Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Therapists in Raleigh, NC
Hannah Smith Adult Asd And Sex Therapist
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27601
As a sex and relationship therapist, I specialize in addressing sexual issues within the LGBTQ+ and kink communities, offering a safe, non-judgmental space to explore your identity and desires.
It's not easy being you in a world that so narrowly defines what it means to be "normal." There's so much pressure to conform. You might feel judged, misunderstood, or marginalized because of your LGBTQ+ identity or unique sexual expressions like BDSM, kink, or polyamory. These experiences can lead to isolation, communication barriers, and difficulties in finding accepting communities or partners who truly understand and respect your boundaries and desires. Let's work towards acceptance, self-love, and fulfilling relationships where you can be your authentic self.
As a sex and relationship therapist, I specialize in addressing sexual issues within the LGBTQ+ and kink communities, offering a safe, non-judgmental space to explore your identity and desires.
It's not easy being you in a world that so narrowly defines what it means to be "normal." There's so much pressure to conform. You might feel judged, misunderstood, or marginalized because of your LGBTQ+ identity or unique sexual expressions like BDSM, kink, or polyamory. These experiences can lead to isolation, communication barriers, and difficulties in finding accepting communities or partners who truly understand and respect your boundaries and desires. Let's work towards acceptance, self-love, and fulfilling relationships where you can be your authentic self.
While I specialize in working with college and university students and with LGBTQ+ concerns, I do work with adults of any walk of life, affirming gender and sexual diversity, racial and ethnic identities and all manner of relationship make-ups - poly and kink aware in particular.
Accepting new clients - Something isn’t working, maybe your mind has been racing and you don’t know how to quiet it down, maybe painful feelings keep you up at night or you don't know what you really want your life to be. If you're thinking you'd like some help figuring out what is going on and how you can create change in your life, I'm happy to use my experience as a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor to provide the support and information you could find useful. My clients have told me they left therapy understanding themselves better, feeling more confident they can manage their emotions and improved at work or school.
While I specialize in working with college and university students and with LGBTQ+ concerns, I do work with adults of any walk of life, affirming gender and sexual diversity, racial and ethnic identities and all manner of relationship make-ups - poly and kink aware in particular.
Accepting new clients - Something isn’t working, maybe your mind has been racing and you don’t know how to quiet it down, maybe painful feelings keep you up at night or you don't know what you really want your life to be. If you're thinking you'd like some help figuring out what is going on and how you can create change in your life, I'm happy to use my experience as a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor to provide the support and information you could find useful. My clients have told me they left therapy understanding themselves better, feeling more confident they can manage their emotions and improved at work or school.
Patricia S. Duggan
LCMHCA, LCASA, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27608 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Often our hurtful experiences are out of our control. You didn’t choose to live with pain & society makes it hard to heal. You are tired of feeling alone and misunderstood. The reality is our experiences and memories can shape our beliefs and worldviews, creating guilt, anxiety, shame, anger, and isolation. Living with chronic pain, illness, trauma, anxiety, and grief – does impact us. Even if you don’t feel like it at this very moment, there is part of you that knows they deserve something more, whether it’s self-compassion, healthy connections, pleasure, joy, or the chance to move from surviving to thriving. Let's get curious.
Often our hurtful experiences are out of our control. You didn’t choose to live with pain & society makes it hard to heal. You are tired of feeling alone and misunderstood. The reality is our experiences and memories can shape our beliefs and worldviews, creating guilt, anxiety, shame, anger, and isolation. Living with chronic pain, illness, trauma, anxiety, and grief – does impact us. Even if you don’t feel like it at this very moment, there is part of you that knows they deserve something more, whether it’s self-compassion, healthy connections, pleasure, joy, or the chance to move from surviving to thriving. Let's get curious.
Elizabeth Harles
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27603
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in life transitions, polyamory, ethical/consensual non-monogamy, sexual dysfunction, sexual exploration, sexuality, LGBTQIA+, kink, alt sex, self-esteem, anxiety and relationship issues.
I am a queer sex therapist, providing a relaxed, open, collaborative and non-judgmental atmosphere. My intention is to support people in the LGBTQIA+, non-monogamy, and kink communities (Gender, Sexuality and Relationship Diverse). I will cater my approach to your needs, but my natural style is straight-forward, so I tend to delve into the issues at hand so that you can see improvement in your emotional well-being as quickly as possible. Once immediate stressors have been calmed, we can work on a deeper level together in order to gain insight on underlying beliefs and experiences that may be contributing to your distress.
I specialize in life transitions, polyamory, ethical/consensual non-monogamy, sexual dysfunction, sexual exploration, sexuality, LGBTQIA+, kink, alt sex, self-esteem, anxiety and relationship issues.
I am a queer sex therapist, providing a relaxed, open, collaborative and non-judgmental atmosphere. My intention is to support people in the LGBTQIA+, non-monogamy, and kink communities (Gender, Sexuality and Relationship Diverse). I will cater my approach to your needs, but my natural style is straight-forward, so I tend to delve into the issues at hand so that you can see improvement in your emotional well-being as quickly as possible. Once immediate stressors have been calmed, we can work on a deeper level together in order to gain insight on underlying beliefs and experiences that may be contributing to your distress.
Rebecca Ozment
Counselor, MAEd, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am LGBT-affirming, sex-positive, kink/BDSM friendly, and ENM/Poloyam welcoming.
Hey there! I'm Rebecca and I offer online sex therapy, individual, and couples/relationship counseling across all of North Carolina! Have you ever felt completely lost and stuck, wishing it was easier to talk to your partner, wanting to understand yourself more, or feeling isolated and disconnected? If so, you're definitely not alone. If we work together, we will create a space where you can feel fully empowered to dive deep. Through meaningful questions and genuine curiosity, we’ll explore what makes you tick. I’ll be there, holding space and helping you develop skills while also challenging any inconsistencies that arise!
I am LGBT-affirming, sex-positive, kink/BDSM friendly, and ENM/Poloyam welcoming.
Hey there! I'm Rebecca and I offer online sex therapy, individual, and couples/relationship counseling across all of North Carolina! Have you ever felt completely lost and stuck, wishing it was easier to talk to your partner, wanting to understand yourself more, or feeling isolated and disconnected? If so, you're definitely not alone. If we work together, we will create a space where you can feel fully empowered to dive deep. Through meaningful questions and genuine curiosity, we’ll explore what makes you tick. I’ll be there, holding space and helping you develop skills while also challenging any inconsistencies that arise!
Lindley Cherry
Licensed Professional Counselor, QS, LCAS, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27617 (Online Only)
Life threw you a curveball, and you caught it… with your face. I specialize in working with individuals who have faced extraordinary challenges, offering them the space to unpack their experiences, heal, and move forward with power. If you are looking for someone who specializes in Neurodivergent Adults (including Adult ADHD and Autism Assessments), EMDR/Trauma, Professionals in High Stress Careers, Couples & Poly/ Kink Relationships, or LGBTQIA+ Affirmative Counseling, then schedule a free 20 minute consultation and let’s figure this shit out!
Life threw you a curveball, and you caught it… with your face. I specialize in working with individuals who have faced extraordinary challenges, offering them the space to unpack their experiences, heal, and move forward with power. If you are looking for someone who specializes in Neurodivergent Adults (including Adult ADHD and Autism Assessments), EMDR/Trauma, Professionals in High Stress Careers, Couples & Poly/ Kink Relationships, or LGBTQIA+ Affirmative Counseling, then schedule a free 20 minute consultation and let’s figure this shit out!
For sex and couples therapy, I provide a kink-aware, nonmonogamy-friendly space.
I work with adults and adolescents navigating eating disorders, self-esteem, and embodiment issues, and with individuals and couples seeking sex and relationship therapy. My practice is rooted in inclusivity and social justice, especially for those exploring nonmonogamy, kink dynamics, or who identify as queer or neurodivergent. In a world that disconnects us from our bodies and authentic selves, it can be difficult to feel safe, present, and connected. My goal is to help you reconnect—with your body, your desires, and your relationships—while navigating life’s challenges with resilience and self-compassion.
For sex and couples therapy, I provide a kink-aware, nonmonogamy-friendly space.
I work with adults and adolescents navigating eating disorders, self-esteem, and embodiment issues, and with individuals and couples seeking sex and relationship therapy. My practice is rooted in inclusivity and social justice, especially for those exploring nonmonogamy, kink dynamics, or who identify as queer or neurodivergent. In a world that disconnects us from our bodies and authentic selves, it can be difficult to feel safe, present, and connected. My goal is to help you reconnect—with your body, your desires, and your relationships—while navigating life’s challenges with resilience and self-compassion.
Kyra Roberts
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27604 (Online Only)
No matter how hard you try, you just can’t seem to get on the same page in your relationships and communication breaks down. That Spark has dwindled or an erosion of trust has occurred due to past hurts. Perhaps a pattern of unhealthy relationships has left you feeling confused and defeated. Whatever the cause, you feel a sense of disconnection either from yourself or your relationship. Together, we will untangle the knots of miscommunication, confront these relationship patterns, and work towards the fulfilling relationship and life you want and deserve, whatever that may look like for you.
No matter how hard you try, you just can’t seem to get on the same page in your relationships and communication breaks down. That Spark has dwindled or an erosion of trust has occurred due to past hurts. Perhaps a pattern of unhealthy relationships has left you feeling confused and defeated. Whatever the cause, you feel a sense of disconnection either from yourself or your relationship. Together, we will untangle the knots of miscommunication, confront these relationship patterns, and work towards the fulfilling relationship and life you want and deserve, whatever that may look like for you.
I enjoy working with adults to help them cope with the anxiety, depression, fear, and excitement life can bring, especially in a sex-positive, kink and poly friendly arena.
It may be difficult to find a therapist who is well versed on being sex positive, kink friendly, non-monogamous allied, and informed on chronic illnesses. These unique relationships require experience from someone who is passionate about them! You may need help with your multiple relationships, your relationship structure, or just someone to talk to who will not wince when your sex life is brought up. You may be struggling with a recent diagnosis of a chronic illness and want to talk with someone about it who understands the gravity a chronic illness diagnosis can bring. I love for clients to educate me on their lived experiences!
I enjoy working with adults to help them cope with the anxiety, depression, fear, and excitement life can bring, especially in a sex-positive, kink and poly friendly arena.
It may be difficult to find a therapist who is well versed on being sex positive, kink friendly, non-monogamous allied, and informed on chronic illnesses. These unique relationships require experience from someone who is passionate about them! You may need help with your multiple relationships, your relationship structure, or just someone to talk to who will not wince when your sex life is brought up. You may be struggling with a recent diagnosis of a chronic illness and want to talk with someone about it who understands the gravity a chronic illness diagnosis can bring. I love for clients to educate me on their lived experiences!
Accepting New Clients as of 9/25/2024. My primary focuses are OCD and Interpersonal Relationships, as well as Anxiety, Depression, and Trauma work. I am LGBTQIA+ affirming, kink affirming, race, gender, class affirming and many more and proud of each. Whatever your identity there will always be a spot for you at the table. Let's break some cycles. I also offer sliding scale sessions of $60 for people without insurance or with high deductibles.
Accepting New Clients as of 9/25/2024. My primary focuses are OCD and Interpersonal Relationships, as well as Anxiety, Depression, and Trauma work. I am LGBTQIA+ affirming, kink affirming, race, gender, class affirming and many more and proud of each. Whatever your identity there will always be a spot for you at the table. Let's break some cycles. I also offer sliding scale sessions of $60 for people without insurance or with high deductibles.
Melissa Gritz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW-A, MSW, MSEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27612 (Online Only)
My areas of focus are anxiety, depression, gender, sexuality, grief/ loss, parenting, and life transitions; with an approach that is sex positive.
Now accepting new clients and working under the clinical supervision of Raymond Jeanes LCSW and a part of Jeanes Mental Health Services. With a passion for helping clients achieve authentic growth and wellness, and over 30 years of experience in human services, my approach to therapy is grounded in empathy, compassion, and collaboration.
My areas of focus are anxiety, depression, gender, sexuality, grief/ loss, parenting, and life transitions; with an approach that is sex positive.
Now accepting new clients and working under the clinical supervision of Raymond Jeanes LCSW and a part of Jeanes Mental Health Services. With a passion for helping clients achieve authentic growth and wellness, and over 30 years of experience in human services, my approach to therapy is grounded in empathy, compassion, and collaboration.
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Bethany Dement
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
Using a strength-based approach with CBT and DBT, I’m neurodiversity and kink-affirming, fostering resilience in a supportive environment.
Have you ever found yourself striving for approval, feeling like you have to be perfect to be accepted? No matter what you achieve, does a voice still tell you it’s not enough? Do you feel anxious, wondering if you're too much for others or if you'll never measure up? Do you crave deep connection but struggle to feel close or connected to your desires? Beneath it all, do you long to be yourself, feel confident, and let go of the fears holding you back? A therapist helps by fostering self-acceptance, reducing anxiety, and building authentic connections.
Using a strength-based approach with CBT and DBT, I’m neurodiversity and kink-affirming, fostering resilience in a supportive environment.
Have you ever found yourself striving for approval, feeling like you have to be perfect to be accepted? No matter what you achieve, does a voice still tell you it’s not enough? Do you feel anxious, wondering if you're too much for others or if you'll never measure up? Do you crave deep connection but struggle to feel close or connected to your desires? Beneath it all, do you long to be yourself, feel confident, and let go of the fears holding you back? A therapist helps by fostering self-acceptance, reducing anxiety, and building authentic connections.
Carolina Sexual Wellness Center
Psychologist, PsyD, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27612
At Carolina Sexual Wellness Center, we strive to provide a supportive and safe environment where clients can resolve issues related to sex, sexuality and gender. Examples of areas we specialize in include but are not limited to sexual dysfunction, compulsive or impulsive sexual behavior (also known as "sex addiction"), couples and relationship issues surrounding sexuality, sexual identity development, gender orientation concerns, and sexual behaviors or fantasies that may be considered problematic. Although many people with sexual problems feel alone, it is important to know you are not.
At Carolina Sexual Wellness Center, we strive to provide a supportive and safe environment where clients can resolve issues related to sex, sexuality and gender. Examples of areas we specialize in include but are not limited to sexual dysfunction, compulsive or impulsive sexual behavior (also known as "sex addiction"), couples and relationship issues surrounding sexuality, sexual identity development, gender orientation concerns, and sexual behaviors or fantasies that may be considered problematic. Although many people with sexual problems feel alone, it is important to know you are not.
Nova Swanstrom - Gender And Sexuality Specialist
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615 (Online Only)
Hi there! With over 15 years of clinical experience, I am equipped to help you explore and address difficulties such as identity (sexual and gender), life transitions, stress management, family and relationship dynamics, grief, as well as clinical issues to include anxiety, mood disorders, and ADHD. I provide specialized assistance with transgender needs to include transition path planning, resource access, surgery letters, and detransition support. I am Kink, Poly/CNM, CD, and Neurodiverse knowledgeable.
Hi there! With over 15 years of clinical experience, I am equipped to help you explore and address difficulties such as identity (sexual and gender), life transitions, stress management, family and relationship dynamics, grief, as well as clinical issues to include anxiety, mood disorders, and ADHD. I provide specialized assistance with transgender needs to include transition path planning, resource access, surgery letters, and detransition support. I am Kink, Poly/CNM, CD, and Neurodiverse knowledgeable.
I affirm and support LGBTQIA+, BIPOC and undocumented individuals, and diverse sexual populations (including poly/ kink).
This fast-paced world is weighing you down, and you feel like you can’t keep up. You’re drowning in a sea of self-help advice and you don’t understand why none of it works for you. The influx of mental wellness trends are overwhelming and exhausting to follow. Your well-meaning rituals fade, making you feel incompatible with the people around you. The hectic demands of daily living are impossible to meet. The voice in your head keeps screaming, “Why can’t I breathe?” If you feel you don't fit in, you experience imposter syndrome, you are recovering from trauma, or if you desire to thrive beyond your survival, I can support you.
I affirm and support LGBTQIA+, BIPOC and undocumented individuals, and diverse sexual populations (including poly/ kink).
This fast-paced world is weighing you down, and you feel like you can’t keep up. You’re drowning in a sea of self-help advice and you don’t understand why none of it works for you. The influx of mental wellness trends are overwhelming and exhausting to follow. Your well-meaning rituals fade, making you feel incompatible with the people around you. The hectic demands of daily living are impossible to meet. The voice in your head keeps screaming, “Why can’t I breathe?” If you feel you don't fit in, you experience imposter syndrome, you are recovering from trauma, or if you desire to thrive beyond your survival, I can support you.
Leah Farley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27607 (Online Only)
Welcoming and inclusive of neurodivergent, LGBTQ+, poly- kink, creative types, highly sensitive people, and gifted people.
Do you struggle with anxiety that affects your relationships, your career, or your ability to make or keep friends? Do you feel completely overwhelmed by trying to please everyone—and sense that you are frequently falling short? Do you worry that the loneliness inside of you is growing with time, even when you are around the closest people in your life? What if I told you it doesn’t have to be this hard? And you don’t have to go it alone. I help my clients find their way out of anxiety, people pleasing, and loneliness, and into self-confidence, assertiveness, and connected relationships.
Welcoming and inclusive of neurodivergent, LGBTQ+, poly- kink, creative types, highly sensitive people, and gifted people.
Do you struggle with anxiety that affects your relationships, your career, or your ability to make or keep friends? Do you feel completely overwhelmed by trying to please everyone—and sense that you are frequently falling short? Do you worry that the loneliness inside of you is growing with time, even when you are around the closest people in your life? What if I told you it doesn’t have to be this hard? And you don’t have to go it alone. I help my clients find their way out of anxiety, people pleasing, and loneliness, and into self-confidence, assertiveness, and connected relationships.
Emmy C Holloman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCAS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609 (Online Only)
Now more than ever, your mental health and well-being is important. I understand the thought of opening up to a stranger can be intimidating. My style of therapy is informal and relaxed. It is important to me that you feel comfortable. I won't push you to share if you're not ready. I will always take a nonjudgmental stance. I can assure you I will be comfortable with any subject you'd like to discuss. I am a sex positive/ kink positive therapist with experience working with issues related to sexuality and gender, nontraditional relationship types (i.e., nonmonogamy), and nontraditional lifestyles in general.
Now more than ever, your mental health and well-being is important. I understand the thought of opening up to a stranger can be intimidating. My style of therapy is informal and relaxed. It is important to me that you feel comfortable. I won't push you to share if you're not ready. I will always take a nonjudgmental stance. I can assure you I will be comfortable with any subject you'd like to discuss. I am a sex positive/ kink positive therapist with experience working with issues related to sexuality and gender, nontraditional relationship types (i.e., nonmonogamy), and nontraditional lifestyles in general.
I am a sex-positive, kink-affirming therapist; and am experienced in working with folx in Ethical Non-Monogamous relationships.
To me, therapy isn’t a workbook or a road map that’s the same for everyone. Therapy is about meeting you where you are. I want to learn about your unique strengths, values, goals, and struggles. I strive to support you in navigating your struggles, and in making choices in alignment with your values as you work toward your goals. I am curious about what brings you fulfillment and exploring avenues to infuse joy into your days, with a strength-based, benefit-enhancement approach. I view therapy as a collaborative process, know that you are the expert on your own experience, and meet each client as the individual you are.
I am a sex-positive, kink-affirming therapist; and am experienced in working with folx in Ethical Non-Monogamous relationships.
To me, therapy isn’t a workbook or a road map that’s the same for everyone. Therapy is about meeting you where you are. I want to learn about your unique strengths, values, goals, and struggles. I strive to support you in navigating your struggles, and in making choices in alignment with your values as you work toward your goals. I am curious about what brings you fulfillment and exploring avenues to infuse joy into your days, with a strength-based, benefit-enhancement approach. I view therapy as a collaborative process, know that you are the expert on your own experience, and meet each client as the individual you are.
I am a LQBTQ+ affirming, sex positive therapist who specializes in relationships, trauma, depression, anxiety, and more.
Deciding to come to therapy can be difficult but deciding on sex therapy can be even harder. There are a magnitude of reasons why you may seek sex therapy. Experiencing low desire? Trauma? Sex makes you anxious? Unhealthy relationship with sex? Struggling to connect with your partner or having differences in frequency? Or just simply wanting more out of sex but unsure as where to go? The reasons why can be limitless, but together let's figure out what you need to achieve a healthy relationship with sex. It is important to know that sex therapy will not solely focus on sex but your entire self.
I am a LQBTQ+ affirming, sex positive therapist who specializes in relationships, trauma, depression, anxiety, and more.
Deciding to come to therapy can be difficult but deciding on sex therapy can be even harder. There are a magnitude of reasons why you may seek sex therapy. Experiencing low desire? Trauma? Sex makes you anxious? Unhealthy relationship with sex? Struggling to connect with your partner or having differences in frequency? Or just simply wanting more out of sex but unsure as where to go? The reasons why can be limitless, but together let's figure out what you need to achieve a healthy relationship with sex. It is important to know that sex therapy will not solely focus on sex but your entire self.
Haley Cohen
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC, CRC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27610 (Online Only)
If you are LGBTQIA+, Poly/Non-monogamous, in the kink community or in a D/s relationship, you may feel hesitant to engage in therapy.
Do you feel stuck, lost or overwhelmed? Perhaps you feel like you have to invest so much energy but still feel unfulfilled and empty. Do you struggle with intense worry, self doubt or shame? You might not know where these feelings come from, what you are needing or perhaps, you are in a painful situation, relationship or job. You might struggle with chronic illness and have the added stress of navigating your physical health when you already feel drained. Perhaps you are deeply impacted by past wounds or trauma. It is possible to feel better and it's possible to have healthy relationships both with yourself and others.
If you are LGBTQIA+, Poly/Non-monogamous, in the kink community or in a D/s relationship, you may feel hesitant to engage in therapy.
Do you feel stuck, lost or overwhelmed? Perhaps you feel like you have to invest so much energy but still feel unfulfilled and empty. Do you struggle with intense worry, self doubt or shame? You might not know where these feelings come from, what you are needing or perhaps, you are in a painful situation, relationship or job. You might struggle with chronic illness and have the added stress of navigating your physical health when you already feel drained. Perhaps you are deeply impacted by past wounds or trauma. It is possible to feel better and it's possible to have healthy relationships both with yourself and others.
See more therapy options for Raleigh
Nearby Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Therapists Searches for Raleigh
- Apex
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- Clayton
- Durham
- Fuquay Varina
- Garner
- Holly Springs
- Knightdale
- Morrisville
- Research Triangle Park
- Wake Forest
- Willow Spring
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.