Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Therapists in California

Photo of Ashley Ramos - Ashley Ramos, Couples & Sex Therapist, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ashley Ramos, Couples & Sex Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
For couples, I provide support in bridging differences in sexual desire, improving communication, and navigating transitions like ethical non-monogamy or BDSM/ kink dynamics with trust and openness.
Are you feeling disconnected from your body, your desires, or your partner? At Insightful Intimacy Therapy, I specialize in helping individuals and couples rebuild intimacy and explore their relationships. I am ready to support you through the difficult journey of examining relationship patterns, confronting insecurities, and prioritizing your values. I’ll help you address communication breakdowns, set boundaries, and strengthen emotional connections one relationship at a time. Together, we’ll uncover what’s been holding you back, empowering you to engage more fully with yourself and the people who matter most.
For couples, I provide support in bridging differences in sexual desire, improving communication, and navigating transitions like ethical non-monogamy or BDSM/ kink dynamics with trust and openness.
Are you feeling disconnected from your body, your desires, or your partner? At Insightful Intimacy Therapy, I specialize in helping individuals and couples rebuild intimacy and explore their relationships. I am ready to support you through the difficult journey of examining relationship patterns, confronting insecurities, and prioritizing your values. I’ll help you address communication breakdowns, set boundaries, and strengthen emotional connections one relationship at a time. Together, we’ll uncover what’s been holding you back, empowering you to engage more fully with yourself and the people who matter most.
(818) 858-1471 View (818) 858-1471
Photo of Stacey Jackson-Roberts, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stacey Jackson-Roberts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91107
This includes queer and trans individuals, parents and partners of LGBTQ+ individuals, practitioners of ethical non-monogamy, and those involved in kink.
I offer therapy to individuals exploring various aspects of gender (transgender, cisgender, and gender diverse) and sexuality (LGBTQ+, ENM/Poly) as well as general mental health. My goal is to create a supportive environment where we can tackle challenges related to sexuality, relationships, personal growth, and overall mental health. Together, we’ll engage in empathetic, nonjudgmental conversations to identify areas for growth and celebrate your achievements. I’ll customize our sessions using diverse therapeutic techniques to meet your unique needs, values, and goals, helping you define your journey in life and relationships.
This includes queer and trans individuals, parents and partners of LGBTQ+ individuals, practitioners of ethical non-monogamy, and those involved in kink.
I offer therapy to individuals exploring various aspects of gender (transgender, cisgender, and gender diverse) and sexuality (LGBTQ+, ENM/Poly) as well as general mental health. My goal is to create a supportive environment where we can tackle challenges related to sexuality, relationships, personal growth, and overall mental health. Together, we’ll engage in empathetic, nonjudgmental conversations to identify areas for growth and celebrate your achievements. I’ll customize our sessions using diverse therapeutic techniques to meet your unique needs, values, and goals, helping you define your journey in life and relationships.
(323) 417-5441 View (323) 417-5441
Photo of Vashauna Nicole Williams - Centered Soul Counseling , MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Centered Soul Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
Kink and BDSM: Integrating kink and BDSM practices; negotiation, boundary setting, and understanding power dynamics.
Hi, I'm Nicole Williams, LMFT! I'm so happy you're taking the first step in reaching out! Are you navigating the complexities of non-monogamous relationships or exploring your sexuality in unconventional ways? I specialize in providing compassionate and non-judgmental therapy for individuals and couples who are in or exploring consensual non-monogamous (ENM) relationships. My approach is rooted in respect for diverse relationship structures and aims to support clients in developing communication skills, managing jealousy, and fostering intimacy within their relationships. I am a LGBTQ+ affirming and kink and BDSM friendly therapist.
Kink and BDSM: Integrating kink and BDSM practices; negotiation, boundary setting, and understanding power dynamics.
Hi, I'm Nicole Williams, LMFT! I'm so happy you're taking the first step in reaching out! Are you navigating the complexities of non-monogamous relationships or exploring your sexuality in unconventional ways? I specialize in providing compassionate and non-judgmental therapy for individuals and couples who are in or exploring consensual non-monogamous (ENM) relationships. My approach is rooted in respect for diverse relationship structures and aims to support clients in developing communication skills, managing jealousy, and fostering intimacy within their relationships. I am a LGBTQ+ affirming and kink and BDSM friendly therapist.
(310) 742-0974 View (310) 742-0974
Photo of Allison Marx, LMFT, ATR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Allison Marx
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90505
I specialize in sex-positive LGBTQIA+ affirming, poly/ENM-friendly, & BDSM/ kink-knowledgeable therapy because I know how important it is for these parts of your identity to be seen and heard.
Looking for a therapist who understands LGBTQIA+ issues, poly/ENM relationships, and BDSM/ kink? Struggling with stress, anxiety, and overwhelm? Healing from trauma, and trying to find your sense of self-worth? Frustrated by sex or relationship problems? If you’re ready to live authentically but not sure where to start, let’s talk. Whether you’re feeling irritable with a longterm partner and missing the intimacy you used to have, or new to non-monogamy and panicking when your partner goes on a date with someone else, working with an affirming therapist can help you learn how to navigate these issues and find balance in your life.
I specialize in sex-positive LGBTQIA+ affirming, poly/ENM-friendly, & BDSM/ kink-knowledgeable therapy because I know how important it is for these parts of your identity to be seen and heard.
Looking for a therapist who understands LGBTQIA+ issues, poly/ENM relationships, and BDSM/ kink? Struggling with stress, anxiety, and overwhelm? Healing from trauma, and trying to find your sense of self-worth? Frustrated by sex or relationship problems? If you’re ready to live authentically but not sure where to start, let’s talk. Whether you’re feeling irritable with a longterm partner and missing the intimacy you used to have, or new to non-monogamy and panicking when your partner goes on a date with someone else, working with an affirming therapist can help you learn how to navigate these issues and find balance in your life.
(310) 361-4780 View (310) 361-4780
Photo of Stephanie Trecha, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Trecha
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a Sex Therapist, I treat issues such as mismatched desire, low libido, anorgasmia, sexual shame, sexual trauma, infidelity, infertility (ENM, Poly, LS/BDSM/ Kink aware).
Are you longing for a deeper sense of self and struggling to identify or voice your own needs? Are you falling back into old patterns of thinking and behaving that derail your relationships, your life goals, or trigger diminished feelings of self-worth? Are you struggling to connect intimately with your partner and can't find the words to talk it about it without shame, anger or conflict? Are you struggling to feel connected to people in your life, feeling isolated, or overly anxious? Has Trauma or past experiences been the building blocks of unhelpful core beliefs you wish to change? Let's talk and explore your needs and goals.
As a Sex Therapist, I treat issues such as mismatched desire, low libido, anorgasmia, sexual shame, sexual trauma, infidelity, infertility (ENM, Poly, LS/BDSM/ Kink aware).
Are you longing for a deeper sense of self and struggling to identify or voice your own needs? Are you falling back into old patterns of thinking and behaving that derail your relationships, your life goals, or trigger diminished feelings of self-worth? Are you struggling to connect intimately with your partner and can't find the words to talk it about it without shame, anger or conflict? Are you struggling to feel connected to people in your life, feeling isolated, or overly anxious? Has Trauma or past experiences been the building blocks of unhelpful core beliefs you wish to change? Let's talk and explore your needs and goals.
(442) 313-2556 View (442) 313-2556
Photo of Rachelle Ann Ramos, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rachelle Ann Ramos
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS
Verified Verified
Online Only
I would describe the therapy I offer as client centered, nonjudgmental, collaborative, affirming, multiculturally responsive, and sex positive.
Clients who seek me out for therapy often identify with historically underrepresented groups such as Black, Indigenous, people of transnational-immigrant diaspora, LGBTQIA+ individuals/couples/CNM configurations, sex workers, and more. My therapy services include but are not limited to supporting individuals/couples/CNM configurations navigating life transitions, processing trauma to release the influence of the past on the present, as well as finding/developing their emotional balance. I have experience working with Consensually Nonmonogamous Configurations as well as Kinky populations in regard to my relational work.
I would describe the therapy I offer as client centered, nonjudgmental, collaborative, affirming, multiculturally responsive, and sex positive.
Clients who seek me out for therapy often identify with historically underrepresented groups such as Black, Indigenous, people of transnational-immigrant diaspora, LGBTQIA+ individuals/couples/CNM configurations, sex workers, and more. My therapy services include but are not limited to supporting individuals/couples/CNM configurations navigating life transitions, processing trauma to release the influence of the past on the present, as well as finding/developing their emotional balance. I have experience working with Consensually Nonmonogamous Configurations as well as Kinky populations in regard to my relational work.
(619) 732-3255 View (619) 732-3255
Photo of Tim Norton, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tim Norton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in sexual issues and persistent psychogenic pain. Both of these realms entail working through trauma, anxiety, grief, impulsivity, and depression. In sex therapy, I help clients grappling with issues around functioning, sexual shame, sexual trauma, impulsive behaviors, sex and porn "addictions," low and hyper-arousal issues - all from a sex-positive, kink/poly/bdsm-friendly stance. I also help couples navigate challenges in their intimate relationships. With chronic pain and discomfort, I help people change their relationship to the symptoms, which leads to drastic reduction and often elimination of symptoms.
I specialize in sexual issues and persistent psychogenic pain. Both of these realms entail working through trauma, anxiety, grief, impulsivity, and depression. In sex therapy, I help clients grappling with issues around functioning, sexual shame, sexual trauma, impulsive behaviors, sex and porn "addictions," low and hyper-arousal issues - all from a sex-positive, kink/poly/bdsm-friendly stance. I also help couples navigate challenges in their intimate relationships. With chronic pain and discomfort, I help people change their relationship to the symptoms, which leads to drastic reduction and often elimination of symptoms.
(323) 498-2115 View (323) 498-2115
Photo of Catriona Macrae, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Catriona Macrae
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mill Valley, CA 94941
Waitlist for new clients
I view the path of therapy as a gentle exploration of the fullness of emotional experience, opening to suffering and grief as well as appreciation of the joyful moments. I offer an attachment-based, holistic, and humanistic approach to therapy, seeing you as a complex whole person with the innate capacity to heal. I am guided by compassion, connection, curiosity and courage within the therapeutic relationship, I am rooted in trauma-sensitive approaches and it is my intention to create a safe space for all races and cultures. I am allied with LGBTQIA+ folks and I work from sex-positive perspective.
I view the path of therapy as a gentle exploration of the fullness of emotional experience, opening to suffering and grief as well as appreciation of the joyful moments. I offer an attachment-based, holistic, and humanistic approach to therapy, seeing you as a complex whole person with the innate capacity to heal. I am guided by compassion, connection, curiosity and courage within the therapeutic relationship, I am rooted in trauma-sensitive approaches and it is my intention to create a safe space for all races and cultures. I am allied with LGBTQIA+ folks and I work from sex-positive perspective.
(530) 322-8883 View (530) 322-8883
Photo of Dr. Matthew Seitman, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Matthew Seitman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
I believe in the importance of honoring individual experiences, I work collaboratively with clients to provide individualized mental health care to support authentic living and healing. I ensure that my therapy space is a safe, sex-positive, LGBTIA+, ENM/Polyamory, and Kink affirming.
I believe in the importance of honoring individual experiences, I work collaboratively with clients to provide individualized mental health care to support authentic living and healing. I ensure that my therapy space is a safe, sex-positive, LGBTIA+, ENM/Polyamory, and Kink affirming.
(619) 558-1076 View (619) 558-1076
Photo of Elin Kiyoko Campbell, MSW, ASW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Elin Kiyoko Campbell
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I am a poly/non-monogamy and kink friendly, sex-positive, and LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist.
I know too well how difficult it can be to find a therapeutic space where you “fit.” This world is heavy enough without the added difficulty of summoning the strength to reach out for help, only to feel like you must change yourself to access therapeutic support. This will not happen with me. I pride myself on offering an open, honest, and comfortable therapeutic space where clients do not feel the need to censor or otherwise alter themselves. I primarily work with folks seeking support with sex and/or sexuality concerns, and/or Neurodiverse clients.
I am a poly/non-monogamy and kink friendly, sex-positive, and LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist.
I know too well how difficult it can be to find a therapeutic space where you “fit.” This world is heavy enough without the added difficulty of summoning the strength to reach out for help, only to feel like you must change yourself to access therapeutic support. This will not happen with me. I pride myself on offering an open, honest, and comfortable therapeutic space where clients do not feel the need to censor or otherwise alter themselves. I primarily work with folks seeking support with sex and/or sexuality concerns, and/or Neurodiverse clients.
(415) 570-6476 View (415) 570-6476
Photo of April Mollner (Blanchette), LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
April Mollner (Blanchette)
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
I work collaboratively with clients navigating the complexities of identity; offering guidance, sex positive support and validation.
I am a dedicated therapist specializing in trauma informed care using EMDR, sex & gender affirmative therapy and addiction & recovery support. With a passion for helping individuals navigate the complexities of their experiences, I bring a unique blend of empathy, expertise, and compassion to my practice. I have honed my skills in trauma therapy, providing a safe and supportive environment for my clients to process their past experiences and find healing. I understand the profound impact of trauma and I’m committed to empowering individuals to reclaim their sense of self, and move forward with resilience.
I work collaboratively with clients navigating the complexities of identity; offering guidance, sex positive support and validation.
I am a dedicated therapist specializing in trauma informed care using EMDR, sex & gender affirmative therapy and addiction & recovery support. With a passion for helping individuals navigate the complexities of their experiences, I bring a unique blend of empathy, expertise, and compassion to my practice. I have honed my skills in trauma therapy, providing a safe and supportive environment for my clients to process their past experiences and find healing. I understand the profound impact of trauma and I’m committed to empowering individuals to reclaim their sense of self, and move forward with resilience.
(323) 672-4191 View (323) 672-4191
Photo of Amanda L Cotten, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Amanda L Cotten
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
I am in or am familiar with the following populations: poly, queer, kink, pagan, atheist, neurodivergent.
I use a combination of Dialectical Behavior Therapy and psychoanalysis in order to help you get from where you are to where you want to be. DBT can be a concrete road map for daily activities and psychoanalysis will help you gain the insight into yourself and find the deep strength that will give you resiliency for everything that comes your way. I also run virtual DBT groups that run for 6 months and give you tools to help make your life more effective and satisfying.
I am in or am familiar with the following populations: poly, queer, kink, pagan, atheist, neurodivergent.
I use a combination of Dialectical Behavior Therapy and psychoanalysis in order to help you get from where you are to where you want to be. DBT can be a concrete road map for daily activities and psychoanalysis will help you gain the insight into yourself and find the deep strength that will give you resiliency for everything that comes your way. I also run virtual DBT groups that run for 6 months and give you tools to help make your life more effective and satisfying.
(628) 277-4577 View (628) 277-4577
Photo of Briana Schiff, MA, LMFT, PsyD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Briana Schiff
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95825
Whether you are seeking to mend a ruptured relationship, heal the wounds of the past, repair your relationship with your body, or better understand kink or sexual identity, I am here to walk with you.
Sun Tzu wrote, “In the midst of chaos, there is also opportunity”. My work is rooted in the belief that even in our darkest moments, there lies the potential for profound healing and connection. Using the transformative power of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS), I guide my individuals and couples on a journey to rediscover the bonds that nourish them and the strength that lies within. My ideal client is intrigued to dive into the pain that has been plaguing them for years. This client is interested in deep emotional work and looking for someone unafraid to accompany them into the darkness.
Whether you are seeking to mend a ruptured relationship, heal the wounds of the past, repair your relationship with your body, or better understand kink or sexual identity, I am here to walk with you.
Sun Tzu wrote, “In the midst of chaos, there is also opportunity”. My work is rooted in the belief that even in our darkest moments, there lies the potential for profound healing and connection. Using the transformative power of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS), I guide my individuals and couples on a journey to rediscover the bonds that nourish them and the strength that lies within. My ideal client is intrigued to dive into the pain that has been plaguing them for years. This client is interested in deep emotional work and looking for someone unafraid to accompany them into the darkness.
(808) 215-6183 View (808) 215-6183
Photo of Patrick Fagan, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Patrick Fagan
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Some of the issues I help clients with include anxiety, identity, sex and sexuality, consensual non-monogamy, polyamory, kink, aging, substance use and recovery, relationship challenges, and work stress.
Weekend availability! Reach out about specific days and times. If you’re struggling with relationships, work, emotions, or just existing in the world, you’re not alone. If you want to change, our work together can help you find a path forward. My approach is relational and person-centered, which means I believe you have the capacity to find resolutions inside yourself, and I'll support you as we explore together.
Some of the issues I help clients with include anxiety, identity, sex and sexuality, consensual non-monogamy, polyamory, kink, aging, substance use and recovery, relationship challenges, and work stress.
Weekend availability! Reach out about specific days and times. If you’re struggling with relationships, work, emotions, or just existing in the world, you’re not alone. If you want to change, our work together can help you find a path forward. My approach is relational and person-centered, which means I believe you have the capacity to find resolutions inside yourself, and I'll support you as we explore together.
(415) 200-2560 View (415) 200-2560
Photo of Anthony Magnia, MA, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Anthony Magnia
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
LGBTQ+ folx, allies, and members of the kink & polyamorous communities - you're all welcome here!.
I specialize in helping teens (12+) and adults achieve mental health goals, build relationships, and heal from past pain. I have a special affinity for QTBIPOC and neurodivergent geeks, gamers, cosplayers, and furries. I am training to become a Certified Geek Therapist. We do things like using therapeutic games, elements of your fandoms, and visualization exercises to explore who you are, express yourself, and increase self-confidence.
LGBTQ+ folx, allies, and members of the kink & polyamorous communities - you're all welcome here!.
I specialize in helping teens (12+) and adults achieve mental health goals, build relationships, and heal from past pain. I have a special affinity for QTBIPOC and neurodivergent geeks, gamers, cosplayers, and furries. I am training to become a Certified Geek Therapist. We do things like using therapeutic games, elements of your fandoms, and visualization exercises to explore who you are, express yourself, and increase self-confidence.
(707) 596-9696 View (707) 596-9696
Photo of Sterling Davon Walker, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Sterling Davon Walker
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90046
I am a sex-positive therapist here to help you dismantle the sex negativity or social bias that prevents you from moving forward. I am psychodynamic and trauma-informed with experience in the BDSM, kink, queer, ethical non-monogamous, polyamorous, LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities. My life experience as a Black man informs my professional work to allow me to understand and connect with diverse populations. I create a safe and supportive space that acknowledges your unique background and life experience, building your health and strength to allow you to explore and develop paradigms and beliefs to support your goals and aspirations.
I am a sex-positive therapist here to help you dismantle the sex negativity or social bias that prevents you from moving forward. I am psychodynamic and trauma-informed with experience in the BDSM, kink, queer, ethical non-monogamous, polyamorous, LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities. My life experience as a Black man informs my professional work to allow me to understand and connect with diverse populations. I create a safe and supportive space that acknowledges your unique background and life experience, building your health and strength to allow you to explore and develop paradigms and beliefs to support your goals and aspirations.
(323) 859-1211 View (323) 859-1211
Photo of Laura Goossens, MA, LMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Laura Goossens
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello! I’m Laura. I'm passionate about helping people improve their Present by addressing their Past. People describe my style as collaborative, warm, direct, goal-focused, thorough, and patient. I help clients in their work toward self-esteem, healthy relationships, grounded communication, stress management, improved mood, and access to services/resources. Communities I belong to and am experienced in serving: disabled/chronic illness, sex positive, kink/polyam/alternative lifestyle, genderqueer, fat positive, and neurodivergent folks. Happy to serve folks from other groups too of course! I offer a free 30-minute video intro call.
Hello! I’m Laura. I'm passionate about helping people improve their Present by addressing their Past. People describe my style as collaborative, warm, direct, goal-focused, thorough, and patient. I help clients in their work toward self-esteem, healthy relationships, grounded communication, stress management, improved mood, and access to services/resources. Communities I belong to and am experienced in serving: disabled/chronic illness, sex positive, kink/polyam/alternative lifestyle, genderqueer, fat positive, and neurodivergent folks. Happy to serve folks from other groups too of course! I offer a free 30-minute video intro call.
(650) 229-8259 View (650) 229-8259
Photo of Heather Shannon | Certified Sex Therapist, LCPC, CST, Counselor
Heather Shannon | Certified Sex Therapist
Counselor, LCPC, CST
Verified Verified
Online Only
" I love working with ENM, kink, LGBT+ and sex worker clients.
Are you feeling stuck when it comes to sex? Maybe you're starting to get sexually frustrated or you feel guilty for not meeting your partner's needs. Or sex has simply become a chore. You might be feeling more like friends, co-parents or roommates instead of lovers. And sex is admittedly a sensitive area that can bring up insecurities or ego . . . or just straight up confusion. But there IS a way to get back to feeling passionate and excited again. Let's find your sexy spark! I specialize in helping committed couples get their sexy spark back using my Pathway to Passion model (see photo gallery).
" I love working with ENM, kink, LGBT+ and sex worker clients.
Are you feeling stuck when it comes to sex? Maybe you're starting to get sexually frustrated or you feel guilty for not meeting your partner's needs. Or sex has simply become a chore. You might be feeling more like friends, co-parents or roommates instead of lovers. And sex is admittedly a sensitive area that can bring up insecurities or ego . . . or just straight up confusion. But there IS a way to get back to feeling passionate and excited again. Let's find your sexy spark! I specialize in helping committed couples get their sexy spark back using my Pathway to Passion model (see photo gallery).
(971) 265-3207 View (971) 265-3207
Photo of Laurel Livingston, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Laurel Livingston
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94705
Relationships are foundational. They are one of the deepest expressions of our essential humanity. As a sex-positive, LGBTQ-affirmative relationship therapist, I bring expertise in romantic relationships, supporting adult siblings and family dynamics, alternative lifestyles, sexuality, intimacy, and the inner workings of attachment. I invite you to bring forth what’s most real and true for you, with no fear of judgment. OFFICE HOURS: Tuesday-Friday, 9-5p
Relationships are foundational. They are one of the deepest expressions of our essential humanity. As a sex-positive, LGBTQ-affirmative relationship therapist, I bring expertise in romantic relationships, supporting adult siblings and family dynamics, alternative lifestyles, sexuality, intimacy, and the inner workings of attachment. I invite you to bring forth what’s most real and true for you, with no fear of judgment. OFFICE HOURS: Tuesday-Friday, 9-5p
(510) 945-3090 View (510) 945-3090
Photo of Maxine M. Hughes, MA, LMFT, CST-C, Marriage & Family Therapist
Maxine M. Hughes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CST-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
Is it difficult to trust others or your partner? Do you find yourself avoiding people or lacking energy to do the things you enjoy? Would you like a better relationship with yourself and others? I am cisgender LGBTQ affirmative therapist, my goal is to provide a sex positive environment for you to be authentically who you are, without judgment. During short term treatment I will provide you with tools to find practical solutions to your challenges.
Is it difficult to trust others or your partner? Do you find yourself avoiding people or lacking energy to do the things you enjoy? Would you like a better relationship with yourself and others? I am cisgender LGBTQ affirmative therapist, my goal is to provide a sex positive environment for you to be authentically who you are, without judgment. During short term treatment I will provide you with tools to find practical solutions to your challenges.
(951) 692-4360 View (951) 692-4360
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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.