Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Therapists in Minneapolis, MN
Rebecca Kempenich
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55403 (Online Only)
I am LGBTQ friendly and kink friendly.
My clients are the champions of their own lives. It is an honor and a privilege to witness clients grow, heal, and establish better relationships. I have specialized training in how to help people manage and overcome obsessive compulsive disorder and in how to help people resolve marital/couple problems.
I am LGBTQ friendly and kink friendly.
My clients are the champions of their own lives. It is an honor and a privilege to witness clients grow, heal, and establish better relationships. I have specialized training in how to help people manage and overcome obsessive compulsive disorder and in how to help people resolve marital/couple problems.
Jac Stringer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55403 (Online Only)
I am a trans-genderqueer femme, disabled radical activist & social worker. I practice trauma-focused feminist therapy exclusively for trans youth & young adults ages 13-25. I provide healthcare letters for all ages, youth and adults, in one 30 min session. My specialties surround gender & sexuality, & trauma survivors experiencing depression, bipolar, anxiety, self-harm, suicidality, disability, chronic pain, multiples/alters, dissociation, sexual assault, & histories with abuse & violence. I am body, sex, & kink positive, poly-inclusive, value accountability, & recognize the intersectional impact of systematic oppression.
I am a trans-genderqueer femme, disabled radical activist & social worker. I practice trauma-focused feminist therapy exclusively for trans youth & young adults ages 13-25. I provide healthcare letters for all ages, youth and adults, in one 30 min session. My specialties surround gender & sexuality, & trauma survivors experiencing depression, bipolar, anxiety, self-harm, suicidality, disability, chronic pain, multiples/alters, dissociation, sexual assault, & histories with abuse & violence. I am body, sex, & kink positive, poly-inclusive, value accountability, & recognize the intersectional impact of systematic oppression.
Sound Mind Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MPH, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55408
My specialties include working with adults 18 and up who have trouble with anxiety, depression, trauma and attachment Issues, the LGBTQIA+ community, those navigating racial Identity, cultural and systemic Oppression, family of origin trauma, those exploring polyamorous life styles, kink/diverse sexualities and career coaching.
Hi, I'm so glad your here! My name is Tammie and I'm a Licensed clinical therapist. My practice includes a focus on trauma and symptoms associated. I can help with difficulties managing anxiety, depression, sexual health and dysfunction, self care, gender identity, sexual exploration and attachment issues.
My specialties include working with adults 18 and up who have trouble with anxiety, depression, trauma and attachment Issues, the LGBTQIA+ community, those navigating racial Identity, cultural and systemic Oppression, family of origin trauma, those exploring polyamorous life styles, kink/diverse sexualities and career coaching.
Hi, I'm so glad your here! My name is Tammie and I'm a Licensed clinical therapist. My practice includes a focus on trauma and symptoms associated. I can help with difficulties managing anxiety, depression, sexual health and dysfunction, self care, gender identity, sexual exploration and attachment issues.
Sherry Merriam
Counselor, MA, LPCC, TCHI
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55408
My passion is for clients I love to call Misfits and Sensitives -- artists, geeks/nerds, kink/BDSM folk, ethical nonmonogamists including polyamorists, Pagans and other religious minorities, witches, punks, activists, healthcare providers, folks with chronic illness/physical disability.
You're sure the average therapist can't handle or accept you, because that's what you get everywhere else you go. School, work, almost everywhere, it's been an uphill struggle to fit in and feel understood -- IF you even bother anymore. If you DO find YOUR people, YOUR tribe, you spend the whole time secretly terrified they'll figure out you're not good enough and kick you out. You've been burned a few too many times, which just reinforces your belief that you'll never belong. All that rejection and pain sits in your body and spirit, grinding you down every day. But there's still part of you that believes you can find your place.
My passion is for clients I love to call Misfits and Sensitives -- artists, geeks/nerds, kink/BDSM folk, ethical nonmonogamists including polyamorists, Pagans and other religious minorities, witches, punks, activists, healthcare providers, folks with chronic illness/physical disability.
You're sure the average therapist can't handle or accept you, because that's what you get everywhere else you go. School, work, almost everywhere, it's been an uphill struggle to fit in and feel understood -- IF you even bother anymore. If you DO find YOUR people, YOUR tribe, you spend the whole time secretly terrified they'll figure out you're not good enough and kick you out. You've been burned a few too many times, which just reinforces your belief that you'll never belong. All that rejection and pain sits in your body and spirit, grinding you down every day. But there's still part of you that believes you can find your place.
Carly Gershone
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55415
I’m so glad you’re here and thinking about coming to therapy! I see adolescents and adults, and I specialize in working with teens and young/emerging adults. I have a lot of experience working with folks who are experiencing anxiety, self-harm, problems with eating/body image, identity exploration, and family/relationship concerns. I identify as queer, and I work from a harm reduction, sex positive, trans-allied, feminist, fat acceptance/HAES lens.
I’m so glad you’re here and thinking about coming to therapy! I see adolescents and adults, and I specialize in working with teens and young/emerging adults. I have a lot of experience working with folks who are experiencing anxiety, self-harm, problems with eating/body image, identity exploration, and family/relationship concerns. I identify as queer, and I work from a harm reduction, sex positive, trans-allied, feminist, fat acceptance/HAES lens.
Calvin Hauer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55408
You don't need to educate me on the legitimacy of your sexuality, relationship, and/or relationship with kink.
When I think about my ideal clients, I think about all the folks I used to serve as a sex educator. Having spent the past 10+ years in sex education, I believe that many of us carry cultural stigma due to sex negative ideals perpetrated by our society. As a therapist I specialize in working with: Kinky clients, non-monogamous clients, clients that work within the sex industry, and clients that are figuring out their sexuality. My ideal clients are looking for a therapist that is affirming of their relationship with sexuality and who will not shame you for your sexual identity.
You don't need to educate me on the legitimacy of your sexuality, relationship, and/or relationship with kink.
When I think about my ideal clients, I think about all the folks I used to serve as a sex educator. Having spent the past 10+ years in sex education, I believe that many of us carry cultural stigma due to sex negative ideals perpetrated by our society. As a therapist I specialize in working with: Kinky clients, non-monogamous clients, clients that work within the sex industry, and clients that are figuring out their sexuality. My ideal clients are looking for a therapist that is affirming of their relationship with sexuality and who will not shame you for your sexual identity.
Pam McGowan
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, RN, BSN, BFA
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55428
Your feelings, opinions, and perspectives matter; you can expect me to listen to and respect them. You might be looking to start on your journey of healing or self-discovery. Maybe you are looking for yourself or for you and your partner(s). To that point I am LGBTQIA+ friendly and am kink and poly informed and affirming. I recognize how good it feels when you can embrace your identity in a supportive environment. I believe in the power of a good fit for a person with their therapist and will show up for you authentically and empathetically. I believe that we are all constantly learning and have opportunities for growth.
Your feelings, opinions, and perspectives matter; you can expect me to listen to and respect them. You might be looking to start on your journey of healing or self-discovery. Maybe you are looking for yourself or for you and your partner(s). To that point I am LGBTQIA+ friendly and am kink and poly informed and affirming. I recognize how good it feels when you can embrace your identity in a supportive environment. I believe in the power of a good fit for a person with their therapist and will show up for you authentically and empathetically. I believe that we are all constantly learning and have opportunities for growth.
Jed James
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55406 (Online Only)
I celebrate all bodies and all relationship styles, and I am kink allied.
We each have an authentic self, and things we know to be deeply true about our hearts, minds, identities and lives. I believe that no matter how confused we may feel, we can all find our way back to what is unique, creative and courageous in ourselves. These are challenging times. There is nothing maladjusted about feeling anxious or depressed in a world that does not feel equitable or safe. My goal is not to help you adjust to broken things; it is to build upon the strengths of your identity, your values and your truth so that you can work towards the goals that are important to you.
I celebrate all bodies and all relationship styles, and I am kink allied.
We each have an authentic self, and things we know to be deeply true about our hearts, minds, identities and lives. I believe that no matter how confused we may feel, we can all find our way back to what is unique, creative and courageous in ourselves. These are challenging times. There is nothing maladjusted about feeling anxious or depressed in a world that does not feel equitable or safe. My goal is not to help you adjust to broken things; it is to build upon the strengths of your identity, your values and your truth so that you can work towards the goals that are important to you.
Jennifer Hooyman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55409
I focus on helping you build and maintain healthy relationships: personal, professional, romantic and sexual relationships. This includes individual counseling, couples counseling, and sex therapy. In individual counseling we can talk through trauma, negative thoughts, adjustments, questions of identity, happiness, or life goals. If you are having questions about intimacy, desire, shame, kink, sexual performance or desire, sex therapy may be right for you. You may be feeling a loss of connection, a wall of miscommunication and a mountain of unmet needs within your relationship and I will help you find that connection and joy.
I focus on helping you build and maintain healthy relationships: personal, professional, romantic and sexual relationships. This includes individual counseling, couples counseling, and sex therapy. In individual counseling we can talk through trauma, negative thoughts, adjustments, questions of identity, happiness, or life goals. If you are having questions about intimacy, desire, shame, kink, sexual performance or desire, sex therapy may be right for you. You may be feeling a loss of connection, a wall of miscommunication and a mountain of unmet needs within your relationship and I will help you find that connection and joy.
Marnette R. Doyle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55410
I specialize in working with successful, creative LGBTQ+, kink, poly, and traditional individuals and families.
I respect your decision to seek out therapy as I believe finding the right fit in a therapist is a difficult task. I believe it is through in-depth therapy that people can learn to tolerate difficult feelings, deepen develop a sense of inner calm, and find insight into life-long patterns. My work is informed by women’s studies, sociology, studio art, Argentine dance, and psychoanalytic therapy. I understand that mental health is a complex intersection of many factors in life. I work collaboratively within these intersections to create a therapeutic relationship to help individuals develop a deeper understanding of their lives.
I specialize in working with successful, creative LGBTQ+, kink, poly, and traditional individuals and families.
I respect your decision to seek out therapy as I believe finding the right fit in a therapist is a difficult task. I believe it is through in-depth therapy that people can learn to tolerate difficult feelings, deepen develop a sense of inner calm, and find insight into life-long patterns. My work is informed by women’s studies, sociology, studio art, Argentine dance, and psychoanalytic therapy. I understand that mental health is a complex intersection of many factors in life. I work collaboratively within these intersections to create a therapeutic relationship to help individuals develop a deeper understanding of their lives.
Leah Bonine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55415
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. I work from a trauma-informed, harm reduction, sex positive, attachment-based lens. I specialize in working with adults from diverse backgrounds, particularly the LGBTQ+ community. I see clients for individual therapy. I especially enjoy working with creative people and have a deep understanding of the creative process. I am trained in EMDR, AEDP and DBT.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. I work from a trauma-informed, harm reduction, sex positive, attachment-based lens. I specialize in working with adults from diverse backgrounds, particularly the LGBTQ+ community. I see clients for individual therapy. I especially enjoy working with creative people and have a deep understanding of the creative process. I am trained in EMDR, AEDP and DBT.
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Dr. Courtney Padjen
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55408 (Online Only)
I am passionate about working with clients with non-traditional relationship structures or sexual interests (i.e. BDSM/kink, fetish, polyamorous, etc). I also enjoy helping clients discover where their sexual passions lie so they can have a more fulfilling sex life. I enjoy working with any sexual concern you may have including: Mismatched desire with your partner, low desire, sexual pain, sexual trauma, sexual dysfunctions, infidelity, etc. I welcome clients from all walks of life including those struggling with problematic sexual behavior ("sex addiction") and sex workers.
I am passionate about working with clients with non-traditional relationship structures or sexual interests (i.e. BDSM/kink, fetish, polyamorous, etc). I also enjoy helping clients discover where their sexual passions lie so they can have a more fulfilling sex life. I enjoy working with any sexual concern you may have including: Mismatched desire with your partner, low desire, sexual pain, sexual trauma, sexual dysfunctions, infidelity, etc. I welcome clients from all walks of life including those struggling with problematic sexual behavior ("sex addiction") and sex workers.
Emma Thompson
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, LMFT-I
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55408
Waitlist for new clients
Hi, I'm Emma (she/they)! I'm a strong believer that our bodies hold inherent wisdom and that they are trustworthy. I also believe that the stories we tell ourselves shape our realities, and that therapy is a unique and powerful exploration of those stories. I dream of co-creating a therapeutic environment where you can take up space, breathe a sigh of relief, and be courageous in your exploration of yourself. I resonate with therapy frameworks found in Narrative Therapy and Internal Family Systems, with a foundation in embodiment, somatics, and the impacts of our developmental experiences.
Hi, I'm Emma (she/they)! I'm a strong believer that our bodies hold inherent wisdom and that they are trustworthy. I also believe that the stories we tell ourselves shape our realities, and that therapy is a unique and powerful exploration of those stories. I dream of co-creating a therapeutic environment where you can take up space, breathe a sigh of relief, and be courageous in your exploration of yourself. I resonate with therapy frameworks found in Narrative Therapy and Internal Family Systems, with a foundation in embodiment, somatics, and the impacts of our developmental experiences.
Elizabeth Douglas
Counselor, MA, LADC, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55408 (Online Only)
I believe that YOU are the best expert of you! I've taken my 18 years of experience and created a safe space for mental health therapy for neurodivergent adults and those exploring their gender. With a focus on PTSD, Complex Trauma, and ASD, my single-therapist practice provides personalized, compassionate care. Plus, I add a touch of fun and offer unique services like Reiki and EcoTherapy. Please reach out to me at my website or email me to schedule a Free 15 min consult with me.
I believe that YOU are the best expert of you! I've taken my 18 years of experience and created a safe space for mental health therapy for neurodivergent adults and those exploring their gender. With a focus on PTSD, Complex Trauma, and ASD, my single-therapist practice provides personalized, compassionate care. Plus, I add a touch of fun and offer unique services like Reiki and EcoTherapy. Please reach out to me at my website or email me to schedule a Free 15 min consult with me.
Sarah Lazarewicz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55418
I believe therapy can be a space to try on new ways of thinking and being, building insight and self-awareness so you can overcome blocks to creating the life you deeply desire. You can expect me to work hard to understand you and your history, offering an equal mix of nurturing, education and clear sighted perspective. We’ll work together to chart a vision for the road ahead, noting areas for growth, needed skills, and current strengths and resources. In session, and in life, my style is informal, warm, playful and compassionate. I bring a body-positive, sex-positive, feminist and anti-oppressive lens to my work.
I believe therapy can be a space to try on new ways of thinking and being, building insight and self-awareness so you can overcome blocks to creating the life you deeply desire. You can expect me to work hard to understand you and your history, offering an equal mix of nurturing, education and clear sighted perspective. We’ll work together to chart a vision for the road ahead, noting areas for growth, needed skills, and current strengths and resources. In session, and in life, my style is informal, warm, playful and compassionate. I bring a body-positive, sex-positive, feminist and anti-oppressive lens to my work.
Ariel Brinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55418
I have a masters' degrees in social work and addiction studies, am a sex positive, LGBTQA+ practitioner, and function on a social justice platform focusing on the populations most at risk.
We are all on a journey that often presents itself in different ways for different people; each person’s life is unique. I love connecting with and seeing my clients reach their goals, sometimes that means being in a space of validation and collaboration, sometimes that means I hold you accountable for doing the work required to change to meet your goals. Regardless, I will be there for you. It doesn’t matter if it is anxiety, depression, addiction or trauma that is getting in the way, I will help you find a way to a better place.
I have a masters' degrees in social work and addiction studies, am a sex positive, LGBTQA+ practitioner, and function on a social justice platform focusing on the populations most at risk.
We are all on a journey that often presents itself in different ways for different people; each person’s life is unique. I love connecting with and seeing my clients reach their goals, sometimes that means being in a space of validation and collaboration, sometimes that means I hold you accountable for doing the work required to change to meet your goals. Regardless, I will be there for you. It doesn’t matter if it is anxiety, depression, addiction or trauma that is getting in the way, I will help you find a way to a better place.
Nicole Parsons
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55415
Waitlist for new clients
Hi there! I’m Nicole (they/them), a Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGSW). I have a BA in psychology and a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from St. Catherine University. My therapeutic approach is relational, collaborative, and affirming. I recognize the role that systems of oppression have on well-being and thus strive to center anti-oppressive and liberatory practices in my work. I also work from a trauma-informed, attachment-based, harm reductive, and sex-positive lens.
Hi there! I’m Nicole (they/them), a Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGSW). I have a BA in psychology and a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from St. Catherine University. My therapeutic approach is relational, collaborative, and affirming. I recognize the role that systems of oppression have on well-being and thus strive to center anti-oppressive and liberatory practices in my work. I also work from a trauma-informed, attachment-based, harm reductive, and sex-positive lens.
Christy Rushfeldt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LADC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55415
Waitlist for new clients
I'm a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (21952) and Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (303042). I work from a trauma aware, person centered, sex positive and harm reduction based perspective. I am queer identified and use she, her and hers pronouns. If you've found my profile, welcome and I look forward to learning more about you. Most of my experience is in working with people with a history of traumatic experiences, people who want to discuss/potentially make changes to their substance use, LGBTQIA + people and people living with or impacted by HIV.
I'm a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (21952) and Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (303042). I work from a trauma aware, person centered, sex positive and harm reduction based perspective. I am queer identified and use she, her and hers pronouns. If you've found my profile, welcome and I look forward to learning more about you. Most of my experience is in working with people with a history of traumatic experiences, people who want to discuss/potentially make changes to their substance use, LGBTQIA + people and people living with or impacted by HIV.
Kaylee Audrey Bond
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55418
I specialize with children 0-5, neurodivergent/queer/questioning people of all ages, and couples. My individual sessions are trauma informed and social justice oriented with children, teens, and adults. I love helping with skills for neurodivergence, adjusting to life changes, parenting, pre/post natal and relationship issues. My couples are often Queer, Polyam, and Kink; although all couples are welcome. I also help couples with mental health impacts, parenting, sex issues, and identity.
I specialize with children 0-5, neurodivergent/queer/questioning people of all ages, and couples. My individual sessions are trauma informed and social justice oriented with children, teens, and adults. I love helping with skills for neurodivergence, adjusting to life changes, parenting, pre/post natal and relationship issues. My couples are often Queer, Polyam, and Kink; although all couples are welcome. I also help couples with mental health impacts, parenting, sex issues, and identity.
Christine Vara
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, MDiv
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55437 (Online Only)
I have worked extensively with families of and individuals who are trans and non-binary, as well as people who identify as poly, kink, pansexual, and/or LGB.
Are you caught in cycles that leave you exhausted? Do you want to have better relationships but find them splintering? Are you self-critical in your efforts to obtain perfection? Do you find yourself shutting down or shutting off? You don't have to suffer in silence. Nor do you have to leave any part of yourself behind - I work with the whole person. Our identities often intersect with our struggles and our strengths. I'll meet you where you're at, and help you get where you're going. Whether you are just starting or looking to maintain your recovery from eating disorders, trauma and/or OCD, together recovery is possible.
I have worked extensively with families of and individuals who are trans and non-binary, as well as people who identify as poly, kink, pansexual, and/or LGB.
Are you caught in cycles that leave you exhausted? Do you want to have better relationships but find them splintering? Are you self-critical in your efforts to obtain perfection? Do you find yourself shutting down or shutting off? You don't have to suffer in silence. Nor do you have to leave any part of yourself behind - I work with the whole person. Our identities often intersect with our struggles and our strengths. I'll meet you where you're at, and help you get where you're going. Whether you are just starting or looking to maintain your recovery from eating disorders, trauma and/or OCD, together recovery is possible.
See more therapy options for Minneapolis
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.