Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Therapists in East Dallas, Dallas, TX

Photo of Dr. Neli Morris, Marriage & Family Therapist in East Dallas, Dallas, TX
Dr. Neli Morris
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
East Dallas, Dallas, TX 75204
" I also work with LGBTQIA+ folks, gender identity issues (including letter referrals), and I am a kink, poly- and consensual non-monogamy aware therapist working with folks who hold these identities.
Going through transitions and changes in life can be pretty scary and, quite frankly, sometimes it really sucks. Whether it is in your personal life, at work, at school or in your relationship (or all of the above!), you might feel stuck and uncertain about what to do and where to head next. It's hard for you to picture where you want to see yourself in the future. Maybe you are in a place in life, feeling stale and routine, and you want something different, but don't know where to start. Or maybe you can't see how to navigate your current situation to get yourself to your future you dream about.
" I also work with LGBTQIA+ folks, gender identity issues (including letter referrals), and I am a kink, poly- and consensual non-monogamy aware therapist working with folks who hold these identities.
Going through transitions and changes in life can be pretty scary and, quite frankly, sometimes it really sucks. Whether it is in your personal life, at work, at school or in your relationship (or all of the above!), you might feel stuck and uncertain about what to do and where to head next. It's hard for you to picture where you want to see yourself in the future. Maybe you are in a place in life, feeling stale and routine, and you want something different, but don't know where to start. Or maybe you can't see how to navigate your current situation to get yourself to your future you dream about.
(806) 482-1382 View (806) 482-1382
Photo of Shawn Chrisman, Licensed Professional Counselor in East Dallas, Dallas, TX
Shawn Chrisman
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MEd, MS, CHyp, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
East Dallas, Dallas, TX 75204
My specialities include: * Anxiety / Depression * Relationship Issues (Communication / Conflict Resolution / Desire & Intimacy Disconnects) * Divorce / Premarital Counseling * Diverse Relationships (Open Relationships / Poly Relationships / Kink) * Sexual Concerns (Low Desire / Erectile Issues) * LGBT clients (Gender Identity / Coming Out / Transitioning).
Struggling to connect with your authentic self? Looking for a sense of peace or contentment? When you have positive feelings about yourself, you experience daily joy, have better relationships and increase performance. When you encounter a block to these positive feelings, you may experience anxiety, depression, and be unsatisfied with relationships. We work together to help you find their best self, navigate intimacy, tackle communication issues & bridge other relationships gaps. We also work together to overcome those deeper blocks that prevent us from making lasting change.
My specialities include: * Anxiety / Depression * Relationship Issues (Communication / Conflict Resolution / Desire & Intimacy Disconnects) * Divorce / Premarital Counseling * Diverse Relationships (Open Relationships / Poly Relationships / Kink) * Sexual Concerns (Low Desire / Erectile Issues) * LGBT clients (Gender Identity / Coming Out / Transitioning).
Struggling to connect with your authentic self? Looking for a sense of peace or contentment? When you have positive feelings about yourself, you experience daily joy, have better relationships and increase performance. When you encounter a block to these positive feelings, you may experience anxiety, depression, and be unsatisfied with relationships. We work together to help you find their best self, navigate intimacy, tackle communication issues & bridge other relationships gaps. We also work together to overcome those deeper blocks that prevent us from making lasting change.
(972) 893-9080 View (972) 893-9080
Photo of Dr. Hannah Warshowsky, Psychologist in East Dallas, Dallas, TX
Dr. Hannah Warshowsky
Psychologist, PhD, MS
Verified Verified
East Dallas, Dallas, TX 75226  (Online Only)
“And how do you feel about that!?” ---Says every TV comedy-bit depicting therapy. In reality, it can be intimidating to share our true feelings with another person- especially with a (virtual) stranger. In therapy sessions, I therefore create a warm, safe, empathetic, non-judgmental, space to unpack your story. I view you as an expert on yourself and will encourage you to honor your own inner wisdom. I value processing your unique context and how intersectional identities and structures of oppression contribute to your distress.  My goal is to illuminate the root causes of your pain and to help guide you towards healing and growth.
“And how do you feel about that!?” ---Says every TV comedy-bit depicting therapy. In reality, it can be intimidating to share our true feelings with another person- especially with a (virtual) stranger. In therapy sessions, I therefore create a warm, safe, empathetic, non-judgmental, space to unpack your story. I view you as an expert on yourself and will encourage you to honor your own inner wisdom. I value processing your unique context and how intersectional identities and structures of oppression contribute to your distress.  My goal is to illuminate the root causes of your pain and to help guide you towards healing and growth.
(404) 999-1665 View (404) 999-1665
Photo of Leslie Lewis, LPC Associate in East Dallas, Dallas, TX
Leslie Lewis
LPC Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
East Dallas, Dallas, TX 75226  (Online Only)
Whether working exploring self-worth, navigating career changes, sexuality/kink, or unpacking religious trauma, I view the work we do together as collaborative and relational.
Howdy! I'm thrilled that you are starting the process of looking for a therapist! No two people are alike, so I don’t use a cookie-cutter approach to the work we do together in counseling. While I pull from multiple modes of therapy, it is common for me to use tools from biofeedback, mindfulness, CBT, IFS, and more. My style is equitable and relational, with previous clients saying that my humorous, laid-back approach to therapy put them at ease quickly. There is no power hierarchy: I am the expert in mental health; you are the expert in your life. We need both to have a successful and productive counseling relationship!
Whether working exploring self-worth, navigating career changes, sexuality/kink, or unpacking religious trauma, I view the work we do together as collaborative and relational.
Howdy! I'm thrilled that you are starting the process of looking for a therapist! No two people are alike, so I don’t use a cookie-cutter approach to the work we do together in counseling. While I pull from multiple modes of therapy, it is common for me to use tools from biofeedback, mindfulness, CBT, IFS, and more. My style is equitable and relational, with previous clients saying that my humorous, laid-back approach to therapy put them at ease quickly. There is no power hierarchy: I am the expert in mental health; you are the expert in your life. We need both to have a successful and productive counseling relationship!
(512) 548-8572 View (512) 548-8572
Photo of Danielle Davis, Pre-Licensed Professional in East Dallas, Dallas, TX
Danielle Davis
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
East Dallas, Dallas, TX 75214
Sometimes the first step can be the most difficult one, but you made it. Each client that comes through the door is admired for taking a step towards healing and gaining insight into their own thoughts and emotions. Having a safe and healthy environment where you are able to openly discuss difficult situations without judgement in today’s society can be the difference between personal success and feeling swept away and emotionally stuck.
Sometimes the first step can be the most difficult one, but you made it. Each client that comes through the door is admired for taking a step towards healing and gaining insight into their own thoughts and emotions. Having a safe and healthy environment where you are able to openly discuss difficult situations without judgement in today’s society can be the difference between personal success and feeling swept away and emotionally stuck.
(469) 564-5355 View (469) 564-5355
Photo of Schylar Rae Miller, Licensed Professional Counselor in East Dallas, Dallas, TX
Schylar Rae Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Dallas, Dallas, TX 75201  (Online Only)
I imagine you are here searching for a therapist due to life becoming too overwhelming. By starting this search, you've demonstrated a profound commitment to your well-being, and I am honored to accompany you on this path of exploration and healing. Together, we will work collaboratively to navigate through challenges, cultivate resilience, and unlock the inner resources necessary for your personal evolution. Throughout our sessions together, I will bring trauma-informed care from a calm and caring perspective to aid you in guiding your own growth.
I imagine you are here searching for a therapist due to life becoming too overwhelming. By starting this search, you've demonstrated a profound commitment to your well-being, and I am honored to accompany you on this path of exploration and healing. Together, we will work collaboratively to navigate through challenges, cultivate resilience, and unlock the inner resources necessary for your personal evolution. Throughout our sessions together, I will bring trauma-informed care from a calm and caring perspective to aid you in guiding your own growth.
(972) 944-8764 View (972) 944-8764
Photo of Jessica Brazeal, Licensed Professional Counselor in East Dallas, Dallas, TX
Jessica Brazeal
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
East Dallas, Dallas, TX 75246
I'm ready to be on your team! Therapy should be a collaboration between you and your therapist. YOU are the expert on you. And I would love to be on your team. If you have experienced scary or painful experiences that you just can't seem to move on from, I can help you with this! I have a long background of working with people who have experienced abuse in relationships and significant past childhood traumas. I have also worked with many people who have experienced religious trauma or changes in their faith that have impacted their worldview and would love to help you with this!
I'm ready to be on your team! Therapy should be a collaboration between you and your therapist. YOU are the expert on you. And I would love to be on your team. If you have experienced scary or painful experiences that you just can't seem to move on from, I can help you with this! I have a long background of working with people who have experienced abuse in relationships and significant past childhood traumas. I have also worked with many people who have experienced religious trauma or changes in their faith that have impacted their worldview and would love to help you with this!
(214) 225-4028 View (214) 225-4028
Photo of Christopher Seals, Licensed Professional Counselor in East Dallas, Dallas, TX
Christopher Seals
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
East Dallas, Dallas, TX 75246  (Online Only)
Maybe you are struggling with something in your life. You might be dealing with stress and anxiety or another mental struggle like depression or substance use. You might be feeling secluded, isolated, or even marginalized and are seeking to learn how to cope and grow in a healthy way. If this sounds like you I am excited to try to help you address these struggles in an empowering way and help you find your spark again! If this sounds like you please don't be afraid to reach out and take that first step for yourself. I am here to answer any questions you may have.
Maybe you are struggling with something in your life. You might be dealing with stress and anxiety or another mental struggle like depression or substance use. You might be feeling secluded, isolated, or even marginalized and are seeking to learn how to cope and grow in a healthy way. If this sounds like you I am excited to try to help you address these struggles in an empowering way and help you find your spark again! If this sounds like you please don't be afraid to reach out and take that first step for yourself. I am here to answer any questions you may have.
(214) 367-6824 View (214) 367-6824
Photo of Kelly Slaven, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in East Dallas, Dallas, TX
Kelly Slaven
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
East Dallas, Dallas, TX 75246
All we have to be in the world is kind and brave. Really. And I believe you can do that. Have you ever felt like you were walking on eggshells in your relationship? Do you feel like no matter what you do it is wrong from your partner's perspective? You shouldn't have to feel like this in your relationship. No one should have to feel afraid of the person they love. If you have begun to feel down on yourself because of the way your partner treats you, I would love to help you grow in understanding of present dynamics and experience relief so that you can move forward with confidence.
All we have to be in the world is kind and brave. Really. And I believe you can do that. Have you ever felt like you were walking on eggshells in your relationship? Do you feel like no matter what you do it is wrong from your partner's perspective? You shouldn't have to feel like this in your relationship. No one should have to feel afraid of the person they love. If you have begun to feel down on yourself because of the way your partner treats you, I would love to help you grow in understanding of present dynamics and experience relief so that you can move forward with confidence.
(214) 544-9748 View (214) 544-9748
Photo of Regina DeBilio, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in East Dallas, Dallas, TX
Regina DeBilio
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, LPC-A, CPTT-C, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Dallas, Dallas, TX 75204  (Online Only)
Regina is passionate about working with couples experiencing betrayal trauma and addiction to restore or create a secure attachment. She has training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), an attachment based modality that tracks the negative interaction cycle and patterns that cause distress and result in insecure attachment and disconnection. She gently guides the couple to explore themselves and their partner, learn to emotionally regulate, and cope with negative feelings in more healthy ways. Additionally, she is EMDR trained and can provide researched-based techniques for clients experiencing trauma and symptoms of PTSD.
Regina is passionate about working with couples experiencing betrayal trauma and addiction to restore or create a secure attachment. She has training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), an attachment based modality that tracks the negative interaction cycle and patterns that cause distress and result in insecure attachment and disconnection. She gently guides the couple to explore themselves and their partner, learn to emotionally regulate, and cope with negative feelings in more healthy ways. Additionally, she is EMDR trained and can provide researched-based techniques for clients experiencing trauma and symptoms of PTSD.
(972) 787-1603 View (972) 787-1603
Photo of Courtney Miller, Licensed Professional Counselor in East Dallas, Dallas, TX
Courtney Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
East Dallas, Dallas, TX 75226  (Online Only)
Are you in a relationship, but somehow feel lonely? Do you find yourself struggling with boundaries, communication, self-esteem, and conflict? I’m excited to help you develop the skills necessary to navigate dating and relationships more effectively. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas and I’m excited to assist you with your personal, career, mental, and emotional needs. Since you are reading this, that means you are considering creating a new narrative to manifest the future and the relationships you have always dreamt for yourself and/or your family. Investing in your future now is key. Let’s get started!
Are you in a relationship, but somehow feel lonely? Do you find yourself struggling with boundaries, communication, self-esteem, and conflict? I’m excited to help you develop the skills necessary to navigate dating and relationships more effectively. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas and I’m excited to assist you with your personal, career, mental, and emotional needs. Since you are reading this, that means you are considering creating a new narrative to manifest the future and the relationships you have always dreamt for yourself and/or your family. Investing in your future now is key. Let’s get started!
(346) 209-0691 View (346) 209-0691
Photo of Audra Tolbert-Martin, LPC, LMHC, ATR, Licensed Professional Counselor in East Dallas, Dallas, TX
Audra Tolbert-Martin, LPC, LMHC, ATR
Licensed Professional Counselor, MFA, MA, LPC, LMHC, ATR
Verified Verified
East Dallas, Dallas, TX 75205  (Online Only)
I'm a Jungian-oriented Board Certified Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor & Registered Art Therapist in the states of CT, IL, NY, PA, TX. I specialize in relationships, adult attachment anxiety, codependency, childhood trauma (emotional neglect, alcoholism, narcissistic parenting), and major life transitions (times in a person's life which call for deep self-evaluation). I use humor, empathy, and alternative methods of healing to help you find your own path in life! While life is at times a Tragi-Comedy, we can walk through the fire and free ourselves from the grips of anxiety, inner criticism and fear of loss.
I'm a Jungian-oriented Board Certified Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor & Registered Art Therapist in the states of CT, IL, NY, PA, TX. I specialize in relationships, adult attachment anxiety, codependency, childhood trauma (emotional neglect, alcoholism, narcissistic parenting), and major life transitions (times in a person's life which call for deep self-evaluation). I use humor, empathy, and alternative methods of healing to help you find your own path in life! While life is at times a Tragi-Comedy, we can walk through the fire and free ourselves from the grips of anxiety, inner criticism and fear of loss.
(646) 762-0368 View (646) 762-0368
Photo of Isaiah Rodriguez, Counselor in East Dallas, Dallas, TX
Isaiah Rodriguez
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
East Dallas, Dallas, TX 75204  (Online Only)
Do you find it challenging to communicate openly about your feelings or seek support when needed? Are you experiencing difficulty in your relationships or feeling disconnected from loved ones? Are you facing internal conflicts related to masculinity, identity or self-esteem? More than ever, men are feeling overwhelmed, frustrated and anxious by the pressure to conform to traditional masculine ideals, which often discourages vulnerability and emotional expression. This may lead to conflict within your relationships, work life or self-acceptance with your sexual orientation or gender identity.
Do you find it challenging to communicate openly about your feelings or seek support when needed? Are you experiencing difficulty in your relationships or feeling disconnected from loved ones? Are you facing internal conflicts related to masculinity, identity or self-esteem? More than ever, men are feeling overwhelmed, frustrated and anxious by the pressure to conform to traditional masculine ideals, which often discourages vulnerability and emotional expression. This may lead to conflict within your relationships, work life or self-acceptance with your sexual orientation or gender identity.
(210) 361-7021 View (210) 361-7021
Photo of Tiffany L Morish, Licensed Professional Counselor in East Dallas, Dallas, TX
Tiffany L Morish
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, CRC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Dallas, Dallas, TX 75204  (Online Only)
Welcome, Tiffany here! I appreciate you considering therapy and visiting my page. I primarily serve ages 12 into adulthood. I tailor my approach to all ages and provide support based on their needs. My clients mainly seek healing from critical life transitions, trauma, anxiety, people-pleasing behaviors, and identity challenges. I also enjoy serving those experiencing burnout, compassion fatigue, and those working in helping professions. My clients seek a comfortable way to decrease and manage difficult emotions and issues.
Welcome, Tiffany here! I appreciate you considering therapy and visiting my page. I primarily serve ages 12 into adulthood. I tailor my approach to all ages and provide support based on their needs. My clients mainly seek healing from critical life transitions, trauma, anxiety, people-pleasing behaviors, and identity challenges. I also enjoy serving those experiencing burnout, compassion fatigue, and those working in helping professions. My clients seek a comfortable way to decrease and manage difficult emotions and issues.
(817) 803-1009 View (817) 803-1009
Photo of Woodcrest Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in East Dallas, Dallas, TX
Woodcrest Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
East Dallas, Dallas, TX 75214
My counseling practice focuses on adolescent and adults with a specialized focus on LGBTQ+ populations. As a gay man, I am held by deeply spiritual beliefs to help my LGBTQ+ community whenever possible. I also treat addiction, dual-diagnosis, spirituality, anxiety, gender identity, depression, divorce, grief and those who are recovering from religious abuse. I meet clients where they are in life and that is always my starting point while building a relationship to facilitate change.
My counseling practice focuses on adolescent and adults with a specialized focus on LGBTQ+ populations. As a gay man, I am held by deeply spiritual beliefs to help my LGBTQ+ community whenever possible. I also treat addiction, dual-diagnosis, spirituality, anxiety, gender identity, depression, divorce, grief and those who are recovering from religious abuse. I meet clients where they are in life and that is always my starting point while building a relationship to facilitate change.
(469) 654-4027 View (469) 654-4027
Photo of Yolo Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor in East Dallas, Dallas, TX
Yolo Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Dallas, Dallas, TX 75225  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Our practice works with Black clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and stress management to process the origins of their concerns through a racially-sensitive lens. We also work with adult clients seeking to improve their relationships with self and others by helping them understand and process the impact of historical and generational racial trauma on their relationships with themselves, their families, their friends, and their partners.
Our practice works with Black clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and stress management to process the origins of their concerns through a racially-sensitive lens. We also work with adult clients seeking to improve their relationships with self and others by helping them understand and process the impact of historical and generational racial trauma on their relationships with themselves, their families, their friends, and their partners.
(412) 419-0980 View (412) 419-0980
Photo of Daphne Jaguar Browell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in East Dallas, Dallas, TX
Daphne Jaguar Browell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCDC
Verified Verified
East Dallas, Dallas, TX 75246  (Online Only)
So you are looking for a therapist and possibly wondering “why should I choose this therapist over any other?” Good question. Once you’ve found a therapist with a solid background in what you want to address, it is all about therapeutic approach and personality fit (the elusive rapport). In our initial introductory conversation (15 minute call) you can tell me about what you are looking for, I'll tell you about myself, and we’ll see if I am a fit. You can also visit my website for more details on me and my practice: TherapistBrowell.com
So you are looking for a therapist and possibly wondering “why should I choose this therapist over any other?” Good question. Once you’ve found a therapist with a solid background in what you want to address, it is all about therapeutic approach and personality fit (the elusive rapport). In our initial introductory conversation (15 minute call) you can tell me about what you are looking for, I'll tell you about myself, and we’ll see if I am a fit. You can also visit my website for more details on me and my practice: TherapistBrowell.com
(214) 833-7390 View (214) 833-7390
Photo of Caroline Rucker, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in East Dallas, Dallas, TX
Caroline Rucker
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LMFT-A, CSAT-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
East Dallas, Dallas, TX 75221
Are you in a queer relationship that feels like it's failing? Do you feel fed up with your relationship with yourself? Are you curious about your own role in relationships? Relationships have emotional pieces that can often feel overwhelming to navigate. I can understand the impact that relational issues can bring into your life, and how strenuous it is to manage. Whether it be relational or individual, emotions can feel hard. I am passionate about helping self-motivated individuals and couples, who want to hit the ground running, connect with their emotional self, discover more of their identity, and work out relational pains!
Are you in a queer relationship that feels like it's failing? Do you feel fed up with your relationship with yourself? Are you curious about your own role in relationships? Relationships have emotional pieces that can often feel overwhelming to navigate. I can understand the impact that relational issues can bring into your life, and how strenuous it is to manage. Whether it be relational or individual, emotions can feel hard. I am passionate about helping self-motivated individuals and couples, who want to hit the ground running, connect with their emotional self, discover more of their identity, and work out relational pains!
(214) 692-2829 View (214) 692-2829
Photo of Dr. Jonathan Wilson, Marriage & Family Therapist in East Dallas, Dallas, TX
Dr. Jonathan Wilson
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
East Dallas, Dallas, TX 75206  (Online Only)
The majority of my clients are looking for a therapist to help them work through a difficult stage of life, and I consider it an honor to be given that opportunity. I will provide a thorough assessment for you in our first session and set up a treatment plan together. I specialize in treating relationships, depression, anxiety, sexual disorders, trauma, and PTSD. I also have a great deal of experience working with those with Bipolar Disorder, personality disorders, sleep disorders, self-harm, and sex and pornography addiction. As an ally of the LGBT+ community, I work with individuals in any type of relationship.
The majority of my clients are looking for a therapist to help them work through a difficult stage of life, and I consider it an honor to be given that opportunity. I will provide a thorough assessment for you in our first session and set up a treatment plan together. I specialize in treating relationships, depression, anxiety, sexual disorders, trauma, and PTSD. I also have a great deal of experience working with those with Bipolar Disorder, personality disorders, sleep disorders, self-harm, and sex and pornography addiction. As an ally of the LGBT+ community, I work with individuals in any type of relationship.
(617) 766-1038 View (617) 766-1038
Photo of Brittany Stilwell, Licensed Professional Counselor in East Dallas, Dallas, TX
Brittany Stilwell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
East Dallas, Dallas, TX 75226
First things first... You are not "broken"; there is not something "wrong" with you. Oh yeah, and you're not "crazy." We all develop views of the world and coping behaviors based on our life experiences. It's what your brain does naturally to help you adapt and survive! I enjoy helping my clients become aware of these skills and utilize them effectively. Simultaneously, I enjoy aiding clients in the development of new skills and tools to assist in places where the old ones just aren't working anymore.
First things first... You are not "broken"; there is not something "wrong" with you. Oh yeah, and you're not "crazy." We all develop views of the world and coping behaviors based on our life experiences. It's what your brain does naturally to help you adapt and survive! I enjoy helping my clients become aware of these skills and utilize them effectively. Simultaneously, I enjoy aiding clients in the development of new skills and tools to assist in places where the old ones just aren't working anymore.
(903) 225-2738 View (903) 225-2738

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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.