Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Therapists in Nashville, TN

Photo of Julia Melton, LPCMHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Julia Melton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37208  (Online Only)
Are you geeky, a horror movie fan, or into kink/BDSM? Do you desperately protect thoughts or feelings that you're convinced no one will accept? Do you know the pain of harboring the deep-seated belief you're unlovable or that something is wrong with you? Are you an adult looking to navigate sexuality and relationships in a world that shames love and pleasure? Are you seeking to explore attachment patterns to transform core beliefs? Are you ready to truly clear out trauma so you no longer feel "stuck" in the past?
Are you geeky, a horror movie fan, or into kink/BDSM? Do you desperately protect thoughts or feelings that you're convinced no one will accept? Do you know the pain of harboring the deep-seated belief you're unlovable or that something is wrong with you? Are you an adult looking to navigate sexuality and relationships in a world that shames love and pleasure? Are you seeking to explore attachment patterns to transform core beliefs? Are you ready to truly clear out trauma so you no longer feel "stuck" in the past?
(629) 299-1117 View (629) 299-1117
Photo of Alexa Ritter, MSSW , Pre-Licensed Professional
Alexa Ritter
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37206
I deeply believe that each individual is the expert on themselves. I view the therapeutic relationship as mutually participatory, vulnerable, and authentic. Connection, community, and safety are integral to the healing process, so you can expect me to be present in each session with these tenets at the forefront of my mind. My approach is relational, anti-oppressive, culturally humble, casual, sex-positive, and gender-affirming. While I have specifically worked with victim/survivors of sexual violence and complex trauma, I am excited to accompany folks on all forms of healing journeys.
I deeply believe that each individual is the expert on themselves. I view the therapeutic relationship as mutually participatory, vulnerable, and authentic. Connection, community, and safety are integral to the healing process, so you can expect me to be present in each session with these tenets at the forefront of my mind. My approach is relational, anti-oppressive, culturally humble, casual, sex-positive, and gender-affirming. While I have specifically worked with victim/survivors of sexual violence and complex trauma, I am excited to accompany folks on all forms of healing journeys.
(629) 295-8603 View (629) 295-8603
Photo of Musenge Selina Luchembe - Ketamine Assisted Therapy with Musenge, LMFT-S, LPC, MHSP-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ketamine Assisted Therapy with Musenge
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT-S, LPC, MHSP-S
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
Welcome! No matter where you are in your journey, I am here to support you with embodying wellness in all areas of your life. I am a black, cisgendered, neurodistinct, 1st generation multicultural, nature loving queer biological and adoptive parent with over a decade of experience working with gender expansive adults, sexual minorities ​and multiracial intimate relationships. I prioritize promoting a safe, non-forceful, collaborative exploration, embracing pleasure-centered, kink affirming and non-monogamous relationship structures while practicing intersectional, anti-oppression and decolonizing work.
Welcome! No matter where you are in your journey, I am here to support you with embodying wellness in all areas of your life. I am a black, cisgendered, neurodistinct, 1st generation multicultural, nature loving queer biological and adoptive parent with over a decade of experience working with gender expansive adults, sexual minorities ​and multiracial intimate relationships. I prioritize promoting a safe, non-forceful, collaborative exploration, embracing pleasure-centered, kink affirming and non-monogamous relationship structures while practicing intersectional, anti-oppression and decolonizing work.
(615) 271-9898 View (615) 271-9898
Photo of Leah E. Newman, LPC, MHSP, MEd, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leah E. Newman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, MEd, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37216  (Online Only)
LGBTQ+. Gender. Sexuality. Alternative Spirituality. Adult ADHD Assessment, Diagnosis, and Treatment. Kink. Sex Work. Vegan. Life Coaching. Tarot. Reiki. Virtual. 420 Friendly. Anxiety. Depression. . BPD. Couples. Meditation. I specialize in gender transitions, LGBTQ+ living, alternative spiritualities, and mindfulness. Don't worry, our straight friends are always welcome too! Find out more at www.LeahNewmanCounseling.com
LGBTQ+. Gender. Sexuality. Alternative Spirituality. Adult ADHD Assessment, Diagnosis, and Treatment. Kink. Sex Work. Vegan. Life Coaching. Tarot. Reiki. Virtual. 420 Friendly. Anxiety. Depression. . BPD. Couples. Meditation. I specialize in gender transitions, LGBTQ+ living, alternative spiritualities, and mindfulness. Don't worry, our straight friends are always welcome too! Find out more at www.LeahNewmanCounseling.com
(615) 745-3862 View (615) 745-3862
Photo of Kaelie Sooy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kaelie Sooy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37205
I am a trauma therapist & love working with creatives, neuro-spicy minds, & queer folks with complex trauma (especially spiritual trauma, childhood trauma, & sexual/relational trauma). I am experienced working with poly/ethical non-monogamy, kink, and gender/sexual identity. You are seen and celebrated here! I would love to help you rediscover self-love and self compassion, deconstruct negative or unhelpful beliefs instilled by trauma, heal from emotional exhaustion after prioritizing others’ needs before your own, and learn to regulate your overactive nervous system to find inner peace. You are deserving of a safe space!
I am a trauma therapist & love working with creatives, neuro-spicy minds, & queer folks with complex trauma (especially spiritual trauma, childhood trauma, & sexual/relational trauma). I am experienced working with poly/ethical non-monogamy, kink, and gender/sexual identity. You are seen and celebrated here! I would love to help you rediscover self-love and self compassion, deconstruct negative or unhelpful beliefs instilled by trauma, heal from emotional exhaustion after prioritizing others’ needs before your own, and learn to regulate your overactive nervous system to find inner peace. You are deserving of a safe space!
(615) 378-2432 View (615) 378-2432
Photo of Katelyn Mase, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Katelyn Mase
Pre-Licensed Professional, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37205
I work with individuals and partnerships who are neurodivergent (ASD, ADHD) those in “alternative” relationship structures (LGBTQIA+, ENM, poly, open, swinging, kink), those who have experienced trauma, struggle with depression or anxiety, are hoping to do some self-exploration (sexual, gender, career, religious, etc.), or are looking for a change. Because every person is unique, your needs and desires will also be unique. I approach my work through a trauma-informed lens, using evidence-based practices that find a balance between thinking and feeling and emphasize the importance of connection, experience and safety.
I work with individuals and partnerships who are neurodivergent (ASD, ADHD) those in “alternative” relationship structures (LGBTQIA+, ENM, poly, open, swinging, kink), those who have experienced trauma, struggle with depression or anxiety, are hoping to do some self-exploration (sexual, gender, career, religious, etc.), or are looking for a change. Because every person is unique, your needs and desires will also be unique. I approach my work through a trauma-informed lens, using evidence-based practices that find a balance between thinking and feeling and emphasize the importance of connection, experience and safety.
(615) 808-7792 View (615) 808-7792
Photo of Sunni Mullenix, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sunni Mullenix
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37206
I truly believe that each client is the absolute expert on themselves and strive always to create space for clients to feel, be, and show up as their authentic selves. My approach is relational, casual, sex positive, and gender affirming. I take a systems approach to appreciating all the different factors that make up you and your unique experiences in the world. I specialize in complex trauma, and love to work with folks within the LGBTQIA2S+ community, folks struggling to navigate overwhelming emotions, folks struggling with boundary setting, and folks looking to explore and truly find love and compassion for themselves.
I truly believe that each client is the absolute expert on themselves and strive always to create space for clients to feel, be, and show up as their authentic selves. My approach is relational, casual, sex positive, and gender affirming. I take a systems approach to appreciating all the different factors that make up you and your unique experiences in the world. I specialize in complex trauma, and love to work with folks within the LGBTQIA2S+ community, folks struggling to navigate overwhelming emotions, folks struggling with boundary setting, and folks looking to explore and truly find love and compassion for themselves.
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Photo of Salem Horne, EdS , Pre-Licensed Professional
Salem Horne
Pre-Licensed Professional, EdS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37206
I offer support with and affirm Neurodiversity, LGBTQIA+ Identities, Gender Identity Exploration, Non-Monogamy/Polyamory, and Kink.
Hi, I'm Salem (they/he)! I'm an openly queer + neurodivergent therapist with a passion for working with trans teens, and adults. Much of my work focuses on the ways our identities intersect with culture and environment to create suffering. It is my hope that through our work together, clients can learn to embrace their truest selves, advocate for their needs, and experience peace.
I offer support with and affirm Neurodiversity, LGBTQIA+ Identities, Gender Identity Exploration, Non-Monogamy/Polyamory, and Kink.
Hi, I'm Salem (they/he)! I'm an openly queer + neurodivergent therapist with a passion for working with trans teens, and adults. Much of my work focuses on the ways our identities intersect with culture and environment to create suffering. It is my hope that through our work together, clients can learn to embrace their truest selves, advocate for their needs, and experience peace.
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Photo of Aunge Cory, MEd, LPCMHSP, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Aunge Cory
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPCMHSP, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37209  (Online Only)
One of my biggest struggles in life has been finding ways to show up authentically. As a Black, non-binary and queer person, finding spaces that validate core aspects of my identity have been challenging. It’s an honor to hold space for individuals who are struggling to find their voice and place in the world. My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe space where you feel accepted, respected, and understood. I enjoy working with individuals from marginalized and underserved communities (BIPOC, LGBTQ+). My practice is intersectional, collaborative, based in a social justice framework, and sex positive.
One of my biggest struggles in life has been finding ways to show up authentically. As a Black, non-binary and queer person, finding spaces that validate core aspects of my identity have been challenging. It’s an honor to hold space for individuals who are struggling to find their voice and place in the world. My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe space where you feel accepted, respected, and understood. I enjoy working with individuals from marginalized and underserved communities (BIPOC, LGBTQ+). My practice is intersectional, collaborative, based in a social justice framework, and sex positive.
(615) 392-1879 View (615) 392-1879
Photo of Darden Wilson, MMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Darden Wilson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37205
I love helping clients with boundary work, adult ADHD, intimacy issues, attachment wounds, unlearning fatphobia, and practicing health at every size. I strive to empower clients and give context while assisting them to reach their long and short-term goals. I support any gender, sexual orientation, or kink; however you choose to identify, everyone deserves therapy and a safe place to heal.
I love helping clients with boundary work, adult ADHD, intimacy issues, attachment wounds, unlearning fatphobia, and practicing health at every size. I strive to empower clients and give context while assisting them to reach their long and short-term goals. I support any gender, sexual orientation, or kink; however you choose to identify, everyone deserves therapy and a safe place to heal.
(615) 282-5304 View (615) 282-5304
Photo of Emerson Ryder, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Emerson Ryder
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37205
Healing can only happen by allowing your pain and your hopes to be witnessed. So many people suffer in silence, carry burdens of intergenerational trauma or being neurodivergent in a world not built for them, and have never REALLY been given the space to use their voice. If this describes you, you belong here. Part of my goal as your therapist is to help you find your voice again (or perhaps for the first time) and have the opportunity to be truly seen and heard. I will bring full presence, respect, and compassion to our work together to support you in moving toward the life you desire and deserve.
Healing can only happen by allowing your pain and your hopes to be witnessed. So many people suffer in silence, carry burdens of intergenerational trauma or being neurodivergent in a world not built for them, and have never REALLY been given the space to use their voice. If this describes you, you belong here. Part of my goal as your therapist is to help you find your voice again (or perhaps for the first time) and have the opportunity to be truly seen and heard. I will bring full presence, respect, and compassion to our work together to support you in moving toward the life you desire and deserve.
(615) 379-9186 View (615) 379-9186
Photo of Sierra Tuck, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sierra Tuck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37204  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
BDSM/ Kink + poly-friendly, sex+ sex work positive, full of love for all.
Living in "stressful times" can make it feel like mental health has to be on the back burner but I believe in prioritizing joy and rest to endure what seems impossible. Using evidence-based, trauma-informed practices, I work with clients to find their true selves and help strip away external stressors so they feel prepared to take on the rest of life. I enjoy helping both solo and partnered clients navigate difficult conversations and establish boundaries. It is normal for the therapy process to feel a bit intimidating but my sessions are informal and individually tailored. Neurodiverse? Need some firm love? You'll be right at home!
BDSM/ Kink + poly-friendly, sex+ sex work positive, full of love for all.
Living in "stressful times" can make it feel like mental health has to be on the back burner but I believe in prioritizing joy and rest to endure what seems impossible. Using evidence-based, trauma-informed practices, I work with clients to find their true selves and help strip away external stressors so they feel prepared to take on the rest of life. I enjoy helping both solo and partnered clients navigate difficult conversations and establish boundaries. It is normal for the therapy process to feel a bit intimidating but my sessions are informal and individually tailored. Neurodiverse? Need some firm love? You'll be right at home!
(629) 258-8822 View (629) 258-8822
Photo of Daylin Taylor, MA, LPC, MHSP, (temp), Pre-Licensed Professional
Daylin Taylor
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPC, MHSP, (temp)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37204
As humans, we are wired to seek out pleasurable and passionate experiences, but often in this pursuit, something gets in the way of our enjoyment: shame, stigma, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues...the list goes on. I believe sexuality is a very important part of life, but often we experience mental and emotional struggles associated with who we're having sex with, how often, and how we do it. As a sex-positive and LGBTQIA+ allied counselor, I am passionate about empowering my clients to live their most authentic lives, free of shame, doubt, and the other things that get in the way of our pursuit of pleasure.
As humans, we are wired to seek out pleasurable and passionate experiences, but often in this pursuit, something gets in the way of our enjoyment: shame, stigma, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues...the list goes on. I believe sexuality is a very important part of life, but often we experience mental and emotional struggles associated with who we're having sex with, how often, and how we do it. As a sex-positive and LGBTQIA+ allied counselor, I am passionate about empowering my clients to live their most authentic lives, free of shame, doubt, and the other things that get in the way of our pursuit of pleasure.
(615) 805-5941 View (615) 805-5941
Photo of Robyn Chaffee, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Robyn Chaffee
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37206
Beginning therapy can feel intimidating, but I believe in having therapy be an environment of empowerment, collaboration, and authenticity. My approach is client-centered, eclectic, and we will explore how different systems impacts your experiences. I specialize in trauma/complex trauma, sexual violence/abuse, domestic violence and emotional abuse, chronic pain/illness, depression and other mood disorders, eating disorders/disordered eating, non-traditional relationships, kink, and queer issues. I take an integrative approach to sessions and love to apply many therapeutic modalities to fit each individual client’s needs.
Beginning therapy can feel intimidating, but I believe in having therapy be an environment of empowerment, collaboration, and authenticity. My approach is client-centered, eclectic, and we will explore how different systems impacts your experiences. I specialize in trauma/complex trauma, sexual violence/abuse, domestic violence and emotional abuse, chronic pain/illness, depression and other mood disorders, eating disorders/disordered eating, non-traditional relationships, kink, and queer issues. I take an integrative approach to sessions and love to apply many therapeutic modalities to fit each individual client’s needs.
(615) 909-5277 View (615) 909-5277
Photo of Taylor Renwick, LMSW, MSSW, BSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Taylor Renwick
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW, MSSW, BSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37212
My special interests include pleasure mentoring, kink, ethical non-monogamy, polyamorous relationships, trans and non-binary care, religious trauma, anti-racism, and vicarious trauma.
I know how vital a welcoming, compassionate environment is to your safety, genuine growth, and wellbeing. I'm so excited to stand alongside you as we begin that journey! You may be trans or nonbinary, ethically nonmonogamous, polyamorous, queer, gay, questioning, in the kink community, or marginalized by society in other ways. Regardless, you deserve to feel seen, heard, and accepted as we work through whatever may be present in your life.
My special interests include pleasure mentoring, kink, ethical non-monogamy, polyamorous relationships, trans and non-binary care, religious trauma, anti-racism, and vicarious trauma.
I know how vital a welcoming, compassionate environment is to your safety, genuine growth, and wellbeing. I'm so excited to stand alongside you as we begin that journey! You may be trans or nonbinary, ethically nonmonogamous, polyamorous, queer, gay, questioning, in the kink community, or marginalized by society in other ways. Regardless, you deserve to feel seen, heard, and accepted as we work through whatever may be present in your life.
(615) 592-2979 View (615) 592-2979
Photo of Rose Crouch, MEd, LPC, MHSP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rose Crouch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37211  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I really love (& have lots of experience) working with people at the following intersections: complex PTSD (especially religious trauma & sexual trauma), faith deconstruction, healing from purity culture, ethical non-monogamy/polyamory, kink, and gender/sexual identity. I am fiercely LGBTQ+ affirming- you are seen & celebrated here! I work from a non-religious, trauma-informed, and anti-oppressive lens, with a focus on building self-compassion and mindfulness practices.
I really love (& have lots of experience) working with people at the following intersections: complex PTSD (especially religious trauma & sexual trauma), faith deconstruction, healing from purity culture, ethical non-monogamy/polyamory, kink, and gender/sexual identity. I am fiercely LGBTQ+ affirming- you are seen & celebrated here! I work from a non-religious, trauma-informed, and anti-oppressive lens, with a focus on building self-compassion and mindfulness practices.
(615) 551-5176 View (615) 551-5176
Photo of Elliot Burnette, Pre-Licensed Professional
Elliot Burnette
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37212
Are you questioning your identity and wanting to make a change? Do you struggle with feelings of guilt or shame? Are you worried about navigating the unknown? You may be Queer, Trans, Nonbinary, or questioning your gender or sexuality. Or you may be wanting to explore ethical nonmonogamy, polyamory, a kink identity, or unconventional sexual expression in your relationships. Like many of us, you may simply not fit in the box society has asked you to fit in while struggling to reconcile the world you grew up in with the world you want.
Are you questioning your identity and wanting to make a change? Do you struggle with feelings of guilt or shame? Are you worried about navigating the unknown? You may be Queer, Trans, Nonbinary, or questioning your gender or sexuality. Or you may be wanting to explore ethical nonmonogamy, polyamory, a kink identity, or unconventional sexual expression in your relationships. Like many of us, you may simply not fit in the box society has asked you to fit in while struggling to reconcile the world you grew up in with the world you want.
(629) 245-3013 View (629) 245-3013
Photo of Jack Justin Dreher, LPCMHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jack Justin Dreher
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37210  (Online Only)
I consider myself a sex positive, kink aware, poly informed professional who is affirming of all gender and sexual orientations.
I recognize that the journey that brought you to therapy may not have been an easy one. I work to assist you in your self-exploration, learning, and growth by creating a safe, nurturing, respectful, yet challenging environment. I prioritize your autonomy and personal responsibility throughout the healing process.
I consider myself a sex positive, kink aware, poly informed professional who is affirming of all gender and sexual orientations.
I recognize that the journey that brought you to therapy may not have been an easy one. I work to assist you in your self-exploration, learning, and growth by creating a safe, nurturing, respectful, yet challenging environment. I prioritize your autonomy and personal responsibility throughout the healing process.
(615) 488-7683 View (615) 488-7683
Photo of Emily Ector-Volman, LPC, CST, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Ector-Volman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CST, NCC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37206
Waitlist for new clients
My therapy style is client-centered and sex positive.
Whether you're seeking therapy for yourself or your relationship, you may be feeling disconnected, exhausted, embarrassed, angry, or many other emotions. Perhaps you long for better communication, greater intimacy, and rebuilt trust. In addition to working toward re-connection and love in your relationship, sex and sexuality are often difficult to talk about between couples. Creating a judgement-free space where you can explore these thoughts, feelings, and personal values is my highest priority as a therapist.
My therapy style is client-centered and sex positive.
Whether you're seeking therapy for yourself or your relationship, you may be feeling disconnected, exhausted, embarrassed, angry, or many other emotions. Perhaps you long for better communication, greater intimacy, and rebuilt trust. In addition to working toward re-connection and love in your relationship, sex and sexuality are often difficult to talk about between couples. Creating a judgement-free space where you can explore these thoughts, feelings, and personal values is my highest priority as a therapist.
(615) 905-1537 View (615) 905-1537
Photo of Dr. Annie Snow, PhD
Dr. Annie Snow
PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37205  (Online Only)
Also, as a certified kink-affirming professional, I LOVE helping folks navigate new and exciting sexual experiences.
There is no one in the world quite like you, and that goes for your sexual identity, too! If you're like many people, maybe you feel pressure to conform to expectations that don't align with your true desires. As a certified sexologist, I help folks experience greater pleasure by tapping into their most authentic self. While sexual challenges are common (e.g., ED, vaginismus, anorgasmia, desire or arousal issues), the solutions are as unique as you are. There are no cookie-cutter approaches here! I work with you to identify your needs so that we can find an answer that truly benefits you and your situation.
Also, as a certified kink-affirming professional, I LOVE helping folks navigate new and exciting sexual experiences.
There is no one in the world quite like you, and that goes for your sexual identity, too! If you're like many people, maybe you feel pressure to conform to expectations that don't align with your true desires. As a certified sexologist, I help folks experience greater pleasure by tapping into their most authentic self. While sexual challenges are common (e.g., ED, vaginismus, anorgasmia, desire or arousal issues), the solutions are as unique as you are. There are no cookie-cutter approaches here! I work with you to identify your needs so that we can find an answer that truly benefits you and your situation.
(270) 517-2595 View (270) 517-2595
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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.