Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Therapists in Columbus, OH

Corey Bowling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
2 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43221
Are you part of the kink community?
As a clinician, I center the client in the experience. I focus on strengths of the client, while providing compassion and curiosity. I use storytelling, dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS). This also allows space to explore identity, executive function challenges, and gender-affirming care.
Are you part of the kink community?
As a clinician, I center the client in the experience. I focus on strengths of the client, while providing compassion and curiosity. I use storytelling, dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS). This also allows space to explore identity, executive function challenges, and gender-affirming care.
(380) 220-8504 View (380) 220-8504
Olivia N Shagla
Counselor, M.Ed, LPCC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
The world can feel like it’s on fire, yet we’re still expected to carry on with our daily lives. Ongoing stressors can leave you feeling stuck, unsafe, anxious, burned out, panicked, or depressed. Navigating these challenges while also processing LGBTQIA+ concerns, past trauma, neurodivergence, relationship issues, and chronic illness can feel intense, sometimes even impossible. You don’t have to face it alone. I will sit with you in the chaos and help you make sense of it, at your pace. I have experience treating trauma related disorders, OCD, disordered eating, dissociative disorders, religious trauma, and ENM.
The world can feel like it’s on fire, yet we’re still expected to carry on with our daily lives. Ongoing stressors can leave you feeling stuck, unsafe, anxious, burned out, panicked, or depressed. Navigating these challenges while also processing LGBTQIA+ concerns, past trauma, neurodivergence, relationship issues, and chronic illness can feel intense, sometimes even impossible. You don’t have to face it alone. I will sit with you in the chaos and help you make sense of it, at your pace. I have experience treating trauma related disorders, OCD, disordered eating, dissociative disorders, religious trauma, and ENM.
(614) 907-4594 View (614) 907-4594
Amy Hauer - Sexuality Educator & ENM Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Online Only
Kink.
Being in poly and kink configurations brings real joy and real complications — jealousy that doesn't go away, the exhaustion of constant negotiation, the challenges of desire discrepancies, showing up ethically for everyone, including yourself. And underneath all of it: the question of whether your relational and sexual desires are really okay. They are.
Kink.
Being in poly and kink configurations brings real joy and real complications — jealousy that doesn't go away, the exhaustion of constant negotiation, the challenges of desire discrepancies, showing up ethically for everyone, including yourself. And underneath all of it: the question of whether your relational and sexual desires are really okay. They are.
(614) 963-9852 View (614) 963-9852
Rachel Ryan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
3 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43240
I have a special interest in working with couples and am particularly passionate about supporting sexually and relationally diverse clients, including LGBTQIA+, polyamorous, and kink-identified couples and individuals.
I'm passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families build and maintain healthy, fulfilling relationships. I believe that working as a therapist with a person requires comprehending their environment and the vast network of people who influenced their lives, positively as well as negatively. My goal is to guide clients out of their own heads and help them see how their past impacts their present, fostering improved relationships and personal growth. I'm from St. Louis and moved to Columbus to pursue a PhD at OSU. Throughout my career, I have gained extensive experience working with diverse folks.
I have a special interest in working with couples and am particularly passionate about supporting sexually and relationally diverse clients, including LGBTQIA+, polyamorous, and kink-identified couples and individuals.
I'm passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families build and maintain healthy, fulfilling relationships. I believe that working as a therapist with a person requires comprehending their environment and the vast network of people who influenced their lives, positively as well as negatively. My goal is to guide clients out of their own heads and help them see how their past impacts their present, fostering improved relationships and personal growth. I'm from St. Louis and moved to Columbus to pursue a PhD at OSU. Throughout my career, I have gained extensive experience working with diverse folks.
(380) 227-3253 View (380) 227-3253
Jennie Recko
Counselor, LPCC-S
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43220
Waitlist for new clients
Hello there! I am passionate about connecting with others and offering a non-judgmental space for folks to not only heal from past wounds but also learn how to thrive as their unique selves. I believe that you are the expert on you, and we will work together to determine a treatment plan and approach that fits your personalized needs. Through my professional journey, I have come to feel the strongest passion in working with adolescents, young adults, and adults in exploring personal identities and expressions. I have also received training in and am very passionate about providing the service of Gender Affirming Letter writing.
Hello there! I am passionate about connecting with others and offering a non-judgmental space for folks to not only heal from past wounds but also learn how to thrive as their unique selves. I believe that you are the expert on you, and we will work together to determine a treatment plan and approach that fits your personalized needs. Through my professional journey, I have come to feel the strongest passion in working with adolescents, young adults, and adults in exploring personal identities and expressions. I have also received training in and am very passionate about providing the service of Gender Affirming Letter writing.
(614) 980-0097 View (614) 980-0097
Regina Sigafoos
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
2 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43221
I’m a queer, sex‑positive therapist who centers LGBTQIA+ folks, women, nonbinary and trans people in individual and relationship therapy. I’m a good fit if you’re unpacking sexual shame, navigating pelvic pain or chronic illness and sex, exploring your desire or orientation, or trying to make polyamory feel less chaotic and more secure. Together we’ll notice how culture, trauma, and power have shaped your story and build more self‑compassion, choice, and pleasure in how you relate to your body and the people you love. My goal is to offer a brave, playful space where you can be fully yourself and practice new ways of relating.
I’m a queer, sex‑positive therapist who centers LGBTQIA+ folks, women, nonbinary and trans people in individual and relationship therapy. I’m a good fit if you’re unpacking sexual shame, navigating pelvic pain or chronic illness and sex, exploring your desire or orientation, or trying to make polyamory feel less chaotic and more secure. Together we’ll notice how culture, trauma, and power have shaped your story and build more self‑compassion, choice, and pleasure in how you relate to your body and the people you love. My goal is to offer a brave, playful space where you can be fully yourself and practice new ways of relating.
(614) 683-3742 x108 View (614) 683-3742 x108
Miller Potoma
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPCC, ATR
Online Only
I approach my practice as kink-aware, anti-capitalist, pro-sex worker, and knowledgeable about non-monogamous relationships.
Because you know you best, we will collaborate to explore your intentions, identify therapeutic goals, and establish an individualized plan. I am IFS informed and utilize art therapy to deepen self-understanding and promote healing with clients. My aim during our sessions is to create a safe, inclusive space where you can freely express yourself.
I approach my practice as kink-aware, anti-capitalist, pro-sex worker, and knowledgeable about non-monogamous relationships.
Because you know you best, we will collaborate to explore your intentions, identify therapeutic goals, and establish an individualized plan. I am IFS informed and utilize art therapy to deepen self-understanding and promote healing with clients. My aim during our sessions is to create a safe, inclusive space where you can freely express yourself.
(215) 398-1589 View (215) 398-1589
Caroline Martin
Licensed Independent Social Worker, LISW-S
1 Endorsed
Online Only
You are here! Right now! Even if you feel stuck, deeply hurt, or disconnected. Rooted in Buddhist principles, I support LGBTQ+, chronically ill, and neurodivergent adults find clarity and acceptance so they can move through life with confidence and dignity. Here's a quote from an activist and author I admire- "Morale itself is a terrain of struggle. Our morale is under attack, because our lives are under attack. But they haven’t defeated us, and they won’t. So play with your dog, and talk to your friends, and make plans. And whatever you do, don’t let fear defeat you." - Margaret Killjoy
You are here! Right now! Even if you feel stuck, deeply hurt, or disconnected. Rooted in Buddhist principles, I support LGBTQ+, chronically ill, and neurodivergent adults find clarity and acceptance so they can move through life with confidence and dignity. Here's a quote from an activist and author I admire- "Morale itself is a terrain of struggle. Our morale is under attack, because our lives are under attack. But they haven’t defeated us, and they won’t. So play with your dog, and talk to your friends, and make plans. And whatever you do, don’t let fear defeat you." - Margaret Killjoy
(740) 293-4061 View (740) 293-4061
Abigail Lindenmeier
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
I strive to create a space that is sex-positive, kink-positive, and welcoming to all parts of who you are.
I have a passion for supporting clients navigating relationships, identity exploration, religious trauma, neurodivergence, executive functioning challenges, kink exploration, and life transitions. I use a person-centered, feminist, and trauma-informed lens in my practice.
I strive to create a space that is sex-positive, kink-positive, and welcoming to all parts of who you are.
I have a passion for supporting clients navigating relationships, identity exploration, religious trauma, neurodivergence, executive functioning challenges, kink exploration, and life transitions. I use a person-centered, feminist, and trauma-informed lens in my practice.
(440) 693-3757 View (440) 693-3757
Katie M Kissel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I enjoy working with diverse groups of clients and I'm pretty adaptable to the needs of clients. It's important to me that you have a positive experience in therapy as my client and I focus on building positive therapeutic relationship. I work with adults who are part of the LGBTQIA+ community, whether they are well established in the community or just beginning exploration, people who want to improve their quality of life whether that be through confidence, lifestyle changes, or challenging unhealthy societal views. If you struggle with mental health concerns, women's issues, or issues related to lifestyle changes.
I enjoy working with diverse groups of clients and I'm pretty adaptable to the needs of clients. It's important to me that you have a positive experience in therapy as my client and I focus on building positive therapeutic relationship. I work with adults who are part of the LGBTQIA+ community, whether they are well established in the community or just beginning exploration, people who want to improve their quality of life whether that be through confidence, lifestyle changes, or challenging unhealthy societal views. If you struggle with mental health concerns, women's issues, or issues related to lifestyle changes.
(419) 904-5078 View (419) 904-5078
Amanda R Abernethy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, CSTIP
Online Only
Amanda has lived experience and special interest in working with individuals and couples/relationships within the LGBTQIA+, poly/ENM, kink, transgender and alternative lifestyles communities.
Over the years, Amanda has gained training and expertise in various treatment modalities including: DBT, CBT, family systems and others. She is also a Level One Gottman trained relationship counselor.
Amanda has lived experience and special interest in working with individuals and couples/relationships within the LGBTQIA+, poly/ENM, kink, transgender and alternative lifestyles communities.
Over the years, Amanda has gained training and expertise in various treatment modalities including: DBT, CBT, family systems and others. She is also a Level One Gottman trained relationship counselor.
(740) 576-6939 View (740) 576-6939
Ray Marshall
Counselor, MAEd, LPCC-S
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Queer, poly, and kink friendly!
You’re noticing shifts in your identity, relationships, or desires and realizing you want a space where none of that needs to be explained or justified. Whether you’re queer, kinky, exploring ethical non-monogamy (ENM), or simply questioning the life you’ve been living, you deserve support that actually fits you. I offer a grounded, affirming space to sort through the confusion, the “wtf” moments, and the quiet pull toward something more authentic. You don’t have to navigate this alone—your growth deserves real attention and care.
Queer, poly, and kink friendly!
You’re noticing shifts in your identity, relationships, or desires and realizing you want a space where none of that needs to be explained or justified. Whether you’re queer, kinky, exploring ethical non-monogamy (ENM), or simply questioning the life you’ve been living, you deserve support that actually fits you. I offer a grounded, affirming space to sort through the confusion, the “wtf” moments, and the quiet pull toward something more authentic. You don’t have to navigate this alone—your growth deserves real attention and care.
(440) 201-9931 View (440) 201-9931
Priscilla Loba
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
Online Only
I work with individuals and couples. I am easy to talk to and try to make my clients feel comfortable, especially new clients. I always start from where the client is but I am also direct and expect my clients to consider my suggestions so that they can move forward toward their therapy goals. I have expertise in the following areas: depression and anxiety, grief, family of origin issues, inner child work, communication issues, sexual dysfunction, sexual addiction
I work with individuals and couples. I am easy to talk to and try to make my clients feel comfortable, especially new clients. I always start from where the client is but I am also direct and expect my clients to consider my suggestions so that they can move forward toward their therapy goals. I have expertise in the following areas: depression and anxiety, grief, family of origin issues, inner child work, communication issues, sexual dysfunction, sexual addiction
(513) 949-4074 View (513) 949-4074
S. Lorena Shadwick
Marriage & Family Therapist, IMFT-S, LMFT-S, ATR-BC
4 Endorsed
Online Only
I provide Telehealth sessions Mon - Thurs from 10a est - 5p EST. I am focused on working with adults and adolescents. I am a somatic trauma therapist with an attachment focus. I offer a client-centered, affirming, collaborative, relational approach. I support clients struggling with Trauma, PTSD, and Grief & Loss and chronic illness. I am trained in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (somatic trauma therapy) and Board Certified in Art Therapy. I am trained in RLT. I am LGBTQ affirming and open to all sexual, gender and relational identities. I am a Clinical Supervisor and can provide supervision to pre-licensed MFT/ATR trainees.
I provide Telehealth sessions Mon - Thurs from 10a est - 5p EST. I am focused on working with adults and adolescents. I am a somatic trauma therapist with an attachment focus. I offer a client-centered, affirming, collaborative, relational approach. I support clients struggling with Trauma, PTSD, and Grief & Loss and chronic illness. I am trained in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (somatic trauma therapy) and Board Certified in Art Therapy. I am trained in RLT. I am LGBTQ affirming and open to all sexual, gender and relational identities. I am a Clinical Supervisor and can provide supervision to pre-licensed MFT/ATR trainees.
(213) 631-3733 View (213) 631-3733
Alex Henn
Counselor, MA, LPCC-S
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43214
I approach therapy by helping clients better understand what is limiting their peace and exploring options to address that together. I am experienced in treating a range of challenges including LGBTQ+ concerns, grief, anxiety, mood disorders, relationship issues, trauma, ADHD, and autism.
I approach therapy by helping clients better understand what is limiting their peace and exploring options to address that together. I am experienced in treating a range of challenges including LGBTQ+ concerns, grief, anxiety, mood disorders, relationship issues, trauma, ADHD, and autism.
(740) 499-7266 View (740) 499-7266
Tarowyn Shields
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43235
With the diversity of the autistic community, I also work with the many overlapping identities (e.g., LGBTQIA+, ENM, and kink) and co-occurring conditions (e.g., depression, anxiety, and trauma) that are salient for those on the spectrum.
My approach to counseling integrates identity development, trauma-informed approaches, critical theory, and wellness in the effort to improve your holistic quality of life. Some of the modalities from which I draw include RCT, DBT, and Gestalt. I offer individual sessions in an office I cultivated to accommodate a variety of needs and comforts.
With the diversity of the autistic community, I also work with the many overlapping identities (e.g., LGBTQIA+, ENM, and kink) and co-occurring conditions (e.g., depression, anxiety, and trauma) that are salient for those on the spectrum.
My approach to counseling integrates identity development, trauma-informed approaches, critical theory, and wellness in the effort to improve your holistic quality of life. Some of the modalities from which I draw include RCT, DBT, and Gestalt. I offer individual sessions in an office I cultivated to accommodate a variety of needs and comforts.
(614) 454-8443 View (614) 454-8443
Matthew Luc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43206
I work with adults of all backgrounds, including LGBTQIA2S+ individuals, and I support clients in all types of relationships, including monogamous, non-monogamous, and polyamorous. My approach is inclusive, culturally sensitive, affirming, and nonjudgmental, focusing on resilience, self-awareness, and personal growth while honoring your unique experiences and goals.
I work with adults of all backgrounds, including LGBTQIA2S+ individuals, and I support clients in all types of relationships, including monogamous, non-monogamous, and polyamorous. My approach is inclusive, culturally sensitive, affirming, and nonjudgmental, focusing on resilience, self-awareness, and personal growth while honoring your unique experiences and goals.
(614) 468-8184 View (614) 468-8184
Dragonfly Counseling & Wellness
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
Columbus, OH 43215
Dragonfly Counseling & Wellness is your destination for Identity • Sexuality • Connection - reimagined. We specialize in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to help individuals and couples be their most authentic selves and have their needs recognized, met, and satisfied.
Dragonfly Counseling & Wellness is your destination for Identity • Sexuality • Connection - reimagined. We specialize in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to help individuals and couples be their most authentic selves and have their needs recognized, met, and satisfied.
(380) 333-6792 View (380) 333-6792
Katherine Bearer
Counselor, LPCC-S
6 Endorsed
Online Only
Therapy is an exciting and challenging journey. I believe that you already have the skills to help you along the way, and my role is to help you strengthen those skills while adding more to your toolbox. I am passionate about growth and healing, and I have training in several different types of therapy we may use in session, depending on your therapy goals.
Therapy is an exciting and challenging journey. I believe that you already have the skills to help you along the way, and my role is to help you strengthen those skills while adding more to your toolbox. I am passionate about growth and healing, and I have training in several different types of therapy we may use in session, depending on your therapy goals.
(614) 916-9264 View (614) 916-9264
Cook Counseling and Consulting Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S, LCSW-QS, CCTP
6 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43230
Hi there! We are Cook Counseling and Consulting Inc., a group of psychotherapists with diverse experiences and specialties. We work with clients with various concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, career challenges, BPD, and trauma. We use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Cognitive Processing (CPT), Dialectical (DBT), Couples Therapy, and Trauma Focused therapies. We believe in treating everyone with respect and working with clients and couples to identify strengths and develop the skills to navigate life's challenges. We also offer supervision for LSWs seeking independent licensure.
Hi there! We are Cook Counseling and Consulting Inc., a group of psychotherapists with diverse experiences and specialties. We work with clients with various concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, career challenges, BPD, and trauma. We use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Cognitive Processing (CPT), Dialectical (DBT), Couples Therapy, and Trauma Focused therapies. We believe in treating everyone with respect and working with clients and couples to identify strengths and develop the skills to navigate life's challenges. We also offer supervision for LSWs seeking independent licensure.
(614) 835-6068 View (614) 835-6068

See more therapy options for Columbus

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.