Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Therapists in Lee County, IL
There are no results for therapists in Lee County
Check out therapists located nearby or offering teletherapy in Illinois below.Online Therapists
Ren Grabert
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60618
I am gender-affirming, sex positive, and believe in body liberation/health at every size (HAES). I am especially passionate about working with LGBTQIA+, non-monogamous, kinky, and neurodivergent folks. As a chronically ill person myself, I love helping folks to manage chronic illness/pain and self-advocate within healthcare systems. My areas of focus include helping people to build self-esteem and self-efficacy, to build tools to navigate neurodivergence in adulthood, and to identify core beliefs and needs so that they can live life more authentically.
I am gender-affirming, sex positive, and believe in body liberation/health at every size (HAES). I am especially passionate about working with LGBTQIA+, non-monogamous, kinky, and neurodivergent folks. As a chronically ill person myself, I love helping folks to manage chronic illness/pain and self-advocate within healthcare systems. My areas of focus include helping people to build self-esteem and self-efficacy, to build tools to navigate neurodivergence in adulthood, and to identify core beliefs and needs so that they can live life more authentically.
Dani LaPlant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a genderqueer human being providing supportive counseling services to people who are neurodivergent, queer, nerdy, and live alternative lifestyles. My sessions are held online 100 percent to make it convenient for my clients in their busy life to receive support. I've supported clients in role-playing therapy through the use of Dungeons & Dragons, led queer support groups, and am currently CSTIP (Certified Sex Therapy Informed Professional) certified so I may expand to couples work in the future. I've taught BDSM/Kink affirming seminars and have a background in understanding nutrition and body neutrality.
I am a genderqueer human being providing supportive counseling services to people who are neurodivergent, queer, nerdy, and live alternative lifestyles. My sessions are held online 100 percent to make it convenient for my clients in their busy life to receive support. I've supported clients in role-playing therapy through the use of Dungeons & Dragons, led queer support groups, and am currently CSTIP (Certified Sex Therapy Informed Professional) certified so I may expand to couples work in the future. I've taught BDSM/Kink affirming seminars and have a background in understanding nutrition and body neutrality.
Rachel D. Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60611 (Online Only)
As a culturally sensitive, social justice focused, LGBTQIA/poly affirmative, and kink-aware therapist, I am equipped to help you explore how your social location impacts your areas of concern.
Are you living your ideal life? Are your relationships as close or as functional as you would like? As a Couple and Family Therapist, I specialize in services for couples, families, and individuals in Illinois and Indiana. I work collaboratively, providing a safe, culturally sensitive, and encouraging virtual space to explore what is no longer working for you. Together, with an approach based on your unique situation and experiences, we can work through what is keeping you from your desired life.
As a culturally sensitive, social justice focused, LGBTQIA/poly affirmative, and kink-aware therapist, I am equipped to help you explore how your social location impacts your areas of concern.
Are you living your ideal life? Are your relationships as close or as functional as you would like? As a Couple and Family Therapist, I specialize in services for couples, families, and individuals in Illinois and Indiana. I work collaboratively, providing a safe, culturally sensitive, and encouraging virtual space to explore what is no longer working for you. Together, with an approach based on your unique situation and experiences, we can work through what is keeping you from your desired life.
Rae McDaniel: Queer Therapist
Counselor, MEd, LCPC, CST
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60647
My specializations include transgender/non-binary folks, sex therapy, LGBTQ population, trauma, sexual pain, PTSD, and kink/poly-affirming care.
As a Gender and Certified Sex Therapist, I work with folks like you feeling anxious and lost about a transition you're experiencing in sex, gender, sexual identity, or relationships. I'm here to help folks move from surviving to thriving.
My specializations include transgender/non-binary folks, sex therapy, LGBTQ population, trauma, sexual pain, PTSD, and kink/poly-affirming care.
As a Gender and Certified Sex Therapist, I work with folks like you feeling anxious and lost about a transition you're experiencing in sex, gender, sexual identity, or relationships. I'm here to help folks move from surviving to thriving.
Aleksandar Kajmakoski
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60626 (Online Only)
As a therapist, I bring non-punitive, body positive, sex positive, trauma responsive, anti-racist, and anti-oppressive values into our work.
We are all the sum of our parts, made up of all the little pieces we have collected from the world, from others, and from ourselves throughout our lives. And while we continually craft our ever-evolving lives, some of these pieces may not fit together the way they used to or the way we want them to. In these moments, it can be incredibly difficult to know where we want to go or how to get there. As a queer, trans non-binary, first-generation Macedonian-American, I firmly believe that showing up as your authentic self is an incredibly radical act that can enhance your capacity to learn, heal, love, and grow.
As a therapist, I bring non-punitive, body positive, sex positive, trauma responsive, anti-racist, and anti-oppressive values into our work.
We are all the sum of our parts, made up of all the little pieces we have collected from the world, from others, and from ourselves throughout our lives. And while we continually craft our ever-evolving lives, some of these pieces may not fit together the way they used to or the way we want them to. In these moments, it can be incredibly difficult to know where we want to go or how to get there. As a queer, trans non-binary, first-generation Macedonian-American, I firmly believe that showing up as your authentic self is an incredibly radical act that can enhance your capacity to learn, heal, love, and grow.
Benjamin Gronich
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD, MSEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640 (Online Only)
Areas of focus include but are not limited to: sexual and gender identity, minority issues, racial equity, men's issues, acute/complex trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, poly/kink, sexual health, self-esteem, substance use, life transitions, and loss/grief.
So, you’re contemplating seeking out therapy. Congratulations, it takes a lot of courage to recognize that there are things you may want to explore, change, and/or better understand about yourself, the way you see others, and/or your environment. Finding a therapist you feel comfortable with and trust can be difficult. Painful life experiences, past trauma and current situations can lead you to feel stuck, depressed and anxious. I believe that we all have areas of our life that warrant closer examination. As your therapist, I aim to create an empathic judgement-free space where we can work together to achieve your goals.
Areas of focus include but are not limited to: sexual and gender identity, minority issues, racial equity, men's issues, acute/complex trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, poly/kink, sexual health, self-esteem, substance use, life transitions, and loss/grief.
So, you’re contemplating seeking out therapy. Congratulations, it takes a lot of courage to recognize that there are things you may want to explore, change, and/or better understand about yourself, the way you see others, and/or your environment. Finding a therapist you feel comfortable with and trust can be difficult. Painful life experiences, past trauma and current situations can lead you to feel stuck, depressed and anxious. I believe that we all have areas of our life that warrant closer examination. As your therapist, I aim to create an empathic judgement-free space where we can work together to achieve your goals.
Dr. Breanne Taylor
Pre-Licensed Professional, Postdoc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201 (Online Only)
I am an LGBTQ+ affirming and sex positive therapist who welcomes clients who are part of the kink and poly/consensual non-monogamy communities.
I believe that the therapeutic relationship is paramount in fostering change. It is through an open, nonjudgmental, and safe environment that clients can explore and grow into their most authentic selves and lead more fulfilling lives. My approach emphasizes how our past and present experiences shape how we relate to others and the world around us. I work with children, adolescents, and adults, and utilize an integrative and collaborative approach that incorporates aspects of Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Feminist, Relational, and Strengths-Based approaches.
I am an LGBTQ+ affirming and sex positive therapist who welcomes clients who are part of the kink and poly/consensual non-monogamy communities.
I believe that the therapeutic relationship is paramount in fostering change. It is through an open, nonjudgmental, and safe environment that clients can explore and grow into their most authentic selves and lead more fulfilling lives. My approach emphasizes how our past and present experiences shape how we relate to others and the world around us. I work with children, adolescents, and adults, and utilize an integrative and collaborative approach that incorporates aspects of Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Feminist, Relational, and Strengths-Based approaches.
Marissa Bohrer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60660 (Online Only)
I am sex-positive, trauma-informed, and LGBTQIA/kink/BDSM-friendly.
Ready to get into it? Taking the first step into a therapeutic setting requires enormous vulnerability, as well as a great deal of strength, and I strive to make every client feel warm and welcomed. Therapy is an opportunity to create the change in your life that has always been possible – even if it may not feel that way to you right now. My therapeutic style is straightforward, honest, and goal-oriented, and more often than not, there is room for humor and laughter in a therapy session.
I am sex-positive, trauma-informed, and LGBTQIA/kink/BDSM-friendly.
Ready to get into it? Taking the first step into a therapeutic setting requires enormous vulnerability, as well as a great deal of strength, and I strive to make every client feel warm and welcomed. Therapy is an opportunity to create the change in your life that has always been possible – even if it may not feel that way to you right now. My therapeutic style is straightforward, honest, and goal-oriented, and more often than not, there is room for humor and laughter in a therapy session.
Jessica J. Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Forest, IL 60045 (Online Only)
The therapeutic relationship can be a very important one and, like any other healthy relationship, it is based on mutual respect, trust and commitment. I approach our work together with a nonjudgmental stance. I will meet you wherever you are in your life's journey and honor your unique strengths. I support clients in creating their most fulfilling lives, in line with their values and goals. I incorporate mindfulness into a collaborative and client-centered process and employ an honest, direct communication style combined with warmth, compassion, and humor. I strive for a balance of embracing both change and acceptance.
The therapeutic relationship can be a very important one and, like any other healthy relationship, it is based on mutual respect, trust and commitment. I approach our work together with a nonjudgmental stance. I will meet you wherever you are in your life's journey and honor your unique strengths. I support clients in creating their most fulfilling lives, in line with their values and goals. I incorporate mindfulness into a collaborative and client-centered process and employ an honest, direct communication style combined with warmth, compassion, and humor. I strive for a balance of embracing both change and acceptance.
Jess Broschart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
I am passionate about working with transgender/gender diverse, Autistic, and Disabled clients, and pride myself as a kink/BDSM, polyamory/ENM, and sex-worker allied therapist.
As a therapist, researcher, and pleasure activist I strive to create a safe, accessible environment for you to connect with and express your most authentic self. During sessions, your trust and safety are priorities for me. I practice from a relational and client-centered framework, understanding that you are the expert in your own experience. With my warm and direct approach, I seek to ask the right questions to help you make new connections and provide a fresh perspective. I have experience supporting clients through gender-identity development, C-PTSD, Dissociative Identity Disorder, gender dysphoria, anxiety and depression.
I am passionate about working with transgender/gender diverse, Autistic, and Disabled clients, and pride myself as a kink/BDSM, polyamory/ENM, and sex-worker allied therapist.
As a therapist, researcher, and pleasure activist I strive to create a safe, accessible environment for you to connect with and express your most authentic self. During sessions, your trust and safety are priorities for me. I practice from a relational and client-centered framework, understanding that you are the expert in your own experience. With my warm and direct approach, I seek to ask the right questions to help you make new connections and provide a fresh perspective. I have experience supporting clients through gender-identity development, C-PTSD, Dissociative Identity Disorder, gender dysphoria, anxiety and depression.
Rebecca Patterson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602 (Online Only)
I am dedicated to helping clients of all identities and sexual preferences rewrite the relational narratives that are no longer in alignment with their values, life stage, or desires. I particularly enjoy working with clients who are healing from trauma, struggling with desire, or experiencing anxiety—helping to guide them in creating a more connected relationship with their full authentic selves. I also help couples mindfully navigate consensual non-monogamy, kink, BDSM, and other unique relational dynamics, and encourage clients to craft their own scripts that fit their unique relational landscape.
I am dedicated to helping clients of all identities and sexual preferences rewrite the relational narratives that are no longer in alignment with their values, life stage, or desires. I particularly enjoy working with clients who are healing from trauma, struggling with desire, or experiencing anxiety—helping to guide them in creating a more connected relationship with their full authentic selves. I also help couples mindfully navigate consensual non-monogamy, kink, BDSM, and other unique relational dynamics, and encourage clients to craft their own scripts that fit their unique relational landscape.
Melissa A. Novak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Certified Sex Therapist and work with the LGBTQ community, kink and poly communities.
The therapeutic relationship is a safe place to explore, examine, and assess where you are today versus where you want to be in future. Together, we will identify the challenges that keep you from living a more satisfying life and develop concrete plans and skills to address these obstacles. My approach is always collaborative, in which you are the expert of your own experience and strengths. I work with couples and adults with a variety of issues such as sexual dysfunction, anxiety, phobias, obsessive-compulsive disorder, personality disorders, and PTSD.
I am a Certified Sex Therapist and work with the LGBTQ community, kink and poly communities.
The therapeutic relationship is a safe place to explore, examine, and assess where you are today versus where you want to be in future. Together, we will identify the challenges that keep you from living a more satisfying life and develop concrete plans and skills to address these obstacles. My approach is always collaborative, in which you are the expert of your own experience and strengths. I work with couples and adults with a variety of issues such as sexual dysfunction, anxiety, phobias, obsessive-compulsive disorder, personality disorders, and PTSD.
Michele Reitsma
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
I currently see clients who are wanting to work through sexual trauma, sexual dysfunction, anxiety, ADHD/executive functioning challenges, Body Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs), and gender/sexual identity topics. I also work with clients in ethically non-monogamous relationship structures. I have experience working with folks in the kink community and am a sex-worker friendly clinician. I am a good fit for clients that appreciate structure, evidence-based approaches, and collaborative treatment plans that include homework/work outside of sessions.
I currently see clients who are wanting to work through sexual trauma, sexual dysfunction, anxiety, ADHD/executive functioning challenges, Body Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs), and gender/sexual identity topics. I also work with clients in ethically non-monogamous relationship structures. I have experience working with folks in the kink community and am a sex-worker friendly clinician. I am a good fit for clients that appreciate structure, evidence-based approaches, and collaborative treatment plans that include homework/work outside of sessions.
Caitlin A Tupper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614 (Online Only)
When we need support it can be intimidating to know where to start. You may be feeling trapped by the past and overwhelmed by the future, struggling with self-doubt, or experiencing loneliness. Therapy can help you figure out your options to move through feeling stuck, learn more about yourself to gain valuable insights, and find new ways to cope instead of feeling lost. By beginning the search for therapy, you have already shown courage and self-awareness to recognize you are ready for change.
When we need support it can be intimidating to know where to start. You may be feeling trapped by the past and overwhelmed by the future, struggling with self-doubt, or experiencing loneliness. Therapy can help you figure out your options to move through feeling stuck, learn more about yourself to gain valuable insights, and find new ways to cope instead of feeling lost. By beginning the search for therapy, you have already shown courage and self-awareness to recognize you are ready for change.
Ryan Curran
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR-P
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
I am LGBTQIA+-affirming, sex-positive, kink and poly-friendly.
I want to give you the tools and support to create a life that meets your needs. As an art therapist and counselor, I believe in the power of creativity to foster connection, expression, and healing, particularly when words fall short. My goal is to meet you where you are and to create a non-judgmental space to foster change.
I am LGBTQIA+-affirming, sex-positive, kink and poly-friendly.
I want to give you the tools and support to create a life that meets your needs. As an art therapist and counselor, I believe in the power of creativity to foster connection, expression, and healing, particularly when words fall short. My goal is to meet you where you are and to create a non-judgmental space to foster change.
Elana Marie Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
I am a Black woman (wife and mother) who is member of the LGBT+ community and Sex/Kink Positive.
My ideal client or couple is seeking mental health support regarding past trauma(s), depression/anxiety, workplace stressors, relationship/sex/intimacy issues, family issues... basically anything that is impacting their ideal functioning. They want to process and put forth work towards therapeutic goals to improve their daily functioning. They may be POC, LGBTQIA+, parents, high performing professionals, and/or emerging adults. Most importantly, they are ready and willing to participate in sessions to work towards their healing.
I am a Black woman (wife and mother) who is member of the LGBT+ community and Sex/Kink Positive.
My ideal client or couple is seeking mental health support regarding past trauma(s), depression/anxiety, workplace stressors, relationship/sex/intimacy issues, family issues... basically anything that is impacting their ideal functioning. They want to process and put forth work towards therapeutic goals to improve their daily functioning. They may be POC, LGBTQIA+, parents, high performing professionals, and/or emerging adults. Most importantly, they are ready and willing to participate in sessions to work towards their healing.
Erin O'Connor
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
I'm Level I certified in Gottman Method Couples Therapy and a member of Kink and Poly Aware Chicago Therapist (KPACT).
I'm passionate about helping folks struggling to give themselves grace and kindness, which is crucial to moving in the direction of the life we want, whatever that may look like for each individual. I work from a sex-positive, stance to help individuals and those in relationships facing the barriers and challenges in a monogamy-centric world. I’m here to partner with my clients to emphasize strengths and foster holistic wellness whether that client(s) is facing depression, anxiety, relationship issues, shame, fear, and or one of the many other challenges that come with being human in today's world.
I'm Level I certified in Gottman Method Couples Therapy and a member of Kink and Poly Aware Chicago Therapist (KPACT).
I'm passionate about helping folks struggling to give themselves grace and kindness, which is crucial to moving in the direction of the life we want, whatever that may look like for each individual. I work from a sex-positive, stance to help individuals and those in relationships facing the barriers and challenges in a monogamy-centric world. I’m here to partner with my clients to emphasize strengths and foster holistic wellness whether that client(s) is facing depression, anxiety, relationship issues, shame, fear, and or one of the many other challenges that come with being human in today's world.
Nancy Magali Quiroz
Pre-Licensed Professional, ALMFT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602
I work with individuals, partnerships, and families who may be facing relationship friction, grief and loss, sexual exploration, LGBTQ+ identity issues, and first-generation experiences.
I work with individuals, partnerships, and families who may be facing relationship friction, grief and loss, sexual exploration, LGBTQ+ identity issues, and first-generation experiences.
Helen Wyatt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60618
Waitlist for new clients
You get a pit in your stomach when you think about, discuss, or engage in sex; you no longer or never enjoyed it. You have pain, erection, arousal, or orgasm issues and feel stuck. You're curious about trying on a sexual identity or playing in kink/BDSM. You have out-of control or shameful behaviors, dilemmas, porn use, or masturbation problems. You don’t know how to talk to your partner(s) about sex, let alone pulling their load more at home. Religion or the feeling of shame greatly limits you. You just can’t communicate. You can’t trust or forgive them – you’re too hurt and angry. Let me engage you in sex and relationship therapy.
You get a pit in your stomach when you think about, discuss, or engage in sex; you no longer or never enjoyed it. You have pain, erection, arousal, or orgasm issues and feel stuck. You're curious about trying on a sexual identity or playing in kink/BDSM. You have out-of control or shameful behaviors, dilemmas, porn use, or masturbation problems. You don’t know how to talk to your partner(s) about sex, let alone pulling their load more at home. Religion or the feeling of shame greatly limits you. You just can’t communicate. You can’t trust or forgive them – you’re too hurt and angry. Let me engage you in sex and relationship therapy.
Eric Aprill
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
I have previous experience and interest in working with folks within the LGBTQIA+, Consensually Non-Monogamous, and Kink communities who struggle with self-compassion, self-development, and identity issues.
Have you been feeling anxious or sad? Do you ever feel stuck in your relationship with yourself or others? Whatever you have been feeling, I can imagine facing these feelings has been challenging, confusing, and scary. These feelings are not uncommon for those of us who experience or have experienced emotionally charged and vulnerable moments. To manage these feelings, many of us often ignore them, which can lead to them feeling intense and uncomfortable. Together we can learn to understand and manage your feelings, ultimately improving your relationship with yourself and others.
I have previous experience and interest in working with folks within the LGBTQIA+, Consensually Non-Monogamous, and Kink communities who struggle with self-compassion, self-development, and identity issues.
Have you been feeling anxious or sad? Do you ever feel stuck in your relationship with yourself or others? Whatever you have been feeling, I can imagine facing these feelings has been challenging, confusing, and scary. These feelings are not uncommon for those of us who experience or have experienced emotionally charged and vulnerable moments. To manage these feelings, many of us often ignore them, which can lead to them feeling intense and uncomfortable. Together we can learn to understand and manage your feelings, ultimately improving your relationship with yourself and others.
See more therapy options for Lee County
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.