Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Therapists in Gahanna, OH

Photo of Susan Belair, Counselor, MA, LPCC
Susan Belair
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Gahanna, OH 43230
Was your childhood often painful, difficult, or scary? Did you feel alone, invisible, or unloved? Maybe the past is just a blank. Or are you going through a difficult time in your life, frozen with worry, grieving, or overwhelmed and exhausted? Do you need to leave a situation that feels abusive or break a toxic pattern? Repeated disturbing memories, physical sensations, thoughts, or dreams can be signs of trauma. It may feel hard to be your real self, or that you over-react and can't stop. Your feelings might be extreme. Whether these are new or recurring symptoms, you can heal and lead a healthier and more authentic life.
Was your childhood often painful, difficult, or scary? Did you feel alone, invisible, or unloved? Maybe the past is just a blank. Or are you going through a difficult time in your life, frozen with worry, grieving, or overwhelmed and exhausted? Do you need to leave a situation that feels abusive or break a toxic pattern? Repeated disturbing memories, physical sensations, thoughts, or dreams can be signs of trauma. It may feel hard to be your real self, or that you over-react and can't stop. Your feelings might be extreme. Whether these are new or recurring symptoms, you can heal and lead a healthier and more authentic life.
(614) 414-3673 View (614) 414-3673
Photo of Jennifer Plymale, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Jennifer Plymale
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
2 Endorsed
Gahanna, OH 43230
Greetings! Do you often feel uncertain about your identity, value, or ability to be successful? Do you often feel like you are trying to fit yourself into boxes society has created for you, but it's not quite right? Do you feel the internal calling to show up with more authenticity or like there is something meaningful waiting for you right outside of your grasp? Let me walk with you on your path to a deeper understanding of the most important person in your life (YOU!) and let's build that connection together, brick by brick. Issues I can help with: anxiety, perfectionism, low self-esteem, gender/sexuality, and complex trauma.
Greetings! Do you often feel uncertain about your identity, value, or ability to be successful? Do you often feel like you are trying to fit yourself into boxes society has created for you, but it's not quite right? Do you feel the internal calling to show up with more authenticity or like there is something meaningful waiting for you right outside of your grasp? Let me walk with you on your path to a deeper understanding of the most important person in your life (YOU!) and let's build that connection together, brick by brick. Issues I can help with: anxiety, perfectionism, low self-esteem, gender/sexuality, and complex trauma.
(614) 918-4608 View (614) 918-4608
Photo of Laura Lee Townsend, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, IMFT, LPCC, CHHC
Laura Lee Townsend
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, IMFT, LPCC, CHHC
3 Endorsed
Gahanna, OH 43230
You just want to feel better. Traumatic experiences have turned you into someone you don’t recognize. You’re constantly on edge and can’t sleep. If sleep does come, it’s often restless and filled with nightmares. Your creativity, performance, and professionalism is suffering. You often feel tremendous guilt and shame; no one understands what it's like. Or maybe you stuff the hurt, pain, and disappointment down deep, so no one sees it. You know how to put on a good, happy face for everyone. The emptiness and loneliness feel unbearable. Or maybe this describes your loved one who you can’t seem to reach no matter how hard you try.
You just want to feel better. Traumatic experiences have turned you into someone you don’t recognize. You’re constantly on edge and can’t sleep. If sleep does come, it’s often restless and filled with nightmares. Your creativity, performance, and professionalism is suffering. You often feel tremendous guilt and shame; no one understands what it's like. Or maybe you stuff the hurt, pain, and disappointment down deep, so no one sees it. You know how to put on a good, happy face for everyone. The emptiness and loneliness feel unbearable. Or maybe this describes your loved one who you can’t seem to reach no matter how hard you try.
(220) 270-0021 View (220) 270-0021
Photo of Arthur Krasilovsky, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Arthur Krasilovsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Online Only
Hello, I'm Art Krasilovsky, a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) with a Master of Social Science Administration from Case Western Reserve University School of Applied Social Sciences. My journey in mental health began with a National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Fellowship, following my undergraduate studies at Ohio University. With over 40 years of clinical experience, I've had the privilege of working in various capacities, from managing Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) to providing direct clinical care.
Hello, I'm Art Krasilovsky, a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) with a Master of Social Science Administration from Case Western Reserve University School of Applied Social Sciences. My journey in mental health began with a National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Fellowship, following my undergraduate studies at Ohio University. With over 40 years of clinical experience, I've had the privilege of working in various capacities, from managing Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) to providing direct clinical care.
(740) 224-8145 View (740) 224-8145
Photo of Sarah A. Lawn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, MSW
Sarah A. Lawn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, MSW
1 Endorsed
Gahanna, OH 43230
I am passionate about providing trauma informed services to individuals, especially those who work in a helping professions/caretaker role and/or are neurodivergent. I can assist with managing burnout, vicarious trauma, and compassion fatigue. I strive to provide neurodiversity affirming services. My therapeutic style is warm and encouraging of each clients’ strengths. My aim is always for clients to feel empowered, confident, and organized. I have experience working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, neurodiversity, and life transitions.
I am passionate about providing trauma informed services to individuals, especially those who work in a helping professions/caretaker role and/or are neurodivergent. I can assist with managing burnout, vicarious trauma, and compassion fatigue. I strive to provide neurodiversity affirming services. My therapeutic style is warm and encouraging of each clients’ strengths. My aim is always for clients to feel empowered, confident, and organized. I have experience working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, neurodiversity, and life transitions.
(614) 683-3667 View (614) 683-3667
Photo of Michael Crowdes, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPC
Michael Crowdes
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPC
Online Only
I specialize in working with individuals experiencing grief and anxiety. Grief can be a complex and challenging process, and I provide a supportive and nurturing space for clients to explore their emotions, find meaning in their loss, and gradually heal. Anxiety is another area of expertise, and I assist individuals in understanding the underlying causes of their anxiety and developing practical tools to manage and reduce its impact on their daily lives. I provide a nonjudgmental and safe environment where clients can explore their fears, develop self-compassion, and cultivate resilience.
I specialize in working with individuals experiencing grief and anxiety. Grief can be a complex and challenging process, and I provide a supportive and nurturing space for clients to explore their emotions, find meaning in their loss, and gradually heal. Anxiety is another area of expertise, and I assist individuals in understanding the underlying causes of their anxiety and developing practical tools to manage and reduce its impact on their daily lives. I provide a nonjudgmental and safe environment where clients can explore their fears, develop self-compassion, and cultivate resilience.
(614) 610-1396 View (614) 610-1396
Photo of Catherine Kolleth, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC-S
Catherine Kolleth
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC-S
Gahanna, OH 43230
You don’t have to face things alone. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, parenting stress, relationship challenges, or major life transitions, therapy can help you find clarity and relief. I’ve supported individuals from all walks of life for over 12 years—through trauma, addiction, grief, identity exploration, and healing from emotional and physical pain. My goal is to create a safe, compassionate space where you feel seen, heard, and empowered to move forward.
You don’t have to face things alone. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, parenting stress, relationship challenges, or major life transitions, therapy can help you find clarity and relief. I’ve supported individuals from all walks of life for over 12 years—through trauma, addiction, grief, identity exploration, and healing from emotional and physical pain. My goal is to create a safe, compassionate space where you feel seen, heard, and empowered to move forward.
(740) 715-4388 View (740) 715-4388
Photo of Cecilia Siegel, Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Cecilia Siegel
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who has dedicated my personal and professional development towards helping others find a more meaningful and fulfilling life. I work with clients to address concerns specific to depression, anxiety, adhd, sex, intimacy, and stress management. I focus primarily on utilizing an eclectic approach of various psychological interventions, counseling therapies, and counseling techniques.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who has dedicated my personal and professional development towards helping others find a more meaningful and fulfilling life. I work with clients to address concerns specific to depression, anxiety, adhd, sex, intimacy, and stress management. I focus primarily on utilizing an eclectic approach of various psychological interventions, counseling therapies, and counseling techniques.
(614) 482-2601 View (614) 482-2601
Photo of Arin Wade, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Arin Wade
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Serves Area
As we progress into the second year of being limited in traveling, gathering and socializing, we are finding ourselves less able to avoid our triggers, struggles, self image and overcome messages of being misunderstood and alone. For some, these last two years have caused more strain than strength within your relationship with children, family and or your partner. No matter the situation that brings a person to counseling the goal is to find a supportive, strength based, experienced, and compassionate clinician who will also challenge them to see that beyond the immediate storm there are blooming flowers.
As we progress into the second year of being limited in traveling, gathering and socializing, we are finding ourselves less able to avoid our triggers, struggles, self image and overcome messages of being misunderstood and alone. For some, these last two years have caused more strain than strength within your relationship with children, family and or your partner. No matter the situation that brings a person to counseling the goal is to find a supportive, strength based, experienced, and compassionate clinician who will also challenge them to see that beyond the immediate storm there are blooming flowers.
(614) 418-6814 View (614) 418-6814
Photo of Megan Marcinowski, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Megan Marcinowski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello there! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and enjoy working with adults 18+. I am passionate about offering a space free of judgment for all my clients. As your counselor, I will hold hope and compassion even through the most challenging times. Together, we will set goals and identify what treatment looks like for you. To heal and grow, we need to look at the whole person. That’s why my approach is holistic and utilizes various treatment modalities, such as DBT, CBT, EMDR, person-centered, and art therapy interventions.
Hello there! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and enjoy working with adults 18+. I am passionate about offering a space free of judgment for all my clients. As your counselor, I will hold hope and compassion even through the most challenging times. Together, we will set goals and identify what treatment looks like for you. To heal and grow, we need to look at the whole person. That’s why my approach is holistic and utilizes various treatment modalities, such as DBT, CBT, EMDR, person-centered, and art therapy interventions.
(740) 814-5354 View (740) 814-5354
Photo of Brad Unruh, Marriage & Family Therapist, IMFT, LMFT
Brad Unruh
Marriage & Family Therapist, IMFT, LMFT
3 Endorsed
Online Only
My work is an invitation to activate internal healing and deepen external connection. Relationally, I hope to move folks towards security in Self, safe risking (vulnerability) with partner(s), and mutual healing: a sacred place where bonding replaces self-preservation. With individuals, I welcome all parts as one establishes an awareness of their inner healer, the core "Self" of who you are. As therapy progresses, trust in the therapist moves towards trust in "Self." I see folks as "stuck" and not "sick," and I hold the mantra: "just as there is a healer in me, there is a healer in you." Let's get to know it.
My work is an invitation to activate internal healing and deepen external connection. Relationally, I hope to move folks towards security in Self, safe risking (vulnerability) with partner(s), and mutual healing: a sacred place where bonding replaces self-preservation. With individuals, I welcome all parts as one establishes an awareness of their inner healer, the core "Self" of who you are. As therapy progresses, trust in the therapist moves towards trust in "Self." I see folks as "stuck" and not "sick," and I hold the mantra: "just as there is a healer in me, there is a healer in you." Let's get to know it.
(614) 368-0961 View (614) 368-0961

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Renee Taylor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Renee Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Online Only
Greetings. My name is Renee Taylor, and I am a counselor, educator, motivator, and certified sex therapist. My approach to therapy is holistic and eclectic, focusing on the individual's total health and strengths. Utilizing a strengths-based approach, I focus on the client's strengths and incorporate self-love and mindfulness to aid my clients in their growth and healing process. I am EMDR trained and use a variety of therapeutic modalities, such as narrative therapy, empowerment, meditation, and cognitive behavior, among others, in my practice.
Greetings. My name is Renee Taylor, and I am a counselor, educator, motivator, and certified sex therapist. My approach to therapy is holistic and eclectic, focusing on the individual's total health and strengths. Utilizing a strengths-based approach, I focus on the client's strengths and incorporate self-love and mindfulness to aid my clients in their growth and healing process. I am EMDR trained and use a variety of therapeutic modalities, such as narrative therapy, empowerment, meditation, and cognitive behavior, among others, in my practice.
(380) 256-0882 View (380) 256-0882
Photo of Priscilla Loba, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
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
Photo of Amanda R Abernethy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, CSTIP
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
Photo of Caroline Martin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Caroline Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
You are here! Right now! Even if you feel stuck, deeply hurt, or disconnected. There is a path forward to live authentically, find peace within yourself, and experience the world aligned with your values. Here's a quote from an activist and author I enjoy- "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. There is a path forward to live authentically, find peace within yourself, and experience the world aligned with your values. Here's a quote from an activist and author I enjoy- "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
Photo of Katie M Kissel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Katie M Kissel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
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
Photo of Jennie Recko, Counselor, LPCC-S
Jennie Recko
Counselor, LPCC-S
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43220
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. I have worked for many years in the mental health field as a general practitioner in community mental health settings, but 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.
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. I have worked for many years in the mental health field as a general practitioner in community mental health settings, but 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.
(614) 980-0097 View (614) 980-0097
Photo of Rachel Ryan, Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Rachel Ryan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
2 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
Photo of Regina C. Sigafoos, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Regina C. Sigafoos
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
2 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43221
I am passionate about LGBTQIA+ issues, sex and sexuality, and diverse relationship styles and helping others explore these areas for themselves. I believe in creating a brave space with everyone I meet to foster self-exploration and growth. As an advocate for justice and equity in mental health care, I know how important it is to acknowledge and address culture, privilege, race, gender, size, ability, sexuality, and the intersections of your unique identities and experiences in this world. As a nonjudgmental guide, I'll work with you to build your self-compassion, resilience, and strengths as we tackle hard things together.
I am passionate about LGBTQIA+ issues, sex and sexuality, and diverse relationship styles and helping others explore these areas for themselves. I believe in creating a brave space with everyone I meet to foster self-exploration and growth. As an advocate for justice and equity in mental health care, I know how important it is to acknowledge and address culture, privilege, race, gender, size, ability, sexuality, and the intersections of your unique identities and experiences in this world. As a nonjudgmental guide, I'll work with you to build your self-compassion, resilience, and strengths as we tackle hard things together.
(614) 683-3742 x108 View (614) 683-3742 x108
Photo of Dulce Hershberger - Dulce Hershberger LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Dulce Hershberger LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43214
Living in balance is the ongoing goal I hope for my clients. Whether it be to repair relationships, working on achieving your personal best, learning to handle mental illness, moving towards forgiveness, or handling life changes, we can always move towards making positive changes to live a more satisfying life.
Living in balance is the ongoing goal I hope for my clients. Whether it be to repair relationships, working on achieving your personal best, learning to handle mental illness, moving towards forgiveness, or handling life changes, we can always move towards making positive changes to live a more satisfying life.
(380) 207-0352 View (380) 207-0352

See more therapy options for Gahanna

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.