Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Therapists in Summit, NJ

Photo of Michael s Keren, Psychologist in Summit, NJ
Michael s Keren
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Summit, NJ 07901
The best psychotherapy builds upon a solid relationship between a client and therapist, allowing the client to take risks in examining themselves, acknowledge their strengths and weaknesses, process painful memories and use their strengths to create change. In my therapeutic work I focus on nurturing that relationship to facilitate my client's change and self-acceptance. I am well trained in psychoanalysis, psychoanalytic therapy and family/couples therapy as well as cognitive-behavioral and short term therapy techniques and use what my clients and I believe will best facilitate their goals in treatment.
The best psychotherapy builds upon a solid relationship between a client and therapist, allowing the client to take risks in examining themselves, acknowledge their strengths and weaknesses, process painful memories and use their strengths to create change. In my therapeutic work I focus on nurturing that relationship to facilitate my client's change and self-acceptance. I am well trained in psychoanalysis, psychoanalytic therapy and family/couples therapy as well as cognitive-behavioral and short term therapy techniques and use what my clients and I believe will best facilitate their goals in treatment.
(908) 460-7317 View (908) 460-7317
Photo of Heather Herz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Summit, NJ
Heather Herz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Summit, NJ 07901
Thank you for viewing my page and I hope I can help you on the path towards healing and personal growth. I strive to create a safe, genuine, and empathic space for clients to explore their inner experiences. I have expertise in working with issues of depression, anxiety, trauma/post-traumatic stress including complex trauma, relationship issues, reproductive health and infertility, life cycle changes including college transitions, new motherhood, and grief and loss. I have postgraduate certification in integrative trauma studies and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
Thank you for viewing my page and I hope I can help you on the path towards healing and personal growth. I strive to create a safe, genuine, and empathic space for clients to explore their inner experiences. I have expertise in working with issues of depression, anxiety, trauma/post-traumatic stress including complex trauma, relationship issues, reproductive health and infertility, life cycle changes including college transitions, new motherhood, and grief and loss. I have postgraduate certification in integrative trauma studies and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
(201) 351-2816 View (201) 351-2816
Photo of Rachel L Christensen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Summit, NJ
Rachel L Christensen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Summit, NJ 07901
Getting a new therapist can be intimidating and—let's be real—a major pain. I'm so glad you've found me. I bring compassion, humor, and warmth to our sessions. I ask that you bring your whole self, whatever that means on any given day. Together, we'll explore and stay curious about how you see and understand the world.
Getting a new therapist can be intimidating and—let's be real—a major pain. I'm so glad you've found me. I bring compassion, humor, and warmth to our sessions. I ask that you bring your whole self, whatever that means on any given day. Together, we'll explore and stay curious about how you see and understand the world.
(908) 738-9539 View (908) 738-9539
Photo of Bridget Granholm, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Summit, NJ
Bridget Granholm
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Summit, NJ 07902  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I believe that every individual is unique and has their own set of strengths and challenges. Whatever it is that you may be going through, it's important to remember that you don't have to do it alone. I specialize in helping women of all ages and moms who are struggling with managing their stress and mental load so that they can stop feeling a loss of control, let go of perfectionism and get back to enjoying the life they have created.
As a therapist, I believe that every individual is unique and has their own set of strengths and challenges. Whatever it is that you may be going through, it's important to remember that you don't have to do it alone. I specialize in helping women of all ages and moms who are struggling with managing their stress and mental load so that they can stop feeling a loss of control, let go of perfectionism and get back to enjoying the life they have created.
(908) 460-7261 View (908) 460-7261
Photo of Ryan Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Summit, NJ
Ryan Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Summit, NJ 07901  (Online Only)
Are you experiencing anxiety, depression, feeling overwhelmed or lost? Maybe you feel unfulfilled in your relationships, career, or other key areas of your life. If you are ready to explore these parts of yourself and interrupt patterns that are no longer serving you, then it may be time to engage in psychotherapy. Psychotherapy is a collaborative process which allows us to look at the areas that are causing distress, and identify ways to adjust your thoughts and behaviors to create positive change. I provide therapy in a safe, nonjudgmental environment where you can feel comfortable expressing yourself openly and authentically.
Are you experiencing anxiety, depression, feeling overwhelmed or lost? Maybe you feel unfulfilled in your relationships, career, or other key areas of your life. If you are ready to explore these parts of yourself and interrupt patterns that are no longer serving you, then it may be time to engage in psychotherapy. Psychotherapy is a collaborative process which allows us to look at the areas that are causing distress, and identify ways to adjust your thoughts and behaviors to create positive change. I provide therapy in a safe, nonjudgmental environment where you can feel comfortable expressing yourself openly and authentically.
(862) 500-5037 View (862) 500-5037

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Christina Andino, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Summit, NJ
Christina Andino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mountainside, NJ 07092
You have tried everything you could to feel better, but you’ve reached the point where you need some extra help. The anxiety, depression, and/or trauma that are weighing on you daily has started to impact your job or school performance and relationships. You are feeling burnt out. Therapy may be new to you and it’s common to feel nervous about starting the process. We can work together and create a plan to help you manage and decrease stress. I will teach you healthy skills to use for coping, communication, reframing thoughts, and changing behaviors. I can help you feel empowered so that you are more in control of your life.
You have tried everything you could to feel better, but you’ve reached the point where you need some extra help. The anxiety, depression, and/or trauma that are weighing on you daily has started to impact your job or school performance and relationships. You are feeling burnt out. Therapy may be new to you and it’s common to feel nervous about starting the process. We can work together and create a plan to help you manage and decrease stress. I will teach you healthy skills to use for coping, communication, reframing thoughts, and changing behaviors. I can help you feel empowered so that you are more in control of your life.
(201) 514-6689 View (201) 514-6689
Photo of Betty Jampel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Summit, NJ
Betty Jampel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Springfield, NJ 07081
Each of us must embark on a journey with grief and loss. Whether we have a terminal or life limiting diagnosis, have experienced trauma or struggle with the existential pain of human existence, we all must make peace with these challenging feelings. Many are struggling with the very real distress in today’s world, trying to make sense and move forward in their lives while basic human values are being questioned. How we live brings the utmost meaning to our lives. It enables us to turn pain into growth experiences. Addressing our sorrow and grief in new and non linear ways, creates opportunities for deep and sustainable healing.
Each of us must embark on a journey with grief and loss. Whether we have a terminal or life limiting diagnosis, have experienced trauma or struggle with the existential pain of human existence, we all must make peace with these challenging feelings. Many are struggling with the very real distress in today’s world, trying to make sense and move forward in their lives while basic human values are being questioned. How we live brings the utmost meaning to our lives. It enables us to turn pain into growth experiences. Addressing our sorrow and grief in new and non linear ways, creates opportunities for deep and sustainable healing.
(973) 798-9256 View (973) 798-9256
Photo of Lisa Sturm, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Summit, NJ
Lisa Sturm
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CGT, CCTP
Verified Verified
Springfield, NJ 07081
I believe that given the right tools, we are all capable of attaining a comfortable level of happiness and fulfillment in life. My role is to help you acquire and sharpen those tools within the shortest possible time frame. I’m a Certified Gottman Couples Therapist and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. With couples, I use the Gottman Method, which combines psychodynamic and research-based techniques to strengthen emotional closeness and intimacy, improve conflict management, and create a culture of mutual support. With trauma, I use only proven techniques including IFS and EMDR. Learn more at www.lisasturm.com.
I believe that given the right tools, we are all capable of attaining a comfortable level of happiness and fulfillment in life. My role is to help you acquire and sharpen those tools within the shortest possible time frame. I’m a Certified Gottman Couples Therapist and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. With couples, I use the Gottman Method, which combines psychodynamic and research-based techniques to strengthen emotional closeness and intimacy, improve conflict management, and create a culture of mutual support. With trauma, I use only proven techniques including IFS and EMDR. Learn more at www.lisasturm.com.
(973) 988-4166 View (973) 988-4166
Photo of Akilah J. Pierre, Marriage & Family Therapist in Summit, NJ
Akilah J. Pierre
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Short Hills, NJ 07078  (Online Only)
You love your partner dearly, but your relationship is not how you want it to be. You smile and suppress your feelings, or you're constantly vocalizing your dissatisfaction, but it doesn't change the current state of your relationship. You know deep down this is not sustainable for you. The lack of intimacy in your relationship stresses you out. You're constantly thinking of ways to improve your relationship, but your efforts seem to go unnoticed. You worry your partner's lack of effort and appreciation will confirm the fear you've been avoiding, "I don't feel seen by my partner, and I'm scared they don't care about me."
You love your partner dearly, but your relationship is not how you want it to be. You smile and suppress your feelings, or you're constantly vocalizing your dissatisfaction, but it doesn't change the current state of your relationship. You know deep down this is not sustainable for you. The lack of intimacy in your relationship stresses you out. You're constantly thinking of ways to improve your relationship, but your efforts seem to go unnoticed. You worry your partner's lack of effort and appreciation will confirm the fear you've been avoiding, "I don't feel seen by my partner, and I'm scared they don't care about me."
View
Photo of Cynthia Shaw, Psychologist in Summit, NJ
Cynthia Shaw
Psychologist, PsyD, CGP, ACS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Short Hills, NJ 07078  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with loneliness, anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem? Have recent life changes left you feeling groundless, stuck, or lost in life? If you want to feel more confident, successful, and connected, I encourage you to reach out. I am a compassionate and down-to-earth therapist who focuses on increasing insight, self-understanding, and meaning. I work well with individuals struggling with low self-esteem, unfulfilling relationships, life change, grief & loss, and meaning-making.
Are you struggling with loneliness, anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem? Have recent life changes left you feeling groundless, stuck, or lost in life? If you want to feel more confident, successful, and connected, I encourage you to reach out. I am a compassionate and down-to-earth therapist who focuses on increasing insight, self-understanding, and meaning. I work well with individuals struggling with low self-esteem, unfulfilling relationships, life change, grief & loss, and meaning-making.
(929) 605-4235 View (929) 605-4235
Photo of Sarah West, Counselor in Summit, NJ
Sarah West
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Short Hills, NJ 07078
Sarah West is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of New Jersey and a certified School Counselor in both CT and NJ. Sarah earned her B.A. Degree in Psychology from LaSalle University. After graduating from LaSalle, Sarah attended graduate school at New Jersey City University, where she earned a M.A. Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling. Sarah has worked both as a School Counselor and in private practice and joined The Massler Center in 2020. She believes that working as a team and having a positive counselor-client relationship is the foundation for successful treatment.
Sarah West is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of New Jersey and a certified School Counselor in both CT and NJ. Sarah earned her B.A. Degree in Psychology from LaSalle University. After graduating from LaSalle, Sarah attended graduate school at New Jersey City University, where she earned a M.A. Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling. Sarah has worked both as a School Counselor and in private practice and joined The Massler Center in 2020. She believes that working as a team and having a positive counselor-client relationship is the foundation for successful treatment.
(862) 256-7517 View (862) 256-7517
Photo of Dina Morley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Summit, NJ
Dina Morley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chatham, NJ 07928
Dina is a solution-focused therapist who uses the strengths perspective, the harm reduction approach and cognitive behavioral therapy to support clients in meeting and maintaining their goals. Dina earned an MSW graduate degree in clinical social work from New York University (NYU), has a doctorate degree in psychology and has experience in behavioral health settings such as inpatient, outpatient, and private practice settings. Dina has been on the American Red Cross Mental Health Disaster Relief Team since 2009. Dina provides an environment that is supportive and non-judgmental.
Dina is a solution-focused therapist who uses the strengths perspective, the harm reduction approach and cognitive behavioral therapy to support clients in meeting and maintaining their goals. Dina earned an MSW graduate degree in clinical social work from New York University (NYU), has a doctorate degree in psychology and has experience in behavioral health settings such as inpatient, outpatient, and private practice settings. Dina has been on the American Red Cross Mental Health Disaster Relief Team since 2009. Dina provides an environment that is supportive and non-judgmental.
(908) 443-9416 View (908) 443-9416
Photo of James Wadley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Summit, NJ
James Wadley
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, CST, CSTS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Short Hills, NJ 07078  (Online Only)
Do you have trust issues in your relationship? Are you afraid to be honest with your partner or tired of trying to be someone you're not? Neither you or your partner are really talking about your hurt or resentments over pornography and infidelity. You've tried over and over again and the current situation isn't working for you and/or your relationship. Contact me and we will talk about how you feel about your challenges and together come up with a behavioral and emotional strategy for you to move forward! By the end of our FIRST session, you will be given therapeutic goals that you and I will work on.
Do you have trust issues in your relationship? Are you afraid to be honest with your partner or tired of trying to be someone you're not? Neither you or your partner are really talking about your hurt or resentments over pornography and infidelity. You've tried over and over again and the current situation isn't working for you and/or your relationship. Contact me and we will talk about how you feel about your challenges and together come up with a behavioral and emotional strategy for you to move forward! By the end of our FIRST session, you will be given therapeutic goals that you and I will work on.
(609) 913-3360 View (609) 913-3360
Photo of Eric K. Larsen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Summit, NJ
Eric K. Larsen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Short Hills, NJ 07078  (Online Only)
I'm a sex therapist specializing in adult male sexual issues. I help men with sex addiction, sexual anxiety, sexual functioning, infidelity and open relationships. I also help my clients navigate job and financial stress, employment transitions and retirement, separation and divorce. I'm proactive and passionate about helping the men I work with identify clear positive goals, improve their perspective and judgment, and make healthier and lasting adjustments to change.
I'm a sex therapist specializing in adult male sexual issues. I help men with sex addiction, sexual anxiety, sexual functioning, infidelity and open relationships. I also help my clients navigate job and financial stress, employment transitions and retirement, separation and divorce. I'm proactive and passionate about helping the men I work with identify clear positive goals, improve their perspective and judgment, and make healthier and lasting adjustments to change.
(973) 510-0386 View (973) 510-0386
Photo of Dawn Gilbert Ippoliti, Art Therapist in Summit, NJ
Dawn Gilbert Ippoliti
Art Therapist, MA, ATR-BC, LCAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Millburn, NJ 07041
I am passionate about living life in the present moment and deeply value mindfulness as an accessible internal resource to help alleviate stress and anxiety. Many people I see are looking for an alternative to traditional talk therapy. My comprehensive training in psychotherapy and art therapy brings a diverse element to my sessions. I have been practicing for fifteen years with the majority of my professional experience focusing on children and families. My private practice includes supporting young people and professionals through life changes. Often, these individuals hope to find more direction and/or deeper meaning in their own experiences.
I am passionate about living life in the present moment and deeply value mindfulness as an accessible internal resource to help alleviate stress and anxiety. Many people I see are looking for an alternative to traditional talk therapy. My comprehensive training in psychotherapy and art therapy brings a diverse element to my sessions. I have been practicing for fifteen years with the majority of my professional experience focusing on children and families. My private practice includes supporting young people and professionals through life changes. Often, these individuals hope to find more direction and/or deeper meaning in their own experiences.
(917) 512-6793 View (917) 512-6793
Photo of Lexi Garber, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Summit, NJ
Lexi Garber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Short Hills, NJ 07078  (Online Only)
I believe in the beautiful complexity of humans and in human fortitude to navigate what hurts. As a therapist, I am here to help deepen your understanding of the wonder and the pain within your story and make space for something new. Reaching for support takes courage; I will meet you on your path, we'll assess your needs together, and work to let healing unfold. I have expertise and a special dedication to those managing perinatal challenges including infertility and loss. I also work with those coping with anxiety, trauma, depression, the myriad of life’s transitions, and the unique experience of first responders.
I believe in the beautiful complexity of humans and in human fortitude to navigate what hurts. As a therapist, I am here to help deepen your understanding of the wonder and the pain within your story and make space for something new. Reaching for support takes courage; I will meet you on your path, we'll assess your needs together, and work to let healing unfold. I have expertise and a special dedication to those managing perinatal challenges including infertility and loss. I also work with those coping with anxiety, trauma, depression, the myriad of life’s transitions, and the unique experience of first responders.
(929) 552-6092 View (929) 552-6092
Photo of Larisa R. Wainer, Psychologist in Summit, NJ
Larisa R. Wainer
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Short Hills, NJ 07078  (Online Only)
Are you feeling anxious or depressed? Experiencing challenges in relationships? Problems with marriage or sex life? Whether you are adjusting to a recent stressor or dealing with a long-standing issue, talking with a doctoral-level professional can help you finally get some relief! If you are looking for an experienced, empathic psychologist who can help you have a better understanding and relationship with yourself and others, I am looking forward to meeting you! I specialize in individual as well as couples/marital therapy and work with a variety of age groups, from high school students to older adults.
Are you feeling anxious or depressed? Experiencing challenges in relationships? Problems with marriage or sex life? Whether you are adjusting to a recent stressor or dealing with a long-standing issue, talking with a doctoral-level professional can help you finally get some relief! If you are looking for an experienced, empathic psychologist who can help you have a better understanding and relationship with yourself and others, I am looking forward to meeting you! I specialize in individual as well as couples/marital therapy and work with a variety of age groups, from high school students to older adults.
(973) 947-8118 View (973) 947-8118
Photo of Will Mills, Licensed Professional Counselor in Summit, NJ
Will Mills
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Short Hills, NJ 07078  (Online Only)
Will has over 10 years of experience providing mental health treatment to New Jerseyans. Having worked in all levels of care — from inpatient to residential programs/group homes to outpatient settings — Will is able to support an array of clients from all walks of life. As Lead Therapist and Owner of Will Inspire You Counseling, he is immensely passionate about supporting people of all ages. Will specializes in supporting individuals living with ADHD, Anxiety and other related disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorder, as well as Eating Disorders and disordered eating. Within his repertoire is a particular focus on LGBTQ+ health.
Will has over 10 years of experience providing mental health treatment to New Jerseyans. Having worked in all levels of care — from inpatient to residential programs/group homes to outpatient settings — Will is able to support an array of clients from all walks of life. As Lead Therapist and Owner of Will Inspire You Counseling, he is immensely passionate about supporting people of all ages. Will specializes in supporting individuals living with ADHD, Anxiety and other related disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorder, as well as Eating Disorders and disordered eating. Within his repertoire is a particular focus on LGBTQ+ health.
(732) 784-4113 View (732) 784-4113
Photo of Sarah Wilson McConkey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Summit, NJ
Sarah Wilson McConkey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ADHD, -CCSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Short Hills, NJ 07078  (Online Only)
I know it can be frustrating for adults with ADD/ADHD to find someone who really gets it. You've been told to "just" make a to-do list, or "just" buy a planner... If only it were that simple! ADHD is not simply a disorder among people who forgot to buy calendars. It is a different arrangement of wiring in the brain which comes with challenges, along with unique strengths and abilities. With patience and self-acceptance, you can improve your functioning and habits to begin making real progress towards your goals. Having the guidance of a caring professional who understands ADHD makes this process much less painful.
I know it can be frustrating for adults with ADD/ADHD to find someone who really gets it. You've been told to "just" make a to-do list, or "just" buy a planner... If only it were that simple! ADHD is not simply a disorder among people who forgot to buy calendars. It is a different arrangement of wiring in the brain which comes with challenges, along with unique strengths and abilities. With patience and self-acceptance, you can improve your functioning and habits to begin making real progress towards your goals. Having the guidance of a caring professional who understands ADHD makes this process much less painful.
(201) 355-5870 View (201) 355-5870
Photo of Donna Lobiondo, Psychologist in Summit, NJ
Donna Lobiondo
Psychologist, MDiv, PhD
Verified Verified
Short Hills, NJ 07078  (Online Only)
I'm a sex therapist specializing in work with women and couples. I can help with issues like unhappy and conflicted relationships, desire discrepancy, sexual partner incompatibility, infidelity, midlife sexual changes, and exploring open relationships. I particularly enjoy helping women work through relationship confusion, midlife changes, sexual problems, and long-term couple issues.
I'm a sex therapist specializing in work with women and couples. I can help with issues like unhappy and conflicted relationships, desire discrepancy, sexual partner incompatibility, infidelity, midlife sexual changes, and exploring open relationships. I particularly enjoy helping women work through relationship confusion, midlife changes, sexual problems, and long-term couple issues.
(973) 968-5257 View (973) 968-5257
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.