Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Therapists in Minneapolis, MN

Photo of Pam McGowan, MA, RN, BSN, BFA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Pam McGowan
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, RN, BSN, BFA
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55428
Your feelings, opinions, and perspectives matter; you can expect me to listen to and respect them. You might be looking to start on your journey of healing or self-discovery. Maybe you are looking for yourself or for you and your partner(s). To that point I am LGBTQIA+ friendly and am kink and poly informed and affirming. I recognize how good it feels when you can embrace your identity in a supportive environment. I believe in the power of a good fit for a person with their therapist and will show up for you authentically and empathetically. I believe that we are all constantly learning and have opportunities for growth.
Your feelings, opinions, and perspectives matter; you can expect me to listen to and respect them. You might be looking to start on your journey of healing or self-discovery. Maybe you are looking for yourself or for you and your partner(s). To that point I am LGBTQIA+ friendly and am kink and poly informed and affirming. I recognize how good it feels when you can embrace your identity in a supportive environment. I believe in the power of a good fit for a person with their therapist and will show up for you authentically and empathetically. I believe that we are all constantly learning and have opportunities for growth.
(763) 888-8358 View (763) 888-8358
Photo of Katie Bloomquist, LMFT, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katie Bloomquist
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55417  (Online Only)
I am gender & sexual orientation affirming, kink and polyamory competent, & work with those in the sex industry from a client-centered, non-judgmental, harm reduction, minority stress-informed perspective.
I am a Certified Sex Therapist and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist offering psychotherapy services to adult individuals. I am licensed to practice in Minnesota, Montana, & Iowa and see therapy patients in these 3 states online through a secure, encrypted videoconference service suitable for telehealth.
I am gender & sexual orientation affirming, kink and polyamory competent, & work with those in the sex industry from a client-centered, non-judgmental, harm reduction, minority stress-informed perspective.
I am a Certified Sex Therapist and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist offering psychotherapy services to adult individuals. I am licensed to practice in Minnesota, Montana, & Iowa and see therapy patients in these 3 states online through a secure, encrypted videoconference service suitable for telehealth.
Photo of Sherry Merriam, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Sherry Merriam
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55408
My passion is for clients I love to call Misfits and Sensitives -- artists, geeks/nerds, kink/BDSM folk, ethical nonmonogamists including polyamorists, Pagans and other religious minorities, witches, punks, activists, healthcare providers, folks with chronic illness/physical disability.
You're sure the average therapist can't handle or accept you, because that's what you get everywhere else you go. School, work, almost everywhere, it's been an uphill struggle to fit in and feel understood -- IF you even bother anymore. If you DO find YOUR people, YOUR tribe, you spend the whole time secretly terrified they'll figure out you're not good enough and kick you out. You've been burned a few too many times, which just reinforces your belief that you'll never belong. All that rejection and pain sits in your body and spirit, grinding you down every day. But there's still part of you that believes you can find your place.
My passion is for clients I love to call Misfits and Sensitives -- artists, geeks/nerds, kink/BDSM folk, ethical nonmonogamists including polyamorists, Pagans and other religious minorities, witches, punks, activists, healthcare providers, folks with chronic illness/physical disability.
You're sure the average therapist can't handle or accept you, because that's what you get everywhere else you go. School, work, almost everywhere, it's been an uphill struggle to fit in and feel understood -- IF you even bother anymore. If you DO find YOUR people, YOUR tribe, you spend the whole time secretly terrified they'll figure out you're not good enough and kick you out. You've been burned a few too many times, which just reinforces your belief that you'll never belong. All that rejection and pain sits in your body and spirit, grinding you down every day. But there's still part of you that believes you can find your place.
(612) 473-3190 View (612) 473-3190
Photo of Rebecca Kempenich, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rebecca Kempenich
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55403  (Online Only)
I am LGBTQ friendly and kink friendly.
My clients are the champions of their own lives. It is an honor and a privilege to witness clients grow, heal, and establish better relationships. I have specialized training in how to help people manage and overcome obsessive compulsive disorder and in how to help people resolve marital/couple problems.
I am LGBTQ friendly and kink friendly.
My clients are the champions of their own lives. It is an honor and a privilege to witness clients grow, heal, and establish better relationships. I have specialized training in how to help people manage and overcome obsessive compulsive disorder and in how to help people resolve marital/couple problems.
(612) 887-2927 x802 View (612) 887-2927 x802
Photo of Kaylee Audrey Bond, MA, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kaylee Audrey Bond
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55418
I specialize with children 0-5, neurodivergent/queer/ gender questioning people of all ages, and couples. My individual sessions are trauma informed and social justice oriented with children, teens, and adults. I love helping with skills for neurodivergence, adjusting to life changes, parenting, pre/post natal and relationship issues. My couples are often Queer, Polyam, and Kink; although all couples are welcome. I also help couples with mental health impacts, parenting, sex issues, and identity.
I specialize with children 0-5, neurodivergent/queer/ gender questioning people of all ages, and couples. My individual sessions are trauma informed and social justice oriented with children, teens, and adults. I love helping with skills for neurodivergence, adjusting to life changes, parenting, pre/post natal and relationship issues. My couples are often Queer, Polyam, and Kink; although all couples are welcome. I also help couples with mental health impacts, parenting, sex issues, and identity.
(763) 415-7880 View (763) 415-7880
Photo of Leah Bonine, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leah Bonine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55415
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. I work from a trauma-informed, harm reduction, sex positive, attachment-based lens. I specialize in working with adults from diverse backgrounds, particularly the LGBTQ+ community. I see clients for individual therapy. I especially enjoy working with creative people and have a deep understanding of the creative process. I am trained in EMDR, AEDP and DBT.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. I work from a trauma-informed, harm reduction, sex positive, attachment-based lens. I specialize in working with adults from diverse backgrounds, particularly the LGBTQ+ community. I see clients for individual therapy. I especially enjoy working with creative people and have a deep understanding of the creative process. I am trained in EMDR, AEDP and DBT.
(612) 800-0486 View (612) 800-0486
Photo of Timothy Bechtel, MA, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Timothy Bechtel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55408  (Online Only)
Therapy can be a transformative process that helps you reclaim your vitality and connection with yourself and others. Through my 18 years as a therapist I’ve come to understand the common issues that get in the way of peoples’ growth and success. I can help you identify what is getting in your way, understand what you learned early on that caused you to feel stuck in life now, and address those issues in a way that creates lasting change. I utilize treatments such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy (EMDR) and other dynamic strategies to help you live life with more vibrancy and joy.
Therapy can be a transformative process that helps you reclaim your vitality and connection with yourself and others. Through my 18 years as a therapist I’ve come to understand the common issues that get in the way of peoples’ growth and success. I can help you identify what is getting in your way, understand what you learned early on that caused you to feel stuck in life now, and address those issues in a way that creates lasting change. I utilize treatments such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy (EMDR) and other dynamic strategies to help you live life with more vibrancy and joy.
(612) 887-2867 x802 View (612) 887-2867 x802
Photo of Angela Callais, MSW, LGSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angela Callais
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55407  (Online Only)
I work with people who want to show up in the world and be embraced for ALL of who they are. Most of us have things that we keep hidden from others around us - locked away because we are worried that we are broken, weird, fearful of how we will be judged. The problem is, even when we are great at hiding - these things slowly but surely permeate our lives from the inside out. Everyone around you thinks you've got it all together, but on the inside - you know something is off, and you're ready to figure it out and do something different. You're ready to be honest and curious and open and make a change - to find YOUR courageous truth.
I work with people who want to show up in the world and be embraced for ALL of who they are. Most of us have things that we keep hidden from others around us - locked away because we are worried that we are broken, weird, fearful of how we will be judged. The problem is, even when we are great at hiding - these things slowly but surely permeate our lives from the inside out. Everyone around you thinks you've got it all together, but on the inside - you know something is off, and you're ready to figure it out and do something different. You're ready to be honest and curious and open and make a change - to find YOUR courageous truth.
(612) 260-9359 View (612) 260-9359
Photo of Jenna Vissell - Therapy Uprising, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Therapy Uprising
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55406
I value body, sex, and weight positivity, Queer celebration, and am welcoming of kink and poly/non-monogamous relationships.
Making change and asking for help can be one of the hardest things to do. I’m Jenna (She/Her), and my work focuses on building connection and holding a safe space for clients to feel the full range of their experiences. Finding comfort in the uncomfortable, we can change old patterns that don’t serve us anymore, communicate our needs, and cultivate social justice and joy. I am here to celebrate and support your unique passions, and to learn from you what matters most in your life. I work with clients to build resilience and self-esteem, reduce stress, heal from trauma, and achieve greater self-awareness.
I value body, sex, and weight positivity, Queer celebration, and am welcoming of kink and poly/non-monogamous relationships.
Making change and asking for help can be one of the hardest things to do. I’m Jenna (She/Her), and my work focuses on building connection and holding a safe space for clients to feel the full range of their experiences. Finding comfort in the uncomfortable, we can change old patterns that don’t serve us anymore, communicate our needs, and cultivate social justice and joy. I am here to celebrate and support your unique passions, and to learn from you what matters most in your life. I work with clients to build resilience and self-esteem, reduce stress, heal from trauma, and achieve greater self-awareness.
(612) 999-1473 View (612) 999-1473
Photo of Calvin Hauer, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Calvin Hauer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55408
You don't need to educate me on the legitimacy of your sexuality, relationship, and/or relationship with kink.
When I think about my ideal clients, I think about all the folks I used to serve as a sex educator. Having spent the past 10+ years in sex education, I believe that many of us carry cultural stigma due to sex negative ideals perpetrated by our society. As a therapist I specialize in working with: Kinky clients, non-monogamous clients, clients that work within the sex industry, and clients that are figuring out their sexuality. My ideal clients are looking for a therapist that is affirming of their relationship with sexuality and who will not shame you for your sexual identity.
You don't need to educate me on the legitimacy of your sexuality, relationship, and/or relationship with kink.
When I think about my ideal clients, I think about all the folks I used to serve as a sex educator. Having spent the past 10+ years in sex education, I believe that many of us carry cultural stigma due to sex negative ideals perpetrated by our society. As a therapist I specialize in working with: Kinky clients, non-monogamous clients, clients that work within the sex industry, and clients that are figuring out their sexuality. My ideal clients are looking for a therapist that is affirming of their relationship with sexuality and who will not shame you for your sexual identity.
(612) 808-0249 View (612) 808-0249
Photo of Kristine Zappa, MA, LPC, R-DMT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristine Zappa
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, R-DMT
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55407  (Online Only)
I am LGBTQIA+ affirming, sex positive, body/size/ability inclusive, believe in Health at Every Size (HAES) and my practice is grounded in an anti-oppression lens.
As a somatic, trauma-informed, and person-centered therapist, I take a holistic approach to therapy. My clients tend to have a history of complex trauma that impacts both their relationships with others and their relationship with themselves. I'll support you in uncovering underlying patterns and finding relief from experiences such as relationship issues, depression, anxiety, and feelings of low self-worth, as well as help you move through life with patterns that feel more aligned with your goals. From a somatic perspective, I safely incorporate body awareness on the path towards greater self-confidence and empowerment.
I am LGBTQIA+ affirming, sex positive, body/size/ability inclusive, believe in Health at Every Size (HAES) and my practice is grounded in an anti-oppression lens.
As a somatic, trauma-informed, and person-centered therapist, I take a holistic approach to therapy. My clients tend to have a history of complex trauma that impacts both their relationships with others and their relationship with themselves. I'll support you in uncovering underlying patterns and finding relief from experiences such as relationship issues, depression, anxiety, and feelings of low self-worth, as well as help you move through life with patterns that feel more aligned with your goals. From a somatic perspective, I safely incorporate body awareness on the path towards greater self-confidence and empowerment.
(612) 778-4084 View (612) 778-4084
Photo of Jac Stringer, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jac Stringer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55403  (Online Only)
I am a trans-genderqueer femme, disabled radical activist & social worker. I practice trauma-focused feminist therapy exclusively for trans youth & young adults ages 13-30. I provide healthcare letters for all ages, youth and adults, in one 30 min session. My specialties surround gender & sexuality, & trauma survivors experiencing depression, bipolar, anxiety, self-harm, suicidality, disability/chronic pain, body image, disordered eating, DID, dissociation, & histories with abuse & violence. I am body, sex, & kink positive, poly-inclusive, value accountability, & recognize the intersectional impact of systematic oppression.
I am a trans-genderqueer femme, disabled radical activist & social worker. I practice trauma-focused feminist therapy exclusively for trans youth & young adults ages 13-30. I provide healthcare letters for all ages, youth and adults, in one 30 min session. My specialties surround gender & sexuality, & trauma survivors experiencing depression, bipolar, anxiety, self-harm, suicidality, disability/chronic pain, body image, disordered eating, DID, dissociation, & histories with abuse & violence. I am body, sex, & kink positive, poly-inclusive, value accountability, & recognize the intersectional impact of systematic oppression.
(612) 439-2225 View (612) 439-2225
Photo of Erik S Elsberry, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Erik S Elsberry
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55428  (Online Only)
I find that people can be in all sorts of stages in their lives and readiness to change. What matters more is the willingness to explore, be curious, and most likely ask some difficult questions. One of my greatest strengths is my ability to connect with people with all different kinds of life experiences. I tend to relate with those who identify as neurodivergent, or feel "other" in some way. My approach is very non-judgmental, and I do well with those who live "alternative" lifestyles, such as polyamory, ethical monogamy, kink/BDSM, and/or sex workers. I've been a therapist for a long time and no one has scared me away yet!
I find that people can be in all sorts of stages in their lives and readiness to change. What matters more is the willingness to explore, be curious, and most likely ask some difficult questions. One of my greatest strengths is my ability to connect with people with all different kinds of life experiences. I tend to relate with those who identify as neurodivergent, or feel "other" in some way. My approach is very non-judgmental, and I do well with those who live "alternative" lifestyles, such as polyamory, ethical monogamy, kink/BDSM, and/or sex workers. I've been a therapist for a long time and no one has scared me away yet!
(763) 373-7702 View (763) 373-7702
Photo of Mason Quist, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Mason Quist
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55407
I hope to provide an affirming space that is queer, trans, non-monogamy, disability, and kink safe.
I believe that therapy is collaborative, and I hope to meet you where you are in working towards a life that feels most authentic to you. Clients I work best with are those who are wanting warm invitations to try working from a different perspective and reconnect with their emotions and experiences of the world.
I hope to provide an affirming space that is queer, trans, non-monogamy, disability, and kink safe.
I believe that therapy is collaborative, and I hope to meet you where you are in working towards a life that feels most authentic to you. Clients I work best with are those who are wanting warm invitations to try working from a different perspective and reconnect with their emotions and experiences of the world.
(612) 473-3442 View (612) 473-3442
Photo of Emma Thompson, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Emma Thompson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55408
Waitlist for new clients
Hi, I'm Emma (she/they)! I'm a strong believer that our bodies hold inherent wisdom and that they are trustworthy. I also believe that the stories we tell ourselves shape our realities, and that therapy is a unique and powerful exploration of those stories. I dream of co-creating a therapeutic environment where you can take up space, breathe a sigh of relief, and be courageous in your exploration of yourself. I utilize a somatic parts work approach, with a foundation in embodiment and the impacts of our developmental experiences. I’m also a brainspotting practitioner, and utilize this modality to support somatic trauma processing.
Hi, I'm Emma (she/they)! I'm a strong believer that our bodies hold inherent wisdom and that they are trustworthy. I also believe that the stories we tell ourselves shape our realities, and that therapy is a unique and powerful exploration of those stories. I dream of co-creating a therapeutic environment where you can take up space, breathe a sigh of relief, and be courageous in your exploration of yourself. I utilize a somatic parts work approach, with a foundation in embodiment and the impacts of our developmental experiences. I’m also a brainspotting practitioner, and utilize this modality to support somatic trauma processing.
View
Photo of Jennifer Hooyman, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Hooyman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55409
I focus on helping you build and maintain healthy relationships: personal, professional, romantic and sexual relationships. This includes individual counseling, couples counseling, and sex therapy. In individual counseling we can talk through trauma, negative thoughts, adjustments, questions of identity, happiness, or life goals. If you are having questions about intimacy, desire, shame, kink, sexual performance or desire, sex therapy may be right for you. You may be feeling a loss of connection, a wall of miscommunication and a mountain of unmet needs within your relationship and I will help you find that connection and joy.
I focus on helping you build and maintain healthy relationships: personal, professional, romantic and sexual relationships. This includes individual counseling, couples counseling, and sex therapy. In individual counseling we can talk through trauma, negative thoughts, adjustments, questions of identity, happiness, or life goals. If you are having questions about intimacy, desire, shame, kink, sexual performance or desire, sex therapy may be right for you. You may be feeling a loss of connection, a wall of miscommunication and a mountain of unmet needs within your relationship and I will help you find that connection and joy.
(763) 265-6103 View (763) 265-6103
Photo of Marnette R. Doyle, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marnette R. Doyle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55410
I specialize in working with successful, creative LGBTQ+, kink, poly, and traditional individuals and families.
I respect your decision to seek out therapy as I believe finding the right fit in a therapist is a difficult task. I believe it is through in-depth therapy that people can learn to tolerate difficult feelings, deepen develop a sense of inner calm, and find insight into life-long patterns. My work is informed by women’s studies, sociology, studio art, Argentine dance, and psychoanalytic therapy. I understand that mental health is a complex intersection of many factors in life. I work collaboratively within these intersections to create a therapeutic relationship to help individuals develop a deeper understanding of their lives.
I specialize in working with successful, creative LGBTQ+, kink, poly, and traditional individuals and families.
I respect your decision to seek out therapy as I believe finding the right fit in a therapist is a difficult task. I believe it is through in-depth therapy that people can learn to tolerate difficult feelings, deepen develop a sense of inner calm, and find insight into life-long patterns. My work is informed by women’s studies, sociology, studio art, Argentine dance, and psychoanalytic therapy. I understand that mental health is a complex intersection of many factors in life. I work collaboratively within these intersections to create a therapeutic relationship to help individuals develop a deeper understanding of their lives.
(651) 968-3212 View (651) 968-3212
Photo of Sarah Lazarewicz, LICSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Lazarewicz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55418
I believe therapy can be a space to try on new ways of thinking and being, building insight and self-awareness so you can overcome blocks to creating the life you deeply desire. You can expect me to work hard to understand you and your history, offering an equal mix of nurturing, education and clear-sighted perspective. We’ll work together to chart a vision for the road ahead, noting areas for growth, needed skills, and current strengths and resources. In session, and in life, my style is informal, warm, playful and compassionate. I bring a body-positive, sex-positive, feminist and anti-oppressive lens to my work.
I believe therapy can be a space to try on new ways of thinking and being, building insight and self-awareness so you can overcome blocks to creating the life you deeply desire. You can expect me to work hard to understand you and your history, offering an equal mix of nurturing, education and clear-sighted perspective. We’ll work together to chart a vision for the road ahead, noting areas for growth, needed skills, and current strengths and resources. In session, and in life, my style is informal, warm, playful and compassionate. I bring a body-positive, sex-positive, feminist and anti-oppressive lens to my work.
View
Photo of Chris Vara, LCSW-C, LICSW, MDiv, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chris Vara
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, MDiv
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55437  (Online Only)
I have worked extensively with families of and individuals who are trans and non-binary, as well as people who identify as poly, kink, pansexual, and/or LGB.
Are you caught in cycles that leave you exhausted? Do you want to have better relationships but find them splintering? Are you self-critical in your efforts to obtain perfection? Do you find yourself shutting down or shutting off? You don't have to suffer in silence. Nor do you have to leave any part of yourself behind - I work with the whole person. Our identities often intersect with our struggles and our strengths. I'll meet you where you're at, and help you get where you're going. Whether you are just starting or looking to maintain your recovery from eating disorders, trauma and/or OCD, together recovery is possible.
I have worked extensively with families of and individuals who are trans and non-binary, as well as people who identify as poly, kink, pansexual, and/or LGB.
Are you caught in cycles that leave you exhausted? Do you want to have better relationships but find them splintering? Are you self-critical in your efforts to obtain perfection? Do you find yourself shutting down or shutting off? You don't have to suffer in silence. Nor do you have to leave any part of yourself behind - I work with the whole person. Our identities often intersect with our struggles and our strengths. I'll meet you where you're at, and help you get where you're going. Whether you are just starting or looking to maintain your recovery from eating disorders, trauma and/or OCD, together recovery is possible.
(952) 234-8036 View (952) 234-8036
Photo of Melissa Keller, LCSW, SEP, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Keller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP, RYT
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55407  (Online Only)
I also support clients in relationships organized around polyamory, consensual non-monogamy, and/or kink.
As a therapist and witness to your growth, I believe that you have an intuitive and innate capacity for balance. However, ongoing stressors of living in intersecting systems of oppression erode our connection with ourselves and others. Through curious, compassionate awareness in supportive relationships and community, we find our way back to our inner wisdom and wellness. I am here to support and witness your process of uncovering your most authentic self so that you can take actions in your life that align with your values and dreams. Find out more at www.awakenheartsomatics.com.
I also support clients in relationships organized around polyamory, consensual non-monogamy, and/or kink.
As a therapist and witness to your growth, I believe that you have an intuitive and innate capacity for balance. However, ongoing stressors of living in intersecting systems of oppression erode our connection with ourselves and others. Through curious, compassionate awareness in supportive relationships and community, we find our way back to our inner wisdom and wellness. I am here to support and witness your process of uncovering your most authentic self so that you can take actions in your life that align with your values and dreams. Find out more at www.awakenheartsomatics.com.
(520) 346-6881 View (520) 346-6881
1
...

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.