Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Therapists in Old Town, Alexandria, VA
My work emphasizes multicultural counseling and affirming therapy for queer, kink, polyamorous, & neurodivergent communities.
I’m queer, gay, neurodivergent, & a non-linear thinker. I offer therapy for those tired of masking, pretending, performing, or polishing themselves to try to get what they need. In a world that rewards fake smiles and emotional shutdown, being real is radical. I help you to reconnect with your body—not as a problem to fix, but as a source of truth, power, & resilience. Your emotions aren’t flaws; they’re signals. You don’t have to hold it all together to deserve support. You don’t have to fake calm to be okay. I’m here to help you feel what’s real, unmask safely, and discover the next honest step forward.
My work emphasizes multicultural counseling and affirming therapy for queer, kink, polyamorous, & neurodivergent communities.
I’m queer, gay, neurodivergent, & a non-linear thinker. I offer therapy for those tired of masking, pretending, performing, or polishing themselves to try to get what they need. In a world that rewards fake smiles and emotional shutdown, being real is radical. I help you to reconnect with your body—not as a problem to fix, but as a source of truth, power, & resilience. Your emotions aren’t flaws; they’re signals. You don’t have to hold it all together to deserve support. You don’t have to fake calm to be okay. I’m here to help you feel what’s real, unmask safely, and discover the next honest step forward.
I provide a trauma informed, safe, genuine, and compassionate environment where individuals can learn practical skills and tools to feel better. I use client-centered, trauma-focused, somatic, and mindfulness-based therapies that have proven effective both in my own practice and in evidence-based research. Particular areas of strength and interest are LGBTQIA+ communities, BIPOC communities, religious trauma, gender fluidity and identity, childhood trauma, ADHD, and working with survivors of sexual abuse. My practice is committed to working with a diverse population and providing a safe and inclusive environment.
I provide a trauma informed, safe, genuine, and compassionate environment where individuals can learn practical skills and tools to feel better. I use client-centered, trauma-focused, somatic, and mindfulness-based therapies that have proven effective both in my own practice and in evidence-based research. Particular areas of strength and interest are LGBTQIA+ communities, BIPOC communities, religious trauma, gender fluidity and identity, childhood trauma, ADHD, and working with survivors of sexual abuse. My practice is committed to working with a diverse population and providing a safe and inclusive environment.
Mary C. Ray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, SEP
4 Endorsed
Old Town, Alexandria, VA 22314
People desiring greater connection, want to respond vs. react.. Professionals to enhance their performance. EMDR therapists, medical professionals. etc... to treat vicarious trauma. EMDR therapists for consultation. To update default strategies & create new more flexible patterns of engagement. May or may not be aware of past and or or current trauma interfering with their capacity to attach, establish new ways/patterns of living life to enhance their present and future.
People desiring greater connection, want to respond vs. react.. Professionals to enhance their performance. EMDR therapists, medical professionals. etc... to treat vicarious trauma. EMDR therapists for consultation. To update default strategies & create new more flexible patterns of engagement. May or may not be aware of past and or or current trauma interfering with their capacity to attach, establish new ways/patterns of living life to enhance their present and future.
I am a dedicated, warm, culturally-sensitive & committed licensed psychotherapist with 20+ years experience as a counselor in public/private settings. I use a cognitive, holistic approach which is highly-effective with most clients. I work with individuals, & couples in a collaborative style that is both challenging & compassionate. In brief or long-term counseling tailored to the client's unique needs, I assist people to learn new ways of thinking/believing about problems in daily living. This requires commitment & patience.
I am a dedicated, warm, culturally-sensitive & committed licensed psychotherapist with 20+ years experience as a counselor in public/private settings. I use a cognitive, holistic approach which is highly-effective with most clients. I work with individuals, & couples in a collaborative style that is both challenging & compassionate. In brief or long-term counseling tailored to the client's unique needs, I assist people to learn new ways of thinking/believing about problems in daily living. This requires commitment & patience.
Dr. Aishwarya
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
8 Endorsed
Old Town, Alexandria, VA 22314
High-performance lives demand high-performance relationships. For driven professionals, navigating complex systems is second nature—yet intimacy and conflict often follow a different set of rules. If you’re feeling misaligned or misunderstood in your personal life, it’s time to bridge the gap between your professional success and your relational health. You deserve a space as strategic and nuanced as your career. Let’s evolve your personal world to match your professional excellence.
High-performance lives demand high-performance relationships. For driven professionals, navigating complex systems is second nature—yet intimacy and conflict often follow a different set of rules. If you’re feeling misaligned or misunderstood in your personal life, it’s time to bridge the gap between your professional success and your relational health. You deserve a space as strategic and nuanced as your career. Let’s evolve your personal world to match your professional excellence.
Lauren Fuller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BS, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Old Town, 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).
Ashlea Azzopardi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
2 Endorsed
Old Town, Alexandria, VA 22314
Do you often feel weighed down by anxiety or shame? Do you question your ability as a mother, partner, or a friend? Well I get it, because I’ve been there too. I have experienced the transformative power of therapy and I hope to help guide you on your path to healing. I have a passion for tackling issues related to womanhood, maternal mental health, relationships, and anxiety. I have a core belief that everything comes back to self-worth. With a healthy level of self worth, you will no longer question whether you are good enough; you will know you are enough.
Do you often feel weighed down by anxiety or shame? Do you question your ability as a mother, partner, or a friend? Well I get it, because I’ve been there too. I have experienced the transformative power of therapy and I hope to help guide you on your path to healing. I have a passion for tackling issues related to womanhood, maternal mental health, relationships, and anxiety. I have a core belief that everything comes back to self-worth. With a healthy level of self worth, you will no longer question whether you are good enough; you will know you are enough.
Hello! I’m an integrative therapist and work primarily with teens and adults who want to alleviate sypmtoms associated with trauma, loss/grief, anxiety, depression, and a dysregulated nervous system (like being stuck in a fight or flight response). I work with people from many walks of life, with a particular focus on individuals with intercultural, LGBTQIA+, and/or neurodivergent identities. Life is stressful and meaningful change is tough, but our sessions will be filled with compassion, authentic connection, and humor - I want you to feel seen and to know that you're not alone in this journey.
Hello! I’m an integrative therapist and work primarily with teens and adults who want to alleviate sypmtoms associated with trauma, loss/grief, anxiety, depression, and a dysregulated nervous system (like being stuck in a fight or flight response). I work with people from many walks of life, with a particular focus on individuals with intercultural, LGBTQIA+, and/or neurodivergent identities. Life is stressful and meaningful change is tough, but our sessions will be filled with compassion, authentic connection, and humor - I want you to feel seen and to know that you're not alone in this journey.
I work with adults and teens who are looking to understand themselves more deeply, strengthen relationships, and navigate life stressors. Growth happens in connection, and together we create a strong therapeutic relationship where they can feel safe and empowered. I support clients managing depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, relationship dynamics, oppression, and loss. I have advanced training in perinatal mental health and specialize in supporting folks in their pregnancy and postpartum journeys.
I work with adults and teens who are looking to understand themselves more deeply, strengthen relationships, and navigate life stressors. Growth happens in connection, and together we create a strong therapeutic relationship where they can feel safe and empowered. I support clients managing depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, relationship dynamics, oppression, and loss. I have advanced training in perinatal mental health and specialize in supporting folks in their pregnancy and postpartum journeys.
Do you often feel weighed down by anxiety or shame? Do you question your ability as a parent, partner, employee, or a friend? Well I get it, because I’ve been there too. I have experienced the transformative power of therapy and I hope to help guide you on your path to healing. I have a core belief that everything comes back to self-worth. With a healthy level of self worth, you will no longer question whether we are good enough; you will know you are enough. It is my goal to create a safe environment for you to tell your stories, to empower you to speak your mind and to make the changes you want to see in your life.
Do you often feel weighed down by anxiety or shame? Do you question your ability as a parent, partner, employee, or a friend? Well I get it, because I’ve been there too. I have experienced the transformative power of therapy and I hope to help guide you on your path to healing. I have a core belief that everything comes back to self-worth. With a healthy level of self worth, you will no longer question whether we are good enough; you will know you are enough. It is my goal to create a safe environment for you to tell your stories, to empower you to speak your mind and to make the changes you want to see in your life.
This is a difficult time in the world. We all need support and a safe space to be heard and to discover new tools and skills to move forward in a more wholistic way. I work in collaboration with clients, honoring that we each have the resources within us to move forward with intention and self compassion.
This is a difficult time in the world. We all need support and a safe space to be heard and to discover new tools and skills to move forward in a more wholistic way. I work in collaboration with clients, honoring that we each have the resources within us to move forward with intention and self compassion.
In today's world life seems to be moving too fast, making it feel like you're playing catch up. I help my clients transform how they communicate, manage stress and overcome tough emotions. My approach is direct, collaborative, and person-centered, meaning we focus on what matters most to you while building practical tools for real-life change. Together, we’ll uncover patterns, strengthen your voice, and create lasting shifts that align with who you are. If you’re looking for compassionate, personalized care backed by proven strategies, I’m here to support you every step of the way.
In today's world life seems to be moving too fast, making it feel like you're playing catch up. I help my clients transform how they communicate, manage stress and overcome tough emotions. My approach is direct, collaborative, and person-centered, meaning we focus on what matters most to you while building practical tools for real-life change. Together, we’ll uncover patterns, strengthen your voice, and create lasting shifts that align with who you are. If you’re looking for compassionate, personalized care backed by proven strategies, I’m here to support you every step of the way.
Hello, my name is Cassandra Halper, and I am a pre-licensed, 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 pre-licensed, 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.
Rising Recovery and Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Old Town, Alexandria, VA 22314
Have you always felt like an outsider? Has substance use or trauma left you feeling like a spectator in your own life? Are you burnt out, frustrated, or tired of dealing with the same old patterns in your relationships? I am passionate about helping people to better understand and trust themselves and feel empowered in their lives. Together we can address challenges from anger, anxiety and depression to family history, relationship and parenting issues. You will find my therapeutic style is warm, active and direct. I will bring authenticity, humor and connection to our work, and am skilled in enhancing motivation and accountability.
Have you always felt like an outsider? Has substance use or trauma left you feeling like a spectator in your own life? Are you burnt out, frustrated, or tired of dealing with the same old patterns in your relationships? I am passionate about helping people to better understand and trust themselves and feel empowered in their lives. Together we can address challenges from anger, anxiety and depression to family history, relationship and parenting issues. You will find my therapeutic style is warm, active and direct. I will bring authenticity, humor and connection to our work, and am skilled in enhancing motivation and accountability.
Deitra Chisley-Fant
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LCPC-S, LPC-AS
Old Town, Alexandria, VA 22314
My ideal client is someone who feels weighed down by life—whether it’s stress, anxiety, grief, toxic relationships, or big life changes. They may feel stuck, overwhelmed, or tired of carrying it all alone, but deep down they’re ready for something better. They want a safe, supportive space to feel heard and understood, along with real tools to help them cope and grow. Their goals are to find peace, balance, and confidence while building resilience for the future. Most of all, they want to feel lighter, more hopeful, and empowered to create the life they deserve.
My ideal client is someone who feels weighed down by life—whether it’s stress, anxiety, grief, toxic relationships, or big life changes. They may feel stuck, overwhelmed, or tired of carrying it all alone, but deep down they’re ready for something better. They want a safe, supportive space to feel heard and understood, along with real tools to help them cope and grow. Their goals are to find peace, balance, and confidence while building resilience for the future. Most of all, they want to feel lighter, more hopeful, and empowered to create the life they deserve.
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.
I tailor my services to each client and their unique needs, always from the humanistic approach. That means that I see my clients first and foremost as human beings, having a human experience. Clients experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, existential concerns, and a variety of other discomfort will benefit from my integration of mindfulness and meditative practices into their treatment, alongside the use of building the psychological tools that empower them to create measurable changes to their circumstances.
I tailor my services to each client and their unique needs, always from the humanistic approach. That means that I see my clients first and foremost as human beings, having a human experience. Clients experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, existential concerns, and a variety of other discomfort will benefit from my integration of mindfulness and meditative practices into their treatment, alongside the use of building the psychological tools that empower them to create measurable changes to their circumstances.
Maryam Tehrani
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, MFT
6 Endorsed
Old Town, Alexandria, VA 22314
My expertise is in high conflict relationships and emotional abuse. I know life's challenges can be overwhelming and adjusting to change isn'.t easy. With 20 years of clinical experience, I use clinical principles and innovative methods to best support my clients. I draw upon a deep understanding of culture, age, gender, race, class, family structure, and the type of (or the lack of) a support system can have on most all situations. Known for being down to earth, I provide a totally non-judgmental, safe, and confidential space to help with long term struggles or an immediate crisis.
My expertise is in high conflict relationships and emotional abuse. I know life's challenges can be overwhelming and adjusting to change isn'.t easy. With 20 years of clinical experience, I use clinical principles and innovative methods to best support my clients. I draw upon a deep understanding of culture, age, gender, race, class, family structure, and the type of (or the lack of) a support system can have on most all situations. Known for being down to earth, I provide a totally non-judgmental, safe, and confidential space to help with long term struggles or an immediate crisis.
Alison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
1 Endorsed
Old Town, Alexandria, VA 22314
Waitlist for new clients
Are you struggling with the pressure of your daily life? You likely have strategies and skills that have helped for a long time, but at some point those strategies aren’t enough and just getting through the day can become a challenge. Maybe you have been through a difficult or traumatic experience that has changed how you see yourself and the world around you. Maybe you are feeling more anger, fear, sadness, and worry and less joy and contentment.
Are you struggling with the pressure of your daily life? You likely have strategies and skills that have helped for a long time, but at some point those strategies aren’t enough and just getting through the day can become a challenge. Maybe you have been through a difficult or traumatic experience that has changed how you see yourself and the world around you. Maybe you are feeling more anger, fear, sadness, and worry and less joy and contentment.
Choosing to begin therapy is deeply brave, and I love working with anyone who is deciding to show up for themselves. I specialize in treating adults and children struggling with depression, anxiety, and/or trauma. No matter what your goals are, if you are ready to start working towards them, I will be there every step of the way.
Choosing to begin therapy is deeply brave, and I love working with anyone who is deciding to show up for themselves. I specialize in treating adults and children struggling with depression, anxiety, and/or trauma. No matter what your goals are, if you are ready to start working towards them, I will be there every step of the way.
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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.