Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Therapists in Georgia

Photo of Natalie A. N. Elliott, Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia
Natalie A. N. Elliott
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS, LMFT-S, CST-S
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30067  (Online Only)
All sexual and kink orientations & conversations welcome.
Sex and relationship problems can feel overwhelming and sometime even painful... AND they're hard to talk about! Then those problems start causing MORE problems in other parts of your life. BUT, what would it be like if you had the sexual relationship you wanted? or the intimacy you wanted? I provide a supportive, safe, non-judgmental, and private space for you to talk about the problems and pains without fear of judgment, shame, or guilt. If you're in a place where you're starting to feel like "I gotta do something," then call me now: 678.498.1465.
All sexual and kink orientations & conversations welcome.
Sex and relationship problems can feel overwhelming and sometime even painful... AND they're hard to talk about! Then those problems start causing MORE problems in other parts of your life. BUT, what would it be like if you had the sexual relationship you wanted? or the intimacy you wanted? I provide a supportive, safe, non-judgmental, and private space for you to talk about the problems and pains without fear of judgment, shame, or guilt. If you're in a place where you're starting to feel like "I gotta do something," then call me now: 678.498.1465.
(678) 498-1465 View (678) 498-1465
Photo of W Myles Hassler, Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia
W Myles Hassler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CST, NCC, MAC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30329
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 Jessica Renard, Counselor in Georgia
Jessica Renard
Counselor, LAPC, MEd
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30067  (Online Only)
LGBTQIA, kink, and non-binary welcome! Helping clients move past sexual trauma to find satisfying sex lives is one of my passions. I help my clients understand, love, and appreciate their bodies. Connections are important. I believe part of the issue in today's world is that people feel disconnected and aren't sure how to reconnect. I help with that. I enjoy connecting people, connecting people to resources, connecting pieces of information to create a larger picture, and helping people figure out how to reconnect. I pull from my experiences and knowledge to help others.
LGBTQIA, kink, and non-binary welcome! Helping clients move past sexual trauma to find satisfying sex lives is one of my passions. I help my clients understand, love, and appreciate their bodies. Connections are important. I believe part of the issue in today's world is that people feel disconnected and aren't sure how to reconnect. I help with that. I enjoy connecting people, connecting people to resources, connecting pieces of information to create a larger picture, and helping people figure out how to reconnect. I pull from my experiences and knowledge to help others.
(678) 573-4765 View (678) 573-4765
Photo of Zoe Webb, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Georgia
Zoe Webb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30033
Thank you for considering my approach to healing! I work with clients from diverse backgrounds to address sex therapy related issues (i.e. sexual "dysfunction," enhancement of pleasure, sexual identity development, etc.) and trauma related to interpersonal violence, attachment wounds, and systemic oppression. I work predominantly with sex workers, queer and trans clients, kink clients, polyamorous clients, and community organizers. Ultimately, I am passionate about helping all clients expand their view of what is possible for their lives and let go of shame.
Thank you for considering my approach to healing! I work with clients from diverse backgrounds to address sex therapy related issues (i.e. sexual "dysfunction," enhancement of pleasure, sexual identity development, etc.) and trauma related to interpersonal violence, attachment wounds, and systemic oppression. I work predominantly with sex workers, queer and trans clients, kink clients, polyamorous clients, and community organizers. Ultimately, I am passionate about helping all clients expand their view of what is possible for their lives and let go of shame.
(470) 735-2178 View (470) 735-2178
Photo of Jessi Heneghan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Georgia
Jessi Heneghan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30307
I am polyamory and kink informed.
There’s more to life than just working and caring for others. You struggled to build this life for yourself, but now there’s little joy in it. You feel disconnected, alone. You yearn to do more than just survive. You want to explore new parts of yourself, deepen your relationships, and find new energy for life. How can you get there when right now your plate is so full you’re barely making it through the day? Things can get better. I will walk with you through this time of awakening and help you refocus on your own needs as you journey toward the life you want. A life full of authenticity and connection.
I am polyamory and kink informed.
There’s more to life than just working and caring for others. You struggled to build this life for yourself, but now there’s little joy in it. You feel disconnected, alone. You yearn to do more than just survive. You want to explore new parts of yourself, deepen your relationships, and find new energy for life. How can you get there when right now your plate is so full you’re barely making it through the day? Things can get better. I will walk with you through this time of awakening and help you refocus on your own needs as you journey toward the life you want. A life full of authenticity and connection.
(470) 243-9116 View (470) 243-9116
Photo of Meg Wilson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Georgia
Meg Wilson
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
Verified Verified
Athens, GA 30601
I have four years of experience working with survivors of sexual trauma and a lifetime of working with queer people; in addition, I am kink-aware, polyamory-positive and -informed, pro-sex work, and organizer-friendly.
I specialize in working with queer and neurodivergent clients, including those with no formal diagnosis, particularly autistic people, individuals with ADHD, and couples with mixed neurotypes. I am interested in exploring embodiment, somatic interventions, expressive arts, and pleasure activism with clients. I work with a variety of needs, such as navigating non-traditional relationship structures, anxiety, depression, self-actualization, low desire, identity development, and dysphoria, and the way grief can interplay with these needs. I facilitate these explorations through a humanistic, feminist, and systems-oriented lens.
I have four years of experience working with survivors of sexual trauma and a lifetime of working with queer people; in addition, I am kink-aware, polyamory-positive and -informed, pro-sex work, and organizer-friendly.
I specialize in working with queer and neurodivergent clients, including those with no formal diagnosis, particularly autistic people, individuals with ADHD, and couples with mixed neurotypes. I am interested in exploring embodiment, somatic interventions, expressive arts, and pleasure activism with clients. I work with a variety of needs, such as navigating non-traditional relationship structures, anxiety, depression, self-actualization, low desire, identity development, and dysphoria, and the way grief can interplay with these needs. I facilitate these explorations through a humanistic, feminist, and systems-oriented lens.
(706) 960-6632 View (706) 960-6632
Photo of Jade Graver, Pre-Licensed Professional in Georgia
Jade Graver
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30339
I assist individuals (adults and adolescents) & people in relationships with embracing and navigating their emotions in a society that often stigmatizes such expressions. My approach is particularly beneficial for those with non-conforming identities, including BIPOC, LGBTQ+, kink, and poly communities. Additionally, I offer support to Black people navigating strained parental relationships, people of Caribbean descent, people with ADHD, and those who have been labeled or feel 'too sensitive.' My mission is to foster self-acceptance and equip clients with the skills to navigate their identities amidst societal expectations.
I assist individuals (adults and adolescents) & people in relationships with embracing and navigating their emotions in a society that often stigmatizes such expressions. My approach is particularly beneficial for those with non-conforming identities, including BIPOC, LGBTQ+, kink, and poly communities. Additionally, I offer support to Black people navigating strained parental relationships, people of Caribbean descent, people with ADHD, and those who have been labeled or feel 'too sensitive.' My mission is to foster self-acceptance and equip clients with the skills to navigate their identities amidst societal expectations.
(404) 919-8761 View (404) 919-8761
Photo of Tabitha Doyle, Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia
Tabitha Doyle
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30339  (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Tabitha, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia. For the past seven years, I have been providing counseling and assessment services for a variety of clients. As a counselor, I am well-versed in depression, anxiety, self-esteem, relationship issues, and trauma. I am a poly-friendly, kink-friendly, LGBTQ therapist.
Hello, my name is Tabitha, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia. For the past seven years, I have been providing counseling and assessment services for a variety of clients. As a counselor, I am well-versed in depression, anxiety, self-esteem, relationship issues, and trauma. I am a poly-friendly, kink-friendly, LGBTQ therapist.
(770) 373-5726 View (770) 373-5726
Photo of Erin Lightman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia
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 Jillian Blum, Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia
Jillian Blum
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Ph.D. in Counselor Education specializing in working with adults, couples, & poly folks to help with challenges such as managing anxiety, depression, LGBTQAI+ identity, relationship issues, PTSD, & letters for HRT and surgeries. I work from a cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), EMDR, internal family systems, person centered, sex positive, kink friendly, poly friendly, and nonbinary orientation in order to explore and collaboratively work with you to assist in achieving your goals. This eclectic theory base allows for me to develop an individual treatment plan that often includes homework
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Ph.D. in Counselor Education specializing in working with adults, couples, & poly folks to help with challenges such as managing anxiety, depression, LGBTQAI+ identity, relationship issues, PTSD, & letters for HRT and surgeries. I work from a cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), EMDR, internal family systems, person centered, sex positive, kink friendly, poly friendly, and nonbinary orientation in order to explore and collaboratively work with you to assist in achieving your goals. This eclectic theory base allows for me to develop an individual treatment plan that often includes homework
(770) 629-9641 View (770) 629-9641
Photo of Kelly Michaud, Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia
Kelly Michaud
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MAC, CPCS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Richmond Hill, GA 31324  (Online Only)
I work with sexual and relational diverse populations (polyamorous, BDSM, and kink) and am sex positive.
Do you feel lost and out of control? Do you ever wonder if anyone understands how you feel? Whether you are dealing with a mood disorder, emotional dysregulation, addiction or recovery, conflict with a family member or partner, gender identity and/or sexuality questions or transitions, co dependency and attachment issues, healing from trauma, I am here to help. My purpose is to help you find peace, how you define it, from what is creating distress in your life. I will guide you in learning tools that will empower you to become the best version of yourself so you can reclaim your confidence and feel in control over your emotions.
I work with sexual and relational diverse populations (polyamorous, BDSM, and kink) and am sex positive.
Do you feel lost and out of control? Do you ever wonder if anyone understands how you feel? Whether you are dealing with a mood disorder, emotional dysregulation, addiction or recovery, conflict with a family member or partner, gender identity and/or sexuality questions or transitions, co dependency and attachment issues, healing from trauma, I am here to help. My purpose is to help you find peace, how you define it, from what is creating distress in your life. I will guide you in learning tools that will empower you to become the best version of yourself so you can reclaim your confidence and feel in control over your emotions.
(912) 266-8382 View (912) 266-8382
Photo of Mick D Rehrig, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Georgia
Mick D Rehrig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
I additionally work with clients who identify membership in intersecting communities including BIPOC folks, people who are engaged in consensual non-monogamy, and/or involvement in the kink community.
Welcome! I believe in therapy that affirms, empowers, and supports people to recognize patterns, navigate changes, bolster personal growth and self-worth, and figure things out.Collaboration with the folks I work with is of utmost importance to me, guided by clinical theory and evidence-based therapeutic techniques that work for you.I utilize a strengths based, anti-racist, intersectional feminist approach. I work with clients navigating healthy masculinity, internalized oppression, gender dysphoria, addiction recovery, depression, sexuality, relationship stressors & boundaries, family of origin challenges, life transitions, & more.
I additionally work with clients who identify membership in intersecting communities including BIPOC folks, people who are engaged in consensual non-monogamy, and/or involvement in the kink community.
Welcome! I believe in therapy that affirms, empowers, and supports people to recognize patterns, navigate changes, bolster personal growth and self-worth, and figure things out.Collaboration with the folks I work with is of utmost importance to me, guided by clinical theory and evidence-based therapeutic techniques that work for you.I utilize a strengths based, anti-racist, intersectional feminist approach. I work with clients navigating healthy masculinity, internalized oppression, gender dysphoria, addiction recovery, depression, sexuality, relationship stressors & boundaries, family of origin challenges, life transitions, & more.
(678) 335-1270 View (678) 335-1270
Photo of Therapy for Queer People of Color, Psychologist in Georgia
Therapy for Queer People of Color
Psychologist, PsyD, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30316  (Online Only)
We are CNM/Poly/Kink friendly and able to meet the nuanced sexual health and wellness needs of QPOC.
Therapy for Queer People of Color exclusively centers the mental health and wellness needs of queer and trans people of color. Our 100% virtual practice offers relief from traffic, zero travel expenses, and convenient hours.
We are CNM/Poly/Kink friendly and able to meet the nuanced sexual health and wellness needs of QPOC.
Therapy for Queer People of Color exclusively centers the mental health and wellness needs of queer and trans people of color. Our 100% virtual practice offers relief from traffic, zero travel expenses, and convenient hours.
(678) 329-8259 View (678) 329-8259
Photo of Grant D. Sparks, Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia
Grant D. Sparks
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CGT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chamblee, GA 30341  (Online Only)
Do you love video games? Comic books? Dungeons and Dragons? Do feel nervous or afraid all the time? Or sad, disconnected? Have you ever felt like an outcast, misfit, or weirdo? Have you ever asked yourself "Is any of this even real?" or "Am I an NPC?" If so, you may have just found your therapist. I work with geeks, nerds, dorks, and dweebs, LGBTQIA folx, the Kink and Polyamory/ENM communities and people of all cultures and spiritualities. So let's play Minecraft while you process, write fanfic about overcoming adversity, or if you're brave, use Dark Souls to practice coping with big emotions. Makes therapy sound kinda fun, right?
Do you love video games? Comic books? Dungeons and Dragons? Do feel nervous or afraid all the time? Or sad, disconnected? Have you ever felt like an outcast, misfit, or weirdo? Have you ever asked yourself "Is any of this even real?" or "Am I an NPC?" If so, you may have just found your therapist. I work with geeks, nerds, dorks, and dweebs, LGBTQIA folx, the Kink and Polyamory/ENM communities and people of all cultures and spiritualities. So let's play Minecraft while you process, write fanfic about overcoming adversity, or if you're brave, use Dark Souls to practice coping with big emotions. Makes therapy sound kinda fun, right?
(678) 928-5779 View (678) 928-5779
Photo of Melissa Gritz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Georgia
Melissa Gritz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW-A, MSW, MSEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Suwanee, GA 30024  (Online Only)
My areas of focus are anxiety, depression, gender, sexuality, grief/ loss, parenting, and life transitions; with an approach that is sex positive.
Now accepting new clients and working under the clinical supervision of Raymond Jeanes LCSW and a part of Jeanes Mental Health Services. With a passion for helping clients achieve authentic growth and wellness, and over 30 years of experience in human services, my approach to therapy is grounded in empathy, compassion, and collaboration.
My areas of focus are anxiety, depression, gender, sexuality, grief/ loss, parenting, and life transitions; with an approach that is sex positive.
Now accepting new clients and working under the clinical supervision of Raymond Jeanes LCSW and a part of Jeanes Mental Health Services. With a passion for helping clients achieve authentic growth and wellness, and over 30 years of experience in human services, my approach to therapy is grounded in empathy, compassion, and collaboration.
(470) 946-6606 View (470) 946-6606
Photo of Liberty McClead, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Georgia
Liberty McClead
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30350  (Online Only)
Queer people, trans/gender non-conforming folks, pagans, poly/kink community members, children of dysfunctional families, former gifted kids, and more - you are all welcome in my office.
Something is holding you back from connecting with others and even with yourself. It could be a history of trauma, bullying, or bad relationships. It could be low self-esteem or self-confidence. It could be that you are in a sexual, gender, or religious minority and just haven't found "your people" yet. Whatever the reason, you're over it. You are ready to take up space, start loving yourself, and start accepting love from others around you.
Queer people, trans/gender non-conforming folks, pagans, poly/kink community members, children of dysfunctional families, former gifted kids, and more - you are all welcome in my office.
Something is holding you back from connecting with others and even with yourself. It could be a history of trauma, bullying, or bad relationships. It could be low self-esteem or self-confidence. It could be that you are in a sexual, gender, or religious minority and just haven't found "your people" yet. Whatever the reason, you're over it. You are ready to take up space, start loving yourself, and start accepting love from others around you.
(678) 846-2226 View (678) 846-2226
Photo of Linzy Barnett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Georgia
Linzy Barnett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
I have a particular interest in working with queer women, kink, and consensual non-monogamy.
I encourage clients to bravely create and live the life they want, despite the expectations, fears, and opinions of others, especially as it relates to sex and relationships. I strive to do this by building genuine connections with clients full of passion, authenticity, and understanding. I am dedicated to helping individuals and couples expand sexual health and functioning, rediscover and improve intimacy, and explore their desires and fantasies. I have successfully aided clients in overcoming a wide array of sexual concerns by offering my best critical thinking, playfulness, and a supportive environment.
I have a particular interest in working with queer women, kink, and consensual non-monogamy.
I encourage clients to bravely create and live the life they want, despite the expectations, fears, and opinions of others, especially as it relates to sex and relationships. I strive to do this by building genuine connections with clients full of passion, authenticity, and understanding. I am dedicated to helping individuals and couples expand sexual health and functioning, rediscover and improve intimacy, and explore their desires and fantasies. I have successfully aided clients in overcoming a wide array of sexual concerns by offering my best critical thinking, playfulness, and a supportive environment.
(404) 975-1926 View (404) 975-1926
Photo of Coryn Cynthia Murphy, Counselor in Georgia
Coryn Cynthia Murphy
Counselor, MS, MEd, NCC
Verified Verified
Roswell, GA 30076
Coryn believes that empathy and compassion are the catalyst for growth and change whether you are working through sexuality concerns or general anxiety, depression, and life events. Coryn believes in creating a safe space to help clients better understand themselves and improve their relationships. She works from a sex-positive and non-judgemental standpoint and will work with clients to understand all the parts of themselves as sexual beings. Coryn also has experience working with clients who have trauma and want to work through this to help them move forward in their life. Coryn is an ally to the LGBTQ, kink, and poly clients.
Coryn believes that empathy and compassion are the catalyst for growth and change whether you are working through sexuality concerns or general anxiety, depression, and life events. Coryn believes in creating a safe space to help clients better understand themselves and improve their relationships. She works from a sex-positive and non-judgemental standpoint and will work with clients to understand all the parts of themselves as sexual beings. Coryn also has experience working with clients who have trauma and want to work through this to help them move forward in their life. Coryn is an ally to the LGBTQ, kink, and poly clients.
(470) 842-3276 View (470) 842-3276
Photo of Melissa Dickinson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia
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
Photo of Cherlisa Jackson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia
Cherlisa Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MA, MPH, LPC, CHES
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30331  (Online Only)
I have served clients in psychiatric care for over 16 years, facilitated psychosexual Trauma Systems Therapy for over 9 years, led couples and family therapy for over 8 years, and have been actively working with HIV prevention and sexual health education of other sexually transmitted infections and diseases for over 8 years. I am a Doctor of Health Education and Promotion and I am exceedingly committed to sexual health, behavioral health, and mental health.
I have served clients in psychiatric care for over 16 years, facilitated psychosexual Trauma Systems Therapy for over 9 years, led couples and family therapy for over 8 years, and have been actively working with HIV prevention and sexual health education of other sexually transmitted infections and diseases for over 8 years. I am a Doctor of Health Education and Promotion and I am exceedingly committed to sexual health, behavioral health, and mental health.
(470) 798-4429 View (470) 798-4429
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.