Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Therapists in South Orange, NJ
Israel Martinez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
South Orange, NJ 07079
I specialize in work with the LGBTQ+, consensually non-monogamous, and kink/BDSM communities. Are you worried that most therapists will not truly understand you or that you will have to censor yourself in therapy because of your sexual and/or gender minority status? I had these same concerns and they motivated me to become a psychotherapist who could help others like me. We will work together in a safe and relaxing environment to discover and actualize the solutions you need in order to live a more fulfilling life.
I specialize in work with the LGBTQ+, consensually non-monogamous, and kink/BDSM communities. Are you worried that most therapists will not truly understand you or that you will have to censor yourself in therapy because of your sexual and/or gender minority status? I had these same concerns and they motivated me to become a psychotherapist who could help others like me. We will work together in a safe and relaxing environment to discover and actualize the solutions you need in order to live a more fulfilling life.
Dr. Eunice Avilés
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
South Orange, NJ 07079 (Online Only)
Are you struggling with the impact of discrimination? Are you experiencing sadness, anxiety, fear? Are you struggling with doubts about your sexuality or your gender identity? Are you struggling with sex addiction or problem gambling?
Are you struggling with the impact of discrimination? Are you experiencing sadness, anxiety, fear? Are you struggling with doubts about your sexuality or your gender identity? Are you struggling with sex addiction or problem gambling?
Stephanie Lyon
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
South Orange, NJ 07079
Pain is inevitable in life, but does need to stop us from living fully and beautifully. Through therapy I aim to help those I work with live deeper, happier lives with more balance and fulfillment. I believe that a strong, supportive relationship between the therapist and client is a fundamental factor in treatment. I see therapy as a collaborative process and empower those I work with to help direct the course of treatment. Additionally, I take a holistic view that includes attending to societal power structures that can contribute to and exacerbate the difficulties people face.
Pain is inevitable in life, but does need to stop us from living fully and beautifully. Through therapy I aim to help those I work with live deeper, happier lives with more balance and fulfillment. I believe that a strong, supportive relationship between the therapist and client is a fundamental factor in treatment. I see therapy as a collaborative process and empower those I work with to help direct the course of treatment. Additionally, I take a holistic view that includes attending to societal power structures that can contribute to and exacerbate the difficulties people face.
Mailen A. Palacios
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
South Orange, NJ 07079 (Online Only)
As a bilingual Marriage & Family therapist and Certified Sex therapist, I help individuals, families, and couples alleviate various issues. I specialize in anxieties, depression, wanting self growth, marital distress, and sexual dysfunctions. Call me and please leave me a message or send an email and let's figure out how to improve the situation immediately. I know reaching out for help can leave us feeling vulnerable, but resilience is the action of acknowledging that something isn't right and then doing something about it! I'm here for you and we can get through this together.
As a bilingual Marriage & Family therapist and Certified Sex therapist, I help individuals, families, and couples alleviate various issues. I specialize in anxieties, depression, wanting self growth, marital distress, and sexual dysfunctions. Call me and please leave me a message or send an email and let's figure out how to improve the situation immediately. I know reaching out for help can leave us feeling vulnerable, but resilience is the action of acknowledging that something isn't right and then doing something about it! I'm here for you and we can get through this together.
Shawna Starkman
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT
Verified Verified
South Orange, NJ 07079 (Online Only)
What is happening? Somewhere along the way you started to lose each other. Between the kids and careers, the spark has vanished, and your partner feels like a colleague, or worse, a stranger. It’s all too common for couples to find themselves drifting apart amidst the whirlwind of responsibilities. You thought you were paying attention to this. You're wondering, is it too late? You tried the “dates” and the self-help books with the hope of finding your way back to one another. The problem is that lately you can’t think of the last time you shared a deep conversation, laughter or intimacy. You have ended up feeling alone and lonely.
What is happening? Somewhere along the way you started to lose each other. Between the kids and careers, the spark has vanished, and your partner feels like a colleague, or worse, a stranger. It’s all too common for couples to find themselves drifting apart amidst the whirlwind of responsibilities. You thought you were paying attention to this. You're wondering, is it too late? You tried the “dates” and the self-help books with the hope of finding your way back to one another. The problem is that lately you can’t think of the last time you shared a deep conversation, laughter or intimacy. You have ended up feeling alone and lonely.
Shanta Kerina Pamphile
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LMHC, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
South Orange, NJ 07079
You never need to traverse this path alone. I want to acknowledge your courage in embarking on this transformative journey. I often liken my role in this therapeutic voyage to that of a co-pilot or co-author of your life story. My core mission is to empower individuals to unlock their fullest potential by navigating unresolved issues, healing from trauma, and breaking free from maladaptive patterns that have held them back from happiness.
You never need to traverse this path alone. I want to acknowledge your courage in embarking on this transformative journey. I often liken my role in this therapeutic voyage to that of a co-pilot or co-author of your life story. My core mission is to empower individuals to unlock their fullest potential by navigating unresolved issues, healing from trauma, and breaking free from maladaptive patterns that have held them back from happiness.
Sabina Dominga Williamson
Counselor, MS, LPC, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Orange, NJ 07079 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Welcome! Your courage to work towards a better you is commendable. When starting out in therapy, our focus will be on developing a therapeutic relationship based on trust. I approach sessions with empathy and compassion in a nonjudgmental space where you may ask yourself, "What do I want from this experience?" I can support you through addressing current/past hurt and be present with you as emotions come up. I will be with you as you explore the internalized narratives that influence your functioning and wellbeing. I believe therapy should be an empowering process, in which your strengths are highlighted.
Welcome! Your courage to work towards a better you is commendable. When starting out in therapy, our focus will be on developing a therapeutic relationship based on trust. I approach sessions with empathy and compassion in a nonjudgmental space where you may ask yourself, "What do I want from this experience?" I can support you through addressing current/past hurt and be present with you as emotions come up. I will be with you as you explore the internalized narratives that influence your functioning and wellbeing. I believe therapy should be an empowering process, in which your strengths are highlighted.
More Therapists Nearby
Devin Rubin-DeSimone
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Maplewood, NJ 07040 (Online Only)
My areas of expertise include, but are not limited to: sexual orientation, gender identities, friends/family with personality disorders, body image, kink, depression, anxiety, substance use, incarceration/reentry, grief and loss, trauma, living with HIV, and harm reduction along with the various ways in which these topics may intersect in your life.
Finding a therapist you will be able to trust with your feelings, thoughts, and goals can be a difficult process. Whatever journey brought you here, we will build that trust so that our work together leads to an improvement in your overall health and wellness. My work centers around our relationship and begins with us forging a safe, comfortable, and non-judgemental space for you to share openly.
My areas of expertise include, but are not limited to: sexual orientation, gender identities, friends/family with personality disorders, body image, kink, depression, anxiety, substance use, incarceration/reentry, grief and loss, trauma, living with HIV, and harm reduction along with the various ways in which these topics may intersect in your life.
Finding a therapist you will be able to trust with your feelings, thoughts, and goals can be a difficult process. Whatever journey brought you here, we will build that trust so that our work together leads to an improvement in your overall health and wellness. My work centers around our relationship and begins with us forging a safe, comfortable, and non-judgemental space for you to share openly.
Dr. Aunjuli Hicks
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, ACS, Coach
Verified Verified
Millburn, NJ 07041
I am also Kink-friendly.
Having worked in the mental health profession for over 25 years, I am a licensed mental health professional and owner of the Hicks Group Wellness Center. My primary work is with individuals suffering from domestic violence, traumas, anxiety, and depression. I am particular about whom I take as a client; my ideal client is ready for transformative change and motivated to do the therapeutic work that comes with counseling.
I am also Kink-friendly.
Having worked in the mental health profession for over 25 years, I am a licensed mental health professional and owner of the Hicks Group Wellness Center. My primary work is with individuals suffering from domestic violence, traumas, anxiety, and depression. I am particular about whom I take as a client; my ideal client is ready for transformative change and motivated to do the therapeutic work that comes with counseling.
Sharaya Collins
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Millburn, NJ 07041 (Online Only)
We are also a neurodivergent, LGBTQIA+, sex-work, pro-choice, and kink-affirming organization.
Sharaya Collins, MSc, LPC, NCC, is the founder and owner of Excelsior Career & Counseling Services, a telehealth-based clinical counseling organization for professional development and mental health. We specialize in treating various mental health concerns.
We are also a neurodivergent, LGBTQIA+, sex-work, pro-choice, and kink-affirming organization.
Sharaya Collins, MSc, LPC, NCC, is the founder and owner of Excelsior Career & Counseling Services, a telehealth-based clinical counseling organization for professional development and mental health. We specialize in treating various mental health concerns.
Dorian L Head
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Maplewood, NJ 07040
I pride myself on providing a welcoming, positive, and knowledgeable space for LGBTQ2IA+, HIV+, Neuro-diverse, ENM, Kink, & Geek Cultures.
Sometimes we can feel like we're stuck, lost and have to try to figure it out alone. I'm here to support you in redefining who you are and what you want. Create the life you truly deserve by working through the tough stuff and embracing your unique abilities. I believe that connection is what helps us to heal and grow. My practice is based on building an authentic connection with you in order to help you become empowered to reach your goals. I offer a safe space for traditionally marginalized groups including BIPOC and First and Second Generation Immigrants, to feel seen and heard.
I pride myself on providing a welcoming, positive, and knowledgeable space for LGBTQ2IA+, HIV+, Neuro-diverse, ENM, Kink, & Geek Cultures.
Sometimes we can feel like we're stuck, lost and have to try to figure it out alone. I'm here to support you in redefining who you are and what you want. Create the life you truly deserve by working through the tough stuff and embracing your unique abilities. I believe that connection is what helps us to heal and grow. My practice is based on building an authentic connection with you in order to help you become empowered to reach your goals. I offer a safe space for traditionally marginalized groups including BIPOC and First and Second Generation Immigrants, to feel seen and heard.
Chanta Blue
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MEd, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maplewood, NJ 07040
I am also a kink & consensual non-monogamy friendly/knowledgeable therapist.
Relationships can be tough to manage no matter what the circumstances. But there's hope for the relationship you want, maybe you just need a little help. I am known as the therapist who empowers, educates, and supports those who are looking to become their most authentic and unapologetic selves. Whether you struggle with sexual challenges, are getting frustrated with your dating options, or you are looking for ways to explore your sexuality, I provide a safe and comfortable environment that makes sharing easy and less threatening.
I am also a kink & consensual non-monogamy friendly/knowledgeable therapist.
Relationships can be tough to manage no matter what the circumstances. But there's hope for the relationship you want, maybe you just need a little help. I am known as the therapist who empowers, educates, and supports those who are looking to become their most authentic and unapologetic selves. Whether you struggle with sexual challenges, are getting frustrated with your dating options, or you are looking for ways to explore your sexuality, I provide a safe and comfortable environment that makes sharing easy and less threatening.
Israel Martinez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maplewood, NJ 07040
My practice specializes in work with the LGBTQ+, consensually non-monogamous, and kink/BDSM communities. Are you worried that most therapists will not truly understand you or that you will have to censor yourself in therapy because of your sexual and/or gender minority status? I had these same concerns and they motivated me to become a psychotherapist who could help others like me. We will work together in a safe and relaxing environment to discover and actualize the solutions you need in order to live a more fulfilling life.
My practice specializes in work with the LGBTQ+, consensually non-monogamous, and kink/BDSM communities. Are you worried that most therapists will not truly understand you or that you will have to censor yourself in therapy because of your sexual and/or gender minority status? I had these same concerns and they motivated me to become a psychotherapist who could help others like me. We will work together in a safe and relaxing environment to discover and actualize the solutions you need in order to live a more fulfilling life.
Robin Shamburg
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maplewood, NJ 07040 (Online Only)
Reaching this new chapter of life felt like a milestone and you couldn't wait to get started. But now that you're here, your brilliant future is a blank page. Where do you even begin? It's so overwhelming that you get caught up in the day-to-day tasks, taking care of others, procrastinating, doom-scrolling... You never really get to the thing that moves your own story forward; not that you even know what that "thing" would be. So instead you end up spinning with anxiety or beating yourself up with words you wouldn’t say to an enemy. You feel the clock ticking. Everyone else is making plans, leveling up... Why can’t you get unstuck?
Reaching this new chapter of life felt like a milestone and you couldn't wait to get started. But now that you're here, your brilliant future is a blank page. Where do you even begin? It's so overwhelming that you get caught up in the day-to-day tasks, taking care of others, procrastinating, doom-scrolling... You never really get to the thing that moves your own story forward; not that you even know what that "thing" would be. So instead you end up spinning with anxiety or beating yourself up with words you wouldn’t say to an enemy. You feel the clock ticking. Everyone else is making plans, leveling up... Why can’t you get unstuck?
Margaret Bolanos: Adults, Couples, Teens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Millburn, NJ 07041
I am a queer Latina therapist and I love to support teens, couples, and adults navigating anxiety, trauma, interpersonal violence, first-generation experiences, sexual orientation, sexual relationships, and gender identity. I use cognitive behavioral therapy and trauma-focused techniques with teens and adults and Gottman Method couples counseling. I care about creating a safe space to explore strengths and challenges, set goals, and walk through the healing journey. I can work in English or Spanish and offer in-person and telehealth sessions. See if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team
I am a queer Latina therapist and I love to support teens, couples, and adults navigating anxiety, trauma, interpersonal violence, first-generation experiences, sexual orientation, sexual relationships, and gender identity. I use cognitive behavioral therapy and trauma-focused techniques with teens and adults and Gottman Method couples counseling. I care about creating a safe space to explore strengths and challenges, set goals, and walk through the healing journey. I can work in English or Spanish and offer in-person and telehealth sessions. See if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team
Samantha J Smith: Transgender Queer Specialized Hrt letters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Orange, NJ 07052 (Online Only)
We are a group of LGBT affirming and informed therapists dedicated to providing adequate support to the community. Life can throw obstacles our way and it is when we have a supportive, safe environment to help us get on the path toward who we truly are that we can thrive and be the best version of ourselves. We embody a positive, strength-based approach designed to empower the individual and guide them in helping themselves. We also aim to assist clients in regulating symptoms of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD.
We are a group of LGBT affirming and informed therapists dedicated to providing adequate support to the community. Life can throw obstacles our way and it is when we have a supportive, safe environment to help us get on the path toward who we truly are that we can thrive and be the best version of ourselves. We embody a positive, strength-based approach designed to empower the individual and guide them in helping themselves. We also aim to assist clients in regulating symptoms of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD.
Timothy Bracaglia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCADC, ACS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Maplewood, NJ 07040
Handling complex issues of Sex, Gender, Relationships & Sexuality-related struggles; Anxiety, Stress & Depression; Substance Use & Related Issues... None of these is easy to navigate. Each stressors can be uniquely and incredibly difficult to manage thus causing pain, hopelessness, anxiety, & depression; often seemingly paralyzing. Thankfully, there is help, there is hope. You are not broken and together we can find your path. Please, call ( / leave a VM) or email me today. With my non-judgmental approach my only goal is to help you meet your own personal goals, to achieve your own vision of fulfillment; whatever that may look like.
Handling complex issues of Sex, Gender, Relationships & Sexuality-related struggles; Anxiety, Stress & Depression; Substance Use & Related Issues... None of these is easy to navigate. Each stressors can be uniquely and incredibly difficult to manage thus causing pain, hopelessness, anxiety, & depression; often seemingly paralyzing. Thankfully, there is help, there is hope. You are not broken and together we can find your path. Please, call ( / leave a VM) or email me today. With my non-judgmental approach my only goal is to help you meet your own personal goals, to achieve your own vision of fulfillment; whatever that may look like.
Kaitlynn Turre
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
West Orange, NJ 07052 (Online Only)
Kaitlynn is a Licensed Social Work who has experience in the field with people of all walks of life. She graduated from William Paterson University with her BA in Psychology and Business Administration and then studied at Seton Hall University to pursue her Master’s in Social Work. Kaitlynn has experience working with people of all ages, early childhood, adolescents, and adults. Kaitlynn has experience in Substance Abuse Counseling, Behavioral Counseling, Mental Health Counseling, and helping those suffering from Co-Occurring Disorders.
Kaitlynn is a Licensed Social Work who has experience in the field with people of all walks of life. She graduated from William Paterson University with her BA in Psychology and Business Administration and then studied at Seton Hall University to pursue her Master’s in Social Work. Kaitlynn has experience working with people of all ages, early childhood, adolescents, and adults. Kaitlynn has experience in Substance Abuse Counseling, Behavioral Counseling, Mental Health Counseling, and helping those suffering from Co-Occurring Disorders.
Adinah Elizabeth Liss Bialik
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
West Orange, NJ 07052 (Online Only)
I am a NJ Licensed Psychologist currently working via telehealth. I offer individual psychotherapy with a humanistic and holistic approach to mental health in a free-flowing conversational style. I work with adolescents and adults looking for support to cope with stress, anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, and relationship problems including sex and intimacy. In addition to private practice, I have 10+ years of experience working with individuals who are involved with the NJ foster care and family court systems. In addition to accepting private pay patients, I am a provider for BCBS, Aetna, and United Healthcare.
I am a NJ Licensed Psychologist currently working via telehealth. I offer individual psychotherapy with a humanistic and holistic approach to mental health in a free-flowing conversational style. I work with adolescents and adults looking for support to cope with stress, anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, and relationship problems including sex and intimacy. In addition to private practice, I have 10+ years of experience working with individuals who are involved with the NJ foster care and family court systems. In addition to accepting private pay patients, I am a provider for BCBS, Aetna, and United Healthcare.
Jessy Dong
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newark, NJ 07106 (Online Only)
Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the weight of anxiety, unsure of how to break free from its grip? Have you found yourself entangled in the complexities of your relationships, seeking a way to build stronger and more meaningful connections? Or, perhaps, as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, have you faced unique challenges that have left you searching for understanding and support? These are the questions that have guided me on my journey as a therapist, as I have made it my mission to help individuals like you find answers and solutions to these complex and deeply personal challenges.
Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the weight of anxiety, unsure of how to break free from its grip? Have you found yourself entangled in the complexities of your relationships, seeking a way to build stronger and more meaningful connections? Or, perhaps, as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, have you faced unique challenges that have left you searching for understanding and support? These are the questions that have guided me on my journey as a therapist, as I have made it my mission to help individuals like you find answers and solutions to these complex and deeply personal challenges.
See more therapy options for South Orange
Nearby Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Therapists Searches for South Orange
- Bloomfield
- East Orange
- Glen Ridge
- Livingston
- Maplewood
- Millburn
- Montclair
- Newark
- Short Hills
- Summit
- Verona
- West Orange
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.