Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Therapists in Traverse City, MI
Suppression 2 Expression Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, ASDCS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49684 (Online Only)
We also prioritize hiring those who are kink and poly aware/friendly.
Accepting New Clients - We believe that you are the master of your own life and that therapy is a joint process that we can navigate together. We are here to help you develop the tools and understanding needed to create the life you want and meet your goals. Our mission is to provide more accessible services to underserved clients. Our counselors can help with a variety of different concerns, such as struggles related to anxiety, ADHD, autism, depression, self esteem, LGBTQ+ related concerns, self-harm, OCD, substance use, relationship issues, chronic illness, family conflict, and more. We are best reached by email.
We also prioritize hiring those who are kink and poly aware/friendly.
Accepting New Clients - We believe that you are the master of your own life and that therapy is a joint process that we can navigate together. We are here to help you develop the tools and understanding needed to create the life you want and meet your goals. Our mission is to provide more accessible services to underserved clients. Our counselors can help with a variety of different concerns, such as struggles related to anxiety, ADHD, autism, depression, self esteem, LGBTQ+ related concerns, self-harm, OCD, substance use, relationship issues, chronic illness, family conflict, and more. We are best reached by email.
Chey Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49685 (Online Only)
Sagacity Counseling was born from a deep belief in justice, access, and community. This organization supports affirming and accepting care of all kinds. Working specifically with clients on: Sexuality: Kink-informed. "There is no taboo; there is ONLY consent." Identity: Racial identity formation and stress. LGBTQIA identity formation and stress. Religious trauma and recovery. Academic success: College, Grad school. Work-related stress.
Sagacity Counseling was born from a deep belief in justice, access, and community. This organization supports affirming and accepting care of all kinds. Working specifically with clients on: Sexuality: Kink-informed. "There is no taboo; there is ONLY consent." Identity: Racial identity formation and stress. LGBTQIA identity formation and stress. Religious trauma and recovery. Academic success: College, Grad school. Work-related stress.
Brendan O'Donnel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49686
Are you are experiencing anxiety or depression? Are you distressed in your relationships or with your gender identity or sexual function? Are you in grief, confronting mortality, and managing a complex medical illness or disability? Have you lost what it feels like to be yourself?
Are you are experiencing anxiety or depression? Are you distressed in your relationships or with your gender identity or sexual function? Are you in grief, confronting mortality, and managing a complex medical illness or disability? Have you lost what it feels like to be yourself?
Cindy Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49696 (Online Only)
I believe that counseling is a collaboration between client and therapist. I combine both traditional therapy techniques (CBT, DBT, etc.) with the knowledge that each member brings about themselves to help them create the best rest of their lives. Humor, feedback, support, skill building and education are all used in this collaboration. Warning: I give homework! I use lots of humor in therapy. Some of the issues I am adept at working with are: Pet Loss/Grief, People Loss/Grief, Native American Issues, Menopause, Neurodiversity and Introvert issues, Self Esteem and Confidence, Caregiver issues, Isolation and Loneliness, and much more
I believe that counseling is a collaboration between client and therapist. I combine both traditional therapy techniques (CBT, DBT, etc.) with the knowledge that each member brings about themselves to help them create the best rest of their lives. Humor, feedback, support, skill building and education are all used in this collaboration. Warning: I give homework! I use lots of humor in therapy. Some of the issues I am adept at working with are: Pet Loss/Grief, People Loss/Grief, Native American Issues, Menopause, Neurodiversity and Introvert issues, Self Esteem and Confidence, Caregiver issues, Isolation and Loneliness, and much more
Megan Kay Morrissey
Counselor, LLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49686
My personal motto is "No mud. No lotus." To me, this means, without suffering there cannot be beauty. My entire life I have been fascinated with resilience- the ability to overcome. What makes people stronger when they they have faced so much adversity? I started my career focused on how to help people become more resilient, and along the way I have learned so much, not just about overcoming obstacles, but also about building up strengths.
My personal motto is "No mud. No lotus." To me, this means, without suffering there cannot be beauty. My entire life I have been fascinated with resilience- the ability to overcome. What makes people stronger when they they have faced so much adversity? I started my career focused on how to help people become more resilient, and along the way I have learned so much, not just about overcoming obstacles, but also about building up strengths.
Jenn Strange
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49684
Providing a safe and supportive environment for a client to work on their issues is of the utmost importance for me. I truly try to meet clients where they are at in terms of their issues while providing encouraging and non-judgmental feedback. An individual looking to explore issues, enhance coping skills, and create positive change in their life is the ideal client for my practice. I'm honored anytime a client chooses to allow me to be part of their journey.
Providing a safe and supportive environment for a client to work on their issues is of the utmost importance for me. I truly try to meet clients where they are at in terms of their issues while providing encouraging and non-judgmental feedback. An individual looking to explore issues, enhance coping skills, and create positive change in their life is the ideal client for my practice. I'm honored anytime a client chooses to allow me to be part of their journey.
Nicole Schaaf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49686
You are worthy and deserving of inner peace and happiness. Sometimes we just need some guidance and support as we move toward achieving this. I bring 16 years of experience walking alongside those struggling with issues such as trauma, unhealthy relationships, mental health concerns and life hardships. I offer my clients care based on their individual needs as they sort through the past, gain a greater understanding of the difficulties in the present and lay the groundwork for a life fulfilling future.
You are worthy and deserving of inner peace and happiness. Sometimes we just need some guidance and support as we move toward achieving this. I bring 16 years of experience walking alongside those struggling with issues such as trauma, unhealthy relationships, mental health concerns and life hardships. I offer my clients care based on their individual needs as they sort through the past, gain a greater understanding of the difficulties in the present and lay the groundwork for a life fulfilling future.
Amanda Kearns
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49684 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Perhaps you are at a crossroads in life and are struggling to find your path. You are a perfectionist with high achieving tendencies however, feel unable to calm your anxiety, depression, or negative self-talk. Your successes are undermined by a voice in your head stating, “I don’t think I’m good enough or I don’t have anything left to give.” You have successfully navigated many of life’s difficult decisions yet, your self-esteem and confidence are holding you back.
Perhaps you are at a crossroads in life and are struggling to find your path. You are a perfectionist with high achieving tendencies however, feel unable to calm your anxiety, depression, or negative self-talk. Your successes are undermined by a voice in your head stating, “I don’t think I’m good enough or I don’t have anything left to give.” You have successfully navigated many of life’s difficult decisions yet, your self-esteem and confidence are holding you back.
Christina Walsh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Not Verified Not Verified
Traverse City, MI 49686 (Online Only)
I take a holistic whole health approach to help those looking to find balance and stability within many areas of their lives including family, relationships, careers, school, identity, self-worth, and mental health symptom management. I practice with a solution focused outlook that is person centered on making goals and developing skills specific to every unique client. My specialties include treating mood disorders, anxiety, trauma related symptoms, intimacy issues, self-esteem, and self-acceptance.
I take a holistic whole health approach to help those looking to find balance and stability within many areas of their lives including family, relationships, careers, school, identity, self-worth, and mental health symptom management. I practice with a solution focused outlook that is person centered on making goals and developing skills specific to every unique client. My specialties include treating mood disorders, anxiety, trauma related symptoms, intimacy issues, self-esteem, and self-acceptance.
Julie Olson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49684 (Online Only)
Hi! I’m glad you’re here. Life can be hard and confusing and scary. You may be feeling overwhelmed or you’re struggling with low self-worth and self-doubt. Maybe you’re having difficulty in your relationships with friends, family or partner(s). Perhaps you’re struggling to identify and express your emotions. Add to that, despite all of the positives associated with social media, many people are feeling more isolated and alone than ever. I specialize in treating people struggling with depression, anxiety and trauma as well as life transitions such as navigating college, careers and relationships.
Hi! I’m glad you’re here. Life can be hard and confusing and scary. You may be feeling overwhelmed or you’re struggling with low self-worth and self-doubt. Maybe you’re having difficulty in your relationships with friends, family or partner(s). Perhaps you’re struggling to identify and express your emotions. Add to that, despite all of the positives associated with social media, many people are feeling more isolated and alone than ever. I specialize in treating people struggling with depression, anxiety and trauma as well as life transitions such as navigating college, careers and relationships.
Emmy Hendry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49686
Emmy believes that your well-being relies on achieving balance in all aspects of your life. This requires a whole health approach that will serve the mind, body, and soul. Emmy specializes in trauma; specifically sexual trauma, violence trauma, relationship trauma, and family/intergenerational trauma. Her primary specializations are working with individuals with attachment style issues, relationship issues, masculine and feminine energies, sex trauma/intimacy issues, anxiety disorders, and grief.
Emmy believes that your well-being relies on achieving balance in all aspects of your life. This requires a whole health approach that will serve the mind, body, and soul. Emmy specializes in trauma; specifically sexual trauma, violence trauma, relationship trauma, and family/intergenerational trauma. Her primary specializations are working with individuals with attachment style issues, relationship issues, masculine and feminine energies, sex trauma/intimacy issues, anxiety disorders, and grief.
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Jessica Warpup
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49686
My name is Jessica, and I'm hoping you will let me help you work through “every day” challenges to improve your relationships and daily functioning. I will work to provide an environment in which together you and I can work through your past and present struggles, coping mechanisms, and experiences in order to better understand your needs and ultimately yourself. This will help you to improve communication of your needs and thus your relationship(s) with others. I offer a secure place to be your authentic self where you can explore your history, self- and family values, thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
My name is Jessica, and I'm hoping you will let me help you work through “every day” challenges to improve your relationships and daily functioning. I will work to provide an environment in which together you and I can work through your past and present struggles, coping mechanisms, and experiences in order to better understand your needs and ultimately yourself. This will help you to improve communication of your needs and thus your relationship(s) with others. I offer a secure place to be your authentic self where you can explore your history, self- and family values, thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
Ty Curtis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49684
You are struggling, and have no one to turn to. You have come here seeking solutions, and I can help you find them. Sometimes life does not go the way we planned, or the way we wanted. Whether it's illness, depression, anxiety, doubt, grief, or shame, the end of a relationship, an engagement or marriage, the loss of a loved one, the birth of a child, or the achievement of a long-term goal, I can help you remove the roadblocks and get back on the path to your best life.
You are struggling, and have no one to turn to. You have come here seeking solutions, and I can help you find them. Sometimes life does not go the way we planned, or the way we wanted. Whether it's illness, depression, anxiety, doubt, grief, or shame, the end of a relationship, an engagement or marriage, the loss of a loved one, the birth of a child, or the achievement of a long-term goal, I can help you remove the roadblocks and get back on the path to your best life.
Jessica Coles
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CRC
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49686
Striving for constant happiness often feels out of reach, but the path to genuine well-being is a journey worth taking. If you find yourself grappling with relationship difficulties, battling persistent anxiety, or feeling overwhelmed by life's uncertainties, I'm here to support you. My focus is on individuals who yearn to break free from their challenges. Together, we'll explore the roots of these struggles, aiming to empower you with the tools and insights needed to navigate life's complexities, fostering lasting resilience and a sense of fulfillment.
Striving for constant happiness often feels out of reach, but the path to genuine well-being is a journey worth taking. If you find yourself grappling with relationship difficulties, battling persistent anxiety, or feeling overwhelmed by life's uncertainties, I'm here to support you. My focus is on individuals who yearn to break free from their challenges. Together, we'll explore the roots of these struggles, aiming to empower you with the tools and insights needed to navigate life's complexities, fostering lasting resilience and a sense of fulfillment.
Cheryl M Paberzs
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49696 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
If your relationship feels stuck, I will help you identify & change harmful patterns before you feel hopeless. We'll build on your strengths and history. Afraid of replicating your parents' marriage? We'll explore your fears, improve communication, & work toward more effective solutions. Plan to move in together? Get married? Change jobs? Have a baby? I can help you prepare now for the typical (& your unique) stressors that come with those changes instead of feeling blindsided by them & trying to pick up the broken pieces later. Communication, intimacy, & sexual satisfaction can all be strengthened with some intention & time.
If your relationship feels stuck, I will help you identify & change harmful patterns before you feel hopeless. We'll build on your strengths and history. Afraid of replicating your parents' marriage? We'll explore your fears, improve communication, & work toward more effective solutions. Plan to move in together? Get married? Change jobs? Have a baby? I can help you prepare now for the typical (& your unique) stressors that come with those changes instead of feeling blindsided by them & trying to pick up the broken pieces later. Communication, intimacy, & sexual satisfaction can all be strengthened with some intention & time.
Michigan Safe Space LGBT+ Therapy & Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49684 (Online Only)
We welcome you. We will welcome you regardless of your present status; anxious, sad, angry, lonely, happy, questioning, depressed, lost or otherwise. We will welcome you regardless of your current family situation, relationship or marital status or lack thereof. We will welcome you if you have been to therapy in the past, are looking to come in for the first time, or have no idea what to expect. We will not judge you based upon your personal history, age, race, ethnic background, appearance, sexual orientation or gender identity. We welcome all beliefs, religions, spirituality, and affiliations. We welcome you.
We welcome you. We will welcome you regardless of your present status; anxious, sad, angry, lonely, happy, questioning, depressed, lost or otherwise. We will welcome you regardless of your current family situation, relationship or marital status or lack thereof. We will welcome you if you have been to therapy in the past, are looking to come in for the first time, or have no idea what to expect. We will not judge you based upon your personal history, age, race, ethnic background, appearance, sexual orientation or gender identity. We welcome all beliefs, religions, spirituality, and affiliations. We welcome you.
Kat Polmear
Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49684
You’re exhausted, overwhelmed by the pace of modern life, stuck in relationships or jobs that don’t fulfill you. You want to change but you’re too bogged down by your inner critic that says you’re “too much” or “not enough”. You’re ready to feel at home with yourself, at home in your life. That’s where I come in. Together we will help you alleviate anxiety and past trauma to manifest more joy, peace, & meaningful connection. We will work to understand and heal your people-pleasing & perfectionist parts so you can learn what YOU truly want in life & how to get it on your own terms.
You’re exhausted, overwhelmed by the pace of modern life, stuck in relationships or jobs that don’t fulfill you. You want to change but you’re too bogged down by your inner critic that says you’re “too much” or “not enough”. You’re ready to feel at home with yourself, at home in your life. That’s where I come in. Together we will help you alleviate anxiety and past trauma to manifest more joy, peace, & meaningful connection. We will work to understand and heal your people-pleasing & perfectionist parts so you can learn what YOU truly want in life & how to get it on your own terms.
Christina Ann LaBond
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49684 (Online Only)
Hi! I’m Christina. I'm Certified in Neuropsychotherapy, an LCSW in NC, LMSW in MI, a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, and IFS & EMDR informed. Does liberation from past barriers, realization of your true potential and finding meaning/purpose in your life feel authentic in your individual growth? If so, I’d like to walk with you. Let’s explore your individuality, beauty, and unique strengths to improve your self-image, and repair your interpersonal relationships through healthy attachment and behavioral patterns to facilitate neuroplasticity.
Hi! I’m Christina. I'm Certified in Neuropsychotherapy, an LCSW in NC, LMSW in MI, a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, and IFS & EMDR informed. Does liberation from past barriers, realization of your true potential and finding meaning/purpose in your life feel authentic in your individual growth? If so, I’d like to walk with you. Let’s explore your individuality, beauty, and unique strengths to improve your self-image, and repair your interpersonal relationships through healthy attachment and behavioral patterns to facilitate neuroplasticity.
Kari Schmidt LPC, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MHIMP, CCATP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49684 (Online Only)
Kari Schmidt LPC provides inclusive and affirming care to individuals across all populations throughout the state of Michigan. Kari started her work in 2012 in providing trauma informed therapy to adolescents and adults. She is highly knowledgeable and experienced in providing treatment for a wide range of conditions including abuse, adult children of dysfunction, ADHD, anger and emotion management, anxiety, attachment, autism support, complex PTSD, depression, gender identity, maladaptive thoughts and behaviors, and PTSD.
Kari Schmidt LPC provides inclusive and affirming care to individuals across all populations throughout the state of Michigan. Kari started her work in 2012 in providing trauma informed therapy to adolescents and adults. She is highly knowledgeable and experienced in providing treatment for a wide range of conditions including abuse, adult children of dysfunction, ADHD, anger and emotion management, anxiety, attachment, autism support, complex PTSD, depression, gender identity, maladaptive thoughts and behaviors, and PTSD.
Kelly Kieft
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49684 (Online Only)
My imagination is captivated by how intricate and interconnected our stories are with the world around us, both in our intimate relationships and in the culture and society in which we live. Oftentimes these stories can weave patterns of disconnection between oneself and others, leaving us feeling stuck, and in need of care and tending. In my work, I offer a heartfelt and empathic space to explore your experience in the world. Whether it’s finding self-acceptance, moving through anxiety or depression, or navigating relationship challenges, I meet you where you’re at and help you find your inner resources for healing.
My imagination is captivated by how intricate and interconnected our stories are with the world around us, both in our intimate relationships and in the culture and society in which we live. Oftentimes these stories can weave patterns of disconnection between oneself and others, leaving us feeling stuck, and in need of care and tending. In my work, I offer a heartfelt and empathic space to explore your experience in the world. Whether it’s finding self-acceptance, moving through anxiety or depression, or navigating relationship challenges, I meet you where you’re at and help you find your inner resources for healing.
See more therapy options for Traverse City
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.