Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Therapists in Saint Albans, VT

Photo of Ezra Maurer, Psychologist, MA
Ezra Maurer
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
Saint Albans, VT 05478
In private practice since 2006, I continue to feel honored to get to know my clients. My hope with each person is that we will create a space together in which a unique healing relationship may unfold. To facilitate that space, I tend to focus on your feelings and how they are held in the body; on past experiences and how they relate to current feelings and relational patterns; on how relational patterns may be being repeated within the therapy; on the richness of your internal world (that emerges, for example, in dreams, daydreams, artwork, etc.); and on awareness itself, within which all of the above happens.
In private practice since 2006, I continue to feel honored to get to know my clients. My hope with each person is that we will create a space together in which a unique healing relationship may unfold. To facilitate that space, I tend to focus on your feelings and how they are held in the body; on past experiences and how they relate to current feelings and relational patterns; on how relational patterns may be being repeated within the therapy; on the richness of your internal world (that emerges, for example, in dreams, daydreams, artwork, etc.); and on awareness itself, within which all of the above happens.
(802) 282-4581 View (802) 282-4581
Photo of Michelle Goodman-Spaulding, Psychologist, MA
Michelle Goodman-Spaulding
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Albans, VT 05478
Accepting only online clients at the moment. Reaching out for help is often the hardest part, so good for you for starting the process! It is my goal to understand you as a person first and foremost, which will help me understand how best to help you. I strive to build our therapeutic relationship on compassion, empathy, hard work, humor, and tend do a lot of laughing with my clients.
Accepting only online clients at the moment. Reaching out for help is often the hardest part, so good for you for starting the process! It is my goal to understand you as a person first and foremost, which will help me understand how best to help you. I strive to build our therapeutic relationship on compassion, empathy, hard work, humor, and tend do a lot of laughing with my clients.
(802) 275-5727 View (802) 275-5727
Photo of Erin Aliquo Bright Spot Therapy, Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, AAP
Erin Aliquo Bright Spot Therapy
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, AAP
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Albans, VT 05478
Therapy with me is collaborative- we will work together to accomplish your goals. I pride myself on creating a comfortable, approachable and space for you to process life's challenges. Your time with me is your one hour out of your busy week to slow down, tune everything else out, and focus on your growth. I'll guide you along the way, following a person-centered and strengths-based approach. I combine evidence-based practices with an energetic, inviting and fun dynamic to support you through your journey. Therapy shouldn't be boring, intimidating, awkward or uptight. With me, therapy will be the bright spot of your week!
Therapy with me is collaborative- we will work together to accomplish your goals. I pride myself on creating a comfortable, approachable and space for you to process life's challenges. Your time with me is your one hour out of your busy week to slow down, tune everything else out, and focus on your growth. I'll guide you along the way, following a person-centered and strengths-based approach. I combine evidence-based practices with an energetic, inviting and fun dynamic to support you through your journey. Therapy shouldn't be boring, intimidating, awkward or uptight. With me, therapy will be the bright spot of your week!
(802) 449-0154 View (802) 449-0154
Photo of Jessica Johnson, Pre-Licensed Professional, NCC
Jessica Johnson
Pre-Licensed Professional, NCC
Verified Verified
Saint Albans, VT 05478
We don't heal in isolation, but in community - SK Harrell. As a therapist I believe in the power of community, in the vital need for support to grow beyond who we are in this moment into who we want to be. I acknowledge the strength it takes to seek and accept supports, and I am honored to walk with you in this journey.
We don't heal in isolation, but in community - SK Harrell. As a therapist I believe in the power of community, in the vital need for support to grow beyond who we are in this moment into who we want to be. I acknowledge the strength it takes to seek and accept supports, and I am honored to walk with you in this journey.
(802) 520-0811 View (802) 520-0811
Photo of Jean-Paul Turpin, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jean-Paul Turpin
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Saint Albans, VT 05478
I am a student intern participating in field experiences for my master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Southern New Hampshire University. I am under supervision by Stephanie McCarthy, LICSW at my field site, along with my faculty supervisor, Dr. Dempster. I believe that all individuals have the innate capacity for positive change, and I am ready to guide you in uncovering your strengths and navigating life’s challenges. I am passionate about creating a safe and welcoming environment where growth and emotional well-being are prioritized. I am committed to walking alongside you in your journey of self-discovery.
I am a student intern participating in field experiences for my master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Southern New Hampshire University. I am under supervision by Stephanie McCarthy, LICSW at my field site, along with my faculty supervisor, Dr. Dempster. I believe that all individuals have the innate capacity for positive change, and I am ready to guide you in uncovering your strengths and navigating life’s challenges. I am passionate about creating a safe and welcoming environment where growth and emotional well-being are prioritized. I am committed to walking alongside you in your journey of self-discovery.
(802) 230-1773 View (802) 230-1773
Photo of Allison Walling, Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Allison Walling
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello and welcome! I am currently accepting new telehealth clients in Vermont. Having worked as a hospice social worker for years, I specialize in grief counseling and support clients and caregivers around issues of aging, dementia, and death and dying. I also work with adolescents and adults navigating significant life transitions, low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, personal development, and self-exploration.
Hello and welcome! I am currently accepting new telehealth clients in Vermont. Having worked as a hospice social worker for years, I specialize in grief counseling and support clients and caregivers around issues of aging, dementia, and death and dying. I also work with adolescents and adults navigating significant life transitions, low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, personal development, and self-exploration.
(802) 215-3979 View (802) 215-3979
Photo of Christopher Brown, Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LCMHC
Christopher Brown
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Saint Albans, VT 05478
Not accepting new clients
Hello, and welcome! I applaud you for taking the first step to seek support to help you navigate whatever is going on in your life that has landed you here. I fully believe that a supportive counseling relationship is a powerful tool to encourage change and help bring out the skills we have inside ourselves to overcome obstacles and realize our full potential. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to therapy, so I strive to find the right tools and resources to create our path forward. Through collaboration, we will set priorities and goals for our work together.
Hello, and welcome! I applaud you for taking the first step to seek support to help you navigate whatever is going on in your life that has landed you here. I fully believe that a supportive counseling relationship is a powerful tool to encourage change and help bring out the skills we have inside ourselves to overcome obstacles and realize our full potential. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to therapy, so I strive to find the right tools and resources to create our path forward. Through collaboration, we will set priorities and goals for our work together.
(802) 732-9114 View (802) 732-9114
Photo of Kathryn Shaffer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Kathryn Shaffer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Offering Weekend hours - I am a professional Social Worker specializing in death, dying, bereavement, and chronic and persistent physical debilities as well as mental health issues. I have extensive experience working with issues related to chronic and life limiting illness, chronic pain, aging, and dementia, and caring for the needs of the dying at end of life. Other experience includes working with adjustment issues, anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, self-esteem, trauma, and coping skills. My therapeutic approaches are rooted in Narrative, Existential, and Psychodynamic therapy.
Offering Weekend hours - I am a professional Social Worker specializing in death, dying, bereavement, and chronic and persistent physical debilities as well as mental health issues. I have extensive experience working with issues related to chronic and life limiting illness, chronic pain, aging, and dementia, and caring for the needs of the dying at end of life. Other experience includes working with adjustment issues, anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, self-esteem, trauma, and coping skills. My therapeutic approaches are rooted in Narrative, Existential, and Psychodynamic therapy.
(802) 200-2865 View (802) 200-2865

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Deb Horton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Deb Horton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with people on personal and professional development, depression, worry and anxiety, caregiver issues, chronic or life-limiting illness, grief, gender, and relationships including those that are open, polyamorous, consensual/ethical nonmonogamous and/or include kink.
I am licensed in NH, MA, VT, ME and OK. I’m a LGBTQIA-affirming therapist who can help you discover, heal, and grow. You are the expert in your own experience. We will find solutions that work for you. The decision to find a therapist usually comes at times of stress and change. I am a supportive, non-judgmental therapist who realizes how hard it is to ask for help. Together we will identify what you want to work on, recognizing and building on your strengths and uniqueness.
I work with people on personal and professional development, depression, worry and anxiety, caregiver issues, chronic or life-limiting illness, grief, gender, and relationships including those that are open, polyamorous, consensual/ethical nonmonogamous and/or include kink.
I am licensed in NH, MA, VT, ME and OK. I’m a LGBTQIA-affirming therapist who can help you discover, heal, and grow. You are the expert in your own experience. We will find solutions that work for you. The decision to find a therapist usually comes at times of stress and change. I am a supportive, non-judgmental therapist who realizes how hard it is to ask for help. Together we will identify what you want to work on, recognizing and building on your strengths and uniqueness.
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Photo of Julia Alter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, MFA
Julia Alter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, MFA
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am kink-friendly, sex-positive and trauma-informed.
I have been a licensed clinician for 13 years, and have worked with a wide range of populations and issues including inpatient substance abuse treatment, the LGBTQIA community (specifically trans and gender nonconforming folks), and pregnant/postpartum mental health.
I am kink-friendly, sex-positive and trauma-informed.
I have been a licensed clinician for 13 years, and have worked with a wide range of populations and issues including inpatient substance abuse treatment, the LGBTQIA community (specifically trans and gender nonconforming folks), and pregnant/postpartum mental health.
(802) 471-2436 View (802) 471-2436
Photo of Lauren Simon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Lauren Simon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a sex educator, I offer LGBTQ+, kink, non-monogamous/polyamorous, and sex-work affirming therapy.
As humans, our greatest strength is our ability to form connections with others. As a therapist, I aim to create authentic relationships with my clients in an open, trustworthy environment. Through trauma-informed practice, I work with my clients to foster fulfilling connections and secure attachments in their personal lives.
As a sex educator, I offer LGBTQ+, kink, non-monogamous/polyamorous, and sex-work affirming therapy.
As humans, our greatest strength is our ability to form connections with others. As a therapist, I aim to create authentic relationships with my clients in an open, trustworthy environment. Through trauma-informed practice, I work with my clients to foster fulfilling connections and secure attachments in their personal lives.
(332) 237-6137 View (332) 237-6137
Photo of Dave Zellmer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Dave Zellmer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I am Kink Knowledgeable and Poly-Aware/Poly-Affirming.
My approach is relational in nature and incorporates an eclectic range of interventions including CBT, ACT, motivational interviewing, mindfulness training and narrative therapy. I believe that the therapeutic process is a journey where client and practitioner work together collaboratively to achieve the client’s goals through a strengths-based and client empowerment approach. I recognize that each client’s strengths, needs and goals are unique and I tailor my therapeutic approach accordingly to best support each client.
I am Kink Knowledgeable and Poly-Aware/Poly-Affirming.
My approach is relational in nature and incorporates an eclectic range of interventions including CBT, ACT, motivational interviewing, mindfulness training and narrative therapy. I believe that the therapeutic process is a journey where client and practitioner work together collaboratively to achieve the client’s goals through a strengths-based and client empowerment approach. I recognize that each client’s strengths, needs and goals are unique and I tailor my therapeutic approach accordingly to best support each client.
(413) 344-2250 View (413) 344-2250
Photo of Alexis Pless, Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Alexis Pless
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Burlington, VT 05401
Waitlist for new clients
I am LGBT+, poly, and kink-friendly; I am anti-diet and fat liberationist.
I ground my work in a Relational-Cultural and Feminist perspective, using a collaborative therapeutic relationship to support you in recognizing, establishing, and reaching personally meaningful goals. I work primarily with adults working through relationship and communication struggles, identity development, depression, and anxiety. Through creating a stable and grounded therapeutic relationship, we will explore the ways in which maladaptive relational patterns and beliefs impact your current ability to access the life you want and deserve.
I am LGBT+, poly, and kink-friendly; I am anti-diet and fat liberationist.
I ground my work in a Relational-Cultural and Feminist perspective, using a collaborative therapeutic relationship to support you in recognizing, establishing, and reaching personally meaningful goals. I work primarily with adults working through relationship and communication struggles, identity development, depression, and anxiety. Through creating a stable and grounded therapeutic relationship, we will explore the ways in which maladaptive relational patterns and beliefs impact your current ability to access the life you want and deserve.
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Photo of Molly Papp - Bella Vida Therapy with Molly Papp, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT, MS, MPH
Bella Vida Therapy with Molly Papp
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT, MS, MPH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I'm sex positive, trauma-informed and try to offer a safe, supportive place for processing so my clients can move forward in their lives with grace and self-respect.
I am a Certified Sex Addiction Counselor, CSAT. I treat sex and porn addicts and am a partner-informed trauma therapist. I also treat all forms of sexual dysfunction, using helpful homework for individuals or couples.
I'm sex positive, trauma-informed and try to offer a safe, supportive place for processing so my clients can move forward in their lives with grace and self-respect.
I am a Certified Sex Addiction Counselor, CSAT. I treat sex and porn addicts and am a partner-informed trauma therapist. I also treat all forms of sexual dysfunction, using helpful homework for individuals or couples.
(562) 379-6774 View (562) 379-6774
Photo of Ilana Skarling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Ilana Skarling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My practice is polyam-, kink-, queer-, trans-, and sex worker-friendly.
You are not too much. Nor is what you have been through too much. If you struggle with gender or sexual identity, sexual or domestic violence, feelings of isolation or rejection, or other forms of lasting trauma, I can help. Just know that I believe you to be, at this moment, exactly who you needed to be in order to survive. I also believe that things can get better.
My practice is polyam-, kink-, queer-, trans-, and sex worker-friendly.
You are not too much. Nor is what you have been through too much. If you struggle with gender or sexual identity, sexual or domestic violence, feelings of isolation or rejection, or other forms of lasting trauma, I can help. Just know that I believe you to be, at this moment, exactly who you needed to be in order to survive. I also believe that things can get better.
(206) 752-5508 View (206) 752-5508
Photo of Tina M. Cline - Csat, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD(c), LISW, CSAT, EMDR
Tina M. Cline - Csat
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD(c), LISW, CSAT, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Welcome. I'm glad you're here. Are you preoccupied with sexual thoughts throughout the day that seem impossible to control? Do you find yourself spending too much time pursuing sexual desires and fantasies - to the detriment of your relationships and other important areas of your life? If you are struggling with compulsive sexual behaviors, or if you are the partner of someone who is, please know that it can get better and I can help.
Welcome. I'm glad you're here. Are you preoccupied with sexual thoughts throughout the day that seem impossible to control? Do you find yourself spending too much time pursuing sexual desires and fantasies - to the detriment of your relationships and other important areas of your life? If you are struggling with compulsive sexual behaviors, or if you are the partner of someone who is, please know that it can get better and I can help.
(614) 955-8462 View (614) 955-8462
Photo of Amandine Mallet, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Amandine Mallet
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I am fully supportive of the LGBTQIA community, committed to practicing with a sex positive approach, gender affirming care, and helping individuals through their identity journey.
I help people struggling with depression, anxiety, relationships, multicultural identities, and various life challenges. I provide space to explore, understand, and work through emotions, behaviors, thoughts patterns, relationship dynamics, and stressors. I also specialise in supporting people with ADHD/neurodivergence who struggle with executive function, goal accomplishment, emotional regulation, self-esteem, burnout, social/relationships, and more. We will discuss values, strengths, and identities to help people live a more meaningful & intentional life, and let go of what doesn't serve you anymore.
I am fully supportive of the LGBTQIA community, committed to practicing with a sex positive approach, gender affirming care, and helping individuals through their identity journey.
I help people struggling with depression, anxiety, relationships, multicultural identities, and various life challenges. I provide space to explore, understand, and work through emotions, behaviors, thoughts patterns, relationship dynamics, and stressors. I also specialise in supporting people with ADHD/neurodivergence who struggle with executive function, goal accomplishment, emotional regulation, self-esteem, burnout, social/relationships, and more. We will discuss values, strengths, and identities to help people live a more meaningful & intentional life, and let go of what doesn't serve you anymore.
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Photo of Nikita Fernandes, Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, CST, MA
Nikita Fernandes
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, CST, MA
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a Psychotherapist and Certified Sex Therapist, I specialize in providing culturally sensitive, trauma-informed, poly & kink-friendly, and queer-affirming therapy.
I view each individual within the context of their environment, recognizing the complex intersections of their various identities. I rely on evidenced-based methods that consider the impact of trauma and practices that are attuned to diverse cultural perspectives. I am now also offering Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy as a therapeutic option in my practice.
As a Psychotherapist and Certified Sex Therapist, I specialize in providing culturally sensitive, trauma-informed, poly & kink-friendly, and queer-affirming therapy.
I view each individual within the context of their environment, recognizing the complex intersections of their various identities. I rely on evidenced-based methods that consider the impact of trauma and practices that are attuned to diverse cultural perspectives. I am now also offering Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy as a therapeutic option in my practice.
(332) 263-3731 View (332) 263-3731
Photo of Miranda Bergman, MA, LBP
Miranda Bergman
MA, LBP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Online Only
My services are sex positive and weight neutral.
I believe you are the expert on yourself, and that you have the ability to create an authentic and balanced life- my job is to be your collaborator on that journey, and to provide a safe space where you can be heard and find practical solutions, free from judgment.
My services are sex positive and weight neutral.
I believe you are the expert on yourself, and that you have the ability to create an authentic and balanced life- my job is to be your collaborator on that journey, and to provide a safe space where you can be heard and find practical solutions, free from judgment.
(405) 679-2195 View (405) 679-2195
Photo of Raven Hoover, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Raven Hoover
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Online Only
I'm wholly autism/ADHD affirming, sex positive, GSM affirming & body neutral.
Are you looking for someone who doesn’t judge a book by its cover? Do you yearn to be openly, unapologetically yourself without fearing rejection? I am here to hold space for you, the whole you, not just the individual aspects of your identity. My client-centered, trauma-informed approach focuses on connection, compassion, & reclaiming your power. I see the parts that make you vibrant, interesting, and wholly unique as strengths to be celebrated. I want to help you recognize, cherish, and celebrate your worth.
I'm wholly autism/ADHD affirming, sex positive, GSM affirming & body neutral.
Are you looking for someone who doesn’t judge a book by its cover? Do you yearn to be openly, unapologetically yourself without fearing rejection? I am here to hold space for you, the whole you, not just the individual aspects of your identity. My client-centered, trauma-informed approach focuses on connection, compassion, & reclaiming your power. I see the parts that make you vibrant, interesting, and wholly unique as strengths to be celebrated. I want to help you recognize, cherish, and celebrate your worth.
(610) 379-3829 View (610) 379-3829

See more therapy options for Saint Albans

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.