Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Therapists in Rockdale, Atlanta, GA

Photo of W Myles Hassler, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rockdale, Atlanta, GA
W Myles Hassler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CST, NCC, MAC
Verified Verified
Rockdale, Atlanta, GA 30318
Common issues presented to me have related to performance anxiety, consensual nonmonogamy, erectile dysfunctions, desire discrepancies, polyamory, BDSM, kink, fetishes, lifestyle transitions, LGBTQIA+, and relationship enhancement.
Are you struggling to navigate your sexual and emotional needs in your relationships? Are you looking for a safe and accepting space to discuss your unique challenges and explore ways to deepen your connection with your partner or partners? Hi, I'm Myles Hassler, and I'm so glad you're here! I'm a certified sex therapist, specializing in couples counseling, consensual nonmonogamy & polyamorous relationships, the LGBTQIA+ community, and heterosexual orientations alike. Sex and intimacy are important parts of any relationship, and I believe that everyone deserves to have fulfilling and satisfying sexual and relatinship experiences.
Common issues presented to me have related to performance anxiety, consensual nonmonogamy, erectile dysfunctions, desire discrepancies, polyamory, BDSM, kink, fetishes, lifestyle transitions, LGBTQIA+, and relationship enhancement.
Are you struggling to navigate your sexual and emotional needs in your relationships? Are you looking for a safe and accepting space to discuss your unique challenges and explore ways to deepen your connection with your partner or partners? Hi, I'm Myles Hassler, and I'm so glad you're here! I'm a certified sex therapist, specializing in couples counseling, consensual nonmonogamy & polyamorous relationships, the LGBTQIA+ community, and heterosexual orientations alike. Sex and intimacy are important parts of any relationship, and I believe that everyone deserves to have fulfilling and satisfying sexual and relatinship experiences.
(678) 427-0566 View (678) 427-0566
Photo of Esther Cassady, Marriage & Family Therapist in Rockdale, Atlanta, GA
Esther Cassady
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rockdale, Atlanta, GA 30318  (Online Only)
You live the same life, week after week. You can’t really pinpoint what’s wrong. But you can’t shake the feeling that something is terribly wrong. Or maybe you do know what it is and what you should be doing, but you can’t seem to get any consistent forward momentum. You criticize yourself in the hopes that it will spur some action or you deny your needs and desires. If anything, it makes you feel even more despondent. Time passes, the same week, again and again, and you wonder if things will ever change.
You live the same life, week after week. You can’t really pinpoint what’s wrong. But you can’t shake the feeling that something is terribly wrong. Or maybe you do know what it is and what you should be doing, but you can’t seem to get any consistent forward momentum. You criticize yourself in the hopes that it will spur some action or you deny your needs and desires. If anything, it makes you feel even more despondent. Time passes, the same week, again and again, and you wonder if things will ever change.
(833) 734-0296 View (833) 734-0296
Photo of Ellen Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rockdale, Atlanta, GA
Ellen Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, CPT
Verified Verified
Rockdale, Atlanta, GA 30318  (Online Only)
Welcome! I'm Ellen, a Substance Use Disorder Counselor dedicated to providing a warm, open, and non-judgmental space for individuals navigating the journey of recovery. With empathy at the core of my practice, I believe in meeting people exactly where they are in their lives, without bias or preconceptions. I understand that each person's path to recovery is unique, and I am committed to helping individuals discover and pursue their own personal journey towards healing and well-being. I firmly believe that recovery is not a one-size-fits-all process, and I strive to tailor my approach to meet each of my client's unique needs.
Welcome! I'm Ellen, a Substance Use Disorder Counselor dedicated to providing a warm, open, and non-judgmental space for individuals navigating the journey of recovery. With empathy at the core of my practice, I believe in meeting people exactly where they are in their lives, without bias or preconceptions. I understand that each person's path to recovery is unique, and I am committed to helping individuals discover and pursue their own personal journey towards healing and well-being. I firmly believe that recovery is not a one-size-fits-all process, and I strive to tailor my approach to meet each of my client's unique needs.
(470) 635-5866 View (470) 635-5866
Photo of Anna Lisa Derenthal, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rockdale, Atlanta, GA
Anna Lisa Derenthal
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Rockdale, Atlanta, GA 30318
Are you haunted by the past, consumed by fear, pain, guilt or sadness? I have helped many others like you end suffering and overcome fears, finally putting their pasts behind them. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and Brainspotting are specialized therapies for healing Trauma and PTSD more quickly and completely. I am also experienced with grief/loss, panic and anxiety disorders, phobias, depression, low self esteem, and other issues. In addition, I work with LGBTQI, Gender Identity, transgender people and transitioning. I am open-minded and accepting and I welcome folks from all spiritual belief systems, sexual orientations, gender expressions, colors, shapes and sizes.
Are you haunted by the past, consumed by fear, pain, guilt or sadness? I have helped many others like you end suffering and overcome fears, finally putting their pasts behind them. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and Brainspotting are specialized therapies for healing Trauma and PTSD more quickly and completely. I am also experienced with grief/loss, panic and anxiety disorders, phobias, depression, low self esteem, and other issues. In addition, I work with LGBTQI, Gender Identity, transgender people and transitioning. I am open-minded and accepting and I welcome folks from all spiritual belief systems, sexual orientations, gender expressions, colors, shapes and sizes.
(678) 270-2384 View (678) 270-2384
Photo of Monica Manuel, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rockdale, Atlanta, GA
Monica Manuel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Rockdale, Atlanta, GA 30318
I am the CEO and Founder of Joie de Vivre Counseling and Therapy. I hold a master’s degree in Professional Counseling and have over 14 years of clinical experience. I am passionate about helping women transform how they feel about themselves, their intimate relationships and living a more deeply authentic and meaningful life. Working collaboratively I will assist you in finding your voice, stepping fully into wisdom and empower you to create a life of passion and purpose. For women who struggle with anxiety my approach combines integrative mind-body techniques with cognitive behavioral therapy, and a strengths-based approach.
I am the CEO and Founder of Joie de Vivre Counseling and Therapy. I hold a master’s degree in Professional Counseling and have over 14 years of clinical experience. I am passionate about helping women transform how they feel about themselves, their intimate relationships and living a more deeply authentic and meaningful life. Working collaboratively I will assist you in finding your voice, stepping fully into wisdom and empower you to create a life of passion and purpose. For women who struggle with anxiety my approach combines integrative mind-body techniques with cognitive behavioral therapy, and a strengths-based approach.
(678) 883-7624 View (678) 883-7624
Photo of Robert Blondeau, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rockdale, Atlanta, GA
Robert Blondeau
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Rockdale, Atlanta, GA 30318
Are you tired of feeling anxious, depressed, and run down? Are you struggling in your relationships? Together, we can help you access all of your power, choice, and control by uncovering the emotions driving your choices and behaviors. I want to help you achieve your goals and move forward in your life by identifying and updating the unproductive coping strategies you unconsciously rely on in your life. If you want real and lasting change, I can help you achieve it.
Are you tired of feeling anxious, depressed, and run down? Are you struggling in your relationships? Together, we can help you access all of your power, choice, and control by uncovering the emotions driving your choices and behaviors. I want to help you achieve your goals and move forward in your life by identifying and updating the unproductive coping strategies you unconsciously rely on in your life. If you want real and lasting change, I can help you achieve it.
(470) 777-9600 View (470) 777-9600
Photo of Carly Sackellares, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rockdale, Atlanta, GA
Carly Sackellares
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockdale, Atlanta, GA 30318
Often, life's challenges get in the way of us reaching our fullest potential. If you are struggling to manage the highs and lows, you are not alone. I believe in the importance and healing powers of human relationships. My passion is helping individuals, couples, and families strengthen and preserve the bonds with the people who hold the most meaning in their lives. Through the process, my clients are given the space and support to reveal more authentic, embodied versions of themselves.
Often, life's challenges get in the way of us reaching our fullest potential. If you are struggling to manage the highs and lows, you are not alone. I believe in the importance and healing powers of human relationships. My passion is helping individuals, couples, and families strengthen and preserve the bonds with the people who hold the most meaning in their lives. Through the process, my clients are given the space and support to reveal more authentic, embodied versions of themselves.
(678) 321-9001 View (678) 321-9001
Photo of Sammy Kanso, Counselor in Rockdale, Atlanta, GA
Sammy Kanso
Counselor, MS, LAPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockdale, Atlanta, GA 30318
Waitlist for new clients
I'm glad that you’re taking the first steps toward healing and reaching out for help. Life inevitably presents us with challenges and tribulations, and it's easy to convince ourselves that we need to go through them alone. I approach counseling by creating a non-judgmental, laid-back atmosphere where you feel safe to be yourself and to share and process your experiences. In life we often find ourselves reconciling the expectations placed upon us by society, our families, and ourselves. I think balancing these expectations in ways that don’t neglect our authentic needs is critical in order to live healthier, more fulfilling lives.
I'm glad that you’re taking the first steps toward healing and reaching out for help. Life inevitably presents us with challenges and tribulations, and it's easy to convince ourselves that we need to go through them alone. I approach counseling by creating a non-judgmental, laid-back atmosphere where you feel safe to be yourself and to share and process your experiences. In life we often find ourselves reconciling the expectations placed upon us by society, our families, and ourselves. I think balancing these expectations in ways that don’t neglect our authentic needs is critical in order to live healthier, more fulfilling lives.
(678) 941-1717 View (678) 941-1717
Photo of Kate Hoover, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rockdale, Atlanta, GA
Kate Hoover
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Rockdale, Atlanta, GA 30318
I'll work with you to collaboratively identify the best approach and tools for what you are experiencing at this particular moment. We'll look at your circumstances and goals to get a shared idea about our direction. We'll get curious about your patterns of thought, behavior, and beliefs. We'll build on your strengths. We'll discover which tools help you feel more resilient, empowered, and able to navigate strong emotions. This will prepare you to process the experiences that are often at the core of our adaptive strategies (i.e., what frequently gets labeled as "symptoms") allowing you to identify new choices that nourish you.
I'll work with you to collaboratively identify the best approach and tools for what you are experiencing at this particular moment. We'll look at your circumstances and goals to get a shared idea about our direction. We'll get curious about your patterns of thought, behavior, and beliefs. We'll build on your strengths. We'll discover which tools help you feel more resilient, empowered, and able to navigate strong emotions. This will prepare you to process the experiences that are often at the core of our adaptive strategies (i.e., what frequently gets labeled as "symptoms") allowing you to identify new choices that nourish you.
(678) 671-5070 View (678) 671-5070
Photo of Roshell Hanse, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rockdale, Atlanta, GA
Roshell Hanse
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Rockdale, Atlanta, GA 30318
I believe in your innate power to heal and grow from difficult life experiences and I applaud your choice to begin the significant process of change through counseling. Whether you've experienced trauma recently or many years ago, these experiences may continue to impact you in the present in various ways. I am the clinical expert but you are the expert of self, as I can not know you better than you know yourself, therefore; collaboratively we will focus on your strengths, explore the patterns that have brought you to where you are today, as well as discuss intentional changes you can make to struggle less and increase your life.
I believe in your innate power to heal and grow from difficult life experiences and I applaud your choice to begin the significant process of change through counseling. Whether you've experienced trauma recently or many years ago, these experiences may continue to impact you in the present in various ways. I am the clinical expert but you are the expert of self, as I can not know you better than you know yourself, therefore; collaboratively we will focus on your strengths, explore the patterns that have brought you to where you are today, as well as discuss intentional changes you can make to struggle less and increase your life.
(470) 275-2897 View (470) 275-2897
Photo of Dr. Whitney A Bowles, Pre-Licensed Professional in Rockdale, Atlanta, GA
Dr. Whitney A Bowles
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rockdale, Atlanta, GA 30318  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I strive to work authentically and collaboratively with clients to cultivate a space where clients can freely explore their thoughts, feelings, and relationships. As someone who believes that as humans we are wired for connection, my approach to therapy is rooted in relational-cultural and strengths-based approaches that are framed within a multicultural context. My goal is to help clients strengthen their connections to themselves, others, and the world. We will work hard together to help you reach your therapy goals.
As a therapist, I strive to work authentically and collaboratively with clients to cultivate a space where clients can freely explore their thoughts, feelings, and relationships. As someone who believes that as humans we are wired for connection, my approach to therapy is rooted in relational-cultural and strengths-based approaches that are framed within a multicultural context. My goal is to help clients strengthen their connections to themselves, others, and the world. We will work hard together to help you reach your therapy goals.
(470) 946-7561 View (470) 946-7561
Photo of Jacqueline Conway, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rockdale, Atlanta, GA
Jacqueline Conway
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, REAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockdale, Atlanta, GA 30318
You are worthy of love and belonging, and you are not alone. Taking the initial step to find a therapist can be the bravest decision you make to transform your life and I will meet you exactly where you are at in this moment. Focusing on the whole-self by integrating mindfulness and holistic techniques, I provide a soft place to land as you make meaning of the struggles and triumphs that have shaped you into the person you are today. I hope to help you reclaim inner strength and guide you to improve communication skills, learn to engage in empathetic introspection, and renew your curiosity about the world around you.
You are worthy of love and belonging, and you are not alone. Taking the initial step to find a therapist can be the bravest decision you make to transform your life and I will meet you exactly where you are at in this moment. Focusing on the whole-self by integrating mindfulness and holistic techniques, I provide a soft place to land as you make meaning of the struggles and triumphs that have shaped you into the person you are today. I hope to help you reclaim inner strength and guide you to improve communication skills, learn to engage in empathetic introspection, and renew your curiosity about the world around you.
(678) 726-5383 View (678) 726-5383
Photo of Reflections Psychotherapy ATL LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rockdale, Atlanta, GA
Reflections Psychotherapy ATL LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EMDR-C, CCH, RYT500, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockdale, Atlanta, GA 30318  (Online Only)
Are you ready to journey within in order to create real & lasting change in your life? My purpose as your therapist is to help you better understand yourself in order to make the changes you desire in your life. We all have dreams, goals, desires, ideas & ambitions but sometimes getting ourselves across that finish line is challenging. These challenges can exist for a variety of reasons such as trauma, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship conflicts, family dynamics, career dissatisfaction & many more. If you're ready and open to do the deeper mind-body-spirit work, then let's connect!
Are you ready to journey within in order to create real & lasting change in your life? My purpose as your therapist is to help you better understand yourself in order to make the changes you desire in your life. We all have dreams, goals, desires, ideas & ambitions but sometimes getting ourselves across that finish line is challenging. These challenges can exist for a variety of reasons such as trauma, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship conflicts, family dynamics, career dissatisfaction & many more. If you're ready and open to do the deeper mind-body-spirit work, then let's connect!
(470) 468-5388 View (470) 468-5388
Photo of Jackie Faass, Pre-Licensed Professional in Rockdale, Atlanta, GA
Jackie Faass
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
Verified Verified
Rockdale, Atlanta, GA 30318
Though I work with a wide range of clients and a variety of presenting issues, I am particularly drawn to creatives struggling with anxiety and depression. I practice with a feminist focus, striving for equality, advocacy, and equity between all clients and their relationships. My previous experience as an art teacher and artist grants me a deep love for the arts as a tool for healing, which I often use in my practice. I also enjoy working as an ally and advocate for equitable treatment for those who identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community. My clients include adult (18+ yrs.) individuals and couples.
Though I work with a wide range of clients and a variety of presenting issues, I am particularly drawn to creatives struggling with anxiety and depression. I practice with a feminist focus, striving for equality, advocacy, and equity between all clients and their relationships. My previous experience as an art teacher and artist grants me a deep love for the arts as a tool for healing, which I often use in my practice. I also enjoy working as an ally and advocate for equitable treatment for those who identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community. My clients include adult (18+ yrs.) individuals and couples.
(404) 737-6466 View (404) 737-6466
Photo of Rochelle Marecheau, Marriage & Family Therapist in Rockdale, Atlanta, GA
Rochelle Marecheau
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Rockdale, Atlanta, GA 30318
Life as you know it has changed. You were barely holding on before, and now you're struggling to adjust to life's new normal. Anxiety and/or depression may not be new to you but dealing with medical and racial pandemics simultaneously just feels like too much. Connecting with your partner seems harder now than ever before, even though you are spending more time together. All of your regular coping skills and self-care tools just don't seem to be doing the job and you are looking for relief. Believe me, I get what you're going through.
Life as you know it has changed. You were barely holding on before, and now you're struggling to adjust to life's new normal. Anxiety and/or depression may not be new to you but dealing with medical and racial pandemics simultaneously just feels like too much. Connecting with your partner seems harder now than ever before, even though you are spending more time together. All of your regular coping skills and self-care tools just don't seem to be doing the job and you are looking for relief. Believe me, I get what you're going through.
(678) 616-9240 View (678) 616-9240
Photo of Charity Hochberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rockdale, Atlanta, GA
Charity Hochberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAMS-II
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Rockdale, Atlanta, GA 30318  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
It can be difficult to navigate life stressors with the everyday bustle of life. Sometimes those stressors grow and become larger problems that seem unmanageable, overwhelming, and you may want to give up. Working with you through these crises and getting life back on track is exactly what I would like to do for those who need it most. Living your life worth living is my goal and getting you to that goal is the center of a therapeutic relationship with me.
It can be difficult to navigate life stressors with the everyday bustle of life. Sometimes those stressors grow and become larger problems that seem unmanageable, overwhelming, and you may want to give up. Working with you through these crises and getting life back on track is exactly what I would like to do for those who need it most. Living your life worth living is my goal and getting you to that goal is the center of a therapeutic relationship with me.
(404) 800-1044 View (404) 800-1044
Photo of Shannon Mathis Meyer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rockdale, Atlanta, GA
Shannon Mathis Meyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CACII
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Rockdale, Atlanta, GA 30318
Not accepting new clients
I believe the first step to healing involves connection, so I use humor, authenticity, and shared humanity to connect with clients. I am proactive and dynamic, NOT just a "blank slate." I specialize in treating trauma, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, Bipolar, and stressful life transitions. I am also accepting new LMSW/LCSW supervisees virtually throughout Georgia, and have experience supervising LMSWs who are working in schools, hospitals, hospice, jails, inpatient, community programs, DFCS, IOP/PHP, non-profit, and group private practice. I am a safe place for LGBTQIA+ individuals and those in nontraditional relationships.
I believe the first step to healing involves connection, so I use humor, authenticity, and shared humanity to connect with clients. I am proactive and dynamic, NOT just a "blank slate." I specialize in treating trauma, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, Bipolar, and stressful life transitions. I am also accepting new LMSW/LCSW supervisees virtually throughout Georgia, and have experience supervising LMSWs who are working in schools, hospitals, hospice, jails, inpatient, community programs, DFCS, IOP/PHP, non-profit, and group private practice. I am a safe place for LGBTQIA+ individuals and those in nontraditional relationships.
(678) 658-3622 View (678) 658-3622

Online Therapists

Photo of Flutter & Flourish Therapy Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rockdale, Atlanta, GA
Flutter & Flourish Therapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-C, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30303  (Online Only)
I focus on reaching the following communities: BIPOC, Young/Mid Age Adults specifically during life transitions, BDSM/Kink & Adults w/ Bipolar Disorder.
My name is Lynne. I am an independently contracted clinical therapist for IEG operating under Flutter & Flourish Therapy Services serving states: MI, TN, AL & GA. As a therapist, I believe that when you decide to engage in therapy, you are choosing to allow yourself to reflect on how you want to take control of your life & deciding how you need/want to show up for yourself. I am here to assure you per the societal feedback, nothing is "wrong" with you. We all have things different about us and that's what makes our voices and lived experiences ours, which also means our healing and progression will look different person to person.
I focus on reaching the following communities: BIPOC, Young/Mid Age Adults specifically during life transitions, BDSM/Kink & Adults w/ Bipolar Disorder.
My name is Lynne. I am an independently contracted clinical therapist for IEG operating under Flutter & Flourish Therapy Services serving states: MI, TN, AL & GA. As a therapist, I believe that when you decide to engage in therapy, you are choosing to allow yourself to reflect on how you want to take control of your life & deciding how you need/want to show up for yourself. I am here to assure you per the societal feedback, nothing is "wrong" with you. We all have things different about us and that's what makes our voices and lived experiences ours, which also means our healing and progression will look different person to person.
(517) 923-2386 View (517) 923-2386
Photo of Erin Lightman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rockdale, Atlanta, GA
Erin Lightman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30317
I practice as an LGBTQIA+, poly, and kink affirming clinician.
You want to feel better. You’re ready to heal, and I want to help you on that journey. I see counseling as a collaborative partnership, and I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can be you without fear of rejection. Using an approach to counseling that blends cognitive behavior techniques with values work and self-compassion, I help clients cultivate self-love, incorporate new coping skills, and improve their relationships. I am also an IFS-informed clinician, meaning that I work with you to improve the relationships between various parts of yourself. I work best with people who are curious and ready to grow.
I practice as an LGBTQIA+, poly, and kink affirming clinician.
You want to feel better. You’re ready to heal, and I want to help you on that journey. I see counseling as a collaborative partnership, and I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can be you without fear of rejection. Using an approach to counseling that blends cognitive behavior techniques with values work and self-compassion, I help clients cultivate self-love, incorporate new coping skills, and improve their relationships. I am also an IFS-informed clinician, meaning that I work with you to improve the relationships between various parts of yourself. I work best with people who are curious and ready to grow.
(678) 252-5154 View (678) 252-5154
Photo of Melissa Dickinson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rockdale, Atlanta, GA
Melissa Dickinson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30317
Waitlist for new clients
I have training in gender and sex therapy (kink/poly friendly) and work extensively with chronic illness support.
Therapy is a chance to cultivate a healthy relationship with a professional who will allow you to grow and explore new ways of being. I work with you to create a safe space, so that we can make real progress on the issues that matter to you.
I have training in gender and sex therapy (kink/poly friendly) and work extensively with chronic illness support.
Therapy is a chance to cultivate a healthy relationship with a professional who will allow you to grow and explore new ways of being. I work with you to create a safe space, so that we can make real progress on the issues that matter to you.
(706) 508-4993 View (706) 508-4993

See more therapy options for Rockdale, Atlanta

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.