Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Therapists in King Street Metro, Alexandria, VA

Photo of Melina Mora, Counselor, MS, LPC
Melina Mora
Counselor, MS, LPC
2 Endorsed
King Street Metro, Alexandria, VA 22314
I work with adults and couples navigating intimacy, sexuality, and disconnection from their bodies, relationships, or cultural and religious roots. Many of my clients are healing shame around sex, betrayal, or the lasting impact of purity culture. Others are untangling what it means to want, to trust, or to feel at home in their own skin. I'm not a weekly check-in therapist, I work best as a specialist. Most clients see me twice a month or monthly, going deeper than weekly sessions alone can reach. At that frequency, specialist-level care is often more affordable than people expect.
I work with adults and couples navigating intimacy, sexuality, and disconnection from their bodies, relationships, or cultural and religious roots. Many of my clients are healing shame around sex, betrayal, or the lasting impact of purity culture. Others are untangling what it means to want, to trust, or to feel at home in their own skin. I'm not a weekly check-in therapist, I work best as a specialist. Most clients see me twice a month or monthly, going deeper than weekly sessions alone can reach. At that frequency, specialist-level care is often more affordable than people expect.
(571) 619-9235 View (571) 619-9235
Photo of Heather Sullivan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LCSW, LICSW
Heather Sullivan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LCSW, LICSW
2 Endorsed
King Street Metro, Alexandria, VA 22314
Welcome! I’m Heather—a trauma-informed, EMDR-certified therapist who helps adults get unstuck and feel more like themselves again. Licensed in VA, MD, and DC, I use evidence-based, body-aware approaches to help you work through trauma, chronic stress, and people-pleasing tendencies (yep, that too). There is nothing is “wrong” with you. You just have some old stuff keeping you from living the life you envision. Expect real talk, warmth, humor, and a space where healing feels possible. If you’re ready for honest connection, real laughs, and some “F yeah, I can do this” moments, let’s talk.
Welcome! I’m Heather—a trauma-informed, EMDR-certified therapist who helps adults get unstuck and feel more like themselves again. Licensed in VA, MD, and DC, I use evidence-based, body-aware approaches to help you work through trauma, chronic stress, and people-pleasing tendencies (yep, that too). There is nothing is “wrong” with you. You just have some old stuff keeping you from living the life you envision. Expect real talk, warmth, humor, and a space where healing feels possible. If you’re ready for honest connection, real laughs, and some “F yeah, I can do this” moments, let’s talk.
(571) 322-8896 View (571) 322-8896
Photo of Caroline Edgeton-Martin, Pre-Licensed Professional, MSEd
Caroline Edgeton-Martin
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSEd
King Street Metro, Alexandria, VA 22314
I specialize in supporting individuals who have experienced the deep complexities of trauma, struggles in relationships, and the challenges that can come with identifying as, or questioning if they are, LGBTQIA+. Individuals may report feeling lonely, isolated, anxious, depressed, disconnected, confused, or insecure. While the specific needs of each individual are unique, my goal is for all individuals who work with me to feel that their needs are heard and supported in their healing journey.
I specialize in supporting individuals who have experienced the deep complexities of trauma, struggles in relationships, and the challenges that can come with identifying as, or questioning if they are, LGBTQIA+. Individuals may report feeling lonely, isolated, anxious, depressed, disconnected, confused, or insecure. While the specific needs of each individual are unique, my goal is for all individuals who work with me to feel that their needs are heard and supported in their healing journey.
(571) 556-7026 View (571) 556-7026
Photo of Rebecca Loesberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Rebecca Loesberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
3 Endorsed
King Street Metro, Alexandria, VA 22314
I specialize in helping women in their 20’s and 30’s work through anxiety, ADHD, people-pleasing, perfectionism and burnout. Do you feel burned out and exhausted by "going through the motions" of everyday life? Are you often overwhelmed, stressed, and feeling like there must be a way to make it all easier? I know how it feels to be stuck in a cycle of behaviors that seem too hard to change. It can also be so hard when everyone else's priorities seem to cloud what you actually want. Together, we will discover and honor your emotions, figure out what matters most to you, and head in that direction.
I specialize in helping women in their 20’s and 30’s work through anxiety, ADHD, people-pleasing, perfectionism and burnout. Do you feel burned out and exhausted by "going through the motions" of everyday life? Are you often overwhelmed, stressed, and feeling like there must be a way to make it all easier? I know how it feels to be stuck in a cycle of behaviors that seem too hard to change. It can also be so hard when everyone else's priorities seem to cloud what you actually want. Together, we will discover and honor your emotions, figure out what matters most to you, and head in that direction.
(571) 901-1376 View (571) 901-1376
Photo of Alanisha Allen, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Alanisha Allen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
3 Endorsed
King Street Metro, Alexandria, VA 22314
I have a special focus on supporting mothers, Black women, and sexual wellness, and I proudly affirm LGBTQIA+, nontraditional, and kink-positive relationships.
In therapy, I blend mindfulness, creativity, goal-setting, autonomy, and compassion to help you reconnect with your roots and nurture the parts of you ready to grow. Whether it’s deep reflection, celebrating small wins, or planting new habits that feel authentically “you”.
I have a special focus on supporting mothers, Black women, and sexual wellness, and I proudly affirm LGBTQIA+, nontraditional, and kink-positive relationships.
In therapy, I blend mindfulness, creativity, goal-setting, autonomy, and compassion to help you reconnect with your roots and nurture the parts of you ready to grow. Whether it’s deep reflection, celebrating small wins, or planting new habits that feel authentically “you”.
(703) 291-0687 View (703) 291-0687
Photo of Dr. Anthony Koch, Psychologist, PsyD, LCP
Dr. Anthony Koch
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP
4 Endorsed
King Street Metro, Alexandria, VA 22314
Life can feel like carrying questions without answers, or living inside a story that doesn’t fully make sense. You may find yourself repeating patterns, feeling stuck, or longing for connection and ease. Beneath struggles with anxiety, depression, self-doubt, or relational pain often lies a quiet wish to be seen, understood, and more fully alive. Therapy offers a space to listen to the hidden parts of your story, uncover what has been buried, and open new paths. Together we can build a relationship to explore your present concerns, gently unpack the past, and imagine the future with greater freedom.
Life can feel like carrying questions without answers, or living inside a story that doesn’t fully make sense. You may find yourself repeating patterns, feeling stuck, or longing for connection and ease. Beneath struggles with anxiety, depression, self-doubt, or relational pain often lies a quiet wish to be seen, understood, and more fully alive. Therapy offers a space to listen to the hidden parts of your story, uncover what has been buried, and open new paths. Together we can build a relationship to explore your present concerns, gently unpack the past, and imagine the future with greater freedom.
(703) 596-3817 View (703) 596-3817
Photo of Ashley Merriman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Ashley Merriman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
King Street Metro, Alexandria, VA 22314
Are you ready to start your journey to joy and improve your overall wellness? Do you feel disconnected from those around you and alone with your problems or life concerns? Are you tired of being the “strong friend” and ready to build a network of true support? Do you find yourself repeatedly in unhealthy patterns in relationships? Does vulnerability sound scary even though you know it is important? Have you experienced discrimination, harassment, or oppression due to your racial, gender, or sexual identity? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you are in the right place. Welcome! I am here to listen and support.
Are you ready to start your journey to joy and improve your overall wellness? Do you feel disconnected from those around you and alone with your problems or life concerns? Are you tired of being the “strong friend” and ready to build a network of true support? Do you find yourself repeatedly in unhealthy patterns in relationships? Does vulnerability sound scary even though you know it is important? Have you experienced discrimination, harassment, or oppression due to your racial, gender, or sexual identity? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you are in the right place. Welcome! I am here to listen and support.
(213) 296-0260 View (213) 296-0260
Photo of Alexis Martinez, Resident in Counseling, CMHC
Alexis Martinez
Resident in Counseling, CMHC
Online Only
Hello there! I practice talk therapy. I believe that there are many aspects that can play a role in our lives like culture and familial expectations. I take time to learn and understand your traditions and identities and use that in our therapy spaces as needed. While also connecting that to your overall care and exploring how it can shape our experiences and possibly impact our presenting issues.
Hello there! I practice talk therapy. I believe that there are many aspects that can play a role in our lives like culture and familial expectations. I take time to learn and understand your traditions and identities and use that in our therapy spaces as needed. While also connecting that to your overall care and exploring how it can shape our experiences and possibly impact our presenting issues.
(571) 534-5104 View (571) 534-5104
Photo of Emily Lopez, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Emily Lopez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
As a Licensed Professional Counselor in Connecticut, I am here to offer a helping hand to anyone who is struggling with emotional, psychological, or mental health issues. You are not alone. I specialize in providing compassionate and effective counseling that are tailored to your unique needs. I understand that seeking help can be difficult, but I strive to create a safe and comfortable environment that is free of judgement and stigma. Together, we will work towards creating a personalized plan that will help you overcome challenges and achieve optimal mental wellness. Remember, you are worthy of compassion, care, and support.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor in Connecticut, I am here to offer a helping hand to anyone who is struggling with emotional, psychological, or mental health issues. You are not alone. I specialize in providing compassionate and effective counseling that are tailored to your unique needs. I understand that seeking help can be difficult, but I strive to create a safe and comfortable environment that is free of judgement and stigma. Together, we will work towards creating a personalized plan that will help you overcome challenges and achieve optimal mental wellness. Remember, you are worthy of compassion, care, and support.
(434) 322-5645 View (434) 322-5645
Photo of Jennifer Wagner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jennifer Wagner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Real talk. Real tools. Real change. If you’ve tried to fix things on your own and nothing’s changing, it might be time for something different. Therapy with me is about honesty, insight, and real-world tools that help you feel more grounded and in control again.
Real talk. Real tools. Real change. If you’ve tried to fix things on your own and nothing’s changing, it might be time for something different. Therapy with me is about honesty, insight, and real-world tools that help you feel more grounded and in control again.
(571) 576-3318 View (571) 576-3318

Online Therapists

Photo of Jordan L. Costen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, CCATP
Jordan L. Costen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, CCATP
2 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22312
Well, hello. I am glad you decided to meet. Let me pour you some tea or coffee and let’s discuss what is on your mind. Sometimes it can be pretty difficult to seek out help. Especially for those who either thought they didn’t need it or were convinced that their issues are manageable. That often occurs with members of the LGBTQ+ community. Regardless, you took the first step, as difficult as it may have been. As a next step I want to work with you and build trust. Once that has been established and you feel comfortable, we can address the items that cause you concern.
Well, hello. I am glad you decided to meet. Let me pour you some tea or coffee and let’s discuss what is on your mind. Sometimes it can be pretty difficult to seek out help. Especially for those who either thought they didn’t need it or were convinced that their issues are manageable. That often occurs with members of the LGBTQ+ community. Regardless, you took the first step, as difficult as it may have been. As a next step I want to work with you and build trust. Once that has been established and you feel comfortable, we can address the items that cause you concern.
(571) 901-1072 View (571) 901-1072
Photo of Cassandra Halper, Resident in Counseling, MA, RIC
Cassandra Halper
Resident in Counseling, MA, RIC
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
Hello, my name is Cassandra Halper, and I am a post-graduate Resident in Counseling at OTR Wellness. In my 9 years in the mental health field, I have used a variety of therapeutic techniques to help first responders, patients experiencing crisis and detox, and families undergoing major life changes. I specialize in trauma, including emergency response, domestic abuse, sexual violence, LGBTQ+ issues, and more. I am so excited to help my clients discover healthy ways of communicating, resolving conflict, and establishing boundaries in their relationships.
Hello, my name is Cassandra Halper, and I am a post-graduate Resident in Counseling at OTR Wellness. In my 9 years in the mental health field, I have used a variety of therapeutic techniques to help first responders, patients experiencing crisis and detox, and families undergoing major life changes. I specialize in trauma, including emergency response, domestic abuse, sexual violence, LGBTQ+ issues, and more. I am so excited to help my clients discover healthy ways of communicating, resolving conflict, and establishing boundaries in their relationships.
(703) 947-0587 View (703) 947-0587
Photo of Danielle Reynolds, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C, CCTP
Danielle Reynolds
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C, CCTP
4 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22307
Danielle Reynolds is dedicated to honoring the mind-body connection through an integrative approach that incorporates mindfulness, somatic experiencing, and cognitive neuroscience. With extensive training in Internal Family Systems (IFS), perinatal mental health, and clinical trauma therapy, Danielle offers a holistic framework for her clients, creating profound transformation and healing. She enjoys working with individuals facing anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), complex chronic health issues, chronic pain, and those seeking postpartum support.
Danielle Reynolds is dedicated to honoring the mind-body connection through an integrative approach that incorporates mindfulness, somatic experiencing, and cognitive neuroscience. With extensive training in Internal Family Systems (IFS), perinatal mental health, and clinical trauma therapy, Danielle offers a holistic framework for her clients, creating profound transformation and healing. She enjoys working with individuals facing anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), complex chronic health issues, chronic pain, and those seeking postpartum support.
(703) 721-4248 View (703) 721-4248
Photo of Andi O'Neill, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Andi O'Neill
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
Even strong, smart, successful people know when to utilize the help of experts. Maybe you’re not in crisis, just a couple in a “good enough” relationship, but some of the time things get painfully off track. Or an individual whose life seems to be going pretty well on the outside – but privately, you’re hurting. Sometimes, your ways of “getting by” turn into habits that need to be amended. It’s not always clear how to go about initiating change and it helps to have an objective perspective. Counseling is a great way to improve your life. Together we will explore, identify, and rebuild habits and patterns to provide lasting change.
Even strong, smart, successful people know when to utilize the help of experts. Maybe you’re not in crisis, just a couple in a “good enough” relationship, but some of the time things get painfully off track. Or an individual whose life seems to be going pretty well on the outside – but privately, you’re hurting. Sometimes, your ways of “getting by” turn into habits that need to be amended. It’s not always clear how to go about initiating change and it helps to have an objective perspective. Counseling is a great way to improve your life. Together we will explore, identify, and rebuild habits and patterns to provide lasting change.
(757) 210-5892 View (757) 210-5892
Photo of Lauren Fuller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BS, MSW, LCSW
Lauren Fuller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BS, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
I specialize in inclusive, trauma-informed care for children, adolescents, & young adults. In our sessions, we will address challenges such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions, family conflict, emotional regulation, and self-esteem. I use a variety of treatment approaches in my therapeutic practice to include: Mindfulness, Play Therapy, Strengths-based, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
I specialize in inclusive, trauma-informed care for children, adolescents, & young adults. In our sessions, we will address challenges such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions, family conflict, emotional regulation, and self-esteem. I use a variety of treatment approaches in my therapeutic practice to include: Mindfulness, Play Therapy, Strengths-based, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
(703) 783-0142 View (703) 783-0142
Photo of Lauren K. Nickum, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAC
Lauren K. Nickum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAC
3 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22315
I treat people struggling with anger, anxiety, stress or life transitions. Are you angry? Are you lashing out in the moment only to find yourself feeling guilty and regretful after? Do you stuff down your frustrations, so you don't "upset" anyone, but later find yourself plagued by resentment? Are you anxious? Do you find yourself stuck in a thought cycle of worry about things that may happen, or worried about how you will feel when you find yourself in a stressful situation? Are you consumed by worry about what others think? Are you adjusting to a life change? I am here to listen and help you make a change.
I treat people struggling with anger, anxiety, stress or life transitions. Are you angry? Are you lashing out in the moment only to find yourself feeling guilty and regretful after? Do you stuff down your frustrations, so you don't "upset" anyone, but later find yourself plagued by resentment? Are you anxious? Do you find yourself stuck in a thought cycle of worry about things that may happen, or worried about how you will feel when you find yourself in a stressful situation? Are you consumed by worry about what others think? Are you adjusting to a life change? I am here to listen and help you make a change.
(571) 297-1844 View (571) 297-1844
Photo of Adam C. Prestegord, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, LCSW-C, CST
Adam C. Prestegord
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, LCSW-C, CST
2 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22305
Sex, identity, and relationships are often integral parts of our lives. However, shame, miscommunication, and worry can prevent us from having the connections we want. Although these frustrations may seem insurmountable at times, change is possible. Looking for a therapist is a positive first step. Whether you are looking to gain personal insight, develop coping strategies, or improve your relationships and sexual functioning, we can work together to achieve your goals. I work with individuals, couples, and poly groups. I am licensed in VA, DC, and MD and certified as a sex therapist by AASECT.
Sex, identity, and relationships are often integral parts of our lives. However, shame, miscommunication, and worry can prevent us from having the connections we want. Although these frustrations may seem insurmountable at times, change is possible. Looking for a therapist is a positive first step. Whether you are looking to gain personal insight, develop coping strategies, or improve your relationships and sexual functioning, we can work together to achieve your goals. I work with individuals, couples, and poly groups. I am licensed in VA, DC, and MD and certified as a sex therapist by AASECT.
(571) 200-5235 View (571) 200-5235
Photo of Nikki Lemke, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Nikki Lemke
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
3 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
Struggling with relationship challenges or feeling misunderstood? Feeling like you're constantly playing small to make everyone else around you happy? Being misunderstood in your closest connections, is often a very lonely place to be. I can help you make sense of what seems like confusing interpersonal dynamics, so that you can begin to feel the genuine connection and sense of beloning we all crave as human beings. The self-knowledge, skills and insights you gain in session, are an investment into yourself and all your future relationships.
Struggling with relationship challenges or feeling misunderstood? Feeling like you're constantly playing small to make everyone else around you happy? Being misunderstood in your closest connections, is often a very lonely place to be. I can help you make sense of what seems like confusing interpersonal dynamics, so that you can begin to feel the genuine connection and sense of beloning we all crave as human beings. The self-knowledge, skills and insights you gain in session, are an investment into yourself and all your future relationships.
(571) 597-4981 x100 View (571) 597-4981 x100
Photo of Daniel E Jossen, Resident in Counseling, MA
Daniel E Jossen
Resident in Counseling, MA
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
Many of us struggle with internal voices and leftover doubts from past experiences. My counseling approach is to empower clients to live their best lives. The foundation of our work is connection. Together we explore ways to process emotions, realizing that while feelings may teach us something, they are not always facts. We will build an understanding of patterns that may impact how you talk to yourself, engage in relationships, approach your career, explore growth, and much more.
Many of us struggle with internal voices and leftover doubts from past experiences. My counseling approach is to empower clients to live their best lives. The foundation of our work is connection. Together we explore ways to process emotions, realizing that while feelings may teach us something, they are not always facts. We will build an understanding of patterns that may impact how you talk to yourself, engage in relationships, approach your career, explore growth, and much more.
(855) 922-4654 View (855) 922-4654
Photo of Dr. Talia Abreu, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. Talia Abreu
Psychologist, PsyD
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22301
I offer mental health assessments (for diagnostic clarification) and AuDHD testing as a supportive way to help individuals gain clarity, understanding, and confidence as they navigate their life's journey. My assessment process is collaborative and compassionate, honoring each person’s unique story, strengths, and cultural context. By gently making sense of patterns and experiences and providing clear, personalized recommendations, assessment can open the door to insight and self-understanding. The primary goal is to help you feel empowered, hopeful, and better equipped to take meaningful next steps toward growth and well-being.
I offer mental health assessments (for diagnostic clarification) and AuDHD testing as a supportive way to help individuals gain clarity, understanding, and confidence as they navigate their life's journey. My assessment process is collaborative and compassionate, honoring each person’s unique story, strengths, and cultural context. By gently making sense of patterns and experiences and providing clear, personalized recommendations, assessment can open the door to insight and self-understanding. The primary goal is to help you feel empowered, hopeful, and better equipped to take meaningful next steps toward growth and well-being.
(571) 559-7398 x504 View (571) 559-7398 x504

Nearby Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Therapists Searches for King Street Metro, Alexandria

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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.