Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Therapists in Richmond Heights, MO

Photo of Laura Ranalletta, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Ranalletta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
Accepting New Clients Summer '22 - I believe that we're all doing the best we can, and also: we can all be doing better! Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or a life circumstance which is difficult to navigate, I'm here to help. Chances are you are feeling alone, confused, or dissatisfied with your life at this moment. Maybe you're ready for deep healing from the past. Maybe you're looking for ways to cope with the present. Maybe you want to better understand yourself and your emotions. Maybe you're just looking to talk with a neutral third party about daily stressors. Wherever you're at, welcome!
Accepting New Clients Summer '22 - I believe that we're all doing the best we can, and also: we can all be doing better! Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or a life circumstance which is difficult to navigate, I'm here to help. Chances are you are feeling alone, confused, or dissatisfied with your life at this moment. Maybe you're ready for deep healing from the past. Maybe you're looking for ways to cope with the present. Maybe you want to better understand yourself and your emotions. Maybe you're just looking to talk with a neutral third party about daily stressors. Wherever you're at, welcome!
(636) 278-9585 View (636) 278-9585
Photo of Steven M. Portnoy, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Steven M. Portnoy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
Put most simply, my approach to psychotherapy is centered around helping you come to know yourself as fully as possible. Many people come to me in search of a more depth-oriented approach to therapy. Many approaches out there right now, in the interest of attempting to reduce symptoms as quickly as possible, may miss the mark in terms of understanding the “why” of it all, the more nuanced understanding of why our difficulties and symptoms are there to begin with, how they actually may have been serving us in some way, and their connection to our relational patterns and our past developmental experiences.
Put most simply, my approach to psychotherapy is centered around helping you come to know yourself as fully as possible. Many people come to me in search of a more depth-oriented approach to therapy. Many approaches out there right now, in the interest of attempting to reduce symptoms as quickly as possible, may miss the mark in terms of understanding the “why” of it all, the more nuanced understanding of why our difficulties and symptoms are there to begin with, how they actually may have been serving us in some way, and their connection to our relational patterns and our past developmental experiences.
(314) 451-5939 View (314) 451-5939
Photo of Casey Tyskowski, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Casey Tyskowski
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
My goal as a therapist is to help my clients feel safe, validated, and supported as we work together to identify challenges and create personalized goals that will lead you to ultimately heal and feel whole again. I understand change can feel overwhelming and I will allow you to move at a pace you are comfortable with.
My goal as a therapist is to help my clients feel safe, validated, and supported as we work together to identify challenges and create personalized goals that will lead you to ultimately heal and feel whole again. I understand change can feel overwhelming and I will allow you to move at a pace you are comfortable with.
(314) 742-7574 View (314) 742-7574
Photo of Loren Gaillardetz, MEd, LPC, NCC
Loren Gaillardetz
MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
Currently accepting new clients. Many people I work with have been in therapy before and learned cognitive or mindfulness skills that, while helpful, don't seem to go quite deep enough. Often, they have the sense that there is more to their challenges than meets the eye, but they don't quite know how to figure it out.
Currently accepting new clients. Many people I work with have been in therapy before and learned cognitive or mindfulness skills that, while helpful, don't seem to go quite deep enough. Often, they have the sense that there is more to their challenges than meets the eye, but they don't quite know how to figure it out.
(314) 804-3659 View (314) 804-3659
Photo of Ashley Menke - Allied Counseling LLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Allied Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
Are you navigating life with trauma, Autism, ADHD, Chronic Illness, anxiety, depression, or grief? We may be a good fit! Our ideal client may experience difficulties related to early attachment trauma, which manifests in challenges forming secure relationships, fear of abandonment, trust issues, and emotional dysregulation. In addition to trauma, we also support clients with ADHD as they navigate difficulty focusing, impulsivity, or managing everyday tasks. For clients with autism, challenges may include sensory sensitivities, social communication difficulties, and navigating neurotypical expectations in various environments.
Are you navigating life with trauma, Autism, ADHD, Chronic Illness, anxiety, depression, or grief? We may be a good fit! Our ideal client may experience difficulties related to early attachment trauma, which manifests in challenges forming secure relationships, fear of abandonment, trust issues, and emotional dysregulation. In addition to trauma, we also support clients with ADHD as they navigate difficulty focusing, impulsivity, or managing everyday tasks. For clients with autism, challenges may include sensory sensitivities, social communication difficulties, and navigating neurotypical expectations in various environments.
(314) 582-9462 View (314) 582-9462
Photo of Emily Klamer, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Klamer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
I work with individuals who seek depth in their lives and their therapy. I work with folks struggling with life transitions, trauma, depression, anxiety, and inhibition. I work with those who think and feel deeply: from creatives, writers, and academics; to other professionals in the mental health field; to entrepreneurs, clergy, and community organizers. A common thread is a recognition that greater self-awareness can imbue our lives with agency and vitality.
I work with individuals who seek depth in their lives and their therapy. I work with folks struggling with life transitions, trauma, depression, anxiety, and inhibition. I work with those who think and feel deeply: from creatives, writers, and academics; to other professionals in the mental health field; to entrepreneurs, clergy, and community organizers. A common thread is a recognition that greater self-awareness can imbue our lives with agency and vitality.
(314) 310-3840 View (314) 310-3840
Photo of Lukas M Presley, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lukas M Presley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
Throughout our lives, we all have thresholds we must cross. Some of these are easier than others. When these thresholds become a sticking point or seem impossible to cross is when the therapeutic journey can be most impactful. As a polyamorous gay man that grew up in the South, I have often found myself at different thresholds trying to figure out how to move through them. Because of this, as your therapist, I will work to help you find the ability to push through your own thresholds.
Throughout our lives, we all have thresholds we must cross. Some of these are easier than others. When these thresholds become a sticking point or seem impossible to cross is when the therapeutic journey can be most impactful. As a polyamorous gay man that grew up in the South, I have often found myself at different thresholds trying to figure out how to move through them. Because of this, as your therapist, I will work to help you find the ability to push through your own thresholds.
(314) 820-0839 View (314) 820-0839
Photo of Ilia (Eye-Lee-Uh) Silverman Esrig, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ilia (Eye-Lee-Uh) Silverman Esrig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
Waitlist for new clients
Examining and shifting age-old patterns can be overwhelming to do alone. I offer folks a compassionate and non-judgmental space to begin this journey in. I support individuals to cultivate joy, ease, and meaning in their lives, even when doing so feels impossible. This might include strengthening executive functioning, exploring gender or sexual identity, processing trauma, or learning self-validation in an often invalidating world. Together, we'll identify effective ways to move through life's most difficult moments - the past can't be changed, but we can shift how it influences our present and future.
Examining and shifting age-old patterns can be overwhelming to do alone. I offer folks a compassionate and non-judgmental space to begin this journey in. I support individuals to cultivate joy, ease, and meaning in their lives, even when doing so feels impossible. This might include strengthening executive functioning, exploring gender or sexual identity, processing trauma, or learning self-validation in an often invalidating world. Together, we'll identify effective ways to move through life's most difficult moments - the past can't be changed, but we can shift how it influences our present and future.
(314) 748-1722 View (314) 748-1722
Photo of Ashley Menke, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley Menke
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
Do you ever feel like you are reliving the same script but with a different cast? Often, we play out the same dynamics across relationships without noticing how the same conflicts and chaos show up time and time again. I enjoy working with clients to recognize these patterns and collaborate towards striking a balance between empathy and boundaries. As a counselor, I aim to be with you in that discomfort and offer guidance in the process of letting go.
Do you ever feel like you are reliving the same script but with a different cast? Often, we play out the same dynamics across relationships without noticing how the same conflicts and chaos show up time and time again. I enjoy working with clients to recognize these patterns and collaborate towards striking a balance between empathy and boundaries. As a counselor, I aim to be with you in that discomfort and offer guidance in the process of letting go.
(314) 626-8997 View (314) 626-8997
Photo of Juliana Varela, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Juliana Varela
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
People seek therapy for variety of reasons, ranging from difficulties with a specific life event or a general pursuit for greater purpose and connectedness. Psychotherapy offers an arena for self exploration unlike any other and can prove to be a profoundly moving experience. I work with individuals affected by trauma, difficulties in relationships, depression/post-partum depression, infertility, adoption, parenting, struggles in cultural adaptation and immigration, identity, self-esteem, sexuality, etc. Often I find that the most meaningful change comes from those who are open and willing to engage in the journey. The change you seek comes from you and will be our guiding force.
People seek therapy for variety of reasons, ranging from difficulties with a specific life event or a general pursuit for greater purpose and connectedness. Psychotherapy offers an arena for self exploration unlike any other and can prove to be a profoundly moving experience. I work with individuals affected by trauma, difficulties in relationships, depression/post-partum depression, infertility, adoption, parenting, struggles in cultural adaptation and immigration, identity, self-esteem, sexuality, etc. Often I find that the most meaningful change comes from those who are open and willing to engage in the journey. The change you seek comes from you and will be our guiding force.
(314) 591-5187 View (314) 591-5187
Photo of Meg Meyers, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Meg Meyers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
Sexual Assault, Childhood Trauma, Intimate Partner Violence are as traumatic as warfare. Those who have experienced these things often battle through life, struggling to make sense of wounds that don't seem to heal even with time. There is hope! Trauma is treatable. Getting treatment can lead to a better quality of life. Many clients with PTSD no longer meet criteria for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder after two years of treatment.
Sexual Assault, Childhood Trauma, Intimate Partner Violence are as traumatic as warfare. Those who have experienced these things often battle through life, struggling to make sense of wounds that don't seem to heal even with time. There is hope! Trauma is treatable. Getting treatment can lead to a better quality of life. Many clients with PTSD no longer meet criteria for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder after two years of treatment.
(314) 310-5723 View (314) 310-5723
Photo of Lisa McCulloch, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa McCulloch
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
Do you experience chronic trust issues, worry, irrational fears or a profound sense of loneliness? Do you have unexplainable triggers that cause feelings of panic, fear, or anger? Do you continue to feel stuck in the same patterns of thinking and reacting? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you may be experiencing the effects from unresolved trauma.
Do you experience chronic trust issues, worry, irrational fears or a profound sense of loneliness? Do you have unexplainable triggers that cause feelings of panic, fear, or anger? Do you continue to feel stuck in the same patterns of thinking and reacting? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you may be experiencing the effects from unresolved trauma.
(314) 876-0674 View (314) 876-0674
Photo of Rafaella Smith-Fiallo - Healing Exchange LLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Healing Exchange LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
Are you ready to set healthy boundaries in your relationships? Have you been wanting to explore your sexuality but didn't know where to start? Is your non-monogamous relationship experiencing friction? Maybe you are the survivor, strong friend, and problem solver who appears to have it all together. Yet on the inside you feel overwhelmed while also wondering, "Is this worth going to therapy for?" If your boundaries leave you questioning yourself, if you want to explore your sexuality, or if you and your partner(s) want support, it's worth going to therapy for. Our relationship, sexuality, and trauma experts are here for you.
Are you ready to set healthy boundaries in your relationships? Have you been wanting to explore your sexuality but didn't know where to start? Is your non-monogamous relationship experiencing friction? Maybe you are the survivor, strong friend, and problem solver who appears to have it all together. Yet on the inside you feel overwhelmed while also wondering, "Is this worth going to therapy for?" If your boundaries leave you questioning yourself, if you want to explore your sexuality, or if you and your partner(s) want support, it's worth going to therapy for. Our relationship, sexuality, and trauma experts are here for you.
(314) 593-2416 View (314) 593-2416
Photo of Sunyata Kopriva, RYT, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sunyata Kopriva
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RYT, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Richmond Heights, MO 63117  (Online Only)
*ACCEPTING CALIFORNIA, ILLINOIS, AND MISSOURI CLIENTS* Come be seen & be known in a relational space with me, so that you can finally arrive home in yourself. Are you curious if you have experienced trauma, or if trauma may still be affecting you? Have you worked with many healers & still feel stuck in certain places? Have you experienced a spiritual awakening & need to integrate the experience(s)? If you answered 'yes' to any of these questions, then you may be in the right place. Trauma can express itself as PTSD and Complex PTSD, various types of depression and anxiety, & many other symptoms. Lets get to the root.
*ACCEPTING CALIFORNIA, ILLINOIS, AND MISSOURI CLIENTS* Come be seen & be known in a relational space with me, so that you can finally arrive home in yourself. Are you curious if you have experienced trauma, or if trauma may still be affecting you? Have you worked with many healers & still feel stuck in certain places? Have you experienced a spiritual awakening & need to integrate the experience(s)? If you answered 'yes' to any of these questions, then you may be in the right place. Trauma can express itself as PTSD and Complex PTSD, various types of depression and anxiety, & many other symptoms. Lets get to the root.
(341) 444-3409 View (341) 444-3409
Photo of Gregory A Goldman, PhD, Psychologist
Gregory A Goldman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
Not accepting new clients
I am co-owner of Psychological services of St. Louis, LLC, where I provide psychotherapy to adults. I have helped people manage a wide variety of problems including anxiety and mood disorders, substance use issues, adjustment difficulties, social/relationship problems, self-esteem and assertiveness issues, anger and impulsivity, career and life direction issues, sexual orientation and gender-related problems, unusual experiences, and existential concerns. I believe strongly in taking the time to know and understand my clients so we can collaboratively find a treatment approach that fits and is as effective as possible.
I am co-owner of Psychological services of St. Louis, LLC, where I provide psychotherapy to adults. I have helped people manage a wide variety of problems including anxiety and mood disorders, substance use issues, adjustment difficulties, social/relationship problems, self-esteem and assertiveness issues, anger and impulsivity, career and life direction issues, sexual orientation and gender-related problems, unusual experiences, and existential concerns. I believe strongly in taking the time to know and understand my clients so we can collaboratively find a treatment approach that fits and is as effective as possible.
(314) 527-0184 View (314) 527-0184

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Alyssa Aleesa Nagel-Wild, EdS, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alyssa Aleesa Nagel-Wild
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
University City, MO 63130  (Online Only)
Currently accepting limited individual clients for telehealth in Missouri and Oregon. I specialize in the areas of relationship and attachment issues, later-in-life autism diagnoses (or suspected autism), difficult life experiences, depression, and anxiety, ENM/polyamory, and exploring existence/spirituality. I am Queer welcoming, sex positive, and ENM relationship experienced. I work with ages 18+. I believe firmly in the power of radical acceptance. Whatever the experience may be...noticing, accepting, expressing, and finding true choice helps us get underneath the symptoms to facilitate true growth and empowerment.
Currently accepting limited individual clients for telehealth in Missouri and Oregon. I specialize in the areas of relationship and attachment issues, later-in-life autism diagnoses (or suspected autism), difficult life experiences, depression, and anxiety, ENM/polyamory, and exploring existence/spirituality. I am Queer welcoming, sex positive, and ENM relationship experienced. I work with ages 18+. I believe firmly in the power of radical acceptance. Whatever the experience may be...noticing, accepting, expressing, and finding true choice helps us get underneath the symptoms to facilitate true growth and empowerment.
(971) 298-8069 View (971) 298-8069
Photo of Jessica Orrick, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Orrick
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Maplewood, MO 63143  (Online Only)
Tired of waking up and dragging through the day, feeling "meh" all the time? Feel disconnected from friends and family, or like you just don't "have it in you" to do a single more adulty thing? You are not alone. We can work together to help you feel reconnected to family and friends, feel more present, and enjoy these relationships again. We'll figure out together ways to manage feelings and regain energy to invest time back into yourself AND the things you enjoy doing. All are welcome! I am a LGBTQ+, ENM, kink, and geek affirming therapist.
Tired of waking up and dragging through the day, feeling "meh" all the time? Feel disconnected from friends and family, or like you just don't "have it in you" to do a single more adulty thing? You are not alone. We can work together to help you feel reconnected to family and friends, feel more present, and enjoy these relationships again. We'll figure out together ways to manage feelings and regain energy to invest time back into yourself AND the things you enjoy doing. All are welcome! I am a LGBTQ+, ENM, kink, and geek affirming therapist.
(636) 245-0154 View (636) 245-0154
Photo of Hanz Dismer - Psychosocial Services, LCSW, MSW, MPH, CSE, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Psychosocial Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MPH, CSE
Verified Verified
University City, MO 63130
We work with individuals on a variety of different issues directly impacting their lives: pregnancy, abortion, sexuality, gender identity, relationships, and the intersection of these experiences with religion/spirituality. The things we most need to talk about are often the things that make us uncomfortable, challenge our worldview, or are deemed “socially unacceptable”. Exploring these issues and our feelings in a safe environment expands our horizons and helps us to better understand ourselves and the world around us. Learning allows us to grow and develop as human beings. Personal growth can help us heal.
We work with individuals on a variety of different issues directly impacting their lives: pregnancy, abortion, sexuality, gender identity, relationships, and the intersection of these experiences with religion/spirituality. The things we most need to talk about are often the things that make us uncomfortable, challenge our worldview, or are deemed “socially unacceptable”. Exploring these issues and our feelings in a safe environment expands our horizons and helps us to better understand ourselves and the world around us. Learning allows us to grow and develop as human beings. Personal growth can help us heal.
(618) 278-5010 View (618) 278-5010
Photo of Greg Tissi, MA Ed, PLPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Greg Tissi
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA Ed, PLPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
University City, MO 63130  (Online Only)
Do you find yourself at a moment where you are wondering how to refine how you hold space for yourself and others around you? Get off the exhausting treadmill, move with intention, and realign with the trust you have envisioned for yourself. Expect your space to be held just for you, room to breathe, and authentic, non-judgmental support. In a sex-positive, trauma-informed, and integrative space, all genders, sexual orientations, ethnicities, ages, and bodies are welcome. If not right now, then when will it be time for you to give yourself permission to transform? Success can take many forms.
Do you find yourself at a moment where you are wondering how to refine how you hold space for yourself and others around you? Get off the exhausting treadmill, move with intention, and realign with the trust you have envisioned for yourself. Expect your space to be held just for you, room to breathe, and authentic, non-judgmental support. In a sex-positive, trauma-informed, and integrative space, all genders, sexual orientations, ethnicities, ages, and bodies are welcome. If not right now, then when will it be time for you to give yourself permission to transform? Success can take many forms.
(314) 208-3566 View (314) 208-3566
Photo of Karen Banks, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karen Banks
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Clayton, MO 63105  (Online Only)
I work with clients experiencing emotional, cultural, sexual health, and relationship concerns. We spend time processing your situation and feelings and finding solutions that work for you. I recognize each client is an individual and treat them as such. Let's work together to help you walk in your truth. I've completed all 3 levels of Gottman Method Couples Therapy training, Treating Affairs & Trauma, Couples and Addiction Recovery, CBT for Insomnia, and am enrolled in Sex Therapy Certification through SHA. I also enjoy working with people in poly and ethically non-monogamous relationships and individuals in the kink community.
I work with clients experiencing emotional, cultural, sexual health, and relationship concerns. We spend time processing your situation and feelings and finding solutions that work for you. I recognize each client is an individual and treat them as such. Let's work together to help you walk in your truth. I've completed all 3 levels of Gottman Method Couples Therapy training, Treating Affairs & Trauma, Couples and Addiction Recovery, CBT for Insomnia, and am enrolled in Sex Therapy Certification through SHA. I also enjoy working with people in poly and ethically non-monogamous relationships and individuals in the kink community.
(314) 279-3455 View (314) 279-3455

See more therapy options for Richmond Heights

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.