Therapists in Oakland, CA

Photo of Mischa Freeman, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Oakland, CA
Mischa Freeman
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
I work with individuals and couples across many backgrounds, particularly within queer and trans community, kink and polyamory, and people who are in recovery and survivors.
Hi there, I’m glad you’re here. I know that looking for a therapist can be hard, especially when you’re hurting or feeling low. I may be able to help. You might feel lonely, anxious, or full of guilt…or you might not know what you feel. You may be confused about the choices you make in life, or you may feel frustrated with the unjust world you live in. Many critical thought patterns, painful feelings, and unwanted behaviors started out as survival strategies to protect us during difficult life experiences. These strategies helped us cope in the past, but can lead to conflict and suffering in the present.
I work with individuals and couples across many backgrounds, particularly within queer and trans community, kink and polyamory, and people who are in recovery and survivors.
Hi there, I’m glad you’re here. I know that looking for a therapist can be hard, especially when you’re hurting or feeling low. I may be able to help. You might feel lonely, anxious, or full of guilt…or you might not know what you feel. You may be confused about the choices you make in life, or you may feel frustrated with the unjust world you live in. Many critical thought patterns, painful feelings, and unwanted behaviors started out as survival strategies to protect us during difficult life experiences. These strategies helped us cope in the past, but can lead to conflict and suffering in the present.
(510) 949-3808 View (510) 949-3808
Photo of Rascal Roubos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Rascal Roubos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94601
You are not your problems, the problem is the problem! Together we can begin to discern the difference and take action toward change. I am a white, genderqueer therapist dedicated to facilitating personal, interpersonal and collective healing through relationships and organizing. I specialize in supporting people experiencing issues related to boundaries, self-respect, burnout, anger, social/racial justice, healing trauma, identity development, existential questions, sexuality, gender identity, and life transitions. LGBTQ, poly, and kink identities welcome. More at: www.tidepooltherapy.com and www.traumaconsciouspraxis.com
You are not your problems, the problem is the problem! Together we can begin to discern the difference and take action toward change. I am a white, genderqueer therapist dedicated to facilitating personal, interpersonal and collective healing through relationships and organizing. I specialize in supporting people experiencing issues related to boundaries, self-respect, burnout, anger, social/racial justice, healing trauma, identity development, existential questions, sexuality, gender identity, and life transitions. LGBTQ, poly, and kink identities welcome. More at: www.tidepooltherapy.com and www.traumaconsciouspraxis.com
(510) 880-1858 View (510) 880-1858
Photo of Justin Leonti, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Justin Leonti
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
I am a queer, polyamorous, and integrative transpersonal clinician; I specialize in the areas of polyamory, kink, navigating trauma, consent, and entheogenic integration.
You’re fumbling, feeling clunky, ashamed, lost in transition, and searching for answers. You’ve been told you’re too much, too scattered, and too picky, when in reality, you may very well know what you want and it seems others just can’t meet you there. Together we will explore and unfold acceptance and awareness around ALL of your parts, especially the most intense ones. What you’re searching for is out there, let’s take these next steps on your journey
I am a queer, polyamorous, and integrative transpersonal clinician; I specialize in the areas of polyamory, kink, navigating trauma, consent, and entheogenic integration.
You’re fumbling, feeling clunky, ashamed, lost in transition, and searching for answers. You’ve been told you’re too much, too scattered, and too picky, when in reality, you may very well know what you want and it seems others just can’t meet you there. Together we will explore and unfold acceptance and awareness around ALL of your parts, especially the most intense ones. What you’re searching for is out there, let’s take these next steps on your journey
(510) 689-1814 View (510) 689-1814
Photo of Sterling Walker, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland, CA
Sterling Walker
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
I also work with members of the BDSM, kink, and poly communities and create a safe space for the development of new paradigms and beliefs.
Throughout our lives, we all have experienced feelings of depression, anxiety, and anger. These emotions leave you feeling insecure, shameful, lonely, unworthy and stuck in unhealthy patterns of behavior. Trauma can have negative emotional and physical effects and can lead to family/relationship issues. I specialize in solution-focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness and CBT. These approaches allow me to work with the client to decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression and other health/behavioral issues.
I also work with members of the BDSM, kink, and poly communities and create a safe space for the development of new paradigms and beliefs.
Throughout our lives, we all have experienced feelings of depression, anxiety, and anger. These emotions leave you feeling insecure, shameful, lonely, unworthy and stuck in unhealthy patterns of behavior. Trauma can have negative emotional and physical effects and can lead to family/relationship issues. I specialize in solution-focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness and CBT. These approaches allow me to work with the client to decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression and other health/behavioral issues.
(415) 712-1672 View (415) 712-1672
Photo of Danika Grundemann, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Danika Grundemann
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94608  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with folx who identify with the following communities: ethical non-monogamy (ENM), polyamory, kink, BDSM, and LGBTQA+ and who are struggling with anxiety, depression and a history of trauma. I think of psychotherapy as a necessary form of social activism toward a larger goal of equity for people of all races, genders, sexual/relational orientations, levels of ability, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Let's work together to bring you back to yourself, your relationships and your community!
I specialize in working with folx who identify with the following communities: ethical non-monogamy (ENM), polyamory, kink, BDSM, and LGBTQA+ and who are struggling with anxiety, depression and a history of trauma. I think of psychotherapy as a necessary form of social activism toward a larger goal of equity for people of all races, genders, sexual/relational orientations, levels of ability, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Let's work together to bring you back to yourself, your relationships and your community!
(415) 650-4946 View (415) 650-4946
Photo of Jacqui Ferraiolo, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Jacqui Ferraiolo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609
Limited spots available, please reach out for details: Individual, Couples/Relationship, Teen Counseling. LGBTQIA+, Poly, Sex-Positive, & Kink friendly. Folks tend to come to me when they are feeling stuck around their anxiety or depression. They usually are holding questions around their sexuality/identity, life transitions, and processing grief or loss. They know that they have the wisdom to resolve these feelings inside, but they are feeling stuck on how to access them. Everything feels a little garbled, and I help them clear the way to access the answers to the questions they are holding.
Limited spots available, please reach out for details: Individual, Couples/Relationship, Teen Counseling. LGBTQIA+, Poly, Sex-Positive, & Kink friendly. Folks tend to come to me when they are feeling stuck around their anxiety or depression. They usually are holding questions around their sexuality/identity, life transitions, and processing grief or loss. They know that they have the wisdom to resolve these feelings inside, but they are feeling stuck on how to access them. Everything feels a little garbled, and I help them clear the way to access the answers to the questions they are holding.
(510) 588-3682 View (510) 588-3682
Photo of Julian Dodd, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Julian Dodd
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618  (Online Only)
Extensive experience working with LGBTQ, kink, and poly community.
I view psychotherapy as a collaborative process between therapist and client, where the relationship is part of the healing process. My style is active, creative, and holistic. I will meet you where you are, not-judging, engaged and curious. I work with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, shame, relationship distress, life transitions, and existential dilemmas (questions about the meaning of life, questions about dying and death). I also have experience working with individuals struggling with dual diagnosis (addiction and mental health issues combined).
Extensive experience working with LGBTQ, kink, and poly community.
I view psychotherapy as a collaborative process between therapist and client, where the relationship is part of the healing process. My style is active, creative, and holistic. I will meet you where you are, not-judging, engaged and curious. I work with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, shame, relationship distress, life transitions, and existential dilemmas (questions about the meaning of life, questions about dying and death). I also have experience working with individuals struggling with dual diagnosis (addiction and mental health issues combined).
(415) 304-8603 View (415) 304-8603
Photo of Catherine (Cat) Haueter, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Catherine (Cat) Haueter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
I love working with those who don't always feel comfortable or "seen" in clinical settings: LGBTQ+ folks, kink/BDSM practitioners, sex workers, POC, poly/open/nontraditional relationship architects, people with disabilities, Burners, self-proclaimed weirdos, and anyone struggling with or exploring identity.
I believe that experiencing loving, nurturing relationships is the best part of being alive. I also recognize that for many of us, creating and maintaining such relationships can be incredibly hard. I view psychotherapy as a means to explore whatever is currently blocking our path to healthy, fulfilling and supportive connections--both to others and to ourselves. Sometimes that means building skills we never learned in the first place. Other times that means examining challenging past experiences. Whatever the circumstances, I am here to support your journey toward growth, fulfillment, and ultimately, greater joy.
I love working with those who don't always feel comfortable or "seen" in clinical settings: LGBTQ+ folks, kink/BDSM practitioners, sex workers, POC, poly/open/nontraditional relationship architects, people with disabilities, Burners, self-proclaimed weirdos, and anyone struggling with or exploring identity.
I believe that experiencing loving, nurturing relationships is the best part of being alive. I also recognize that for many of us, creating and maintaining such relationships can be incredibly hard. I view psychotherapy as a means to explore whatever is currently blocking our path to healthy, fulfilling and supportive connections--both to others and to ourselves. Sometimes that means building skills we never learned in the first place. Other times that means examining challenging past experiences. Whatever the circumstances, I am here to support your journey toward growth, fulfillment, and ultimately, greater joy.
(650) 879-4163 View (650) 879-4163
Photo of Jessee Lovegood, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland, CA
Jessee Lovegood
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
I approach my work with a social justice lens and am sex-, kink-, and body-positive.
Folks come to therapy for a variety of reasons that all boil down to change, whether they're struggling to handle it or make it. Many of my clients' lives don't align with societal norms, either intentionally coloring outside the lines or struggling to fit in. Folks may find themselves overwhelmed, dealing with big emotions, the effects of complex or single-event trauma, complex medical issues, or chronic pain. I am passionate about working with the LGBTQ+ - including trans kids and their families, disabled, and neurodiverse populations. I like to work with individuals, couples, polycules, and families of all shapes and sizes.
I approach my work with a social justice lens and am sex-, kink-, and body-positive.
Folks come to therapy for a variety of reasons that all boil down to change, whether they're struggling to handle it or make it. Many of my clients' lives don't align with societal norms, either intentionally coloring outside the lines or struggling to fit in. Folks may find themselves overwhelmed, dealing with big emotions, the effects of complex or single-event trauma, complex medical issues, or chronic pain. I am passionate about working with the LGBTQ+ - including trans kids and their families, disabled, and neurodiverse populations. I like to work with individuals, couples, polycules, and families of all shapes and sizes.
(510) 240-8070 View (510) 240-8070
Photo of Julia Simone Fogelson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Julia Simone Fogelson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611
I work from a poly-friendly, kink-knowledgeable, queer- and gender-affirming perspective.
Welcome! I offer psychotherapy to adults, couples and other relationship configurations, families and teens, as well as sex therapy. I am a Certified Sex Therapist (CST) through AASECT and am also a gender care provider. I believe therapy is a collaborative process; you can think of me as a companion as we travel down the roads of your growth together. If you have been thinking about starting therapy, I invite you to contact me. I am committed to helping my clients become the most authentic version of themselves.
I work from a poly-friendly, kink-knowledgeable, queer- and gender-affirming perspective.
Welcome! I offer psychotherapy to adults, couples and other relationship configurations, families and teens, as well as sex therapy. I am a Certified Sex Therapist (CST) through AASECT and am also a gender care provider. I believe therapy is a collaborative process; you can think of me as a companion as we travel down the roads of your growth together. If you have been thinking about starting therapy, I invite you to contact me. I am committed to helping my clients become the most authentic version of themselves.
(510) 681-0729 View (510) 681-0729
Photo of Stefanie Schlief, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland, CA
Stefanie Schlief
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618  (Online Only)
I am an associate Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in sex therapy, harm reduction, trauma-informed care, PTSD, and LGBTQIA+ issues. I am currently accepting both couples and individuals at my practice. My work is non-judgmental, client focused, sex positive, open to those practicing ethical non-monogamy and polyamory, kink-positive, and welcomes humans of all shapes, sizes, colors, and backgrounds. I love to help people navigate through their relationships, both casual and serious, and offer support and care in making tough changes or realizations. Together we can explore shame, identity, and what scares or challenges us.
I am an associate Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in sex therapy, harm reduction, trauma-informed care, PTSD, and LGBTQIA+ issues. I am currently accepting both couples and individuals at my practice. My work is non-judgmental, client focused, sex positive, open to those practicing ethical non-monogamy and polyamory, kink-positive, and welcomes humans of all shapes, sizes, colors, and backgrounds. I love to help people navigate through their relationships, both casual and serious, and offer support and care in making tough changes or realizations. Together we can explore shame, identity, and what scares or challenges us.
(510) 288-6085 View (510) 288-6085
Photo of Audre Mowry, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Audre Mowry
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611  (Online Only)
Finding a therapist can be a hard and vulnerable process, and I feel honored that you are considering me. I believe that psychotherapy is a collaborative relationship which starts with the connection we build together. My approach to therapy prioritizes sex positivity and gender inclusive practices. I love to work with clients that identify in the queer, kinky/BDSM and poly/non-monogmomous communities! I earned my BA Women and Gender Studies at Mills College in Oakland, and my MA in Psychology from The Wright Institute in Berkeley. I worked in sex-positive activism, heading programs, and running workshops and trainings.
Finding a therapist can be a hard and vulnerable process, and I feel honored that you are considering me. I believe that psychotherapy is a collaborative relationship which starts with the connection we build together. My approach to therapy prioritizes sex positivity and gender inclusive practices. I love to work with clients that identify in the queer, kinky/BDSM and poly/non-monogmomous communities! I earned my BA Women and Gender Studies at Mills College in Oakland, and my MA in Psychology from The Wright Institute in Berkeley. I worked in sex-positive activism, heading programs, and running workshops and trainings.
(510) 892-2652 View (510) 892-2652
Photo of Heather Buchheim, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Heather Buchheim
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
How you feel towards yourself can profoundly impact your relationships, work, school, and more. And a lot can make it hard to feel your best. You might be: Exhausted by a relentless self-critical voice...Considering your next steps to feel authentically aligned with your gender and sexuality...Struggling with boundaries and people-pleasing... Stressed and stuck in your closest relationships...Curious about non-monogamy but unsure where to start...Looking for nonjudgmental guidance navigating dynamics within polyamory and kink — not to mention managing all of this under capitalism. No wonder you'd like support!
How you feel towards yourself can profoundly impact your relationships, work, school, and more. And a lot can make it hard to feel your best. You might be: Exhausted by a relentless self-critical voice...Considering your next steps to feel authentically aligned with your gender and sexuality...Struggling with boundaries and people-pleasing... Stressed and stuck in your closest relationships...Curious about non-monogamy but unsure where to start...Looking for nonjudgmental guidance navigating dynamics within polyamory and kink — not to mention managing all of this under capitalism. No wonder you'd like support!
(925) 438-6553 View (925) 438-6553
Photo of Claire Perelman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Claire Perelman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPSC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609
We might be a good fit if you are looking for a sex-positive, kink, polyam, and Queer affirming therapist (that gets it).
You deserve to feel deeply connected to yourself, your partner(s), and the world around you. I’m here to help. Talking about sex with your partner - or anyone - might feel like a daunting task. Having sex might feel difficult, impossible, or like too much effort - or lead to conflict with your partner. You might be questioning your sexual desires or wondering if you and your partner are still compatible. I help clients overcome their sexual and relational difficulties to feel confident in and outside the bedroom. Together, we will collaborate on how to help you reach your goals, through therapy sessions and home assignments.
We might be a good fit if you are looking for a sex-positive, kink, polyam, and Queer affirming therapist (that gets it).
You deserve to feel deeply connected to yourself, your partner(s), and the world around you. I’m here to help. Talking about sex with your partner - or anyone - might feel like a daunting task. Having sex might feel difficult, impossible, or like too much effort - or lead to conflict with your partner. You might be questioning your sexual desires or wondering if you and your partner are still compatible. I help clients overcome their sexual and relational difficulties to feel confident in and outside the bedroom. Together, we will collaborate on how to help you reach your goals, through therapy sessions and home assignments.
(415) 985-4279 View (415) 985-4279
Photo of Taylor Isaacson, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland, CA
Taylor Isaacson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94612  (Online Only)
I'm a sex positive therapist and work with many poly people, sex workers, and queer folks.
We all deserve space to be our full selves. I view my role as therapist as a co-explorer – I walk alongside you as you navigate your authentic experience of this world. In session, we follow what feels present for you in the moment and approach what arises with curiosity. This mindful awareness helps us meet and build relationship with more “parts” of you. I aim to allow all of you in. Eventually, this process of being “more you” can lead to a more grounded and connected existence, one in which you find yourself with more choice, agency, and fulfillment in life.
I'm a sex positive therapist and work with many poly people, sex workers, and queer folks.
We all deserve space to be our full selves. I view my role as therapist as a co-explorer – I walk alongside you as you navigate your authentic experience of this world. In session, we follow what feels present for you in the moment and approach what arises with curiosity. This mindful awareness helps us meet and build relationship with more “parts” of you. I aim to allow all of you in. Eventually, this process of being “more you” can lead to a more grounded and connected existence, one in which you find yourself with more choice, agency, and fulfillment in life.
(415) 326-9895 View (415) 326-9895
Photo of Alli Yates, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland, CA
Alli Yates
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
I welcome themes related to belonging, grief and loss, queer and trans community dynamics, non-monogamy, BDSM/kink, chronic illness and disability, and loneliness/isolation.
As a therapist with a focus on developmental trauma and working with queer and trans adults and teens, I believe that early life experiences and ongoing structural contexts immensely inform our relationship to ourselves and each other. I hold this framework with my background in somatic psychotherapy, which considers the ways our bodies and nervous systems relate to our emotions and experiences. There is no one way to relate to the past, embody our feelings, or find healing. In therapy, we find a way for you together. My role is to hold consistent curiosity, rigor, and care throughout the process of your own self-discovery.
I welcome themes related to belonging, grief and loss, queer and trans community dynamics, non-monogamy, BDSM/kink, chronic illness and disability, and loneliness/isolation.
As a therapist with a focus on developmental trauma and working with queer and trans adults and teens, I believe that early life experiences and ongoing structural contexts immensely inform our relationship to ourselves and each other. I hold this framework with my background in somatic psychotherapy, which considers the ways our bodies and nervous systems relate to our emotions and experiences. There is no one way to relate to the past, embody our feelings, or find healing. In therapy, we find a way for you together. My role is to hold consistent curiosity, rigor, and care throughout the process of your own self-discovery.
(510) 288-3582 View (510) 288-3582
Photo of Lacy Martinez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Lacy Martinez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611
Couples/Relationship Counseling. LGBTQ, Poly, & Kink friendly. Clients that like my style seek therapy mostly for anxiety or depression that comes from the feeling that life lacks purpose, feels stuck, or stale; especially during times of heartache, misunderstanding, break-ups, or even death. Many useful moments, crucial moments, can arise at the end of something - unresolved past hurts, spiritual dilemmas, a sudden urgency and passion for figuring out "why we're here" - understanding them and integrating them is what I offer. Closing the old stuff up well means new, exciting beginnings are possible...often in the same relationship!
Couples/Relationship Counseling. LGBTQ, Poly, & Kink friendly. Clients that like my style seek therapy mostly for anxiety or depression that comes from the feeling that life lacks purpose, feels stuck, or stale; especially during times of heartache, misunderstanding, break-ups, or even death. Many useful moments, crucial moments, can arise at the end of something - unresolved past hurts, spiritual dilemmas, a sudden urgency and passion for figuring out "why we're here" - understanding them and integrating them is what I offer. Closing the old stuff up well means new, exciting beginnings are possible...often in the same relationship!
(510) 379-7124 View (510) 379-7124
Photo of Marissa Cotter, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Marissa Cotter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94607
I provide relational somatic therapy for adults, kids & teens. Therapy with me is integrative, including woven layers of modalities designed with your specific needs in mind. Our work is a collaboration with your mind, body, and soul. Non-judgement. Warmth. Active conversations and appropriate humor. Integrative therapy works successfully to treat mental health issues, emotional distress, and trauma triggers, and is great for kids/teens through art-therapy, body-awareness, and non-directive play. Psychotherapy, to me, is personal, political, & social. It takes courage, strength, and hope to live into who you really are.
I provide relational somatic therapy for adults, kids & teens. Therapy with me is integrative, including woven layers of modalities designed with your specific needs in mind. Our work is a collaboration with your mind, body, and soul. Non-judgement. Warmth. Active conversations and appropriate humor. Integrative therapy works successfully to treat mental health issues, emotional distress, and trauma triggers, and is great for kids/teens through art-therapy, body-awareness, and non-directive play. Psychotherapy, to me, is personal, political, & social. It takes courage, strength, and hope to live into who you really are.
(628) 888-6059 View (628) 888-6059
Photo of Becker Grumet, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland, CA
Becker Grumet
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94601  (Online Only)
I am sex & kink-positive & trained in supporting non-monogamous/polyamorous & asexual folks.
We all need to be seen & witnessed. Whatever it is that feels too hard—be it exploring identity, navigating attachment wounds, combating intrusive thoughts, or processing the collective grief in the world—one of the greatest gifts you can give to yourself is dedicated time just for you & your needs. I would be honored to walk with you on your path. For me, therapy is relational. The human on the other side of the room (or screen) should feel like precisely that: a human! Together, we will create a container in which you can authentically examine your relationships with others as well as the pivotal relationship to self.
I am sex & kink-positive & trained in supporting non-monogamous/polyamorous & asexual folks.
We all need to be seen & witnessed. Whatever it is that feels too hard—be it exploring identity, navigating attachment wounds, combating intrusive thoughts, or processing the collective grief in the world—one of the greatest gifts you can give to yourself is dedicated time just for you & your needs. I would be honored to walk with you on your path. For me, therapy is relational. The human on the other side of the room (or screen) should feel like precisely that: a human! Together, we will create a container in which you can authentically examine your relationships with others as well as the pivotal relationship to self.
(323) 395-0172 View (323) 395-0172
Photo of Alexandra M Jansen, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland, CA
Alexandra M Jansen
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94601  (Online Only)
Welcome, I work primarily with clients that are within the LGBTQIA+ and Kink/BDSM communities. I also am body positive, sex positive, poly positive, geek/nerd positive, and trauma informed. I feel that the therapy space should feel safe and build on your strengths. If you’re here, you’re probably struggling with a significant burden in your life. Whether it’s anxiety, depression, trauma, or even difficulties with relationships, I want you to know that researching your future therapist is a great first step. In fact, having a good relationship with them has been known to be a major factor in achieving progress in your therapy.
Welcome, I work primarily with clients that are within the LGBTQIA+ and Kink/BDSM communities. I also am body positive, sex positive, poly positive, geek/nerd positive, and trauma informed. I feel that the therapy space should feel safe and build on your strengths. If you’re here, you’re probably struggling with a significant burden in your life. Whether it’s anxiety, depression, trauma, or even difficulties with relationships, I want you to know that researching your future therapist is a great first step. In fact, having a good relationship with them has been known to be a major factor in achieving progress in your therapy.
(916) 823-8761 View (916) 823-8761
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.