Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Therapists in Worthington, OH

Photo of Relationship Issues - Trauma - Lgbtqia+ Issues - Irene O'Neill, MSEd, LPC, SEP, NARM, Licensed Professional Counselor
Relationship Issues - Trauma - Lgbtqia+ Issues - Irene O'Neill
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC, SEP, NARM
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Worthington, OH 43085
I am sex and kink positive and affirm consensual non-monogamy, polycule, family and non-traditional family dynamics.
Taking the step to start therapy and/or find a new therapist is a significant and courageous decision. I am honored to accompany my clients on their journey towards what they most want for themselves and finding relief from the challenges they’re facing. Many of my clients come to me because they feel stuck in life despite their best efforts - often having engaged in other types of therapy that no longer fit. If you're struggling with symptoms of trauma, anxiety, depression, or seeking more fulfilling and connected relationships, let's connect. Meaningful change begins within and starts with your own relationship with yourself.
I am sex and kink positive and affirm consensual non-monogamy, polycule, family and non-traditional family dynamics.
Taking the step to start therapy and/or find a new therapist is a significant and courageous decision. I am honored to accompany my clients on their journey towards what they most want for themselves and finding relief from the challenges they’re facing. Many of my clients come to me because they feel stuck in life despite their best efforts - often having engaged in other types of therapy that no longer fit. If you're struggling with symptoms of trauma, anxiety, depression, or seeking more fulfilling and connected relationships, let's connect. Meaningful change begins within and starts with your own relationship with yourself.
(614) 963-8354 View (614) 963-8354
Photo of Emerson Douglas, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emerson Douglas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Worthington, OH 43085
Now accepting NEW clients for ongoing therapy and gender-affirming surgery letters! As a transmasculine-identified therapist, I'm proud to specialize in LGBQ+ and Transgender-affirming therapy. My passion as a therapist is to empower queer, trans, and nonbinary folks to embrace their authentic selves. Rooted in an anti-oppression framework, my mission is to co-create a safe, nonjudgmental space for you to explore healing through the development of a therapeutic relationship founded in authenticity, openness, and connection. My pronouns are he/they. I invite you to share your pronouns and name with me.
Now accepting NEW clients for ongoing therapy and gender-affirming surgery letters! As a transmasculine-identified therapist, I'm proud to specialize in LGBQ+ and Transgender-affirming therapy. My passion as a therapist is to empower queer, trans, and nonbinary folks to embrace their authentic selves. Rooted in an anti-oppression framework, my mission is to co-create a safe, nonjudgmental space for you to explore healing through the development of a therapeutic relationship founded in authenticity, openness, and connection. My pronouns are he/they. I invite you to share your pronouns and name with me.
(614) 412-4895 View (614) 412-4895
Photo of Gabby Silone, MA, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gabby Silone
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Worthington, OH 43085
Waitlist for new clients
Reaching out for counseling can be scary or intimidating. It can also be challenging to find the right "fit" with a therapist. I hope to offer a place where clients can feel seen, heard, and appreciated. Seeking counseling can help you make sense of your past, present, and your future. If you are feeling down, anxious, lost, or just off and your current coping skills aren't working, starting therapy might be a good next step.
Reaching out for counseling can be scary or intimidating. It can also be challenging to find the right "fit" with a therapist. I hope to offer a place where clients can feel seen, heard, and appreciated. Seeking counseling can help you make sense of your past, present, and your future. If you are feeling down, anxious, lost, or just off and your current coping skills aren't working, starting therapy might be a good next step.
(614) 660-5890 View (614) 660-5890
Photo of Shana Degnan, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shana Degnan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Worthington, OH 43085  (Online Only)
While experienced in treating a variety of populations, my passion lies in providing perinatal mental health care to individuals in every stage of their pregnancy and postpartum journey. As a single mother of toddler twins born during the pandemic, I have a unique, compassionate perspective on the struggles of early parenthood. As a queer-identifying therapist, I hold a strong dedication to assisting clients in need of a secure environment to delve into new aspects of identity, including sexuality, gender, religious deconstruction/reconstruction, spirituality, and self-esteem.
While experienced in treating a variety of populations, my passion lies in providing perinatal mental health care to individuals in every stage of their pregnancy and postpartum journey. As a single mother of toddler twins born during the pandemic, I have a unique, compassionate perspective on the struggles of early parenthood. As a queer-identifying therapist, I hold a strong dedication to assisting clients in need of a secure environment to delve into new aspects of identity, including sexuality, gender, religious deconstruction/reconstruction, spirituality, and self-esteem.
(380) 235-3489 View (380) 235-3489
Photo of Emily Killian, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Killian
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Worthington, OH 43085
You're tired of feeling bad. You know what's "wrong" with you, but you don't know what to do to fix it. You've tried your hardest to get better on your own, and you know some skills that are supposed to help. But as much as you rationalize and logically understand what's going on, it doesn't make it go away. You might even notice you're struggling to connect with people around you because of your emotional pain, anxiety, trauma, or other struggles. If this sounds like you, I might be able to help!
You're tired of feeling bad. You know what's "wrong" with you, but you don't know what to do to fix it. You've tried your hardest to get better on your own, and you know some skills that are supposed to help. But as much as you rationalize and logically understand what's going on, it doesn't make it go away. You might even notice you're struggling to connect with people around you because of your emotional pain, anxiety, trauma, or other struggles. If this sounds like you, I might be able to help!
(380) 228-7873 x518 View (380) 228-7873 x518
Photo of Sam Eastwood, MFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sam Eastwood
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Worthington, OH 43085
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I bring a compassionate and dedicated approach to helping individuals, couples, and families navigate their unique challenges and build stronger, healthier relationships. I provide a non-pathologizing approach that aids in fostering open communication, resolving conflicts, and supporting clients through personal and relational growth. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) with extensive training in evidence-based therapeutic modalities. My clinical practice integrates various systemic approaches that are tailored to meet the specific needs of each client and prioritize collaboration.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I bring a compassionate and dedicated approach to helping individuals, couples, and families navigate their unique challenges and build stronger, healthier relationships. I provide a non-pathologizing approach that aids in fostering open communication, resolving conflicts, and supporting clients through personal and relational growth. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) with extensive training in evidence-based therapeutic modalities. My clinical practice integrates various systemic approaches that are tailored to meet the specific needs of each client and prioritize collaboration.
(380) 888-3717 View (380) 888-3717
Photo of Bethany McCormick, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bethany McCormick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Worthington, OH 43085
Every person is a tapestry of experiences and identities. Your story is dynamic and important, and I'm here to listen, understand, and provide a safe space for you to process and explore. I provide individual and relationship therapy, focusing on strengths, authenticity, and resilience.
Every person is a tapestry of experiences and identities. Your story is dynamic and important, and I'm here to listen, understand, and provide a safe space for you to process and explore. I provide individual and relationship therapy, focusing on strengths, authenticity, and resilience.
(614) 916-9195 View (614) 916-9195
Photo of Kami Moore, LPCC, Counselor
Kami Moore
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Worthington, OH 43085  (Online Only)
Sometimes life feels unmanageable. We try to reach our goals; however, encounter numerous obstacles. I believe we all have the power to progress, change, and grow. Sometimes talking with a professional helps to clarify the next step in that journey. As a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, I will work with you to explore your feelings, identify challenges to your ongoing success, clearly define your goals, and develop a plan to move forward. My approach is holistic, open, honest, and direct. Clients will be welcomed with an empathetic and respectful environment where you will receive support and encouragement.
Sometimes life feels unmanageable. We try to reach our goals; however, encounter numerous obstacles. I believe we all have the power to progress, change, and grow. Sometimes talking with a professional helps to clarify the next step in that journey. As a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, I will work with you to explore your feelings, identify challenges to your ongoing success, clearly define your goals, and develop a plan to move forward. My approach is holistic, open, honest, and direct. Clients will be welcomed with an empathetic and respectful environment where you will receive support and encouragement.
(614) 347-0815 View (614) 347-0815
Photo of Dulce Hershberger - Dulce Hershberger LLC, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dulce Hershberger LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Worthington, OH 43085
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
Photo of Alessandra Bryant - Thriveworks Polaris, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Thriveworks Polaris
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Worthington, OH 43085
Life can be overwhelming. We all need some dedicated time to nurture and heal. Why should someone hire a therapist rather than just talk through their problems with a friend or family member? First of all, if you have someone in your life to whom you feel comfortable opening up, that is awesome. Keep doing that. We all need these vital human connections. But a therapist brings something a little different to the table than a best friend.
Life can be overwhelming. We all need some dedicated time to nurture and heal. Why should someone hire a therapist rather than just talk through their problems with a friend or family member? First of all, if you have someone in your life to whom you feel comfortable opening up, that is awesome. Keep doing that. We all need these vital human connections. But a therapist brings something a little different to the table than a best friend.
(380) 201-9705 View (380) 201-9705
Photo of Sarah A. Lawn, LISW-S, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah A. Lawn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Worthington, OH 43085
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 Abigail Griffith, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Abigail Griffith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Worthington, OH 43085
While I have experience working with a range of ages and issues, my speciality is working with teens and young adults struggling with anxiety, depression, and childhood wounds. Many folx who I work with seek therapy wanting to eliminate their anxiety and depression, but often move on with a deeper understanding of where these issues stem from. They rediscover power in their voice and are able to set healthy boundaries. They explore patterns of thoughts, feelings and behaviors, increasing a sense of self awareness. Folx move on feeling more connected and compassionate within themselves.
While I have experience working with a range of ages and issues, my speciality is working with teens and young adults struggling with anxiety, depression, and childhood wounds. Many folx who I work with seek therapy wanting to eliminate their anxiety and depression, but often move on with a deeper understanding of where these issues stem from. They rediscover power in their voice and are able to set healthy boundaries. They explore patterns of thoughts, feelings and behaviors, increasing a sense of self awareness. Folx move on feeling more connected and compassionate within themselves.
(614) 683-5421 View (614) 683-5421
Photo of Ryan Michael Ziegler, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ryan Michael Ziegler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Worthington, OH 43085
I practice counseling from a humanistic perspective, valuing people's intrinsic potential to move toward growth and healing. I collaborate with clients, providing the space and opportunity to explore the nature of their relationship with self and their relationship with others. I seek balance in my work. I respect that my work with clients often needs to shift fluidly between different approaches: practical concerns such as skills-building and decision-making, internal explorations of experience, and existential concerns regarding discovering or creating meaning and purpose.
I practice counseling from a humanistic perspective, valuing people's intrinsic potential to move toward growth and healing. I collaborate with clients, providing the space and opportunity to explore the nature of their relationship with self and their relationship with others. I seek balance in my work. I respect that my work with clients often needs to shift fluidly between different approaches: practical concerns such as skills-building and decision-making, internal explorations of experience, and existential concerns regarding discovering or creating meaning and purpose.
(614) 421-7680 View (614) 421-7680
Photo of Jooyoung Kim - Current Mind Counseling, LLC, MEd, LPCC, Counselor
Current Mind Counseling, LLC
Counselor, MEd, LPCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Worthington, OH 43085
Easily bored, sensitive to distractions, creative, and intense. Have you always felt "different" as you were growing up and even as an adult? You are feeling lost by stress and anxiety, and has difficulty to have a sense of direction and control in your life. Financial struggles feel like outside of this world problem you can't have any control over. -> I specialize in Adult ADHD and am the only Certified Financial Therapy Practitioner in Ohio. I also offer individual/couples services for financial therapy as well.
Easily bored, sensitive to distractions, creative, and intense. Have you always felt "different" as you were growing up and even as an adult? You are feeling lost by stress and anxiety, and has difficulty to have a sense of direction and control in your life. Financial struggles feel like outside of this world problem you can't have any control over. -> I specialize in Adult ADHD and am the only Certified Financial Therapy Practitioner in Ohio. I also offer individual/couples services for financial therapy as well.
(614) 323-3578 View (614) 323-3578
Photo of Elizabeth (Beth) Youngman, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth (Beth) Youngman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Worthington, OH 43085  (Online Only)
I am currently accepting new clients as of 7/8/2024. I am a queer nonbinary therapist offering individual teletherapy for adults. I welcome all diverse individuals, relationships, spiritualities, expressions, & identities. I work extensively with, and enjoy working with gender & sexual minorities, intersecting identities, immigrants, parents/caregivers, & neurodivergent populations. I often work with folks experiencing stress, self-exploration, life transitions, grief, trauma, complex trauma, anxiety, depression & dissociation.
I am currently accepting new clients as of 7/8/2024. I am a queer nonbinary therapist offering individual teletherapy for adults. I welcome all diverse individuals, relationships, spiritualities, expressions, & identities. I work extensively with, and enjoy working with gender & sexual minorities, intersecting identities, immigrants, parents/caregivers, & neurodivergent populations. I often work with folks experiencing stress, self-exploration, life transitions, grief, trauma, complex trauma, anxiety, depression & dissociation.
(614) 305-7368 View (614) 305-7368
Dina L Miller
Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Worthington, OH 43085
(614) 960-8779 View (614) 960-8779
Photo of Abby O'Connor, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Abby O'Connor
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Worthington, OH 43085
(380) 227-3042 View (380) 227-3042
Photo of Katelyn Neighbarger, LPC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katelyn Neighbarger
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Worthington, OH 43085
Not accepting new clients
Would you like an outside person to unburden your daily struggles to? I’d be honored to be that person who truly listens and helps you find the answers you are looking for. I know being in this space makes you vulnerable, and it can be intimidating. Walking through the door is the first step towards healing and finding a better balance in your life. Allow me to challenge you to reach your goals.
Would you like an outside person to unburden your daily struggles to? I’d be honored to be that person who truly listens and helps you find the answers you are looking for. I know being in this space makes you vulnerable, and it can be intimidating. Walking through the door is the first step towards healing and finding a better balance in your life. Allow me to challenge you to reach your goals.
(614) 714-6521 View (614) 714-6521
Photo of Amy Roberts Leyshon, LISW-S, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Roberts Leyshon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Worthington, OH 43085
Not accepting new clients
Welcome! I am glad you’re here. My name is Amy Roberts Leyshon, and I have been practicing as a clinical social worker in the central Ohio area for more than a decade. I have worked in a variety of settings with a range of folks navigating life’s challenges, and have seen time and again that none of us are exempt from experiencing painful periods in life. There is hope in that as we are all connected through these experiences. As such, I specialize in working with people navigating transitions in life, marriage, divorce, expanding your family, grief and loss.
Welcome! I am glad you’re here. My name is Amy Roberts Leyshon, and I have been practicing as a clinical social worker in the central Ohio area for more than a decade. I have worked in a variety of settings with a range of folks navigating life’s challenges, and have seen time and again that none of us are exempt from experiencing painful periods in life. There is hope in that as we are all connected through these experiences. As such, I specialize in working with people navigating transitions in life, marriage, divorce, expanding your family, grief and loss.
(614) 768-7389 View (614) 768-7389
Photo of Kelley Smith, MA LPCC, Counselor
Kelley Smith
Counselor, MA LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Worthington, OH 43085
Not accepting new clients
Clients seeking my services have typically gone through very difficult circumstances and are looking for assistance in rebuilding parts of their life. My practice is open to the full diversity of human beings: all expressions of sexuality, gender identification, personal or ethnic culture, social location, religion/spirituality, absence of religion/spirituality, or other unique framework of identity you hold.
Clients seeking my services have typically gone through very difficult circumstances and are looking for assistance in rebuilding parts of their life. My practice is open to the full diversity of human beings: all expressions of sexuality, gender identification, personal or ethnic culture, social location, religion/spirituality, absence of religion/spirituality, or other unique framework of identity you hold.
(380) 212-3583 View (380) 212-3583
1

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.