Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Therapists in Potomac West, Alexandria, VA
Faith Ferber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I am particularly interested in working with survivors of trauma and interpersonal violence, people in polyamorous or consensually non-monogamous relationships, those who are kink-identified, the LGBTQIA community, sex workers, folks with chronic pain/illness or other disabilities, and those seeking psychedelic-assisted therapy.
I have a passion for helping individuals, couples, and polycules achieve their goals and live happy and fulfilling lives. I have over a decade of experience working with survivors of sexual and domestic violence and people struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD/cPTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, and issues related to sex and sexuality. I also run an ongoing support group, Careful, Caring, & Cautious, for those who continue to take Covid precautions.
Underlying my work is the belief that everyone has the right to a safe and full life free from the harms of violence and oppression.
I am particularly interested in working with survivors of trauma and interpersonal violence, people in polyamorous or consensually non-monogamous relationships, those who are kink-identified, the LGBTQIA community, sex workers, folks with chronic pain/illness or other disabilities, and those seeking psychedelic-assisted therapy.
I have a passion for helping individuals, couples, and polycules achieve their goals and live happy and fulfilling lives. I have over a decade of experience working with survivors of sexual and domestic violence and people struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD/cPTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, and issues related to sex and sexuality. I also run an ongoing support group, Careful, Caring, & Cautious, for those who continue to take Covid precautions.
Underlying my work is the belief that everyone has the right to a safe and full life free from the harms of violence and oppression.
Adam C. Prestegord
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, LCSW-C, CST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Potomac West, Alexandria, VA 22305
This includes concerns related to sexual dysfunction, performance anxiety, erectile difficulty, poly/ENM/open relationships, desire discrepancies, kink, sexual orientation, asexuality, gender identity, communication, and dating.
Sex, identity, and relationships can be integral parts of our lives. However, shame, miscommunication, and other life stress might 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 and couples. I am licensed in VA, DC, and MD and certified as a sex therapist by AASECT.
This includes concerns related to sexual dysfunction, performance anxiety, erectile difficulty, poly/ENM/open relationships, desire discrepancies, kink, sexual orientation, asexuality, gender identity, communication, and dating.
Sex, identity, and relationships can be integral parts of our lives. However, shame, miscommunication, and other life stress might 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 and couples. I am licensed in VA, DC, and MD and certified as a sex therapist by AASECT.
I strive to facilitate an environment that is identity-affirming across dimensions of human diversity, including various aspects of sexuality and relationship (including kink and non-monogamy), gender, race, and health status.
As a therapist, I work primarily from a relational dynamic perspective and I use human diversity and social justice lenses to further inform my work. This means that I place particular emphasis on emotions and relationships, and that I strive to be emotionally present and available for authentic connection. It is my belief and experience that the work and healing of therapy occur within this connection. Therapy is thus a collaborative process of building an affirming relationship that leads to meaningful change.
I strive to facilitate an environment that is identity-affirming across dimensions of human diversity, including various aspects of sexuality and relationship (including kink and non-monogamy), gender, race, and health status.
As a therapist, I work primarily from a relational dynamic perspective and I use human diversity and social justice lenses to further inform my work. This means that I place particular emphasis on emotions and relationships, and that I strive to be emotionally present and available for authentic connection. It is my belief and experience that the work and healing of therapy occur within this connection. Therapy is thus a collaborative process of building an affirming relationship that leads to meaningful change.
Kris Oseth
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, LPCC, CPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with clients of all backgrounds, while specializing in following areas: LGBTQ+, Transgender/Gender-Diverse/Non-binary transitioning process and identity; kink/poly/non-monogamous relationships, sex work, substance use/misuse – goals for sobriety/recovery or harm reduction, out of control sexual behavior, anxiety/trauma, Personal Training, EMDR
I will work with you to illuminate the meaning of your experience and help you practice greater self-acceptance. Therapy goals/counseling/education will be tailored to your unique needs. I may show you how to change your behavior by using Mindfulness/changing your thoughts, recovery/harm reduction tools to address substance use, guidance/education/resources for exploring sexual orientation/gender identity/transitioning/coming out, provide couples/individual work for better communication in relationships, and/or I can apply EMDR/somatic-based approaches for trauma/anxiety and even substance using/behavioral urges.
I work with clients of all backgrounds, while specializing in following areas: LGBTQ+, Transgender/Gender-Diverse/Non-binary transitioning process and identity; kink/poly/non-monogamous relationships, sex work, substance use/misuse – goals for sobriety/recovery or harm reduction, out of control sexual behavior, anxiety/trauma, Personal Training, EMDR
I will work with you to illuminate the meaning of your experience and help you practice greater self-acceptance. Therapy goals/counseling/education will be tailored to your unique needs. I may show you how to change your behavior by using Mindfulness/changing your thoughts, recovery/harm reduction tools to address substance use, guidance/education/resources for exploring sexual orientation/gender identity/transitioning/coming out, provide couples/individual work for better communication in relationships, and/or I can apply EMDR/somatic-based approaches for trauma/anxiety and even substance using/behavioral urges.
Rising Recovery and Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Serves Area
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.
Are you suffering from anxiety, depression, or trauma and are looking for someone who not only won't judge but understands the kinky, polyam/ENM, and/or queer experience? Are you experiencing family building struggles, either due to social or medical infertility (or both)? Or are you someone who has a chronic illness like POTS, Ehlers-Dahnlos Syndrome, or migraines? Nobody should have to live with the pain of shame, sadness, worry, or mistrust that comes from having survived traumas. Imagine living without your triggers, anger, and panic attacks, and living with excitement, pleasure, and motivation again.
Are you suffering from anxiety, depression, or trauma and are looking for someone who not only won't judge but understands the kinky, polyam/ENM, and/or queer experience? Are you experiencing family building struggles, either due to social or medical infertility (or both)? Or are you someone who has a chronic illness like POTS, Ehlers-Dahnlos Syndrome, or migraines? Nobody should have to live with the pain of shame, sadness, worry, or mistrust that comes from having survived traumas. Imagine living without your triggers, anger, and panic attacks, and living with excitement, pleasure, and motivation again.
My ideal client(s) are those struggling with both trauma and relationships. Trauma can profoundly impact how we relate to others. I am especially interested in people who struggle with attachment issues in relationships. The ideal client is receptive to change, can take ownership of their life, and has the capacity for self-reflection. I also work with clients interested in exploring spiritual matters in whatever form. I have extensive training in esoteric practices, such as archetypal astrology and tarot.
My ideal client(s) are those struggling with both trauma and relationships. Trauma can profoundly impact how we relate to others. I am especially interested in people who struggle with attachment issues in relationships. The ideal client is receptive to change, can take ownership of their life, and has the capacity for self-reflection. I also work with clients interested in exploring spiritual matters in whatever form. I have extensive training in esoteric practices, such as archetypal astrology and tarot.
We are a vibrant and energetic group of clinical psychologists, therapists, and wellness professionals located in the Del Ray area of Alexandria, VA. We are passionate about guiding adolescents and adults on their personal journeys of growth and transformation through a holistic approach to psychotherapy. We believe that wellness is attained by addressing the mind, body, and spirit. Our mission is to provide a trusting therapeutic relationship to each client, as it is an essential framework to facilitate self awareness, healing, and personal evolution.
We are a vibrant and energetic group of clinical psychologists, therapists, and wellness professionals located in the Del Ray area of Alexandria, VA. We are passionate about guiding adolescents and adults on their personal journeys of growth and transformation through a holistic approach to psychotherapy. We believe that wellness is attained by addressing the mind, body, and spirit. Our mission is to provide a trusting therapeutic relationship to each client, as it is an essential framework to facilitate self awareness, healing, and personal evolution.
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.
At our practice, we specialize in empowering our clients to discover healthier lifestyles through integrative wellness services solutions. We provide a variety of healing modalities, including hypnotherapy, life coaching, couples coaching, Reiki energy healing, and intuitive healing. Our clients choose us because we are committed to techniques that offer fast and effective healing.
At our practice, we specialize in empowering our clients to discover healthier lifestyles through integrative wellness services solutions. We provide a variety of healing modalities, including hypnotherapy, life coaching, couples coaching, Reiki energy healing, and intuitive healing. Our clients choose us because we are committed to techniques that offer fast and effective healing.
Lauren Timkovich, LCSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Right now you may be feeling anxious, stressed, unhappy or full of self-doubt. Perhaps you are feeling stuck in your relationship, unsure about your career, feeling disconnected from those you care about or lonely. Sometimes we feel at a loss of what step to take next or so overwhelmed with stress we can’t even make decisions. Too often, we have come to believe things about ourselves that are not true. I get it AND I can help. Together, we will work to heal those untrue beliefs and change the ways you feel about yourself so that you can live a joy-filled life and have the satisfying and loving relationships you want.
Right now you may be feeling anxious, stressed, unhappy or full of self-doubt. Perhaps you are feeling stuck in your relationship, unsure about your career, feeling disconnected from those you care about or lonely. Sometimes we feel at a loss of what step to take next or so overwhelmed with stress we can’t even make decisions. Too often, we have come to believe things about ourselves that are not true. I get it AND I can help. Together, we will work to heal those untrue beliefs and change the ways you feel about yourself so that you can live a joy-filled life and have the satisfying and loving relationships you want.
Meet Our Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Therapists
Lenée N. Essig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP, LFYP-1, RYT200, LLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Potomac West, Alexandria, VA 22301
Sometimes we just need a safe space to collect our thoughts, name our hurts, explore our desires and work through our fears. I can offer you a space of hope and reprieve. Together, you and I, will work through the anxiety and sadness that is overshadowing your life, and not allowing you to live the full and authentic life that you desire. I work from a somatic (body-centered) approach, while emphasizing mindfulness and eastern philosophy, as well as incorporating cognitive behavioral therapy.
Sometimes we just need a safe space to collect our thoughts, name our hurts, explore our desires and work through our fears. I can offer you a space of hope and reprieve. Together, you and I, will work through the anxiety and sadness that is overshadowing your life, and not allowing you to live the full and authentic life that you desire. I work from a somatic (body-centered) approach, while emphasizing mindfulness and eastern philosophy, as well as incorporating cognitive behavioral therapy.
You belong to the LGBTQ community, and you seem to have been struggling all your life with being somehow different and up against discrimination, humiliation, even downright abuse.
You belong to the LGBTQ community, and you seem to have been struggling all your life with being somehow different and up against discrimination, humiliation, even downright abuse.
Sammy Kirk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Potomac West, Alexandria, VA 22301
Do you have a sense that something about your childhood is affecting you as an adult? Maybe you can put your finger on exactly what it is, or maybe you are just seeing patterns in your life & relationships that have you wondering if there’s something deeper behind it. Past therapy experiences may have been helpful in some ways, but you seem to keep getting stuck. It feels like anxiety and self-doubt are the ones controlling the direction of your life, not what is true and authentic to you. You’re ready to address these things at the source, so you can finally work with your inner critic and regain control of your life.
Do you have a sense that something about your childhood is affecting you as an adult? Maybe you can put your finger on exactly what it is, or maybe you are just seeing patterns in your life & relationships that have you wondering if there’s something deeper behind it. Past therapy experiences may have been helpful in some ways, but you seem to keep getting stuck. It feels like anxiety and self-doubt are the ones controlling the direction of your life, not what is true and authentic to you. You’re ready to address these things at the source, so you can finally work with your inner critic and regain control of your life.
You’re self-aware, intuitive, and often the one your friends turn to, but you’re tired. Deep down, you might be craving a space where you don’t have to hold it all together. A space to be honest about your needs, your burnout, and what healing really looks like for you. I have years of experience supporting trauma survivors and offer an affirming space for LGBTQ+ people. My approach is collaborative and grounded, combining practical tools with meaningful emotional work. Together we’ll honor your story, build on your strengths, and create space for you to feel more grounded, confident, and connected in your life.
You’re self-aware, intuitive, and often the one your friends turn to, but you’re tired. Deep down, you might be craving a space where you don’t have to hold it all together. A space to be honest about your needs, your burnout, and what healing really looks like for you. I have years of experience supporting trauma survivors and offer an affirming space for LGBTQ+ people. My approach is collaborative and grounded, combining practical tools with meaningful emotional work. Together we’ll honor your story, build on your strengths, and create space for you to feel more grounded, confident, and connected in your life.
I am a queer, telehealth based Licensed Clinical Social Worker who works with adult individuals who are thinking they may be ready for a change. I have over 10 years of experience, 5 of which have been in Private Practice working with clients ranging from people with major mood disorders to people trying to form healthier relationships. I have clients who have stayed with me all 5 years, as well as those who have come and gone, satisfied with their progress. I meet clients where they are in order to provide the best service that I can to their individual needs.
I am a queer, telehealth based Licensed Clinical Social Worker who works with adult individuals who are thinking they may be ready for a change. I have over 10 years of experience, 5 of which have been in Private Practice working with clients ranging from people with major mood disorders to people trying to form healthier relationships. I have clients who have stayed with me all 5 years, as well as those who have come and gone, satisfied with their progress. I meet clients where they are in order to provide the best service that I can to their individual needs.
Dr. LaKeith Sutton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
To be alive is to deal with life’s adversities and complexities. My goal is to simply create a safe space for others to come talk about what is going on in their lives and the experiences that are shaping them. Therapy is about you and should be designed to meet your unique needs within the guidelines of confidentiality and ethical practice. I would like to partner with you in a effort to help you address the feelings, thoughts and experiences that are adversely effecting your life. I practice a combination of evidenced-based theory and holistic practices with good old fashion talk therapy. I am here to support you.
To be alive is to deal with life’s adversities and complexities. My goal is to simply create a safe space for others to come talk about what is going on in their lives and the experiences that are shaping them. Therapy is about you and should be designed to meet your unique needs within the guidelines of confidentiality and ethical practice. I would like to partner with you in a effort to help you address the feelings, thoughts and experiences that are adversely effecting your life. I practice a combination of evidenced-based theory and holistic practices with good old fashion talk therapy. I am here to support you.
Mmere Dane Counseling, LLC (Tangela Francis)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Dear New Client, Thank you for beginning this journey, I believe you are making a good decision. Therapy is an inviting place where every single part of you is welcome, even the parts that are uncomfortable to share. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Virginia with over 10 years of experience as a therapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, physical trauma, emotional abuse, and domestic violence.
Dear New Client, Thank you for beginning this journey, I believe you are making a good decision. Therapy is an inviting place where every single part of you is welcome, even the parts that are uncomfortable to share. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Virginia with over 10 years of experience as a therapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, physical trauma, emotional abuse, and domestic violence.
Hayley Dodd
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, YTT-200, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hayley Dodd is a Licensed Mental Health Therapist with extensive experience working with teenagers and adults in both private and non-profit sectors of the mental health field. She specializes in working with clients coping with trauma, issues of loss and change, anxiety, depression, and the essential human tasks of: self-development, growth in relationships, and discovering meaning and purpose.
Hayley Dodd is a Licensed Mental Health Therapist with extensive experience working with teenagers and adults in both private and non-profit sectors of the mental health field. She specializes in working with clients coping with trauma, issues of loss and change, anxiety, depression, and the essential human tasks of: self-development, growth in relationships, and discovering meaning and purpose.
Welcome! My name is Robin Beck and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I will work with individuals, couples, and families experiencing depression, anxiety, bipolar, trauma, PTSD, substance use as a comorbid issue, ADHD, adjustment disorder, anger management, behavioral issues, and relational issues. I specialize in CBT, DBT, person-centered, positive psychology, solution-focused, existential, and trauma-informed therapy when working with clients. I believe once the root of the problem is discovered, we can process it and find positive strategies to heal through the painful core issue.
Welcome! My name is Robin Beck and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I will work with individuals, couples, and families experiencing depression, anxiety, bipolar, trauma, PTSD, substance use as a comorbid issue, ADHD, adjustment disorder, anger management, behavioral issues, and relational issues. I specialize in CBT, DBT, person-centered, positive psychology, solution-focused, existential, and trauma-informed therapy when working with clients. I believe once the root of the problem is discovered, we can process it and find positive strategies to heal through the painful core issue.
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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.