Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Therapists in Royal Oak, MI

Photo of Kara Moore, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Kara Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Royal Oak, MI 48067
I enjoy working with couples and individuals who experience problems in their relationships. Relationship and family dynamics offer a number of opportunities for tension and conflict, thus needing an unbiased third party to lead discussions in a healthy and healing manner. I believe communication is vital in any relationship, and I help teach how to listen and "fight" in a healthier way. Everyone has disagreements, but not everyone knows how to argue while being vulnerable. My ideal clients recognize that they need guidance, are ready to be vulnerable with their partner, and want help to build healthier relationships.
I enjoy working with couples and individuals who experience problems in their relationships. Relationship and family dynamics offer a number of opportunities for tension and conflict, thus needing an unbiased third party to lead discussions in a healthy and healing manner. I believe communication is vital in any relationship, and I help teach how to listen and "fight" in a healthier way. Everyone has disagreements, but not everyone knows how to argue while being vulnerable. My ideal clients recognize that they need guidance, are ready to be vulnerable with their partner, and want help to build healthier relationships.
(248) 331-8766 View (248) 331-8766
Photo of Christopher Ortega, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPCC, CST, ABS
Christopher Ortega
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPCC, CST, ABS
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, sexual concerns, identity exploration, gender-affirming care, kink, or personal growth, I offer a safe, affirming space to understand yourself more fully and move toward a healthier, more fulfilling life.
I offer a safe, supportive space for individuals to navigate challenges, improve intimacy, and grow. Using evidence-based therapies like CBT, the PLISSIT model, and mindfulness, I tailor therapy to your needs—helping you break unhealthy patterns, build self-awareness, and develop lasting coping strategies.
Whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, sexual concerns, identity exploration, gender-affirming care, kink, or personal growth, I offer a safe, affirming space to understand yourself more fully and move toward a healthier, more fulfilling life.
I offer a safe, supportive space for individuals to navigate challenges, improve intimacy, and grow. Using evidence-based therapies like CBT, the PLISSIT model, and mindfulness, I tailor therapy to your needs—helping you break unhealthy patterns, build self-awareness, and develop lasting coping strategies.
(810) 209-3969 View (810) 209-3969
Photo of Kara Moore, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Kara Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am dedicated to providing inclusive, affirmative care where every individual, couple, and family feels seen, respected, and celebrated. I firmly believe that healing and growth happen in a safe, supportive space, regardless of your race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, body type, or life experiences. I enjoy working with preteens, teens, adults, and couples as they navigate life's complexities and strive to build healthier relationships, both with others and with themselves.
I am dedicated to providing inclusive, affirmative care where every individual, couple, and family feels seen, respected, and celebrated. I firmly believe that healing and growth happen in a safe, supportive space, regardless of your race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, body type, or life experiences. I enjoy working with preteens, teens, adults, and couples as they navigate life's complexities and strive to build healthier relationships, both with others and with themselves.
(586) 800-8354 View (586) 800-8354
Photo of Ash Hennen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Ash Hennen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Are you here because you feel overwhelmed, stuck, and often at odds with yourself? Because – despite feeling desperate to feel something different – you find yourself in the same old patterns? Replaying painful memories, worries or harsh self-talk? Maybe people, even therapists, have commented on your self-awareness. But that doesn't seem to translate to feeling better. Maybe you've tried breathwork or yoga and they helped. But you can't shake the feeling that there's more to explore on your healing path. I'm here for folks looking to follow that wild call to look inward.
Are you here because you feel overwhelmed, stuck, and often at odds with yourself? Because – despite feeling desperate to feel something different – you find yourself in the same old patterns? Replaying painful memories, worries or harsh self-talk? Maybe people, even therapists, have commented on your self-awareness. But that doesn't seem to translate to feeling better. Maybe you've tried breathwork or yoga and they helped. But you can't shake the feeling that there's more to explore on your healing path. I'm here for folks looking to follow that wild call to look inward.
(248) 900-3052 View (248) 900-3052
Photo of Erica R. Carulli, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Erica R. Carulli
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
7 Endorsed
Online Only
You are someone who has chosen to work toward recovery and healing after trauma. Bravo. Whatever stressful or traumatic experiences you've gone though, you've chosen recovery and healing. That's why you're here. I would like to personally welcome you. This is a safe space to reimagine a life worth living. Do you desire to have the ability to rest, relax and revitalize? I invite you to imagine a life free of fear. You are worthy of healing. You deserve time and space to share your experiences, to explore feelings and thoughts in a nurturing, nonjudgmental place. It can feel scary to consider trauma therapy; you should feel proud.
You are someone who has chosen to work toward recovery and healing after trauma. Bravo. Whatever stressful or traumatic experiences you've gone though, you've chosen recovery and healing. That's why you're here. I would like to personally welcome you. This is a safe space to reimagine a life worth living. Do you desire to have the ability to rest, relax and revitalize? I invite you to imagine a life free of fear. You are worthy of healing. You deserve time and space to share your experiences, to explore feelings and thoughts in a nurturing, nonjudgmental place. It can feel scary to consider trauma therapy; you should feel proud.
(248) 965-1638 View (248) 965-1638
Photo of Kali Skodack, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, BC-DMT, APCC, LLPC, RYT-200
Kali Skodack
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, BC-DMT, APCC, LLPC, RYT-200
1 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48073
Therapy is a space where you don’t have to face life’s challenges alone. As a dance/movement therapist and counselor, I believe in the healing power of connecting to the wisdom of our bodies. Our stories, strengths, and traumas live not just in our minds, but in our physical experiences as well. I offer a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your emotions, reconnect with yourself, and move toward healing—whether through conversation, movement, or creative expression.
Therapy is a space where you don’t have to face life’s challenges alone. As a dance/movement therapist and counselor, I believe in the healing power of connecting to the wisdom of our bodies. Our stories, strengths, and traumas live not just in our minds, but in our physical experiences as well. I offer a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your emotions, reconnect with yourself, and move toward healing—whether through conversation, movement, or creative expression.
(313) 351-4239 View (313) 351-4239
Photo of Mariena Celene Jones, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Mariena Celene Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067
When life feels overwhelming, hard to navigate, or burdensome, therapy can offer a consistent and safe environment of support. I believe in integrating all aspects of the individual into the therapeutic experience to view challenges through a holistic approach. You are a full spectrum person, and by incorporating the body, spirit, and mind in therapy, we can work together to develop an improved quality of life and achieve your goals. As your therapist it is important to me to develop a collaborative and trusting relationship with you, serving as the foundation for growth. I believe in therapy as a support to feel confident and free.
When life feels overwhelming, hard to navigate, or burdensome, therapy can offer a consistent and safe environment of support. I believe in integrating all aspects of the individual into the therapeutic experience to view challenges through a holistic approach. You are a full spectrum person, and by incorporating the body, spirit, and mind in therapy, we can work together to develop an improved quality of life and achieve your goals. As your therapist it is important to me to develop a collaborative and trusting relationship with you, serving as the foundation for growth. I believe in therapy as a support to feel confident and free.
(248) 846-1628 View (248) 846-1628
Photo of Tandy Jurgensen, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MFT
Tandy Jurgensen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MFT
3 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067
Depressed? PTSD? Anxious? I’m Tandy Jurgensen, MA, LPC, MFT, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Licensed Professional Counselor offering ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) in Michigan in partnership with Journey Clinical, a nationally recognized medical provider. I support clients through preparation, therapeutic support around ketamine sessions, and integration therapy. My approach is trauma-informed and relational, grounded in Gottman Method Level 3, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Solution-Focused, and Narrative approaches. I work with individuals, couples, and families and welcome former Relationship Institute clients.
Depressed? PTSD? Anxious? I’m Tandy Jurgensen, MA, LPC, MFT, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Licensed Professional Counselor offering ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) in Michigan in partnership with Journey Clinical, a nationally recognized medical provider. I support clients through preparation, therapeutic support around ketamine sessions, and integration therapy. My approach is trauma-informed and relational, grounded in Gottman Method Level 3, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Solution-Focused, and Narrative approaches. I work with individuals, couples, and families and welcome former Relationship Institute clients.
(248) 621-8461 View (248) 621-8461
Photo of Rizzo Nichols, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Rizzo Nichols
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
2 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067
My philosophy is evidence-based and person-centered. Each person's story is dynamic and one-of-a-kind; it only makes sense that your healing journey follows suit. In my work, I integrate elements of somatic experiencing, mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment therapy (ACT), eco-psychology, and parts work (IFS) to facilitate clients’ inner wisdom and healing. I enjoying working with individuals and couples who are seeking to deepen their relationship with Self. I specialize in psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, anxiety, depression, trauma, neurodiversity, attachment-based work, and sexual therapy + sexual education. ​
My philosophy is evidence-based and person-centered. Each person's story is dynamic and one-of-a-kind; it only makes sense that your healing journey follows suit. In my work, I integrate elements of somatic experiencing, mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment therapy (ACT), eco-psychology, and parts work (IFS) to facilitate clients’ inner wisdom and healing. I enjoying working with individuals and couples who are seeking to deepen their relationship with Self. I specialize in psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, anxiety, depression, trauma, neurodiversity, attachment-based work, and sexual therapy + sexual education. ​
(947) 210-7477 x217 View (947) 210-7477 x217
Photo of Jessica R Peltier, Counselor, MA, LLC
Jessica R Peltier
Counselor, MA, LLC
1 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067
Many of the people I work with describe feeling “too much,” “too sensitive,” or like they’ve been carrying more than anyone can see. Whether you’re grieving, navigating a major transition, untangling old patterns, or trying to make sense of a life that feels heavier than it should, you deserve a space where you don’t have to mask, explain, or shrink yourself. I offer a calm, steady environment where you can slow down, breathe, and explore what’s really happening beneath the surface.
Many of the people I work with describe feeling “too much,” “too sensitive,” or like they’ve been carrying more than anyone can see. Whether you’re grieving, navigating a major transition, untangling old patterns, or trying to make sense of a life that feels heavier than it should, you deserve a space where you don’t have to mask, explain, or shrink yourself. I offer a calm, steady environment where you can slow down, breathe, and explore what’s really happening beneath the surface.
(248) 487-1254 View (248) 487-1254
Photo of Elizabeth Rummel, Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Elizabeth Rummel
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
1 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067
Find your safe space here. You are the purpose for our "You-Centered Care". We will join together to create a plan and start your journey. With over 20 years of experience in the mental health field, I have equipped countless clients to think, feel, and work their way through their struggles to find better living. You will use the strengths and abilities you have always had and discover new ones.
Find your safe space here. You are the purpose for our "You-Centered Care". We will join together to create a plan and start your journey. With over 20 years of experience in the mental health field, I have equipped countless clients to think, feel, and work their way through their struggles to find better living. You will use the strengths and abilities you have always had and discover new ones.
(248) 781-3334 View (248) 781-3334
Photo of Gayle Garcia, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Gayle Garcia
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
1 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067
The outside world sees the capable mask you wear, but inside you are constantly preoccupied with not feeling good enough. You wonder if you really belong anywhere in your life. The trance of unworthiness haunts every area of your life. It’s impossible to feel you’re loveable given all your flaws. There is a longing to feel seen, heard, and understood for exactly you are. The reason why you keep going is because there is a small ember of hope in you that knows that things can be different, but you’re unsure of how to get there.
The outside world sees the capable mask you wear, but inside you are constantly preoccupied with not feeling good enough. You wonder if you really belong anywhere in your life. The trance of unworthiness haunts every area of your life. It’s impossible to feel you’re loveable given all your flaws. There is a longing to feel seen, heard, and understood for exactly you are. The reason why you keep going is because there is a small ember of hope in you that knows that things can be different, but you’re unsure of how to get there.
(248) 780-7611 View (248) 780-7611
Photo of Katie Anderson, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Katie Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Royal Oak, MI 48067
Waitlist for new clients
My experience in the mental health field has allowed me to help people struggling with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, low self-esteem/self-worth, body issues, gender and sexuality, anger management, family conflicts, and relationship issues. My passion for this field has helped improve my commitment, inclusivity, and empathy to best help those seeking therapy services. I focus on creating a comfortable and personable space for clients to explore their emotions and learn more about themselves.
My experience in the mental health field has allowed me to help people struggling with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, low self-esteem/self-worth, body issues, gender and sexuality, anger management, family conflicts, and relationship issues. My passion for this field has helped improve my commitment, inclusivity, and empathy to best help those seeking therapy services. I focus on creating a comfortable and personable space for clients to explore their emotions and learn more about themselves.
(248) 487-1366 View (248) 487-1366
Photo of Craig Vankempen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MPH
Craig Vankempen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MPH
1 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48073
I work with all types of relationship structures, including polyam, open, and kink, and want to help people find out how to live their best life.
I have over a dozen years experience working with folx on issues of identity, depression, anxiety, neurodiversity, and relationships. I focus on your goals and needs and make sure therapy is working for you. I am especially skilled at navigating the coming out process and am happy to write letters for folx looking to transition.
I work with all types of relationship structures, including polyam, open, and kink, and want to help people find out how to live their best life.
I have over a dozen years experience working with folx on issues of identity, depression, anxiety, neurodiversity, and relationships. I focus on your goals and needs and make sure therapy is working for you. I am especially skilled at navigating the coming out process and am happy to write letters for folx looking to transition.
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Photo of Aneshia Solomon, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Aneshia Solomon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
1 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067
Are you going through a major life transition? Are you struggling with sexual and relationship issues and can't get resolution? Has it been difficult for you to find a therapist who you can relate to? You are the expert and you know your life better than me. I will give you the tools and you can tell me what works and what doesn't.
Are you going through a major life transition? Are you struggling with sexual and relationship issues and can't get resolution? Has it been difficult for you to find a therapist who you can relate to? You are the expert and you know your life better than me. I will give you the tools and you can tell me what works and what doesn't.
(248) 487-1709 View (248) 487-1709
Photo of Lauren Dandridge, Pre-Licensed Professional, LLMSW, LGSW
Lauren Dandridge
Pre-Licensed Professional, LLMSW, LGSW
1 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067
Are you feeling overwhelmed, down or lonely? Have you felt numb or noticed yourself losing interest in the things you used to enjoy? Are you wanting to reflect deeper and make changes in your life however, struggle with where to start? We all experience the weight of difficult times and it can be hard to find support when we are experiencing: anxiety, depression, trauma, neurodiversity, familial and relationship concerns, grief and loss, career concerns, SA, LGBTQIA+, or gender exploration.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, down or lonely? Have you felt numb or noticed yourself losing interest in the things you used to enjoy? Are you wanting to reflect deeper and make changes in your life however, struggle with where to start? We all experience the weight of difficult times and it can be hard to find support when we are experiencing: anxiety, depression, trauma, neurodiversity, familial and relationship concerns, grief and loss, career concerns, SA, LGBTQIA+, or gender exploration.
(248) 826-1410 View (248) 826-1410
Photo of Dr. Ray Zuppke, Psychologist, PhD, LP
Dr. Ray Zuppke
Psychologist, PhD, LP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome! I'm glad you're here. Seeking therapy is a brave step, and I’m honored to support you. I work with trauma, postpartum challenges, anxiety, and depression, using somatic therapy and meditation to help you reconnect with safety and ease. I’m experienced in supporting trauma survivors, including those healing from sexual abuse, and I’m deeply committed to the LGBTQIA+ community. Healing is possible, and I’m here to walk with you toward greater balance, resilience, and wholeness.
Welcome! I'm glad you're here. Seeking therapy is a brave step, and I’m honored to support you. I work with trauma, postpartum challenges, anxiety, and depression, using somatic therapy and meditation to help you reconnect with safety and ease. I’m experienced in supporting trauma survivors, including those healing from sexual abuse, and I’m deeply committed to the LGBTQIA+ community. Healing is possible, and I’m here to walk with you toward greater balance, resilience, and wholeness.
(734) 849-3181 View (734) 849-3181
Photo of Veronica Lujic, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Veronica Lujic
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Royal Oak, MI 48067
Do you feel understood and heard by your partner(s), and do you think you’re communicating effectively with them in return? Are you looking for help to overcome challenges and create a successful, fulfilling relationship? I work with clients both individually and with their partner(s) to find their relationship vision, learn heartfelt communication, and find safety in sharing feelings with one another. I have experience helping clients who are part of any relationship configuration, whether it be monogamous or non-monogamous. Clients who have experienced trauma that impacts their relationships are also welcome to my office.
Do you feel understood and heard by your partner(s), and do you think you’re communicating effectively with them in return? Are you looking for help to overcome challenges and create a successful, fulfilling relationship? I work with clients both individually and with their partner(s) to find their relationship vision, learn heartfelt communication, and find safety in sharing feelings with one another. I have experience helping clients who are part of any relationship configuration, whether it be monogamous or non-monogamous. Clients who have experienced trauma that impacts their relationships are also welcome to my office.
(947) 225-6642 View (947) 225-6642
Photo of Dr. River Melissa Farrell - Equip Counseling , Psychologist, PsyD
Equip Counseling
Psychologist, PsyD
Online Only
I have two primary areas of specialization; First I specialize in working with gender and sexual minorities including gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, gender fluid, and gender non-conforming individuals. In this area I frequently see individuals and families struggling with anxiety, depression, and trauma. Secondly I specialize in the treatment of interpersonal relationships.
I have two primary areas of specialization; First I specialize in working with gender and sexual minorities including gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, gender fluid, and gender non-conforming individuals. In this area I frequently see individuals and families struggling with anxiety, depression, and trauma. Secondly I specialize in the treatment of interpersonal relationships.
(248) 213-7672 View (248) 213-7672
Photo of Destiny Dorozan, Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Destiny Dorozan
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Royal Oak, MI 48067
There is only one relationship we are guaranteed to have for our entire lives — and that is our relationship to ourselves. I aim to help you make it compassionate and giving, self expressing, and with appropriate boundaries as needed for you to protect your most authentic Self. I believe that all of our behaviors are adaptive; some we’ve just outgrown and they are no longer serving the best interests of our well-being. But they come from an honest place of having to adapt to circumstances which we did not create.
There is only one relationship we are guaranteed to have for our entire lives — and that is our relationship to ourselves. I aim to help you make it compassionate and giving, self expressing, and with appropriate boundaries as needed for you to protect your most authentic Self. I believe that all of our behaviors are adaptive; some we’ve just outgrown and they are no longer serving the best interests of our well-being. But they come from an honest place of having to adapt to circumstances which we did not create.
(313) 447-0619 View (313) 447-0619

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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.