Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Therapists in Boston, MA

Photo of Emilie Mellal, MS, MFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Emilie Mellal
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02125
My practice is: Queer/ Trans-affirming, Neurodiversity-affirming, Body positive, Fat positive, Sex positive, Kink-affirming, and Poly/Non-Monogamy-affirming. I work with individuals and relationships. I like to establish up front that I am a safe person to correct, call-out, interrupt, disagree and argue with. It will not impact our therapeutic relationship. You are the expert of your own life.
My practice is: Queer/ Trans-affirming, Neurodiversity-affirming, Body positive, Fat positive, Sex positive, Kink-affirming, and Poly/Non-Monogamy-affirming. I work with individuals and relationships. I like to establish up front that I am a safe person to correct, call-out, interrupt, disagree and argue with. It will not impact our therapeutic relationship. You are the expert of your own life.
(978) 440-6350 View (978) 440-6350
Photo of Tanya Parker, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tanya Parker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02129  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients! Contact by email preferred. Telehealth only. Congrats on choosing to seek out therapy! It can be a life changing experience. Please read through my profile and website to see if we're a good fit. I have worked with people of all backgrounds but I generally work with LGBT folks and POC. I work with clients on self-esteem, body positivity, anxiety management, trauma symptoms, and relational issues. As a human and a provider, I am feminist, anti-racist, fat positive, sex positive, pro-science, pro-vaccine, and pro-LGBT. I also offer relationship therapy including therapy for polyamormous individuals.
Accepting new clients! Contact by email preferred. Telehealth only. Congrats on choosing to seek out therapy! It can be a life changing experience. Please read through my profile and website to see if we're a good fit. I have worked with people of all backgrounds but I generally work with LGBT folks and POC. I work with clients on self-esteem, body positivity, anxiety management, trauma symptoms, and relational issues. As a human and a provider, I am feminist, anti-racist, fat positive, sex positive, pro-science, pro-vaccine, and pro-LGBT. I also offer relationship therapy including therapy for polyamormous individuals.
(413) 340-4466 View (413) 340-4466
Photo of Tim Norton - Tim Norton Sex Therapy , LCSW , MSW, ASSECT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tim Norton Sex Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW , MSW, ASSECT
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02108
Tim Norton, LCSW, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Sex Therapist practising in Los Angeles, with offices in Santa Monica and with distance clients in Massachusetts. Tim specializes in a range of sexual health and relational issues, including sexual dysfunctions, erectile difficulties, compulsivity, sexual trauma, and body image concerns. His therapeutic expertise also spans topics such as sexual identity, gender, open relationships, addictions, kink and BDSM. Tim is an active member of the American Association of Sex Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT) and is affiliated.
Tim Norton, LCSW, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Sex Therapist practising in Los Angeles, with offices in Santa Monica and with distance clients in Massachusetts. Tim specializes in a range of sexual health and relational issues, including sexual dysfunctions, erectile difficulties, compulsivity, sexual trauma, and body image concerns. His therapeutic expertise also spans topics such as sexual identity, gender, open relationships, addictions, kink and BDSM. Tim is an active member of the American Association of Sex Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT) and is affiliated.
(339) 244-8572 View (339) 244-8572
Photo of Ashley Bailey, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ashley Bailey
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116
Hello! My name is Ashley Bailey (she/they). I am a Master’s Level therapist with a rich background in Social Work and Psychiatric Rehabilitation. I am LGBTQIA+ identifying/affirming, sex-positive, body positive (all bodies), and dedicated to providing an affirming space that recognizes disability as a form of human diversity. Our therapeutic work together would be done through an anti-oppressive lens, which recognizes the inherent connection between societal/systemic issues and our individual mental health and wellness.
Hello! My name is Ashley Bailey (she/they). I am a Master’s Level therapist with a rich background in Social Work and Psychiatric Rehabilitation. I am LGBTQIA+ identifying/affirming, sex-positive, body positive (all bodies), and dedicated to providing an affirming space that recognizes disability as a form of human diversity. Our therapeutic work together would be done through an anti-oppressive lens, which recognizes the inherent connection between societal/systemic issues and our individual mental health and wellness.
(508) 978-2834 View (508) 978-2834
Photo of Luke Patrick 'tt' King, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Luke Patrick 'tt' King
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02110
I am poly and kink knowledgeable, HAES-aligned, and strive to utilize a framework of humility when accompanying clients of color.
Note: I am not accepting new patients at this time (April 2024). It is my belief that healing happens in relationships, and therapy is no different. We will orient our work toward what matters to you most, and through somatic tools, relationship building, and exploration of different parts of self, you can practice having choice over your patterns of being, relating, and feeling. I acknowledge the role of systems of oppression on mental health and wellness, and have particular training supporting an increased sense of safety, dignity, and belonging for those who have experienced trauma.
I am poly and kink knowledgeable, HAES-aligned, and strive to utilize a framework of humility when accompanying clients of color.
Note: I am not accepting new patients at this time (April 2024). It is my belief that healing happens in relationships, and therapy is no different. We will orient our work toward what matters to you most, and through somatic tools, relationship building, and exploration of different parts of self, you can practice having choice over your patterns of being, relating, and feeling. I acknowledge the role of systems of oppression on mental health and wellness, and have particular training supporting an increased sense of safety, dignity, and belonging for those who have experienced trauma.
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Photo of Knox Wilder, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Knox Wilder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02215  (Online Only)
NOTE: I cannot accept insurances! I am passionate about serving the diverse needs of queer, trans, and gender non-conforming individuals and family systems! I work with adults, couples, or multi-partner partnerships of all genders and sexualities seeking help with depression, anxiety, parenting, life transitions, trauma/C-PTSD & other issues. I provide perinatal and postpartum therapeutic services, including issues related to fertility and family planning, co-/parenting, birthing/birth trauma(s), and blended families . I support sex workers and provide a sex positive space for folks of all identities and sexualities.
NOTE: I cannot accept insurances! I am passionate about serving the diverse needs of queer, trans, and gender non-conforming individuals and family systems! I work with adults, couples, or multi-partner partnerships of all genders and sexualities seeking help with depression, anxiety, parenting, life transitions, trauma/C-PTSD & other issues. I provide perinatal and postpartum therapeutic services, including issues related to fertility and family planning, co-/parenting, birthing/birth trauma(s), and blended families . I support sex workers and provide a sex positive space for folks of all identities and sexualities.
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J Casale
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02199
My special areas of focus include LGBTQIA+, Parents/family members of LGBTQIA+ individuals, polyamorous/non-monogamous, kink-positive, CBT, OCD, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Now Accepting New Clients! I hold a Master of Social Work from Bridgewater State University, as well as a License in Clinical Social Work from the state of Massachusetts.
My special areas of focus include LGBTQIA+, Parents/family members of LGBTQIA+ individuals, polyamorous/non-monogamous, kink-positive, CBT, OCD, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Now Accepting New Clients! I hold a Master of Social Work from Bridgewater State University, as well as a License in Clinical Social Work from the state of Massachusetts.
(617) 944-2324 View (617) 944-2324
Photo of Emily Eldar, LMHC, Counselor
Emily Eldar
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116  (Online Only)
I have spent much of my adult life in creative communities aligned in non-monogamy, kink, and queerness.
Most of our struggles are relational in nature. As a relationship expert, I will guide you toward healing your relational wounds; to step into the self-actualized, meaningful, joyful life you dream of. We all sustain traumas which shape our beliefs about ourselves, others, and the world. When we understand our protective strategies we can then update our narratives, unburden our traumatized parts, heal attachment wounds, and make room to relate through our highest self. We can learn new skills in communication, somatic regulation, mindfulness, self-awareness, and more fully build the life which best serves our continual growth.
I have spent much of my adult life in creative communities aligned in non-monogamy, kink, and queerness.
Most of our struggles are relational in nature. As a relationship expert, I will guide you toward healing your relational wounds; to step into the self-actualized, meaningful, joyful life you dream of. We all sustain traumas which shape our beliefs about ourselves, others, and the world. When we understand our protective strategies we can then update our narratives, unburden our traumatized parts, heal attachment wounds, and make room to relate through our highest self. We can learn new skills in communication, somatic regulation, mindfulness, self-awareness, and more fully build the life which best serves our continual growth.
(617) 936-8285 View (617) 936-8285
Photo of Dave Zellmer, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dave Zellmer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02118  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I encourage you to reach out to set up an initial consult, and I look forward to hearing from you! 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 encourage you to reach out to set up an initial consult, and I look forward to hearing from you! 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 Ashley DeMenna, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley DeMenna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116
Are you struggling with your relationship? Have you tried to figure it out yourself, but keep getting stuck? I can help! I am a therapist who specializes in relationships, sex, LGBTQ, and other mental health concerns. Managing relationships, sexual identity, and/or sexual concerns can be really difficult. You want to find a therapist who has the expertise and strategies to help you navigate this difficult time. At Rhode Island Sex Therapy, all of our therapists understand this complexity so you can be assured we are the top sex therapy practice in New England.
Are you struggling with your relationship? Have you tried to figure it out yourself, but keep getting stuck? I can help! I am a therapist who specializes in relationships, sex, LGBTQ, and other mental health concerns. Managing relationships, sexual identity, and/or sexual concerns can be really difficult. You want to find a therapist who has the expertise and strategies to help you navigate this difficult time. At Rhode Island Sex Therapy, all of our therapists understand this complexity so you can be assured we are the top sex therapy practice in New England.
(339) 330-1054 View (339) 330-1054
Photo of Julia Wise Kofi, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julia Wise Kofi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02109  (Online Only)
If you are looking for a therapist who is sex positive, anti racist, and believes in health at every size, we may be a good fit.
I provide identity-affirming therapy to adults with intersecting marginalized identities, including (but not limited to!) folks who are queer, trans, neurodivergent, disabled, kinky, non-monogamous, as well as other marginalized identities. I also enjoy working with those who previously had poor experiences with therapy, first time therapy clients, and those who feel “different.” Cultivating deep appreciation of the ways you have survived, tending to the nervous system for ongoing healing, and with humor as needed, we will construct a narrative that feels affirming and true to you.
If you are looking for a therapist who is sex positive, anti racist, and believes in health at every size, we may be a good fit.
I provide identity-affirming therapy to adults with intersecting marginalized identities, including (but not limited to!) folks who are queer, trans, neurodivergent, disabled, kinky, non-monogamous, as well as other marginalized identities. I also enjoy working with those who previously had poor experiences with therapy, first time therapy clients, and those who feel “different.” Cultivating deep appreciation of the ways you have survived, tending to the nervous system for ongoing healing, and with humor as needed, we will construct a narrative that feels affirming and true to you.
(781) 423-3691 View (781) 423-3691
Photo of Dr. Danielle Armour - Dr. Danielle Armour, Sex & Relationship Therapist, PhD, LICSW, LCSW, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Danielle Armour, Sex & Relationship Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LICSW, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116  (Online Only)
A few things to note: I am queer identified, kink-positive & ENM/poly aware.
I specialize in sexual health, intimacy, and relationships, especially the one we have with self. I am passionate about helping you and yours enrich your lives—by empowering you to unpack what’s preventing you from fully embracing all of life’s pleasures. I believe that we all have the intrinsic ability to heal ourselves. In my practice, psychotherapy is a journey of self healing, with me as your guide. Connection is one of our most powerful tools, and through connecting with me, together, we will cultivate transformation and uncover the peace that lies within you.
A few things to note: I am queer identified, kink-positive & ENM/poly aware.
I specialize in sexual health, intimacy, and relationships, especially the one we have with self. I am passionate about helping you and yours enrich your lives—by empowering you to unpack what’s preventing you from fully embracing all of life’s pleasures. I believe that we all have the intrinsic ability to heal ourselves. In my practice, psychotherapy is a journey of self healing, with me as your guide. Connection is one of our most powerful tools, and through connecting with me, together, we will cultivate transformation and uncover the peace that lies within you.
(508) 456-5762 View (508) 456-5762
Photo of March Kim, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
March Kim
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I particularly enjoy providing affirming care to people I share communities with such as queer, immigrant, people of color, polyamorous, and kink/BDSM communities.
I believe that healing in relationship with one another is a critical prerequisite to our collective liberation and reimagined future. As a therapist, I hope to create a space that promotes a sense of trust and safety where we can work collaboratively to remove barriers and gain tools to thrive throughout life’s various challenges. My job is to support you in solidarity with humility and authenticity alongside an understanding of how our lived experiences shape us to be who we are.
I particularly enjoy providing affirming care to people I share communities with such as queer, immigrant, people of color, polyamorous, and kink/BDSM communities.
I believe that healing in relationship with one another is a critical prerequisite to our collective liberation and reimagined future. As a therapist, I hope to create a space that promotes a sense of trust and safety where we can work collaboratively to remove barriers and gain tools to thrive throughout life’s various challenges. My job is to support you in solidarity with humility and authenticity alongside an understanding of how our lived experiences shape us to be who we are.
(508) 960-7558 View (508) 960-7558
Photo of Stephanie Baird, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Stephanie Baird
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02199  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Practicing since 1999, I have extensive experience treating PTSD/trauma (sexual abuse/assault, partner violence, etc.) and anxiety with EMDR. I'm an EMDRIA approved consultant (for clinicians), preferring short-term EMDR clients. I have a sexual health certification and am comfortable working with consenting non-monogamy, TGNC, and am kink-aware. We use your strengths to overcome current and historical obstacles, including burnout and life stress. Also, now offering private pay intensive EMDR sessions as my ongoing practice is full. Go to stephaniebairdlmhc.wordpress.com for info. I have a small 2-day a week practice.
Practicing since 1999, I have extensive experience treating PTSD/trauma (sexual abuse/assault, partner violence, etc.) and anxiety with EMDR. I'm an EMDRIA approved consultant (for clinicians), preferring short-term EMDR clients. I have a sexual health certification and am comfortable working with consenting non-monogamy, TGNC, and am kink-aware. We use your strengths to overcome current and historical obstacles, including burnout and life stress. Also, now offering private pay intensive EMDR sessions as my ongoing practice is full. Go to stephaniebairdlmhc.wordpress.com for info. I have a small 2-day a week practice.
(617) 997-0367 View (617) 997-0367
Photo of Ben Kudler, MSW, LICSW, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ben Kudler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CST
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116  (Online Only)
I am also an AASECT-certified sex therapist and am sex literate, kink- and poly-friendly.
I offer compassionate custom-tailored individual and couples therapy to people seeking to make meaning of their experiences, to advance their self-understanding, and to improve the quality of their lives. I am also an AASECT-certified sex therapist who helps clients improve their sexual relationship with themselves and others. My approach is relational and warm, primarily from a strengths-based psychodynamic perspective with behavioral interventions drawing from CBT/DBT and mindfulness practice. I use an interactive style to help you clarify the root of struggles, identify barriers, and create pathways to move forward.
I am also an AASECT-certified sex therapist and am sex literate, kink- and poly-friendly.
I offer compassionate custom-tailored individual and couples therapy to people seeking to make meaning of their experiences, to advance their self-understanding, and to improve the quality of their lives. I am also an AASECT-certified sex therapist who helps clients improve their sexual relationship with themselves and others. My approach is relational and warm, primarily from a strengths-based psychodynamic perspective with behavioral interventions drawing from CBT/DBT and mindfulness practice. I use an interactive style to help you clarify the root of struggles, identify barriers, and create pathways to move forward.
(617) 229-7228 View (617) 229-7228
Photo of Levi Rhodes, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Levi Rhodes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02125  (Online Only)
Are you finding it hard to break free of the same disagreements, while feeling unheard or unrecognized by your partner? I enjoy working with couples and individuals that are struggling with communication, trust, anxiety, depression, recurring disagreements, infidelity and affair recovery, sexual challenges, performance anxiety, and evolving relationship structures. If you want to improve your relationship while addressing what's been avoided in the past, I think we could be a good fit. For couples in crisis, we could discuss Discernment Counseling or an Intensive as a way to address concerns immediately.
Are you finding it hard to break free of the same disagreements, while feeling unheard or unrecognized by your partner? I enjoy working with couples and individuals that are struggling with communication, trust, anxiety, depression, recurring disagreements, infidelity and affair recovery, sexual challenges, performance anxiety, and evolving relationship structures. If you want to improve your relationship while addressing what's been avoided in the past, I think we could be a good fit. For couples in crisis, we could discuss Discernment Counseling or an Intensive as a way to address concerns immediately.
(617) 440-7928 View (617) 440-7928
Photo of Michael Denton-Smith, LMHC, Counselor
Michael Denton-Smith
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02114  (Online Only)
Are you having difficulty adjusting to a new environment, relationship, identity, or phase of life? Do you overanalyze social interactions or struggle to connect with others? I have been a practicing Licensed Mental Health Counselor for 5 years and have experience working with adults in multiple settings including college counseling, community mental health, private practice, and case management. As a queer-identified therapist, I am fiercely dedicated to working with clients in the LGBTQIA+ community, and affirming of kink and ENM/polyamory as well.
Are you having difficulty adjusting to a new environment, relationship, identity, or phase of life? Do you overanalyze social interactions or struggle to connect with others? I have been a practicing Licensed Mental Health Counselor for 5 years and have experience working with adults in multiple settings including college counseling, community mental health, private practice, and case management. As a queer-identified therapist, I am fiercely dedicated to working with clients in the LGBTQIA+ community, and affirming of kink and ENM/polyamory as well.
(857) 575-5657 View (857) 575-5657
Photo of Meredith Walker, LICSW, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meredith Walker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02110  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with the LGBTQIA+ community and am kink and poly-friendly.
A year from now, you will wish you started today. - K. Lamb - Working with a therapist can provide support, help you foster insight, and build new strategies to identify and address the core issues that interfere with relationships and work. Therapy can increase the flexibility with which you think about and engage in your life. My intent is for us to create a reliable and safe environment in which we can work together to address the issues you've been facing, improve understanding of yourself and help you feel less stuck in existing patterns of managing challenges.
I specialize in working with the LGBTQIA+ community and am kink and poly-friendly.
A year from now, you will wish you started today. - K. Lamb - Working with a therapist can provide support, help you foster insight, and build new strategies to identify and address the core issues that interfere with relationships and work. Therapy can increase the flexibility with which you think about and engage in your life. My intent is for us to create a reliable and safe environment in which we can work together to address the issues you've been facing, improve understanding of yourself and help you feel less stuck in existing patterns of managing challenges.
(617) 431-5853 View (617) 431-5853
Photo of Vox VanDyke - Austin Mind Body, LGBTQ+ Counseling & Supervision, LPC-S, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Austin Mind Body, LGBTQ+ Counseling & Supervision
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02134  (Online Only)
Struggling with life transitions, creative ruts, and relationships are difficult in any situation but especially so if you do not follow the heteronormative path. It can be difficult to open up to someone when you are not certain that they understand Queer and Alternative relationship structures. I use an individualized approach with each client to build a therapeutic relationship based on specific goals. I focus my work around issues regarding LGBTQ+, sexuality, non-binary and transgender, complex relationships, power dynamics, sexual health, BDSM/ Kink, and other dynamics.
Struggling with life transitions, creative ruts, and relationships are difficult in any situation but especially so if you do not follow the heteronormative path. It can be difficult to open up to someone when you are not certain that they understand Queer and Alternative relationship structures. I use an individualized approach with each client to build a therapeutic relationship based on specific goals. I focus my work around issues regarding LGBTQ+, sexuality, non-binary and transgender, complex relationships, power dynamics, sexual health, BDSM/ Kink, and other dynamics.
(512) 765-9528 View (512) 765-9528
Photo of Michael Stokes - Rhode Island Sex Therapy, LMHC, EdD, Counselor
Rhode Island Sex Therapy
Counselor, LMHC, EdD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116
Are you looking for a practice that is exclusively focused on sex therapy for individuals and couples? We are expert in sex and relationships who take a sex positive, solution focused approach to our work. We will work with you to identify what is going on and we will work on a treatment plan together to get you feeling better as soon as possible. Our Clinicians are "real", LGBTQ competent, Kink/BDSM competent, Ethical Non-monogamy, and of course sex positive!
Are you looking for a practice that is exclusively focused on sex therapy for individuals and couples? We are expert in sex and relationships who take a sex positive, solution focused approach to our work. We will work with you to identify what is going on and we will work on a treatment plan together to get you feeling better as soon as possible. Our Clinicians are "real", LGBTQ competent, Kink/BDSM competent, Ethical Non-monogamy, and of course sex positive!
(401) 336-6595 View (401) 336-6595
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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.