuality, or personal growth? As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and an AASECT-Certified Sex Therapist, I specialize in guiding individuals and couples through challenges related to intimacy, identity, and emotional well-being. My approach is client-centered and trauma-informed, integrating modalities such as CBT, attachment theory, interpersonal therapy, Gottman method, and strengths-based techniques to support your journey toward healing and empowerment
Certified Sex Therapist, Empowering Individuals & Couples, LGBTQIA, Kink, & Poly Affirming, Specializing in Trauma & Relationship Healing
Are you seeking a compassionate, affirming space to explore your relationships, sexuality, or personal growth? As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and an AASECT-Certified Sex Therapist, I specialize in guiding individuals and couples through challenges related to intimacy, identity, and emotional well-being. My approach is client-centered and trauma-informed, integrating modalities such as CBT, attachment theory, interpersonal therapy, Gottman method, and strengths-based techniques to support your journey toward healing and empowerment
My practice is rooted in presence, care, and the belief that healing happens when we are fully seen—especially in the places we’ve had to hide to survive. As Black queer provider with lived experience navigating religious abuse, racial violence, trauma, addiction, and grief, I bring a rare depth of compassion to my work. Many of my clients are people who may be struggling with emotional intensity, trauma, anxiety, depression, substance use, or grief. My therapeutic approach blends Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), somatic mindfulness, and psychodynamic.
My practice is rooted in presence, care, and the belief that healing happens when we are fully seen—especially in the places we’ve had to hide to survive. As Black queer provider with lived experience navigating religious abuse, racial violence, trauma, addiction, and grief, I bring a rare depth of compassion to my work. Many of my clients are people who may be struggling with emotional intensity, trauma, anxiety, depression, substance use, or grief. My therapeutic approach blends Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), somatic mindfulness, and psychodynamic.
Are you feeling stuck in a certain pattern of thoughts or behaviors that you find worrisome or troubling? Perhaps you are feeling overwhelmed in your life and are beginning to wonder if you may benefit from some additional support. I have worked and trained in a variety of mental health settings including residential, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, medical hospitals and college campuses. I welcome the opportunity to work with people of all gender identities and all body shapes and sizes.
Are you feeling stuck in a certain pattern of thoughts or behaviors that you find worrisome or troubling? Perhaps you are feeling overwhelmed in your life and are beginning to wonder if you may benefit from some additional support. I have worked and trained in a variety of mental health settings including residential, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, medical hospitals and college campuses. I welcome the opportunity to work with people of all gender identities and all body shapes and sizes.
I use an integrative model that recognizes no one methodology fits all. This integration honors the egalitarian relationship between client and counselor and centers the client as the expert in their own healing. By focusing on your individuality, unique history, and celebrating your particular strengths, we can engage in counseling that is both holistic and transformative. Together, we create as space in which you can safely examine the roots of old patterns and build a more authentic and aligned way of being.
I use an integrative model that recognizes no one methodology fits all. This integration honors the egalitarian relationship between client and counselor and centers the client as the expert in their own healing. By focusing on your individuality, unique history, and celebrating your particular strengths, we can engage in counseling that is both holistic and transformative. Together, we create as space in which you can safely examine the roots of old patterns and build a more authentic and aligned way of being.
Everyone needs someone to talk to about what they’re going through in their lives. As social creatures, we tend to turn to our friends, family, and partners to help us sort it out. Sometimes we’ll find ourselves telling the same stories and have awareness of what's going on, but unsure of what to do with that knowledge. I offer nature walk and talks to clients that would like to move their bodies while improving their mental health. Physically moving forward is also metaphorical. By actively changing our scenery and environment, we create distance from our past and make space for healthier patterns to emerge.
Everyone needs someone to talk to about what they’re going through in their lives. As social creatures, we tend to turn to our friends, family, and partners to help us sort it out. Sometimes we’ll find ourselves telling the same stories and have awareness of what's going on, but unsure of what to do with that knowledge. I offer nature walk and talks to clients that would like to move their bodies while improving their mental health. Physically moving forward is also metaphorical. By actively changing our scenery and environment, we create distance from our past and make space for healthier patterns to emerge.
You’re capable and used to holding it together, but something feels heavier than it should. Maybe ADHD or neurodivergence makes everyday life more exhausting than it seems for everyone else. Maybe anxiety, trauma, relationship stress, or shame has left you feeling disconnected from yourself. You may have spent years being the strong one, masking, caring for others, or trying to meet expectations that never quite fit. You want somewhere you don’t have to filter, perform, or have all the right words. A place to set some of it down and begin reconnecting with yourself.
You’re capable and used to holding it together, but something feels heavier than it should. Maybe ADHD or neurodivergence makes everyday life more exhausting than it seems for everyone else. Maybe anxiety, trauma, relationship stress, or shame has left you feeling disconnected from yourself. You may have spent years being the strong one, masking, caring for others, or trying to meet expectations that never quite fit. You want somewhere you don’t have to filter, perform, or have all the right words. A place to set some of it down and begin reconnecting with yourself.
When marriages fail, it is not increasing conflict that is the cause. It is decreasing affection and emotional responsiveness."- Sue Johnson, author of "Hold Me Tight." I help couples create emotional safety, heal past hurts, and learn to take emotional risks. Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy (EFT) is a revolutionary approach to relationship therapy because it's not just about teaching couples to communicate differently, but instead about guiding them towards a new experience of themselves and each other. Relationships change and grow when we experience our partner in a new way and we learn to be responsive. I can help.
When marriages fail, it is not increasing conflict that is the cause. It is decreasing affection and emotional responsiveness."- Sue Johnson, author of "Hold Me Tight." I help couples create emotional safety, heal past hurts, and learn to take emotional risks. Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy (EFT) is a revolutionary approach to relationship therapy because it's not just about teaching couples to communicate differently, but instead about guiding them towards a new experience of themselves and each other. Relationships change and grow when we experience our partner in a new way and we learn to be responsive. I can help.
Each of us experience times in our lives wherein we struggle to be our best selves. Whether your goal is to better navigate your own emotional landscape or improve interactions with your loved ones, I would be honored to help you along your journey. I work with Individuals, Couples and Families around issues such as Anxiety, Depression, Illness, Relationship concerns, Sexual Health/Sexuality, and Communication. My calm, caring and collaborative approach helps create a comfortable environment that promotes desired change.
Each of us experience times in our lives wherein we struggle to be our best selves. Whether your goal is to better navigate your own emotional landscape or improve interactions with your loved ones, I would be honored to help you along your journey. I work with Individuals, Couples and Families around issues such as Anxiety, Depression, Illness, Relationship concerns, Sexual Health/Sexuality, and Communication. My calm, caring and collaborative approach helps create a comfortable environment that promotes desired change.
Matt Snyder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , LICSW , LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Thanks for showing up here. By doing the work to even navigate to this page, you are taking a huge step for yourself. We all have thoughts, feelings, & behaviors that keep us stuck in patterns that don’t always serve us or our loved ones well. The great news is that these patterns are learned from a variety of experiences, meaning they can also be un-learned with concentrated effort and a willingness to change. Therapy can be a liberating space where those patterns are examined and new perspectives that better serve us are developed over time. This work requires immense vulnerability, but this is often not a starting point.
Thanks for showing up here. By doing the work to even navigate to this page, you are taking a huge step for yourself. We all have thoughts, feelings, & behaviors that keep us stuck in patterns that don’t always serve us or our loved ones well. The great news is that these patterns are learned from a variety of experiences, meaning they can also be un-learned with concentrated effort and a willingness to change. Therapy can be a liberating space where those patterns are examined and new perspectives that better serve us are developed over time. This work requires immense vulnerability, but this is often not a starting point.
In a time when there are so many potential threats, how do we learn to feel safe enough? How do we not only cope but have meaningful experiences in this chaotic world? My values as a therapist are not to deny the trying times we are in, but to create a space for authenticity, play, rest, and connection. Our goal together is to explore the interiors of the mind and body in order to be aware of the ways we can close off from ourselves and others, in order to create a more free and authentic future. I take an integrative approach, blending my background in psychodynamic and somatic modalities.
In a time when there are so many potential threats, how do we learn to feel safe enough? How do we not only cope but have meaningful experiences in this chaotic world? My values as a therapist are not to deny the trying times we are in, but to create a space for authenticity, play, rest, and connection. Our goal together is to explore the interiors of the mind and body in order to be aware of the ways we can close off from ourselves and others, in order to create a more free and authentic future. I take an integrative approach, blending my background in psychodynamic and somatic modalities.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Stressed? Disconnected? Frustrated? Lost? Alone? I'd like to help you feel Alive, Centered, Connected, Grounded, Inspired. You deserve to thrive.
With support, you can liberate yourself from past pain. You can explore patterns with self-compassion. You can discover new tools and insights and reclaim your life. You can tap into your powerful life-force and flourish. When you reconnect with yourself, you connect more deeply with people you love, with your passion & purpose. Same goes for kids navigating big feelings. Lacking tools causes shutdown or outbursts that are challenging for them and for you.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Stressed? Disconnected? Frustrated? Lost? Alone? I'd like to help you feel Alive, Centered, Connected, Grounded, Inspired. You deserve to thrive.
With support, you can liberate yourself from past pain. You can explore patterns with self-compassion. You can discover new tools and insights and reclaim your life. You can tap into your powerful life-force and flourish. When you reconnect with yourself, you connect more deeply with people you love, with your passion & purpose. Same goes for kids navigating big feelings. Lacking tools causes shutdown or outbursts that are challenging for them and for you.
My aim is for you to feel a shift is underway from our very first session. Unlike traditional talk therapy which relies on historical narrative, we will work with what is going on for you today, moment to moment, with care and precision.
In my 10 years of private practice, I have seen incredible transformations working with individuals, couples, and families who have spent years -often decades- struggling to adapt to environments that do not serve them. Together, we can build a more integrated sense of self and a greater capacity to live the full life you deserve.
If insight hasn't been enough, there's another way.
My aim is for you to feel a shift is underway from our very first session. Unlike traditional talk therapy which relies on historical narrative, we will work with what is going on for you today, moment to moment, with care and precision.
In my 10 years of private practice, I have seen incredible transformations working with individuals, couples, and families who have spent years -often decades- struggling to adapt to environments that do not serve them. Together, we can build a more integrated sense of self and a greater capacity to live the full life you deserve.
If insight hasn't been enough, there's another way.
See more therapy options for Portland
Nearby Sex-Positive & Kink-Friendly Therapists Searches for Portland
- Biddeford
- Brunswick
- Cape Elizabeth
- Cumberland Foreside
- Falmouth
- Freeport
- Saco
- Scarborough
- South Portland
- Westbrook
- Windham
- Yarmouth