Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Therapists in Philadelphia, PA

Photo of Yema Rosado, MFT
Yema Rosado
MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I am passionate about collective healing, and pleasure as a fundamental right! I am sex-positive and queer, trans, polyamory, kink and SWer affirming.
Hi, I am Yema, a sex therapist based in Philly. I am a queer, trans, fat, disabled, Latinx child of immigrants and I will bring a unique, anti-oppressive perspective to your struggles and goals. I always consider the impact of racism, capitalism, fatphobia, queerphobia, and ableism on your lived experience. As an anti-capitalist, I deeply value community and I will regularly remind you that you are not alone and that there are caring communities eager to hold you. As an intersectional feminist, my work is deeply trauma-informed; your autonomy, safety, pace, worldview, and informed consent are paramount and will always be respected.
I am passionate about collective healing, and pleasure as a fundamental right! I am sex-positive and queer, trans, polyamory, kink and SWer affirming.
Hi, I am Yema, a sex therapist based in Philly. I am a queer, trans, fat, disabled, Latinx child of immigrants and I will bring a unique, anti-oppressive perspective to your struggles and goals. I always consider the impact of racism, capitalism, fatphobia, queerphobia, and ableism on your lived experience. As an anti-capitalist, I deeply value community and I will regularly remind you that you are not alone and that there are caring communities eager to hold you. As an intersectional feminist, my work is deeply trauma-informed; your autonomy, safety, pace, worldview, and informed consent are paramount and will always be respected.
(484) 309-3657 View (484) 309-3657
Photo of Liza Linder, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Liza Linder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19110
No one should have to educate their therapist about sexual orientation or gender identity, or Poly, or Kink, and that will not be the case with me.
I truly believe that therapy works best when there is a strong and trusting relationship between client and therapist. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I believe in unconditional positive regard for all of my clients. As well as compassion at all times. I believe that we are all on our own journey’s, and it often helps to have someone take that journey with you. I will walk with you, and see, hear, and believe you.
No one should have to educate their therapist about sexual orientation or gender identity, or Poly, or Kink, and that will not be the case with me.
I truly believe that therapy works best when there is a strong and trusting relationship between client and therapist. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I believe in unconditional positive regard for all of my clients. As well as compassion at all times. I believe that we are all on our own journey’s, and it often helps to have someone take that journey with you. I will walk with you, and see, hear, and believe you.
(267) 762-2588 View (267) 762-2588
A Bartko
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102  (Online Only)
I have special interest and experience with LGBTQIA+ individuals, trauma survivors, polyamorous/CNM & kink/BDSM relationships, neurodivergent folks, & artists.
Seeking an intentional space for healing and discovery is a meaningful choice. Through curiosity, warmth, and honesty, I work collaboratively to support clients in connecting their history, relationships, environment, to their current challenges and future goals. I believe that all of our stories are contextual, therefore I work towards identifying oppression-based barriers and explore the environmental impact through an anti-oppressive and liberation lens. My focus is to create a space where you can be empowered, express your pain, learn new ways of coping, and continue to grow into your most authentic self.
I have special interest and experience with LGBTQIA+ individuals, trauma survivors, polyamorous/CNM & kink/BDSM relationships, neurodivergent folks, & artists.
Seeking an intentional space for healing and discovery is a meaningful choice. Through curiosity, warmth, and honesty, I work collaboratively to support clients in connecting their history, relationships, environment, to their current challenges and future goals. I believe that all of our stories are contextual, therefore I work towards identifying oppression-based barriers and explore the environmental impact through an anti-oppressive and liberation lens. My focus is to create a space where you can be empowered, express your pain, learn new ways of coping, and continue to grow into your most authentic self.
(267) 352-3755 View (267) 352-3755
Photo of Francesca Papazis, LAPC, MPhilEd, Pre-Licensed Professional
Francesca Papazis
Pre-Licensed Professional, LAPC, MPhilEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
I believe you know yourself better than anyone else. I also believe humans are built for connection, and when you find a therapist that is the right fit for your needs, therapy can be healing. I specialize in working with anxiety, relationship challenges, sexuality/identity exploration, past & childhood trauma, and attachment healing, though I am here to support you with any topics you choose to bring to session. I encourage safety and empowerment with my clients, compassionately challenging them to work toward their individual goals and embrace their intuitive sense of self.
I believe you know yourself better than anyone else. I also believe humans are built for connection, and when you find a therapist that is the right fit for your needs, therapy can be healing. I specialize in working with anxiety, relationship challenges, sexuality/identity exploration, past & childhood trauma, and attachment healing, though I am here to support you with any topics you choose to bring to session. I encourage safety and empowerment with my clients, compassionately challenging them to work toward their individual goals and embrace their intuitive sense of self.
(267) 651-0660 View (267) 651-0660
Photo of Rebecca D Klein, MFT
Rebecca D Klein
MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Hi! I’m Rebecca (she/her). I am Couple and Sex Therapist. I offer in-person (Philadelphia) and virtual therapy for individuals, couples, siblings, roommates, and other relational systems. I have specific experience working with couples struggling with communication, those exploring polyamory, sexual identity exploration, kink, high-conflict, uncoupling, high-anxiety individuals, trans youth and parents of queer youth.
Hi! I’m Rebecca (she/her). I am Couple and Sex Therapist. I offer in-person (Philadelphia) and virtual therapy for individuals, couples, siblings, roommates, and other relational systems. I have specific experience working with couples struggling with communication, those exploring polyamory, sexual identity exploration, kink, high-conflict, uncoupling, high-anxiety individuals, trans youth and parents of queer youth.
(484) 446-5832 View (484) 446-5832
Photo of Dr. Jacob Glickman, PsyD, MA, LPC, Psychologist
Dr. Jacob Glickman
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19107
Jacob serves as the clinical director for Therapy Center of Philadelphia (TCP), where he and his supervisees specialize in providing mental healthcare for people who identify as transgender/non-binary/gender expansive, as well as the larger LGBTQIA+ communities and their families. Additionally, he and TCP maintain an anti-racist, sex positive, kink positive, and poly-aware practice. In collaboration with individuals, families, and people in relationships, Jacob's and his supervisees' identities inform their work as feminist therapists.
Jacob serves as the clinical director for Therapy Center of Philadelphia (TCP), where he and his supervisees specialize in providing mental healthcare for people who identify as transgender/non-binary/gender expansive, as well as the larger LGBTQIA+ communities and their families. Additionally, he and TCP maintain an anti-racist, sex positive, kink positive, and poly-aware practice. In collaboration with individuals, families, and people in relationships, Jacob's and his supervisees' identities inform their work as feminist therapists.
(267) 490-4762 x1 View (267) 490-4762 x1
Photo of Joanne Gonzales, MS, MFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Joanne Gonzales
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Hi, I'm Joanne! I work with folks who are experiencing uncertainty about their relationships or feel unmotivated at work or unsatisfied in their lifestyle. People that are navigating change, exploring their identity or purpose, and building sincere relationships. Those that are interested in breaking familial patterns and doing something different and meaningful with their lives. The world can be so soul-crushing sometimes, causing us to feel shame over their identities, desires, or behaviors. Understanding our identities or behaviors releases shame, builds self-confidence, and allows for true sustained change.
Hi, I'm Joanne! I work with folks who are experiencing uncertainty about their relationships or feel unmotivated at work or unsatisfied in their lifestyle. People that are navigating change, exploring their identity or purpose, and building sincere relationships. Those that are interested in breaking familial patterns and doing something different and meaningful with their lives. The world can be so soul-crushing sometimes, causing us to feel shame over their identities, desires, or behaviors. Understanding our identities or behaviors releases shame, builds self-confidence, and allows for true sustained change.
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Photo of Honora Feinberg, Pre-Licensed Professional
Honora Feinberg
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19130  (Online Only)
As a member of the queer community, I am passionate about establishing therapeutic spaces that are LGBTQIA+ and gender affirming, and allied towards BLM, Poly/ Kink/Non-Monogamous, Sex Workers.
I specialize in working with queer folks, individuals and couples exploring alternative lifestyles, and adolescent women looking to develop healthy relationship skills and receive supplemental, trauma-informed, sex education.  I am a firm believer that healing begins with getting to know yourself. That can mean identifying attachment wounds, exploring the impacts of the systems that inform you, and disassembling worn-out patterns that no longer serve you. My goal is to help you build a foundation of intimacy with the self that unlocks your ability to be more present in your relationships and more connected with your values.
As a member of the queer community, I am passionate about establishing therapeutic spaces that are LGBTQIA+ and gender affirming, and allied towards BLM, Poly/ Kink/Non-Monogamous, Sex Workers.
I specialize in working with queer folks, individuals and couples exploring alternative lifestyles, and adolescent women looking to develop healthy relationship skills and receive supplemental, trauma-informed, sex education.  I am a firm believer that healing begins with getting to know yourself. That can mean identifying attachment wounds, exploring the impacts of the systems that inform you, and disassembling worn-out patterns that no longer serve you. My goal is to help you build a foundation of intimacy with the self that unlocks your ability to be more present in your relationships and more connected with your values.
(215) 621-8493 View (215) 621-8493
Photo of Elizabeth Miner-Worland, MFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Elizabeth Miner-Worland
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19125
Supportive Ally for: Health at Every Size; LGBTQAI+ Community; Black Lives Matter; Polyamory/ Kink/Non-monogamy communities.
My approach to therapy is based on the belief that every person has the strength and resilience within them to overcome challenges and create change in their lives. By exploring the stories we tell ourselves and others about our experiences, we can gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and our relationships. Through this process we can create new narratives that empower us to live more fulfilling lives.
Supportive Ally for: Health at Every Size; LGBTQAI+ Community; Black Lives Matter; Polyamory/ Kink/Non-monogamy communities.
My approach to therapy is based on the belief that every person has the strength and resilience within them to overcome challenges and create change in their lives. By exploring the stories we tell ourselves and others about our experiences, we can gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and our relationships. Through this process we can create new narratives that empower us to live more fulfilling lives.
(267) 641-9985 View (267) 641-9985
Photo of CJ Mooney, LMFT, CCTP, Marriage & Family Therapist
CJ Mooney
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCTP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Waitlist for new clients
Therapy is about relationships. Whether we are creating personal healing through the therapeutic relationship, changing the way we interact in romantic partnerships, at work, or with family, or shifting our relationship with trauma and other past wounds, we are creating a new space where empathy and compassion can grow. When you make the choice to begin work in therapy, it is a radical act of love, both for the self and for others, and you can expect our work together to reflect this. I work with clients from all backgrounds, but have particular connection to the LGBTQ+, polyam/CNM, kink, artistic, & neurodiverse communities.
Therapy is about relationships. Whether we are creating personal healing through the therapeutic relationship, changing the way we interact in romantic partnerships, at work, or with family, or shifting our relationship with trauma and other past wounds, we are creating a new space where empathy and compassion can grow. When you make the choice to begin work in therapy, it is a radical act of love, both for the self and for others, and you can expect our work together to reflect this. I work with clients from all backgrounds, but have particular connection to the LGBTQ+, polyam/CNM, kink, artistic, & neurodiverse communities.
(484) 214-2810 View (484) 214-2810
Photo of Levi Bentley, MFA, MA, Pre-LPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Levi Bentley
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFA, MA, Pre-LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19107
My practice is person-centered, and queer, trans, kink and body-positive.
Choosing therapy is a bold step towards positive change. My goal as a therapist is to work with you towards your relational and personal goals and provide empathetic connection, structure and support for staying present with difficult emotions that can arise on the journey towards healing and self-realization. My name is Levi (they/them), I am a person-centered therapist-in-training, working from a trauma-informed lens. I believe that you make sense and that you are the expert on your own experience. I enjoy working with trans and LGBTQ clients, as well others who experience cultural oppressions.
My practice is person-centered, and queer, trans, kink and body-positive.
Choosing therapy is a bold step towards positive change. My goal as a therapist is to work with you towards your relational and personal goals and provide empathetic connection, structure and support for staying present with difficult emotions that can arise on the journey towards healing and self-realization. My name is Levi (they/them), I am a person-centered therapist-in-training, working from a trauma-informed lens. I believe that you make sense and that you are the expert on your own experience. I enjoy working with trans and LGBTQ clients, as well others who experience cultural oppressions.
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Photo of Sara Gaarn-Larsen, MFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sara Gaarn-Larsen
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Hi! I'm Sara, a sex and relationship therapist in the Philadelphia area. I offer individual, relationship, and sex therapy that helps clients strengthen their relationships with their loved ones and themselves. I specialize in addressing anxiety related to insecure attachment and its impact on relational conflict and self-worth. Working with clients to foster self-love and build emotional safety in their relationships is an important part of this process. As an LGBTQ+ affirming, sex positive, poly-friendly, and kink aware therapist, I welcome and provide a safe space for all identities and relationship styles.
Hi! I'm Sara, a sex and relationship therapist in the Philadelphia area. I offer individual, relationship, and sex therapy that helps clients strengthen their relationships with their loved ones and themselves. I specialize in addressing anxiety related to insecure attachment and its impact on relational conflict and self-worth. Working with clients to foster self-love and build emotional safety in their relationships is an important part of this process. As an LGBTQ+ affirming, sex positive, poly-friendly, and kink aware therapist, I welcome and provide a safe space for all identities and relationship styles.
(484) 669-8283 View (484) 669-8283
Photo of Mira Treatman, Pre-Licensed Professional
Mira Treatman
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19147
I am a humanistic therapist who is aligned with intersectional feminist values. I believe that individuals have the innate power to heal, grow, and develop on a path of their determination. I value feminist and systems approaches to therapy, where individuals are conceptualized as the products of their context, and not just as existing in a vacuum. My clinical point of view is sex-positive, body-positive, trauma-sensitive, and anti-oppressive. My sessions are grounded in trauma-informed care, which for me means that I consider not what is “wrong” with you, but what has happened in your life before today.
I am a humanistic therapist who is aligned with intersectional feminist values. I believe that individuals have the innate power to heal, grow, and develop on a path of their determination. I value feminist and systems approaches to therapy, where individuals are conceptualized as the products of their context, and not just as existing in a vacuum. My clinical point of view is sex-positive, body-positive, trauma-sensitive, and anti-oppressive. My sessions are grounded in trauma-informed care, which for me means that I consider not what is “wrong” with you, but what has happened in your life before today.
(267) 765-0488 View (267) 765-0488
Photo of Angelique Frazier, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angelique Frazier
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
I affirm diverse sexual orientations, gender identities, relationship configurations, and sexual practices, including but not limited to: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Queer, Asexual, Aromantic, Transgender, Genderqueer, Non-Binary, Polyamory, Kink and Sex Work.
While starting therapy can seem intimidating or daunting, I want you to know that you always deserve to take up space in therapy. I aim to help clients uncover the strengths they already possess. My work with clients involves the following: celebrating culture, acknowledging marginalization & privilege, multiracial identities, interracial couples, navigating cishet-white spaces, balancing conflicting expectations, processing current events, challenging anxious thoughts, separating me (the person) from anxiety (the fear and uncertainty), unpacking past events, reducing miscommunication, and feeling seen/heard.
I affirm diverse sexual orientations, gender identities, relationship configurations, and sexual practices, including but not limited to: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Queer, Asexual, Aromantic, Transgender, Genderqueer, Non-Binary, Polyamory, Kink and Sex Work.
While starting therapy can seem intimidating or daunting, I want you to know that you always deserve to take up space in therapy. I aim to help clients uncover the strengths they already possess. My work with clients involves the following: celebrating culture, acknowledging marginalization & privilege, multiracial identities, interracial couples, navigating cishet-white spaces, balancing conflicting expectations, processing current events, challenging anxious thoughts, separating me (the person) from anxiety (the fear and uncertainty), unpacking past events, reducing miscommunication, and feeling seen/heard.
(484) 214-2610 View (484) 214-2610
Photo of Emma Shakarshy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emma Shakarshy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19144  (Online Only)
I am sex, kink, polyamory, and LGBTQIA+ affirming.
Being a human is hard. It can feel heavy, overwhelming, and sometimes lonely. Most days, there’s barely time to process what’s going on, let alone how we’re feeling. It’s easy to get caught in loops, cycles that are based on the thoughts and behaviors we’ve relied on to survive. Therapy is a space for you to catch your breath and figure things out. I’m not the kind of therapist who sits back and scribbles on a notepad. I believe that you’re the expert of your life and I’m here to support you — to hold the map, flashlight, and the bag of snacks.
I am sex, kink, polyamory, and LGBTQIA+ affirming.
Being a human is hard. It can feel heavy, overwhelming, and sometimes lonely. Most days, there’s barely time to process what’s going on, let alone how we’re feeling. It’s easy to get caught in loops, cycles that are based on the thoughts and behaviors we’ve relied on to survive. Therapy is a space for you to catch your breath and figure things out. I’m not the kind of therapist who sits back and scribbles on a notepad. I believe that you’re the expert of your life and I’m here to support you — to hold the map, flashlight, and the bag of snacks.
(215) 402-5197 View (215) 402-5197
Photo of Louise Helferty, MFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Louise Helferty
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Rooted in the belief that intimacy is an integral part of relationships I am committed to creating an affirming and supportive space of those connections whether that is sex positive or sex neutral.
I believe that the power of therapy is driven by the forging of a genuine connection between client and therapist, and that healing happens in collaboration. I also believe that the ways in which we are socialized has a profound impact on how we show up in the world and our relationships with others. Change and growth are often rooted in understanding and unpacking that process. My style is active, compassionate and direct. I work primarily from an intersectional feminist, contextual approach and am devoted to relational justice in the therapy room and beyond.
Rooted in the belief that intimacy is an integral part of relationships I am committed to creating an affirming and supportive space of those connections whether that is sex positive or sex neutral.
I believe that the power of therapy is driven by the forging of a genuine connection between client and therapist, and that healing happens in collaboration. I also believe that the ways in which we are socialized has a profound impact on how we show up in the world and our relationships with others. Change and growth are often rooted in understanding and unpacking that process. My style is active, compassionate and direct. I work primarily from an intersectional feminist, contextual approach and am devoted to relational justice in the therapy room and beyond.
(215) 642-2509 View (215) 642-2509
Photo of Cynthia Closs, DSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cynthia Closs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102
I offer an informed perspective when working with persons in polyamorous relationships and/or the kink community.
People often seek therapy to resolve past experiences and life complexities and the decision to enter therapy may carry feelings of ambivalence and uncertainty. I believe that therapy is most effective when persons are offered an environment that is inviting, attentive, collaborative, affirming, and safe. Subsequently, my goal is to provide a challenging, but non-judgmental and encouraging atmosphere for persons to explore concerns and difficulties as a means of achieving desired change.
I offer an informed perspective when working with persons in polyamorous relationships and/or the kink community.
People often seek therapy to resolve past experiences and life complexities and the decision to enter therapy may carry feelings of ambivalence and uncertainty. I believe that therapy is most effective when persons are offered an environment that is inviting, attentive, collaborative, affirming, and safe. Subsequently, my goal is to provide a challenging, but non-judgmental and encouraging atmosphere for persons to explore concerns and difficulties as a means of achieving desired change.
(215) 240-7021 View (215) 240-7021
Photo of Kaitlin DiGiacinto, MA, LMFT, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kaitlin DiGiacinto
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
I am LGBTQAI-affirming as well as kink-aware and poly friendly.
Welcome! Congratulations on taking the first step on this adventure. I know finding the right therapist can be hard and a grueling process. For many clients this is the first time they have asked for help. I am passionate about creating a space for clients that is safe, freeing & nonjudgmental. I hope to do this through my multicultural background, interest in the client's perspective and the therapeutic relationship built. I operate from a systems & contextual framework where I believe clients are stuck, not sick. I work with clients to create goals and plans that are collaborative and empowering.
I am LGBTQAI-affirming as well as kink-aware and poly friendly.
Welcome! Congratulations on taking the first step on this adventure. I know finding the right therapist can be hard and a grueling process. For many clients this is the first time they have asked for help. I am passionate about creating a space for clients that is safe, freeing & nonjudgmental. I hope to do this through my multicultural background, interest in the client's perspective and the therapeutic relationship built. I operate from a systems & contextual framework where I believe clients are stuck, not sick. I work with clients to create goals and plans that are collaborative and empowering.
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Photo of Dave Schwartz, PhD, MSW, MEd, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dave Schwartz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MSW, MEd, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Having issues with love, sex, or intimacy? We should talk. Whether you're currently alone or in a relationship, love, sex, and intimacy are central and powerful sources of joy and satisfaction in our lives--so when it's not working, the pain and frustration can be just as powerful.. If every conversation turns into an argument, we should talk. If you want to feel connected again, and reignite feelings that have somehow gotten lost over time, we should talk. If you have concerns about your sexual interests, behavior, or relationships, we should talk. Call us. We can help. :)
Having issues with love, sex, or intimacy? We should talk. Whether you're currently alone or in a relationship, love, sex, and intimacy are central and powerful sources of joy and satisfaction in our lives--so when it's not working, the pain and frustration can be just as powerful.. If every conversation turns into an argument, we should talk. If you want to feel connected again, and reignite feelings that have somehow gotten lost over time, we should talk. If you have concerns about your sexual interests, behavior, or relationships, we should talk. Call us. We can help. :)
(215) 995-0054 View (215) 995-0054
Photo of Joseph Maron, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Joseph Maron
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19104
I also assist individuals and couples explore various forms of sex and intimacy issues including kink, BDSM, as well as polyamorous and non-monogamous relationships.
Are you struggling with accepting parts of yourself that you don't understand? Are you looking for ways to communicate the complex "you" to your family, friends, and loved ones? Are you struggling to identify and communicate your needs? As a neurodivergent and non-binary therapist, I'm here to help you navigate a world not designed for us. Let's explore your past so you can better understand your present.
I also assist individuals and couples explore various forms of sex and intimacy issues including kink, BDSM, as well as polyamorous and non-monogamous relationships.
Are you struggling with accepting parts of yourself that you don't understand? Are you looking for ways to communicate the complex "you" to your family, friends, and loved ones? Are you struggling to identify and communicate your needs? As a neurodivergent and non-binary therapist, I'm here to help you navigate a world not designed for us. Let's explore your past so you can better understand your present.
(267) 732-0865 View (267) 732-0865
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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.