Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Therapists in Manor, TX

Photo of Tasia Aina, MA, LPC-A
Tasia Aina
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Manor, TX 78653
Hi there! My name is Tasia Aina (eye-nuh), and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, supervised by Bri Liu, LPC-S, and a current trainee of the trauma-conscious yoga method. I identify as a black, cisgender, highly sensitive, and able-bodied American woman. I am an eldest daughter and sibling, a first-generation college graduate, and a millennial. I am passionate about helping BIPOC healers and wellness practitioners, women in high-stress/risk work environments, creative entrepreneurs, highly sensitive intuitives, and empaths reconnect with their bodies and emotions to live a more balanced life.
Hi there! My name is Tasia Aina (eye-nuh), and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, supervised by Bri Liu, LPC-S, and a current trainee of the trauma-conscious yoga method. I identify as a black, cisgender, highly sensitive, and able-bodied American woman. I am an eldest daughter and sibling, a first-generation college graduate, and a millennial. I am passionate about helping BIPOC healers and wellness practitioners, women in high-stress/risk work environments, creative entrepreneurs, highly sensitive intuitives, and empaths reconnect with their bodies and emotions to live a more balanced life.
(877) 395-5439 View (877) 395-5439
Photo of Nakita J Santiago, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nakita J Santiago
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Manor, TX 78653  (Online Only)
This is your season for change! Whether you're caught in one of life's storms, feeling disconnected from yourself or others, facing a major life transition, trying to manage stress, anxiety, depression or grieving, I offer compassionate support and encouragement. Together we can begin unpacking all of your unique parts: undesirable emotions that try to steer your direction, thoughts that continue to live rent free in your mind, and where & how stress may reside in your body. As your story begins to unfold we can piece together what you need to comfort, nurture and mend the things that need attention.
This is your season for change! Whether you're caught in one of life's storms, feeling disconnected from yourself or others, facing a major life transition, trying to manage stress, anxiety, depression or grieving, I offer compassionate support and encouragement. Together we can begin unpacking all of your unique parts: undesirable emotions that try to steer your direction, thoughts that continue to live rent free in your mind, and where & how stress may reside in your body. As your story begins to unfold we can piece together what you need to comfort, nurture and mend the things that need attention.
(512) 399-4552 View (512) 399-4552
Photo of Courtney L. Weaver, LCSW, MPAff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Courtney L. Weaver
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MPAff
Verified Verified
Manor, TX 78653
My goal is to help you make the best of your unique life circumstances and work towards being the person you want to be. I work with mood and anxiety disorders of all kinds, and also enjoy working with people navigating major life transitions, people in substance use recovery, dieting recovery, and those setting boundaries with complex families of origin. Prior to becoming a therapist I worked in public policy for over a decade, and have a deep understanding of the societal structures in place that feel immovable, and yet greatly impact our mental health.
My goal is to help you make the best of your unique life circumstances and work towards being the person you want to be. I work with mood and anxiety disorders of all kinds, and also enjoy working with people navigating major life transitions, people in substance use recovery, dieting recovery, and those setting boundaries with complex families of origin. Prior to becoming a therapist I worked in public policy for over a decade, and have a deep understanding of the societal structures in place that feel immovable, and yet greatly impact our mental health.
(512) 269-0366 View (512) 269-0366
Photo of Kim Watts - Kim Watts Counseling , LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kim Watts Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Manor, TX 78653  (Online Only)
I'm passionate about supporting adults from all kinds of backgrounds. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, PTSD, or going through tough times like divorce or loss, I'm here to help. My goal is to create a welcoming and supportive space where you can feel comfortable discussing whatever's on your mind.
I'm passionate about supporting adults from all kinds of backgrounds. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, PTSD, or going through tough times like divorce or loss, I'm here to help. My goal is to create a welcoming and supportive space where you can feel comfortable discussing whatever's on your mind.
(737) 200-9432 View (737) 200-9432
Photo of Ashley D Coulter - Authentic & Intentional Minds, PLLC, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Authentic & Intentional Minds, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Manor, TX 78653  (Online Only)
Making the decision to engage in therapy can be a difficult one. Many times stressful life events lead us to seeking help. My goal is to help you acquire the skills you need to create the life you want, even in the midst of crisis. Authentic & Intentional Minds, PLLC welcomes adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, identity, mood disorders, relationship stressors, & adjustment to life changes.
Making the decision to engage in therapy can be a difficult one. Many times stressful life events lead us to seeking help. My goal is to help you acquire the skills you need to create the life you want, even in the midst of crisis. Authentic & Intentional Minds, PLLC welcomes adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, identity, mood disorders, relationship stressors, & adjustment to life changes.
(817) 765-6298 View (817) 765-6298

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jaime Nichols, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jaime Nichols
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78753
I am an ally to LGBTQ folks and am kink and poly aware.
Hardly anybody I know aspires to be that average, center-of-the-bell-curve person. In different ways, we all deviate from the norm, which explains our own uniqueness. My aim as a therapist is to work with individuals, couples, triads, and families in a way that celebrates their uniqueness and "incurable deviance." By meeting you where you are, with who you are, in a way that makes best use of your unique strengths, hopes, dreams, and quirks, we can work together as client(s) and therapist to help you address your current challenges, get lots more of what you want, develop skills, transform, and explore new choices available to you.
I am an ally to LGBTQ folks and am kink and poly aware.
Hardly anybody I know aspires to be that average, center-of-the-bell-curve person. In different ways, we all deviate from the norm, which explains our own uniqueness. My aim as a therapist is to work with individuals, couples, triads, and families in a way that celebrates their uniqueness and "incurable deviance." By meeting you where you are, with who you are, in a way that makes best use of your unique strengths, hopes, dreams, and quirks, we can work together as client(s) and therapist to help you address your current challenges, get lots more of what you want, develop skills, transform, and explore new choices available to you.
(512) 872-2241 View (512) 872-2241
Photo of Eridian Winter, LMFT-A, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Eridian Winter
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78753  (Online Only)
I work with both individuals and relationships on topics related to: identity, coming out, more than monogamy/polyamory, expansive sexuality/ kink, fandom, stress, and relational conflict.
Let's decolonize mental health. Your well-being should not come at the expense of authenticity. No matter where you are in your life, the world can feel isolating and exhausting, especially when we do not fit neatly into narrow roles we are told are acceptable. Through connection and community, we develop the skills and language to describe our experiences. You get to define the terms of your own existence, you may already have the words or they could be difficult to find. Our therapeutic connection can provide a space for you to feel safe and supported in creating your space in the world.
I work with both individuals and relationships on topics related to: identity, coming out, more than monogamy/polyamory, expansive sexuality/ kink, fandom, stress, and relational conflict.
Let's decolonize mental health. Your well-being should not come at the expense of authenticity. No matter where you are in your life, the world can feel isolating and exhausting, especially when we do not fit neatly into narrow roles we are told are acceptable. Through connection and community, we develop the skills and language to describe our experiences. You get to define the terms of your own existence, you may already have the words or they could be difficult to find. Our therapeutic connection can provide a space for you to feel safe and supported in creating your space in the world.
(737) 265-5178 View (737) 265-5178
Photo of Lori Finkel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lori Finkel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78723
Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, loneliness, grief, low self-esteem, boundary-setting, religious trauma, relationships, sex, shame, sexual trauma, sexuality, LGBTQ+/gender identity, life purpose and meaning, or all of the above, we'll work together to find your voice and strengthen your sense of self so you can really be you. We are each incredible, wonderful, complex beings who are deserving of love for being exactly who we are, even if society tells us otherwise!
Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, loneliness, grief, low self-esteem, boundary-setting, religious trauma, relationships, sex, shame, sexual trauma, sexuality, LGBTQ+/gender identity, life purpose and meaning, or all of the above, we'll work together to find your voice and strengthen your sense of self so you can really be you. We are each incredible, wonderful, complex beings who are deserving of love for being exactly who we are, even if society tells us otherwise!
(512) 846-6233 x2 View (512) 846-6233 x2
Photo of Matthew Flinchum, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Matthew Flinchum
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pflugerville, TX 78660
Counseling is my life's calling, and helping others toward their goals is my passion. I work as a Licensed Professional Counselor in private practice. I love the work that I do, and welcome all clients from a diverse rage of backgrounds. I value the faith, trust, and courage they show by beginning the counseling process. I am a certified trauma counselor and trained in EMDR. I focus on helping my clients work through questions of identity and purpose in the face of trauma. I offer kink and polyamorous informed care, and have experience working with clients from across the gender and sexuality spectrums.
Counseling is my life's calling, and helping others toward their goals is my passion. I work as a Licensed Professional Counselor in private practice. I love the work that I do, and welcome all clients from a diverse rage of backgrounds. I value the faith, trust, and courage they show by beginning the counseling process. I am a certified trauma counselor and trained in EMDR. I focus on helping my clients work through questions of identity and purpose in the face of trauma. I offer kink and polyamorous informed care, and have experience working with clients from across the gender and sexuality spectrums.
(512) 488-5103 View (512) 488-5103
Photo of Nhi Nguyen, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nhi Nguyen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78754
I believe everyone desires to create and maintain meaningful connections. Sometimes we just lack the skills to communicate and/or express ourselves, or we get so busy in our daily lives that we forget how to connect with the ones we love. I offer services to individuals, couples, and families. I am multi-culturally competent and sex positive. I am passionate about helping all of my clients explore a variety of topics, including identity formation, premarital counseling, maternal issues, relationships, intimacy and sex, life transitions, grief, and family of origin and inter-generational issues.
I believe everyone desires to create and maintain meaningful connections. Sometimes we just lack the skills to communicate and/or express ourselves, or we get so busy in our daily lives that we forget how to connect with the ones we love. I offer services to individuals, couples, and families. I am multi-culturally competent and sex positive. I am passionate about helping all of my clients explore a variety of topics, including identity formation, premarital counseling, maternal issues, relationships, intimacy and sex, life transitions, grief, and family of origin and inter-generational issues.
(361) 201-0553 View (361) 201-0553
Photo of Doc Davis - Side Quest Therapy, MS, LPC, CCMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Side Quest Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78723
Hello, my name is Doc Davis and as a person who has often lived outside the "mainstream" of society, I enjoy working with others from the gamer, cosplay, fandom, nerdom, LBGTQ+, kink, and other so called "fringe" communities. It is often hard enough to feel like we fit in throughout our lives, and when we align ourselves with things that some may shun, it can be infinitely more complicated and sometimes devastating. With issues around social anxiety, self-identity, navigating the nonacceptance of others, and self-acceptance being just some the things people have to deal with, it can often get in the way of a truly authentic self.
Hello, my name is Doc Davis and as a person who has often lived outside the "mainstream" of society, I enjoy working with others from the gamer, cosplay, fandom, nerdom, LBGTQ+, kink, and other so called "fringe" communities. It is often hard enough to feel like we fit in throughout our lives, and when we align ourselves with things that some may shun, it can be infinitely more complicated and sometimes devastating. With issues around social anxiety, self-identity, navigating the nonacceptance of others, and self-acceptance being just some the things people have to deal with, it can often get in the way of a truly authentic self.
(737) 210-5964 View (737) 210-5964
Photo of Patricia Black, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Patricia Black
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78753
I use a Sex Positive, Solution-Focused, and Person-Centered approach.
In a session with me as your counselor, what you see is what you get. I model authenticity by being present with my clients. You’ll find me to be compassionate, empathetic, perseverant, and even silly at times. I’m a strong believer in the power of talk therapy to ‘get the poison out’ – poison in the form of fear, anxiety, depression, worry, and feeling stuck. I will help you improve your self-esteem, enhance your communication skills, and manage your emotions more effectively. I am also a couples therapist and a Sexual Health Alliance Certified Sex Therapist.
I use a Sex Positive, Solution-Focused, and Person-Centered approach.
In a session with me as your counselor, what you see is what you get. I model authenticity by being present with my clients. You’ll find me to be compassionate, empathetic, perseverant, and even silly at times. I’m a strong believer in the power of talk therapy to ‘get the poison out’ – poison in the form of fear, anxiety, depression, worry, and feeling stuck. I will help you improve your self-esteem, enhance your communication skills, and manage your emotions more effectively. I am also a couples therapist and a Sexual Health Alliance Certified Sex Therapist.
(507) 481-1697 View (507) 481-1697
Photo of John Perry, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
John Perry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78753  (Online Only)
My practice is kink friendly and affirming.
Sometimes our lives can feel like an exercise in frustration. We may feel trapped, isolated and disconnected from people around us, including our families. Discordant relationships, anxiety, PTSD issues, LGBTQ issues, physical & emotional abuse, and substance use may impact us in harmful and destructive ways. Working together in a safe atmosphere, we can examine your particular struggles, find your hidden strengths, challenge outmoded habits, and develop solutions. Step by step, you will find ways to move forward out of the frustration of anxiety and depression, finding renewed hope, motivation and fulfillment: even joy!
My practice is kink friendly and affirming.
Sometimes our lives can feel like an exercise in frustration. We may feel trapped, isolated and disconnected from people around us, including our families. Discordant relationships, anxiety, PTSD issues, LGBTQ issues, physical & emotional abuse, and substance use may impact us in harmful and destructive ways. Working together in a safe atmosphere, we can examine your particular struggles, find your hidden strengths, challenge outmoded habits, and develop solutions. Step by step, you will find ways to move forward out of the frustration of anxiety and depression, finding renewed hope, motivation and fulfillment: even joy!
(512) 488-4656 View (512) 488-4656
Photo of Vox VanDyke - Austin Mind Body, LGBTQ+ Counseling & Supervision, LPC-S, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Austin Mind Body, LGBTQ+ Counseling & Supervision
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78723  (Online Only)
Struggling with life transitions, creative ruts, and relationships are difficult in any situation but especially so if you do not follow the heteronormative path. It can be difficult to open up to someone when you are not certain that they understand Queer and Alternative relationship structures. I use an individualized approach with each client to build a therapeutic relationship based on specific goals. I focus my work around issues regarding LGBTQ+, sexuality, non-binary and transgender, complex relationships, power dynamics, sexual health, BDSM/ Kink, and other dynamics.
Struggling with life transitions, creative ruts, and relationships are difficult in any situation but especially so if you do not follow the heteronormative path. It can be difficult to open up to someone when you are not certain that they understand Queer and Alternative relationship structures. I use an individualized approach with each client to build a therapeutic relationship based on specific goals. I focus my work around issues regarding LGBTQ+, sexuality, non-binary and transgender, complex relationships, power dynamics, sexual health, BDSM/ Kink, and other dynamics.
(512) 765-9528 View (512) 765-9528
Photo of Alex Paro, MA, LMFT-A, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Alex Paro
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78723
As a queer, non-monogamous, ADHD, cis-gendered woman, I welcome the opportunity to talk about neurodivergence, LGBTQIA+, open relationships, kink, and sexuality as whole with adult couples and individuals.
You’re here, and that’s a huge first step. Finding a nonjudgemental, compassionate therapist to share your struggles with isn’t easy, I definitely understand that. Together we’ll tackle those struggles, your desires, your pain points. We’ll fight together within the confines of society to discover your authentic self and learn to share your magic outwardly. Let’s work together to find the relationships you want, the love you want, the sex, the job, the life that brings you joy - the YOU that you want.
As a queer, non-monogamous, ADHD, cis-gendered woman, I welcome the opportunity to talk about neurodivergence, LGBTQIA+, open relationships, kink, and sexuality as whole with adult couples and individuals.
You’re here, and that’s a huge first step. Finding a nonjudgemental, compassionate therapist to share your struggles with isn’t easy, I definitely understand that. Together we’ll tackle those struggles, your desires, your pain points. We’ll fight together within the confines of society to discover your authentic self and learn to share your magic outwardly. Let’s work together to find the relationships you want, the love you want, the sex, the job, the life that brings you joy - the YOU that you want.
(512) 881-8148 x11 View (512) 881-8148 x11
Photo of Meg Kelleher, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meg Kelleher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78701
I provide individual counseling with specializations including trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, pain management, gender identity, sexuality (from a sex-positive, kink-aware perspective), body image, and disability and chronic illness.
As Oscar Wilde once said, "One's real life is so often the life that one does not lead." But, for you, today can mark a decisive step down a path of authenticity, interpersonal connection, and greater ease in your body. As a licensed clinical social worker and practicing writer and artist, I am skilled in collaborating with you to first identify and then reimagine the themes, forms and narratives of your past and your everyday. My objective is to help you rediscover your potential and lead a more satisfying, conscious, and generative existence—all while feeling at home somatically.
I provide individual counseling with specializations including trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, pain management, gender identity, sexuality (from a sex-positive, kink-aware perspective), body image, and disability and chronic illness.
As Oscar Wilde once said, "One's real life is so often the life that one does not lead." But, for you, today can mark a decisive step down a path of authenticity, interpersonal connection, and greater ease in your body. As a licensed clinical social worker and practicing writer and artist, I am skilled in collaborating with you to first identify and then reimagine the themes, forms and narratives of your past and your everyday. My objective is to help you rediscover your potential and lead a more satisfying, conscious, and generative existence—all while feeling at home somatically.
(773) 530-3754 View (773) 530-3754
Photo of Jack Subtle Kemp, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jack Subtle Kemp
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78753  (Online Only)
I primarily work with clients within queer community, especially trans folks, and lifestyles such as kink, polyamory, or sex work. My hope is to provide a safe space (and a sliding scale!) where you don't have to spend your time in therapy educating your therapist on the concepts that are everyday within your own life. I love work around emotional regulation, communication and conflict resolution, with individuals and with multiple people within a relationship, to help develop healthier coping mechanisms, processing techniques, and self-acceptance/self-care methods to improve feelings of empowerment, security, and life satisfaction.
I primarily work with clients within queer community, especially trans folks, and lifestyles such as kink, polyamory, or sex work. My hope is to provide a safe space (and a sliding scale!) where you don't have to spend your time in therapy educating your therapist on the concepts that are everyday within your own life. I love work around emotional regulation, communication and conflict resolution, with individuals and with multiple people within a relationship, to help develop healthier coping mechanisms, processing techniques, and self-acceptance/self-care methods to improve feelings of empowerment, security, and life satisfaction.
(512) 890-2918 View (512) 890-2918
Photo of Kyla Winlow, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kyla Winlow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78723  (Online Only)
As a queer and neurodivergent therapist, I am passionate about offering services for these communities. I support folks who are seeking a safe space to discuss their gender or sexual identity as well as folks simply wanting to work with a queer therapist. I also enjoy working with individuals who are wanting support as they explore their own neurodivergent identities. I am sex positive and welcome clients of sexual, relational, and gender diversity. I am poly/ethical non-monogamy affirming and kink aware. As a white individual, I am committed to doing my own anti-racism work to unlearn oppressive values.
As a queer and neurodivergent therapist, I am passionate about offering services for these communities. I support folks who are seeking a safe space to discuss their gender or sexual identity as well as folks simply wanting to work with a queer therapist. I also enjoy working with individuals who are wanting support as they explore their own neurodivergent identities. I am sex positive and welcome clients of sexual, relational, and gender diversity. I am poly/ethical non-monogamy affirming and kink aware. As a white individual, I am committed to doing my own anti-racism work to unlearn oppressive values.
(512) 364-7308 View (512) 364-7308
Photo of Summer A Birmingham, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Summer A Birmingham
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78724
“There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.” ~ Maya Angelou Seeking therapy can feel like a daunting task, especially if you are already holding life challenges that have become too exhausting and heavy to carry on your own. Whatever has brought you to this place, you are taking an incredibly courageous step in addressing whatever lies between you and who you want to become. Through our therapeutic time, I provide an accepting, safe, and non-judgmental emotional and physical space for you to show up as your true and authentic self and unpack your story as it makes sense to you.
“There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.” ~ Maya Angelou Seeking therapy can feel like a daunting task, especially if you are already holding life challenges that have become too exhausting and heavy to carry on your own. Whatever has brought you to this place, you are taking an incredibly courageous step in addressing whatever lies between you and who you want to become. Through our therapeutic time, I provide an accepting, safe, and non-judgmental emotional and physical space for you to show up as your true and authentic self and unpack your story as it makes sense to you.
(512) 601-8419 View (512) 601-8419
Photo of Ryan Foster - New Patterns Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor
New Patterns Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Pflugerville, TX 78660
Our practice is home to a variety of counselors and social workers from different backgrounds all working together to help each other learn and grow. Our clinicians cover a wide range of specialties like LGBTQ+, couples, children/adolescents, aging issues, educators, trauma, anger management, life adjustments, and more. Nuestra práctica es hogar de diversos consejeros y trabajadores sociales de diferentes orígenes, trabajamos juntos para aprender y crecer. Abarcamos una amplia gama de especialidades, como LGBTQ+, parejas, niños/adolescentes, problemas relacionados con el envejecimiento, educadores, trauma, y ajustes de vida.
Our practice is home to a variety of counselors and social workers from different backgrounds all working together to help each other learn and grow. Our clinicians cover a wide range of specialties like LGBTQ+, couples, children/adolescents, aging issues, educators, trauma, anger management, life adjustments, and more. Nuestra práctica es hogar de diversos consejeros y trabajadores sociales de diferentes orígenes, trabajamos juntos para aprender y crecer. Abarcamos una amplia gama de especialidades, como LGBTQ+, parejas, niños/adolescentes, problemas relacionados con el envejecimiento, educadores, trauma, y ajustes de vida.
(737) 373-4634 View (737) 373-4634
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.