Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Therapists in Woodstock, NY
My clients come to me for many reasons. Trauma. Relationship struggles. Identity questions. Anxiety. Life transitions. What they find here is a clinician with over 20 years of experience, trained in EMDR, Polyvagal Theory, IFS, and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. What makes my practice distinctive is that I also bring specialized sex therapy training. I am one of the few therapists who will ask about your sexual history because that story is always part of the picture, even when no one has thought to ask.
My clients come to me for many reasons. Trauma. Relationship struggles. Identity questions. Anxiety. Life transitions. What they find here is a clinician with over 20 years of experience, trained in EMDR, Polyvagal Theory, IFS, and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. What makes my practice distinctive is that I also bring specialized sex therapy training. I am one of the few therapists who will ask about your sexual history because that story is always part of the picture, even when no one has thought to ask.
My passion is supporting clients on their path to personal, spiritual, and relational growth. I strive to create a non-judgmental and affirming space where clients can bring their full selves to therapy. I specialize in working with survivors of sexual and relational trauma, people from the LGBTQIA+ communities, and individuals looking to develop deeper spiritual insight including during times of life transitions. My work is grounded in sex-positivity, anti-oppression, somatics, and pleasure.
My passion is supporting clients on their path to personal, spiritual, and relational growth. I strive to create a non-judgmental and affirming space where clients can bring their full selves to therapy. I specialize in working with survivors of sexual and relational trauma, people from the LGBTQIA+ communities, and individuals looking to develop deeper spiritual insight including during times of life transitions. My work is grounded in sex-positivity, anti-oppression, somatics, and pleasure.
I am kink-affirming, LGBTQIA+ inclusive, and sex work-positive.
Have you been feeling disconnected from yourself, your relationships, or your sense of intimacy? My clients are individuals, couples, and polycules seeking deeper intimacy, stronger communication, and a more authentic connection to themselves and others. Many come to therapy navigating relationship conflict, sexuality and identity exploration, anxiety around intimacy, porn addiction, or nontraditional relationship dynamics. I provide a warm, affirming, and nonjudgmental space where clients can explore their experiences openly, strengthen communication, and build relationships that feel emotionally safe and aligned with their values.
I am kink-affirming, LGBTQIA+ inclusive, and sex work-positive.
Have you been feeling disconnected from yourself, your relationships, or your sense of intimacy? My clients are individuals, couples, and polycules seeking deeper intimacy, stronger communication, and a more authentic connection to themselves and others. Many come to therapy navigating relationship conflict, sexuality and identity exploration, anxiety around intimacy, porn addiction, or nontraditional relationship dynamics. I provide a warm, affirming, and nonjudgmental space where clients can explore their experiences openly, strengthen communication, and build relationships that feel emotionally safe and aligned with their values.
I am an LCSW with 30 years of experience helping individuals grow, change and navigate life's twists and turns. When it feels like family, relationships or career are in flux, a professional perspective can be helpful. Together, we can talk about what's going on and how you see yourself going forward. I see clients either on-line or at my Woodstock, NY office.
I am an LCSW with 30 years of experience helping individuals grow, change and navigate life's twists and turns. When it feels like family, relationships or career are in flux, a professional perspective can be helpful. Together, we can talk about what's going on and how you see yourself going forward. I see clients either on-line or at my Woodstock, NY office.
I work as a psychodynamic, Jungian oriented psychotherapist which means our conversations often move beneath the presenting problem to explore deeper patterns, symbols and unconscious material shaping your life. I'm especially interested in dreams, myth and archetype as language the psyche uses to communicate what hasn't yet found words. Rather than offering quick fixes, I help clients slow down and build a relationship with their inner world - trusting that greater self understanding leads to lasting change. My approach draws on depth psychology to help you not just feel better, but come to know yourself more fully.
I work as a psychodynamic, Jungian oriented psychotherapist which means our conversations often move beneath the presenting problem to explore deeper patterns, symbols and unconscious material shaping your life. I'm especially interested in dreams, myth and archetype as language the psyche uses to communicate what hasn't yet found words. Rather than offering quick fixes, I help clients slow down and build a relationship with their inner world - trusting that greater self understanding leads to lasting change. My approach draws on depth psychology to help you not just feel better, but come to know yourself more fully.
Ricky's approach is active, collaborative, and attuned - helping you remain focused while staying flexible within yourself and in relationships. He is trained to provide evidence based psychological services in advanced therapy approaches with underpinnings in emotional neuro-science. Ricky's approach focuses on co-creating a strong dynamic relationship designed to achieve rapid, meaningful, and long lasting change which moves beyond the therapy room. Ricky is also Certified in Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy with Ketamine, MDMA, and Psilocybin (pending FDA approval).
Ricky's approach is active, collaborative, and attuned - helping you remain focused while staying flexible within yourself and in relationships. He is trained to provide evidence based psychological services in advanced therapy approaches with underpinnings in emotional neuro-science. Ricky's approach focuses on co-creating a strong dynamic relationship designed to achieve rapid, meaningful, and long lasting change which moves beyond the therapy room. Ricky is also Certified in Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy with Ketamine, MDMA, and Psilocybin (pending FDA approval).
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or just not like yourself lately? Life can be incredibly hard at times, and it’s not always easy to know where to turn. You may be carrying the weight of anxiety, depression, trauma, or loss—or navigating big changes in identity, relationships, or your place in the world. Whatever you’re facing, you don’t have to go through it alone. I offer a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space where you can share, reflect, and feel heard. My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in deep respect for who you are.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or just not like yourself lately? Life can be incredibly hard at times, and it’s not always easy to know where to turn. You may be carrying the weight of anxiety, depression, trauma, or loss—or navigating big changes in identity, relationships, or your place in the world. Whatever you’re facing, you don’t have to go through it alone. I offer a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space where you can share, reflect, and feel heard. My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in deep respect for who you are.
I am so glad you are here! Chances are you are looking for some kind of change or connection in your life and I hope you give yourself the credit you deserve for being here. The world we live in moves too fast, makes us feel like we’re always moving too slow, and tells us that slowing down and taking time for ourselves is somehow wrong. The truth is we are not designed to always be moving so quickly and doing so much - all the time. Our nervous systems, bodies, and minds need time and space to slow down and process our lived experiences. In a world moving so fast, our true inner voice, our anchor, is often so hard to hear.
I am so glad you are here! Chances are you are looking for some kind of change or connection in your life and I hope you give yourself the credit you deserve for being here. The world we live in moves too fast, makes us feel like we’re always moving too slow, and tells us that slowing down and taking time for ourselves is somehow wrong. The truth is we are not designed to always be moving so quickly and doing so much - all the time. Our nervous systems, bodies, and minds need time and space to slow down and process our lived experiences. In a world moving so fast, our true inner voice, our anchor, is often so hard to hear.
You may have arrived here because something in your life is changing.
Perhaps you've lost someone, left a relationship, changed careers, questioned your faith, gender, sexuality, become a parent, received a diagnosis, or sensed that the life you've built no longer reflects who you are.
Many of the people I work with find themselves in these liminal spaces. Some are navigating grief, loss, or significant life transitions. Others are moving through periods of identity reformation, spiritual questioning, or uncertainty. These moments can feel disorienting, but they can also become invitations into a deeper relationship with yourself.
You may have arrived here because something in your life is changing.
Perhaps you've lost someone, left a relationship, changed careers, questioned your faith, gender, sexuality, become a parent, received a diagnosis, or sensed that the life you've built no longer reflects who you are.
Many of the people I work with find themselves in these liminal spaces. Some are navigating grief, loss, or significant life transitions. Others are moving through periods of identity reformation, spiritual questioning, or uncertainty. These moments can feel disorienting, but they can also become invitations into a deeper relationship with yourself.
I am a psychotherapist with extensive experience treating complex challenges like trauma, mood disorders, anxiety and psychosis. My clients may also be navigating difficult life situations such as stressful work environments, neurodivergence, inequity in domestic labor, challenges related to maternal mental health, parenting, special education advocacy, and other crises. We will work together to build coping skills, confidence and achieve stability; enhancing your relationships and self-advocacy. Ultimately, the goal is not only symptom relief but also deeper self-awareness and empowerment in your life.
I am a psychotherapist with extensive experience treating complex challenges like trauma, mood disorders, anxiety and psychosis. My clients may also be navigating difficult life situations such as stressful work environments, neurodivergence, inequity in domestic labor, challenges related to maternal mental health, parenting, special education advocacy, and other crises. We will work together to build coping skills, confidence and achieve stability; enhancing your relationships and self-advocacy. Ultimately, the goal is not only symptom relief but also deeper self-awareness and empowerment in your life.
Hello there. So, I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, seasoned coach, and a Level 3 Gottman Couples & Relationship therapist. I am also a former professional comedian, and a serious behavioral science nerd, and when I mix scientific theories, strategies and tools, 10 years of experience, and, a dash of humor, I've found this to be a powerfully effective, healing combo platter. Sliding Scale Available if needed.
Hello there. So, I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, seasoned coach, and a Level 3 Gottman Couples & Relationship therapist. I am also a former professional comedian, and a serious behavioral science nerd, and when I mix scientific theories, strategies and tools, 10 years of experience, and, a dash of humor, I've found this to be a powerfully effective, healing combo platter. Sliding Scale Available if needed.
You may be wondering what your last relationship has taught you. You may feel like your current job or school has you stuck. Maybe you're in the process of coming out, in the myriad of ways that means, and you're looking for help to process it. Maybe I can help. You are the *expert in your own life* and we will be co-creating this healing space, the therapeutic alliance.
You may be wondering what your last relationship has taught you. You may feel like your current job or school has you stuck. Maybe you're in the process of coming out, in the myriad of ways that means, and you're looking for help to process it. Maybe I can help. You are the *expert in your own life* and we will be co-creating this healing space, the therapeutic alliance.
I work from a relational, trauma-informed perspective that values every individual’s innate wisdom and capacity for growth. I strive to create a nonjudgmental environment that allows you to safely unfold and explore. Together we will work towards better understanding the experiences that formed you and releasing that which no longer serves you. I will support you to discover a sense of possibility while honoring your authentic self.
I work from a relational, trauma-informed perspective that values every individual’s innate wisdom and capacity for growth. I strive to create a nonjudgmental environment that allows you to safely unfold and explore. Together we will work towards better understanding the experiences that formed you and releasing that which no longer serves you. I will support you to discover a sense of possibility while honoring your authentic self.
Hi my name is Shula Melamed I am a Relationship and Wellbeing Coach. My focus is on helping people build better relationships - with others and most importantly, themselves. Individuals and couples come to me when they are looking to not only improve their interactions with others but to also understand how and where they might be holding themselves back from living bigger and bolder lives. I have an MA in Psychology from The New School University and an MPH in Social Medical Sciences - Sexuality and Health from Columbia University. I have been working with individuals, couples and groups since 2013.
Hi my name is Shula Melamed I am a Relationship and Wellbeing Coach. My focus is on helping people build better relationships - with others and most importantly, themselves. Individuals and couples come to me when they are looking to not only improve their interactions with others but to also understand how and where they might be holding themselves back from living bigger and bolder lives. I have an MA in Psychology from The New School University and an MPH in Social Medical Sciences - Sexuality and Health from Columbia University. I have been working with individuals, couples and groups since 2013.
I can guide you toward improving your sex life and experiencing deeper intimacy and pleasure. My style is practical and future-focused, where, each session, we work on small shifts that can be made to help the bigger changes feel more attainable. I am the least judgmental person you've ever met, and I go out of my way to help clients feel safe to open up about the more difficult topics. I choose to be a coach and not a therapist because it allows me more flexibility in treatment modality, but I have an extensive background and credentials in studying sexuality and relationships.
I can guide you toward improving your sex life and experiencing deeper intimacy and pleasure. My style is practical and future-focused, where, each session, we work on small shifts that can be made to help the bigger changes feel more attainable. I am the least judgmental person you've ever met, and I go out of my way to help clients feel safe to open up about the more difficult topics. I choose to be a coach and not a therapist because it allows me more flexibility in treatment modality, but I have an extensive background and credentials in studying sexuality and relationships.
I utilize an integrative approach with an emphasis on psychodynamic theory. I specialize in couples therapy, LGBTQ+ affirmative therapy, relationship and marital issues, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and trauma-informed individual/couples therapy.
I practice from a sex-positive, direct and non-judgmental perspective. I have helped individuals and couples with a range of struggles, including depression, anxiety, sexuality and gender identity, gender transition, navigating queer parenthood choices, infertility, rediscovering sex and intimacy in partnership, exploring polyamory, and finding clarity around life decisions.
I utilize an integrative approach with an emphasis on psychodynamic theory. I specialize in couples therapy, LGBTQ+ affirmative therapy, relationship and marital issues, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and trauma-informed individual/couples therapy.
I practice from a sex-positive, direct and non-judgmental perspective. I have helped individuals and couples with a range of struggles, including depression, anxiety, sexuality and gender identity, gender transition, navigating queer parenthood choices, infertility, rediscovering sex and intimacy in partnership, exploring polyamory, and finding clarity around life decisions.
I also have expertise in issues related to sexuality, gender, kink and non monogamous relationship structures.
I am a certified Sex Therapist with additional training in Mindfulness-Based Stress Recuction (MBSR) and Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP). I provide a supportive, client-centered experience that fosters personal growth. Treatment areas of focus include depression, anxiety, life transitions, interpersonal relationships, infidelity and sexuality. My approach is collaborative and trauma-informed with the goal of reducing feelings of fear, shame and judgement. I treat both individuals and couples as well as polycules. I also specialize in care for those living with HIV (worked at Gay Men's Health Crisis for 3 years).
I also have expertise in issues related to sexuality, gender, kink and non monogamous relationship structures.
I am a certified Sex Therapist with additional training in Mindfulness-Based Stress Recuction (MBSR) and Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP). I provide a supportive, client-centered experience that fosters personal growth. Treatment areas of focus include depression, anxiety, life transitions, interpersonal relationships, infidelity and sexuality. My approach is collaborative and trauma-informed with the goal of reducing feelings of fear, shame and judgement. I treat both individuals and couples as well as polycules. I also specialize in care for those living with HIV (worked at Gay Men's Health Crisis for 3 years).
Julissa M. Almonte Pérez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MT-BC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a Board Certified Music Therapist, and a Yoga Teacher. I am trained in Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialetical Behavior Therapy. I use multiple creative modalities to provide a positive experience for my clients including mindfulness, yoga, somatic techniques, movement, breath work, writing, and art. I provide non-judgmental care for adults and adolescents who are struggling with mood disorders, adjustment disorders, anxiety and depression. I have extensive experience working with diverse ethnic populations using a trauma informed and racial equity lens.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a Board Certified Music Therapist, and a Yoga Teacher. I am trained in Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialetical Behavior Therapy. I use multiple creative modalities to provide a positive experience for my clients including mindfulness, yoga, somatic techniques, movement, breath work, writing, and art. I provide non-judgmental care for adults and adolescents who are struggling with mood disorders, adjustment disorders, anxiety and depression. I have extensive experience working with diverse ethnic populations using a trauma informed and racial equity lens.
More Therapists Nearby
For those in the BDSM/ Kink & ENM communities, I draw on my lifestyle experience & clinical training to offer you support & affirmation of your orientation & lifestyle.
I’m a Holistic Psychotherapist, here to help you connect with all parts of you, to align with your values & desires, & to speak your truth & claim your power!
I know how painful it is to feel unseen & misunderstood- especially when seeking help. In traditional therapy you can wind up talking in circles, never getting to the root of the issue, finding no resolution, revelation or change. It's disheartening to see a therapist who doesn't get you or your experience.
I listen for what lives beneath your words - attuning to what language can't always capture. I can help you tap into the wisdom of your body & spirit.
For those in the BDSM/ Kink & ENM communities, I draw on my lifestyle experience & clinical training to offer you support & affirmation of your orientation & lifestyle.
I’m a Holistic Psychotherapist, here to help you connect with all parts of you, to align with your values & desires, & to speak your truth & claim your power!
I know how painful it is to feel unseen & misunderstood- especially when seeking help. In traditional therapy you can wind up talking in circles, never getting to the root of the issue, finding no resolution, revelation or change. It's disheartening to see a therapist who doesn't get you or your experience.
I listen for what lives beneath your words - attuning to what language can't always capture. I can help you tap into the wisdom of your body & spirit.
I specialize in work with those who identify as LGBTQIA+, as well as people in the poly/ENM and sex-positive communities.
Self-exploration, healing, and growth are both important and deeply personal. My approach to therapy is rooted in the understanding that who you are matters. Whether you are struggling with change, depression or anxiety, or seeking therapy for other reasons, I am here to engage with you in warm, validating treatment and guidance. My aim is to help you feel empowered, manage struggles, reduce harm, build effective coping skills and relationships, and thrive. Together we will honor your unique life experience and efforts toward personal growth.
I specialize in work with those who identify as LGBTQIA+, as well as people in the poly/ENM and sex-positive communities.
Self-exploration, healing, and growth are both important and deeply personal. My approach to therapy is rooted in the understanding that who you are matters. Whether you are struggling with change, depression or anxiety, or seeking therapy for other reasons, I am here to engage with you in warm, validating treatment and guidance. My aim is to help you feel empowered, manage struggles, reduce harm, build effective coping skills and relationships, and thrive. Together we will honor your unique life experience and efforts toward personal growth.
See more therapy options for Woodstock
Nearby Sex-Positive & Kink-Friendly Therapists Searches for Woodstock
- Arlington
- Catskill
- Fishkill
- Hudson
- Kingston
- New Paltz
- Newburgh
- Poughkeepsie
- Red Hook
- Rhinebeck
- Saugerties
- Wappingers Falls
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.