Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Therapists in Allison Park, PA

Photo of Jess Schiermeister, LSW, MSW, C-DBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jess Schiermeister
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSW, C-DBT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Allison Park, PA 15101
Waitlist for new clients
I am a member of the LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent communities. I am committed to decreasing stigma around issues such as death and dying, gender and sexuality, and neurodivergency. Other issues include: anxiety, depression, borderline personality disorder (BPD), cancer or other life-altering illnesses, body image, compassion fatigue, caregiver fatigue, gender identity, sexuality, kink/sexual outsiders, polyamorous/open relationships, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts.
I am a member of the LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent communities. I am committed to decreasing stigma around issues such as death and dying, gender and sexuality, and neurodivergency. Other issues include: anxiety, depression, borderline personality disorder (BPD), cancer or other life-altering illnesses, body image, compassion fatigue, caregiver fatigue, gender identity, sexuality, kink/sexual outsiders, polyamorous/open relationships, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts.
(412) 650-4321 x5 View (412) 650-4321 x5
Photo of Ben Hearn, PhD, NCC
Ben Hearn
PhD, NCC
Verified Verified
Allison Park, PA 15101
I also thoroughly enjoy working with members of the LGBTQ+, poly, and kink/BDSM communities.
I do my best work with clients who are curious about themselves, have a good sense of humor, and are often at a significant transition point in their lives. Clients most often begin working with me around issues related to trauma, anxiety, or relational wounding and are seeking new ways to relate to themselves, others, and the world around them. My overarching goal in my work with clients is to help them move through the world with a greater degree of consciousness, courage, and compassion - whatever that may mean or look in their lives.
I also thoroughly enjoy working with members of the LGBTQ+, poly, and kink/BDSM communities.
I do my best work with clients who are curious about themselves, have a good sense of humor, and are often at a significant transition point in their lives. Clients most often begin working with me around issues related to trauma, anxiety, or relational wounding and are seeking new ways to relate to themselves, others, and the world around them. My overarching goal in my work with clients is to help them move through the world with a greater degree of consciousness, courage, and compassion - whatever that may mean or look in their lives.
(412) 245-7104 View (412) 245-7104
Photo of Emily Cullen, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Cullen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Allison Park, PA 15101
Welcome! Seeking therapy is a brave and strong decision. I believe in helping every part of the mind and finding solutions to problems, both big and small. I work with your current strengths and coping skills to help bring up solutions so that you can take on everyday challenges. Regardless of the obstacle you are facing, together we can find solutions and increase positive outcomes.
Welcome! Seeking therapy is a brave and strong decision. I believe in helping every part of the mind and finding solutions to problems, both big and small. I work with your current strengths and coping skills to help bring up solutions so that you can take on everyday challenges. Regardless of the obstacle you are facing, together we can find solutions and increase positive outcomes.
(412) 866-2107 View (412) 866-2107
Photo of Avi Diamond, MA, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Avi Diamond
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Allison Park, PA 15101
Feeling stuck or overwhelmed? Are you feeling unheard in your relationship? Do you struggle with understanding or expressing your gender identity and/or sexuality? Many of my clients are individuals and couples who are frustrated with cycles that are no longer working for them and are looking for a guide to hold them accountable in reaching their goals.
Feeling stuck or overwhelmed? Are you feeling unheard in your relationship? Do you struggle with understanding or expressing your gender identity and/or sexuality? Many of my clients are individuals and couples who are frustrated with cycles that are no longer working for them and are looking for a guide to hold them accountable in reaching their goals.
(412) 207-3722 View (412) 207-3722
Photo of Erin Donnelly, PsyD, MEd, Psychologist
Erin Donnelly
Psychologist, PsyD, MEd
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Allison Park, PA 15101  (Online Only)
Each of us is a complex product of our past and present environments and experiences. Generally, we act or cope in ways that are adaptive or necessary under given circumstances. When our default methods of coping are no longer effective or our circumstances change, we begin experiencing distress in specific realms of our lives. This distress might manifest as anxiety, depression, anger, pain, relationship or sexual difficulties, social isolation, declining performance and/or impairment in daily functioning. As there is an undeniable connection between our psychological and physical wellbeing, I approach treatment in an integrative, collaborative and personality-based manner.
Each of us is a complex product of our past and present environments and experiences. Generally, we act or cope in ways that are adaptive or necessary under given circumstances. When our default methods of coping are no longer effective or our circumstances change, we begin experiencing distress in specific realms of our lives. This distress might manifest as anxiety, depression, anger, pain, relationship or sexual difficulties, social isolation, declining performance and/or impairment in daily functioning. As there is an undeniable connection between our psychological and physical wellbeing, I approach treatment in an integrative, collaborative and personality-based manner.
(913) 370-7041 View (913) 370-7041
Photo of Michelle Siegrist, MPC, LAPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Michelle Siegrist
Pre-Licensed Professional, MPC, LAPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Allison Park, PA 15101
I trust and believe that we all possess unique abilities and strengths to help us during difficult times in our lives. I work with children, teens and adult through life transitions, events, and times of chaos. I strive to help create a collaborative therapeutic relationship with my clients, while also acknowledging they are the experts in their lives. I work with clients to heal and move towards their life goals. Our work together encourages growth and new creative outlets. I am also training as a yoga instructor and incorporate somatic healing into my therapy practice.
I trust and believe that we all possess unique abilities and strengths to help us during difficult times in our lives. I work with children, teens and adult through life transitions, events, and times of chaos. I strive to help create a collaborative therapeutic relationship with my clients, while also acknowledging they are the experts in their lives. I work with clients to heal and move towards their life goals. Our work together encourages growth and new creative outlets. I am also training as a yoga instructor and incorporate somatic healing into my therapy practice.
(412) 275-5182 x2 View (412) 275-5182 x2
Photo of Kelly O'Connell, LPC, CAADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelly O'Connell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
Allison Park, PA 15101
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I earned my Masters of Science in Professional Counseling from Carlow University in 2012 after starting as a Counselor Aide in 2010 in a long-term intensive inpatient drug and alcohol and mental health treatment facility. I have experience in outpatient, inpatient, and halfway house settings. With over 14 years of experience. I am have the ability to build rapport with her clients quickly. I offers a non-judgmental space where the client is met with unconditional positive regard to help them feel free to be themselves.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I earned my Masters of Science in Professional Counseling from Carlow University in 2012 after starting as a Counselor Aide in 2010 in a long-term intensive inpatient drug and alcohol and mental health treatment facility. I have experience in outpatient, inpatient, and halfway house settings. With over 14 years of experience. I am have the ability to build rapport with her clients quickly. I offers a non-judgmental space where the client is met with unconditional positive regard to help them feel free to be themselves.
(412) 435-4156 x2 View (412) 435-4156 x2
Photo of Sean Abaray - New Leaf Counseling, Consulting, Etc, LLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
New Leaf Counseling, Consulting, Etc, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Allison Park, PA 15101
Through seasons of life we face many challenges, concerns, and difficulties which leave an impact on our hearts, minds, and bodies. Getting to know you, and healing is our first priority. Exploration and growth to the spaces you aspire is the next. While we all have an origin story, you are our ideal client. Our steps will setup a safe and secure atmosphere using a balance of empathy and vulnerability to aid introspection. And while we explore fit, we are very open to coordination of care, or referral to a provider you feel is your best fit. You are are priority. And your life satisfaction is our goal. Privacy and respect prioritied
Through seasons of life we face many challenges, concerns, and difficulties which leave an impact on our hearts, minds, and bodies. Getting to know you, and healing is our first priority. Exploration and growth to the spaces you aspire is the next. While we all have an origin story, you are our ideal client. Our steps will setup a safe and secure atmosphere using a balance of empathy and vulnerability to aid introspection. And while we explore fit, we are very open to coordination of care, or referral to a provider you feel is your best fit. You are are priority. And your life satisfaction is our goal. Privacy and respect prioritied
(412) 844-4394 View (412) 844-4394
Photo of Dana Stephens, MSEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dana Stephens
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Allison Park, PA 15101
Every life has its own obstacles. Finding a healthy way to move through or past these obstacles ultimately determines our happiness. I utilize a skills based approach to treatment, with my goal being to work with my clients to decrease their symptoms, restore balance and improve overall quality of life. Integrating complementary techniques, I offer an eclectic and highly personalized approach, tailored to each individual client's situation. With compassion, humor, and understanding, I work with each client to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth they are committed to accomplishing.
Every life has its own obstacles. Finding a healthy way to move through or past these obstacles ultimately determines our happiness. I utilize a skills based approach to treatment, with my goal being to work with my clients to decrease their symptoms, restore balance and improve overall quality of life. Integrating complementary techniques, I offer an eclectic and highly personalized approach, tailored to each individual client's situation. With compassion, humor, and understanding, I work with each client to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth they are committed to accomplishing.
(412) 253-4091 View (412) 253-4091

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Cory Coppersmith, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cory Coppersmith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15221
I am an abolitionist and train other therapists on social justice, polyamory, kink, and LGBTQ issues.
I work with people who want to reclaim the story of their lives. Some of us lost years living someone else's narrative- -but it's never too late to become yourself. You can determine the genre of story you live in, the type of protagonist you become. I try to help people deal with the excitement that comes with infinite potential and the dread that comes with infinite choice.
I am an abolitionist and train other therapists on social justice, polyamory, kink, and LGBTQ issues.
I work with people who want to reclaim the story of their lives. Some of us lost years living someone else's narrative- -but it's never too late to become yourself. You can determine the genre of story you live in, the type of protagonist you become. I try to help people deal with the excitement that comes with infinite potential and the dread that comes with infinite choice.
(412) 207-3823 View (412) 207-3823
Photo of Megan Zurasky, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan Zurasky
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15224
I am proficient in working with the LGBTQIA+ community, the neurodiverse community, am sex positive, and work from an anti-diet perspective.
If you experienced sexual violence in the state of PA, ask me about ways to help cover your costs. I use a relational and feminist framework to help clients understand the role of relationships, culture, and society in their path to find healing and joy. My past clinical experience includes complex trauma treatment, crisis management, community mental health, survivor advocacy, group psychotherapy, late diagnosis neurodivergence, chronic pain and illness, anxiety/depression, burnout & vicarious trauma, and disordered eating/body image work.
I am proficient in working with the LGBTQIA+ community, the neurodiverse community, am sex positive, and work from an anti-diet perspective.
If you experienced sexual violence in the state of PA, ask me about ways to help cover your costs. I use a relational and feminist framework to help clients understand the role of relationships, culture, and society in their path to find healing and joy. My past clinical experience includes complex trauma treatment, crisis management, community mental health, survivor advocacy, group psychotherapy, late diagnosis neurodivergence, chronic pain and illness, anxiety/depression, burnout & vicarious trauma, and disordered eating/body image work.
(412) 838-4052 View (412) 838-4052
Photo of Adéla Waton, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adéla Waton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15217  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Drawing from my experience working with erotically marginalized groups (ENM, LGBTQIA2S+, kink), I offer specialized support in navigating diverse aspects of sexuality, belonging, identity, and the quest for purpose and meaning.
Relationships, both romantic and platonic, often present profound challenges. They can evoke immense joy and profound anguish simultaneously. Endings can arrive prematurely or endure beyond our desires. Central to this is the relationship we cultivate with ourselves, the cornerstone upon which all other connections hinge. However, understanding and navigating these dynamics alone can prove daunting. Therapy can offer a space for exploration and growth, serving as a unique avenue for delving into the complexities of sexuality and relationships and facilitating deeper self-awareness.
Drawing from my experience working with erotically marginalized groups (ENM, LGBTQIA2S+, kink), I offer specialized support in navigating diverse aspects of sexuality, belonging, identity, and the quest for purpose and meaning.
Relationships, both romantic and platonic, often present profound challenges. They can evoke immense joy and profound anguish simultaneously. Endings can arrive prematurely or endure beyond our desires. Central to this is the relationship we cultivate with ourselves, the cornerstone upon which all other connections hinge. However, understanding and navigating these dynamics alone can prove daunting. Therapy can offer a space for exploration and growth, serving as a unique avenue for delving into the complexities of sexuality and relationships and facilitating deeper self-awareness.
(412) 991-1387 View (412) 991-1387
Photo of Kevin P. Filippelli - LGBTQ+, Polyamory/CNM, BDSM/Kink Video Coaching, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
LGBTQ+, Polyamory/CNM, BDSM/Kink Video Coaching
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15201  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I work with adults, ages 18 and older, and my specialties include, but are not limited to: Anxiety, BDMS/ Kink, Consensual Non-Monogamy (CNM) & Polyamory, Depression, LGBTQIA+, Emotional Wellness, Life Transitions & Changes, Problem Solving & Decision Making, Self-Esteem & Self-Confidence, Stress & Relaxation, and Work / Life Balance.
Weclome! My name is Kevin. Whether you’re having difficulty making changes in life, dealing with stress, anxiety, or depression, or wanting to improve your self-confidence, I would be honored to assist you on your journey. My style is warm, collaborative, and respectful. I believe that you are in charge of your journey, so I will not tell you how to think, feel, or behave. Instead, you and I will explore options to help you determine the right path for you. I specialize in the LGBTQ+, CNM/Polyamory, and BDSM/ Kink communities. This is a coaching practice, NOT counseling or psychotherapy.
I work with adults, ages 18 and older, and my specialties include, but are not limited to: Anxiety, BDMS/ Kink, Consensual Non-Monogamy (CNM) & Polyamory, Depression, LGBTQIA+, Emotional Wellness, Life Transitions & Changes, Problem Solving & Decision Making, Self-Esteem & Self-Confidence, Stress & Relaxation, and Work / Life Balance.
Weclome! My name is Kevin. Whether you’re having difficulty making changes in life, dealing with stress, anxiety, or depression, or wanting to improve your self-confidence, I would be honored to assist you on your journey. My style is warm, collaborative, and respectful. I believe that you are in charge of your journey, so I will not tell you how to think, feel, or behave. Instead, you and I will explore options to help you determine the right path for you. I specialize in the LGBTQ+, CNM/Polyamory, and BDSM/ Kink communities. This is a coaching practice, NOT counseling or psychotherapy.
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Photo of Remy Garland, Pre-Licensed Professional
Remy Garland
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
My passion lies in providing inclusive, comprehensive, and accessible care. I believe that healing work is social justice work. My practice has a strong focus on LGBTQIA folks, social justice oriented community members, misfits, outsiders, and alternative relationship styles (including poly and kink aligned). I love to work with my non-binary and transgender communities to thrive and navigate all of life’s transitions. I support clients living with chronic pain and illness (currently respecting the energy you are using right now to look for a therapist!).
My passion lies in providing inclusive, comprehensive, and accessible care. I believe that healing work is social justice work. My practice has a strong focus on LGBTQIA folks, social justice oriented community members, misfits, outsiders, and alternative relationship styles (including poly and kink aligned). I love to work with my non-binary and transgender communities to thrive and navigate all of life’s transitions. I support clients living with chronic pain and illness (currently respecting the energy you are using right now to look for a therapist!).
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Photo of Jacquelyn M. Matotek, MA, NCC, LPC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jacquelyn M. Matotek
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fox Chapel, PA 15238  (Online Only)
I take a Sex Positive approach to all my sessions while examining attachment and relationship styles.
As a trauma, sex/intimacy, and relationship therapist, I bring a unique approach to the therapy process. Sex and intimacy can be challenging because of the history we bring with us into our relationships. Traumas from childhood, past relationships, trust issues, sexuality/gender struggles, anxiety, shame, stress can inhibit the development of deep intimate relationship with others. I have a passion for supporting my clients through healing and reconnection to their bodies, their own pleasure in order connect intimately in a healthy way with the people in their lives.
I take a Sex Positive approach to all my sessions while examining attachment and relationship styles.
As a trauma, sex/intimacy, and relationship therapist, I bring a unique approach to the therapy process. Sex and intimacy can be challenging because of the history we bring with us into our relationships. Traumas from childhood, past relationships, trust issues, sexuality/gender struggles, anxiety, shame, stress can inhibit the development of deep intimate relationship with others. I have a passion for supporting my clients through healing and reconnection to their bodies, their own pleasure in order connect intimately in a healthy way with the people in their lives.
(724) 359-4020 View (724) 359-4020
Photo of Peach Johnston, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Peach Johnston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
I’m a LGBTQIA+, ENM relationship, and kink affirming therapist.
As a queer individual, I understand that every person within the LGBTQIA+ spectrum is unique. Within our therapeutic relationship, I welcome you to be your most authentic self and celebrate You in your entirety. Together we can explore your gender identity, your sexuality, your politics, and your relationships. I approach relationships with an open mind and a non-judgmental perspective, especially with clients who participate in kink and non-monogamous relationships. To thrive as a queer person is an act of rebellion, and I'm here to compassionately support you through that fight.
I’m a LGBTQIA+, ENM relationship, and kink affirming therapist.
As a queer individual, I understand that every person within the LGBTQIA+ spectrum is unique. Within our therapeutic relationship, I welcome you to be your most authentic self and celebrate You in your entirety. Together we can explore your gender identity, your sexuality, your politics, and your relationships. I approach relationships with an open mind and a non-judgmental perspective, especially with clients who participate in kink and non-monogamous relationships. To thrive as a queer person is an act of rebellion, and I'm here to compassionately support you through that fight.
(412) 838-4565 View (412) 838-4565
Photo of Rachel Bowser Sex Therapist, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachel Bowser Sex Therapist
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15238
Waitlist for new clients
I’m a queer sex positive therapist, specializing in sexual health across the life span.
Let’s talk about sex, relationships, and life! Whatever you are facing, let’s face it together. My clinical style is free of judgement, I ask what has happened to you as opposed to what is wrong with you & will help you recapture a life worth living. I contend the most important piece of your journey, regardless of what your facing, will be the therapeutic bond we develop. I hope you will find me to be a support that uplifts, empowers, & validates. I’m confident that together we can create a positive and safe place for you to not only face your challenges, but also move forward and thrive.
I’m a queer sex positive therapist, specializing in sexual health across the life span.
Let’s talk about sex, relationships, and life! Whatever you are facing, let’s face it together. My clinical style is free of judgement, I ask what has happened to you as opposed to what is wrong with you & will help you recapture a life worth living. I contend the most important piece of your journey, regardless of what your facing, will be the therapeutic bond we develop. I hope you will find me to be a support that uplifts, empowers, & validates. I’m confident that together we can create a positive and safe place for you to not only face your challenges, but also move forward and thrive.
(412) 231-9566 View (412) 231-9566
Photo of Mary Graham, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary Graham
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15220
I have experience working with LGBTQIA community and am sex/ kink positive, CNM/poly-affirming, body positive, and trauma informed.
I firmly believe that while each individual has their own journey to travel throughout life, we are not meant to traverse life on our own. My 10+ years of experience in crisis services has proven to me that none of us are immune to needing help. Therapy is difficult work but can provide you with a greater understanding of yourself and your relationships. I am passionate about assisting adults experiencing anxiety, low self-esteem, discord in relationships, stress, recovering from trauma, divorce, and other life transitions.
I have experience working with LGBTQIA community and am sex/ kink positive, CNM/poly-affirming, body positive, and trauma informed.
I firmly believe that while each individual has their own journey to travel throughout life, we are not meant to traverse life on our own. My 10+ years of experience in crisis services has proven to me that none of us are immune to needing help. Therapy is difficult work but can provide you with a greater understanding of yourself and your relationships. I am passionate about assisting adults experiencing anxiety, low self-esteem, discord in relationships, stress, recovering from trauma, divorce, and other life transitions.
(412) 873-3714 x559 View (412) 873-3714 x559
Photo of Ashley King, MSEd, EdM, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley King
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, EdM, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
** Sex positive & experienced in working with diverse lifestyles.
Three beliefs I hold that influence how I practice are 1) human beings are not problems to be solved 2) therapy is ultimately about relationship 3) the process itself is the solution. We humans are infinitely complex; we're full of opposition and paradox. Our culture pushes quick fixes and immediate answers, but lasting change rarely comes about when we work in this way. I'm interested in helping you come into fuller, richer, more conscious relationship with all of your moving and sometimes disparate parts. Together we will work from the inside out through a deep, relational process.
** Sex positive & experienced in working with diverse lifestyles.
Three beliefs I hold that influence how I practice are 1) human beings are not problems to be solved 2) therapy is ultimately about relationship 3) the process itself is the solution. We humans are infinitely complex; we're full of opposition and paradox. Our culture pushes quick fixes and immediate answers, but lasting change rarely comes about when we work in this way. I'm interested in helping you come into fuller, richer, more conscious relationship with all of your moving and sometimes disparate parts. Together we will work from the inside out through a deep, relational process.
(215) 995-0219 View (215) 995-0219
Photo of Anni Frick, MSCP, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anni Frick
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCP, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
I believe that therapy is a way to explore and practice new ways of interacting meaningfully with ourselves and others. I specialize in working with folks in the LGBTQ+, CNM, and kink communities. If you’re looking for someone to help with gender confirming surgery letters, identity and transition exploration, relationship concerns, or navigating the stresses of simply being a human in these times, I may be a good fit for you!
I believe that therapy is a way to explore and practice new ways of interacting meaningfully with ourselves and others. I specialize in working with folks in the LGBTQ+, CNM, and kink communities. If you’re looking for someone to help with gender confirming surgery letters, identity and transition exploration, relationship concerns, or navigating the stresses of simply being a human in these times, I may be a good fit for you!
(412) 223-8170 View (412) 223-8170

See more therapy options for Allison Park

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.