Open List
The Open List is a list of professionals (therapists, social workers, psychiatrists, psychologists, consultants, relationship and life coaches, doctors, lawyers, etc.) who are experienced and knowledgeable about alternative sexuality and lifestyles, open relationships, polyamory, nonmonogamy, swinging, etc. The people on this list submitted their information, and therefore I make no claims about them. At the end of the list are links to other similar lists and directories. To be added to the Open List, see instructions at the bottom of the page.
PROFESSIONALS ORGANIZED BY STATE
Alabama
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Florida
Georgia
Illinois
Indiana
Maryland
Massachusetts
Michigan
Minnesota
Missouri
Nevada
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New York
North Carolina
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
Tennessee
Texas
Vermont
Virginia
Washington
Wisconsin
Wyoming
Keith R. Abrams, PhD
Sex Therapist, Sex Educator, Clinical Psychologist
Grayson and Associates, PC, 2200 Lakeshore Drive, Suite 150, Birmingham, AL 35222
205-871-6926, kdabrams (at) bellsouth.net
Brief statement: I have been a clinical psychologist for almost 20 years, and have devoted myself to working primarily with individuals and couples on sexual health and relationship issues since I completed a two-year postdoctoral fellowship at the Program in Human Sexuality 10 years ago. I have experience working with polyamorous couples, as well as with individuals and couples representing many sexualities and lifestyles that are non-conventional.
CALIFORNIA
Lisa Skye Carle
Somatic Sex & Intimacy Coach
Location: San Francisco, CA; Phone appointments are available.
415-295-4544; Lisa(at)SomaticSexCoach.com
Brief Statement:
Using a combination of talk and experiential, body-based coaching methods, Lisa Skye Carle helps individuals and couples expand their ability to experience erotic pleasure, passion and joy. She will help you explore, identify and achieve the sexual and intimacy goals you are seeking. Lisa draws upon her extensive experience in massage and bodywork, somatic therapy, breath-work, mindfulness meditation, Tantra and sexual healing to assist her clients to realize their fullest potential. She brings her passion, intuition and loving presence to her coaching to create a safe container where her clients can explore themselves without judgment, guilt or shame.
Cascade Spring Cook, M.A.
Relationship coach and incarnational ally
Location: Rohnert Park, CA (Sonoma County); appointments in person or by phone
707.794.7334; cascade(at)hisys.com.
Brief Statement: Creating fulfilling relationships, especially polyamorous relationships, requires getting off autopilot and practicing awareness. It’s a process of exploration and discovery of what works for you and your partner(s), and of what calls to your soul. It’s your journey, but I can help you navigate.
Barbara Cox, PhD
Relationship and Business Coach, Trainer, and Author
Location: Southern California/San Diego area; Phone sessions are available
858.531.5310; info(at)drcoxconsulting.com
Brief Statement: I specialize in providing a space for you to feel calm self-acceptance, for people of all backgrounds. I especially enjoy helping you identify and clear out any self-limiting beliefs or habits and help you grow new belief systems that empower and motivate you. In sessions, we work together to develop your tools for an exceptional life, in your personal relationships or work life. Trade in old, unhelpful patterns for new, creative ones. I teach you a variety of tools, including, emotional self-acupressure, hypnosis, guided imagery and intuitive techniques to help you create the relationships you desire and to clear out any guilt around your body and sexuality.
I am knowledgeable and affirming of consensual non-monogamous relationships, and welcome clients from a variety of backgrounds, including but not limited to, bisexual, homosexual, heterosexual, polyamorous, monogamous, pagan, tantra, ‘swingers’/lifestyle, etc.
Dossie Easton, M.A.
Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist #27782
San Francisco, California (Video Conference sessions available)
415-752-7455; dossiemft (at) dossieeaston.com
Brief statement: Co-author with Janet Hardy of The Ethical Slut and other books about BDSM, I serve my communities and train interns in my practice in San Francisco, where I offer therapy and counseling to individuals, couples and more. Along with lifestyle issues, I have expertise and experience in working with survivors of child abuse and other traumas, people living with serious illness, and anxiety, depression, bipolar and other emotional difficulties.
LaSara Firefox, MPNLP
Master practitioner and trainer in neuro-linguistic programming, Life and business coach.
Location: Northern California, but available by phone everywhere.
707-293-5153, firefox (at) lasarafirefox.com
Brief Statement:“LaSara Firefox is a dazzling inspiration and firestarter to everyone who encounters her.” – Susie Bright, author of Full Exposure
LaSara FireFox, MPNLP, is a master practitioner and trainer of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), life coach, educator, and professional speaker. LaSara helps her clients to find balance in their lives, and alignment with their personal and family-held values. In addition, she’s a mother of two, a successful author (Sexy Witch, nonfiction/self-help, Llewellyn Worldwide, 2005), and founder and CEO of the Ecstatic Presence Project and Global Family Awakening: an educational, peace and humanitarian family adventure club, and co-founder of Greenfield Coaching Institute (GCI). She teaches and coaches internationally.
M. Francesca Gentille
Relationship empowerment coach, Clinical Sexologist, Cross Cultural Minister, Relationship By Design Counselor, Expertise in Aging & Sexuality, Expertise in Addiction Recovery & Recovery after Trauma.
Location: San Francisco Bay Area, CA; Sierra and Reno, NV; phone consultations or sessions
510-759-3839, Francesca (at) LifeDanceCenter.com
Brief statement: Francesca Gentille is a nationally recognized empowering relationship expert, clinical sexologist, flirting instructor, Non-Violent Communication coach, award winning co-editor of The Marriage of Sex And Spirit: Relationships at the Heart of Conscious Evolution; popular internet radio host of “Sex: Tantra & Kama Sutra.” who has been successfully coaching individuals, couples and moresomes for over 10 years. She coaches from the integrity of doing “the work” in her own life. Her maxim: There is no “One True Right and Only Way” to design and format relationships and sexuality. There are skill sets, that as we develop them bring greater ease and harmony to any relationship or sexuality style. She teaches both Passionate Monogamy and Ecstatic Polyamory. She is a popular instructor at both East and West Coast Loving More Conferences. She has personally road tested many relationship styles. She now considers herself to be Omni-amorous. Her relationships used to be filled with trauma and drama, now they have ease and grace.
Danielle Harel, PhD
Sex Coaching and Therapy
Location: Lombard St. (At Buchanan), San Francisco, CA; Sunnyvale, CA; phone consultations or sessions
408-469-1989, danielle (at) celesteanddanielle.com
Brief statement: Dr. Danielle Harel is a clinical sexologist, and a professor at the Institute for Advanced Study of Human Sexuality. Danielle brings her passion, depth, intuition, and magnetizing personality to her coaching session. Harnessing her extensive training as a sexologist and her background in psychology and body-based modalities, she leads people into the depth of their desires to support them in reaching their fullest sexual potential. She is particularly talented in helping her clients release shame and accept themselves fully. Danielle offers her clients a unique, experiential and exciting process to transform their relationships, create intense and loving connections and live their lives passionately.
Celeste Hirschman, M.A.
Sex and Relationship Therapy
Location: Cole Valley, San Francisco CA; face-to-face or phone sessions
415-336-3258, celeste (at) celesteanddanielle.com
Brief statement: Celeste Hirschman has made a lifelong study of sexuality, intimacy and relationships. In her session, Celeste helps her clients have the most satisfying sex, intimacy and relationships, realize their full human potential, and deepen their experiences of pleasure and embodiment. Celeste brings her unconditional love and presence, as well as her training in sexuality and experiential work, in order to create an open, safe and exciting container where her clients can explore every aspect of themselves without guilt or shame.
Ms Rhonda Hughes
Mediator, Attorney at Law
Location: Northern California & National; phone consultations available.
916.870.2043; powermediation (at) att (dot) net
Brief Statement: I offer discreet mediation Sessions for Poly, Leather, Kink and Power Exchange Relationships. Conflict is a normal part of everyday life. Sometimes, when directly involved in a conflict, we get stuck in our ability to negotiate these challenges. The aid of a trained mediator may be just what is needed to navigate the relationship in a direction of validation and fulfillment for everyone involved. Ms Rhonda is kink and poly friendly, experienced with power dynamics, and can help you find clarity and a path through the difficulties you face.
Kathy Labriola, Counselor/Nurse
Counselor & Hypnotherapist
1307 University Avenue, Berkeley, CA. 94702; sessions available in person and by phone.
510-841-5307; anarchofeminist (at) yahoo.com
Brief statement: Counseling and Hypnotherapy for making changes to enhance your happiness and effectiveness in your life. Ninety minutes sessions, Sliding scale fees. I am in private practice in Berkeley, California providing low-fee counseling, coaching, and hypnotherapy. I work primarily with people in alternative communities: polyamory, kink, LGBT (particular expertise in bisexuality and trans issues), sex workers, anarchist/punk/hippie subcultures, drug and alcohol addiction, chronic illness, class issues, political activism and burn-out.
Keiko Lane, MA, MFT
Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT 44341)
Location: Berkeley, CA
510.527.6188; keiko(at)keikolanemft.com
Brief statement: The impact of collective, historic and public events on lives marginalized by dominant cultures often goes unrecognized. Especially for women, LGBT and queer-identified people, people of color and other people marginalized by dominant power paradigms, the body is often a site of cultural dislocation. By working directly with the cultural messages and lessons that have been integrated, often unconsciously, onto the body and psyche, we can begin to create new stories, meanings and choices about being members of our communities and cultures. In my psychotherapy practice I work with people of all genders in the exploration of relationships to the self, to others, and to the communities in which we live. I have extensive experience working with queer, genderqueer, activist, and multicultural communities, queer parents and prospective parents, as well as kink/BDSM and poly communities, and the spaces where these identities overlap. I also teach queer and multicultural psychology and supervise students beginning their clinical fieldwork.
Charles Moser, PhD, MD, FACP
Internal Medicine and Sexual Medicine
45 Castro Street, #125, San Francisco CA 94114
415-621-4369, docx2 (at) ix.netcom.com
Brief statement: Non-judgmental medical care, as well as treating the medical aspects of sexual concerns and sexual aspects of medical concerns
Felice Newman
Somatic Sex Coach
Location: San Francisco Bay area; phone consultations available
510.703.7125; felice (at) felicenewman.com
Brief Statement: I’m a somatic coach and sex educator, and the author of The Whole Lesbian Sex Book: A Passionate Guide for All of Us (Cleis Press). I believe that everyone can have a fulfilling sex life. Whether you have one partner or many, you can have intimate sexual relationships that expand and deepen over time. When you have sex, you bring with you the whole package of who you are: your sexual history, your beliefs about sex and gender, your accumulated sexual wisdom, your erotic imagination and yearnings, and your physical structure. My work addresses all of these aspects from the viewpoint of your concerns. What do you want? What’s missing now? Where are you “stuck”? What new competencies do you need to develop to reach your goals? I combine sex education with somatic bodywork (fully clothed). We use breathwork, self-observation, and simple movement exercises to guide you toward the new skills, practices, and perspectives that would have you say that you are thoroughly delighted with your sex life.
David Ortmann, LCSW
Psychotherapist and Sex Therapist
San Francisco, CA; in person and phone consultations available.
415-577-4430; David (at) DoPsychotherapy.com
Brief statement: David Ortmann is a San Francisco based psychotherapist, sex therapist and author. His areas of clinical focus and study are consensual non-monogamy, the sexuality of the BDSM and Leather communities, concepts and theories of masculinity, and the processes of human attachment and differentiation. He speaks locally and nationally in an effort to promote Leather and BDSM community visibility and improve clinical psychotherapeutic interventions for these populations. He is a member of the National Coalition for Sexual Freedom (NCSF), The American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT), the Northern California Society for Psychoanalytic Psychology (NCSPP) and is a founding member of the Community-Academic Consortium for Research on Alternative Sexualities (CARAS).
Adrienne Parker-Morano, LMFT
Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (License # MFT 39605)
Location: 341 Broadway Suite 409 Chico, CA 95928; phone counseling sessions available
530-321-6148, spiralcreations (at) sbcglobal.net
Brief Statement: I’m a psychotherapist licensed in the state of California. My specialties are alternative relationship styles, polyamory, communication, spirituality, sexuality,truth-telling and life-coaching. I do both in office and distance counseling sessions.
Kaye Porter CHT, CNLP
Life Design - Coaching & Consulting
Location: Los Angeles, CA; phone consultations are available
510.684.4819(San Francisco Area), 323.848.9964(Los Angeles), Kaye(at)KayePorter.net
Brief Statement: Master Certified Hypnotherapist, NeuroLinguistic Programmer, and active board member & consultant to the Los Angeles chapter of California Association for Marriage & Family Therapists; I’ve spent over 10 years studying and educating individuals and groups on human behavior, psychology, communications, gender communications, relationships and personal development. I’ve appeared on television and written articles. I’ve also worked with individuals and groups to have satisfying lives and partnerships with those around them.
Lia M. Salciccia, LMFT
Psychotherapist and relationship counselor
Location: 1132 McKendrie St., San Jose, CA 95126. Phone sessions are available.
408.612.3957; liatherapy@me.com
Brief statement: Trust is key to healing, and respect is key to trust. I strive not only to respect your choices but to understand your world and help you in the framework of your lifestyle. Compassionate, nonjudgmental psychotherapy and relationship counseling for individuals, families of all kind, and couples, triads, etc. Poly friendly, kink friendly, pagan friendly, LGBTQ friendly, and versed in alternative lifestyles and subcultures of all types. Your relationships were not created with a cookie cutter, and your therapy shouldn’t be either. I take you, your circumstance, your situation, your communication/learning style and your relationships all into account, and this informs my approach. To learn more about what I do and how I think, please drop by my website.
Suzie Sherman, MA, MFTI # IMF59099
Psychotherapy Intern
Location: 1676 Solano Avenue, Berkeley, CA 94707
510.496.3454; suzie.sherman.mft(at)gmail.com
Brief statement: I provide psychotherapy in a relational, nonjudgmental and direct style. LGBTIQ and straight clients welcome. I am committed to providing an open, culturally competent space for those identified with or exploring polyamory/nonmonogamy, kink/BDSM, butch/femme, and other frontiers of sexuality and intimacy. Individuals, couples, and triads/trios. Supervised by Cindy Blackett, MFT #MFC34867.
Geri D. Weitzman, PhD
Psychologist (License # PSY17963)
Location: 3884 24th Street (near Sanchez), San Francisco, CA 94114
Phone consultations or sessions: For California residents, I will sometimes agree to do phone sessions after the initial in-person consultation. Generally I will ask the client to come in person every 4th session or so.
415-517-7965, gdw (at) numenor.org
Brief statement: I am a licensed psychologist, practicing in San Francisco’s Noe Valley neighborhood. I enjoy helping people to find creative ways to solve problems and become more fully themselves. I offer a warm and supportive environment that affirms the diversity of each individual. My specialties include: relationship counseling, depression, anxiety, self esteem, substance abuse, internet addiction, personal growth, anger management, codependency, emotional abuse survivor issues, career issues, and coming out. I welcome clients from a variety of subcultures, including bisexual, lesbian, gay, transgender, bdsm, polyamory, hiv/poz, pagan, goth, geek, etc. For those with insurance: I am a member of the Blue Shield, UBH, Pacificare, United Health Care, and US Behavioral Health Plan panels.
Winston Wilde
Doctor of Human Sexuality, Marriage & Family Therapist (CA License MFC39060), Certified Sex Therapist (AASECT)
Location: 152 Lasky Drive, Suite 103 Beverly Hills, CA 90212
323-692-9120, docwilde (at) verizon.net
Brief statement: Dr. Wilde works mostly with erotic minority people (swingers, BDSM, polyfolk, fetishists) in individual, couple and family therapy.
Adam Zimbardo, MFT
Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, AASECT-certified Sex Educator
Location: 719 2nd Street, Davis, CA 95616
530-579-2706, adamz (at) adamzmft.net
Brief Statement: I have been working with nonmonogamous couples, open relationships, polyamory and BDSM/kink-identified clients for many years. I see individuals, couples, and triads, primarily focusing on short-term counseling and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
COLORADO
Tara Eastcott, Psy.D.
Psychotherapy and Psychological Assessments
Location: 1722 14th Street, Suite 130, Boulder, CO 80302; will do phone sessions on occassion with already established clients
720.236.2821; drt(at)tarapsyd.com
Brief statement: BENT: Psychological Services for Gender & Sexual Minorities.
Reed Lindberg, M.A., L.P.C.
Licensed Professional Counselor
Location: 1140 Lehigh St., Boulder, CO 80305
303.494.0393; reed4321 (at) indra (dot) com
Brief statement: Reed Lindberg, M.A., L.P.C., is the Managing Director of the Boulder Psychotherapy Institute. Our Institute trains therapists in Applied Existential Psychotherapy and related approaches. Reed is a couples therapist with 20 years experience. He refers to his work as “Relationship, Sex and Romance Counseling”. Reed works with couples of all sexual orientations, and feels privileged to share in the inner and interpersonal worlds of his clients and to work with them on their personal and relationship issues. He works to restore playfulness and trust to a relationship that may have grown mired in everyday life. His therapy is a mutual exploration of a couple’s issues and strengths. He does work with both individuals and couples.
CONNECTICUT
Tammy Nelson, MS, ATR, LPC, LADC
Director, Center for Healing
77 Danbury Road, Ridgefield, CT
357 Whitney Ave New Haven CT
203-438-3007, tammy@tammynelson.org
Brief Statment: Tammy Nelson is the author of “Getting the Sex You Want” and “What’s Eating You”, and offers specializes in working with couples to increase the passion in their relationship using empathic dialogue and other forms of intimate commnication. Tammy is a Certified Sexologist, a Certified Imago Therapist, a Licensed Professional Counselor, a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor and a Registered Art Therapist. She is also the sexuality expert at the Mayflower Spa in Washington, CT, and teaches seminars around the country for DandS Associates on Relationship & Couples Therapy, Sexuality and Affairs & Infidelity.
P. Michele Sugg
MSW, LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker), AASECT Certified Sex Therapist
Location: 184 Maple St., Branford CT 06405
203-488-2630, michele@michelesugg.com
Brief statement: Over 25 years of experience, training at Masters and Johnson Institute, 18 years at Yale Psychiatric Institute prior to private practice. Sex Therapy Advisor to Alexander Foundation for Women’s Health. Philosophy: Every individual has the right to an enjoyable, guilt free, fulfilling sex life. Eclectic approach to help attain therapeutic goals. Caring, confidential, treatment.
FLORIDA
George Kallas, Ph.D., Psy.D.
Licensed Psychologist, Sex Therapist, & Hypnotherapist
Location: 5100 South University Drive, Building 1, Suite 119, Davie, FL 33328
954-987-0280, theorioncenter (at) yahoo.com
Brief statement: GLBT, Lifestyle/Swinger, and Poly-Friendly therapist with an eclectic therapy style.
Patrick Mulholl, Ph.D, LCSW
Licensed Psychotherapist, Certified Sex Therapist
Location: 3475 Sheriden Strett, Suite 312, Hollywood FL 33021
(954)894-8024; pm33021@aol.com
Brief Statement: Licensed psychotherapist and certified sex therapist specializing in couples / individual therapy for mental health and sexual related concerns.
GEORGIA
ILLINOIS
Nutashia Baynes, MA. LPC, CST, Loveologist
Psychotherapist in Private Practice
Location: Schaumburg , IL; Phone consultations available
708.208.4535; cherishsecrets(at)yahoo.com
Brief Statement: I am a Licensed Professional Counselor from the Chicagoland. I take an interpersonal/relational approach to my work with people and serve diverse populations including individuals who are engaged in, curious about or struggling with alternative relationships styles. knowledgeable and affirming of non-traditional, consensual non-monogamy and/or polyamorous configurations, I am aware that one size has never and will never fit all. I accept some insurance plans and offer a sliding scale to make psychotherapy or consultation more affordable.I am a sexuality educator who help couples by assisting them in identifying and embracing their desires and boundaries, actively living in and through the body, and learning how to clearly communicate with partners. I believe there is no “Right” way to be a sexual being, as long as relationships and activities are all fully consensual.
Jim Cosenza, LCSW, CADC
Psychotherapist
4753 N. Broadway, Suite 608, Chicago, IL 60640
773.633.6643; jim@jimcosenza.com
Brief statement: Jim Cosenza is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a private psychotherapy practice in Chicago’s Uptown neighborhood. Supportive counseling and psychotherapy for individuals and families in poly relationships, LGBTQ persons, leather, kink, and blended families.
INDIANA
Lara M. West, LMHC
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, therapist
Location: 2512 Covington St., West Lafayette, IN 47906. Serving the greater Lafayette and northern Indianapolis area
765-497-3932, ext 95: 317-956-2030 for emergency or after hours contact
laramwest (at) yahoo.com
Brief statement: Using a realistic, strengths-based approach (and some humor), I work provide a safe, non-judgmental and objective atmosphere for clients to explore possibilities for acceptance and change.
MARYLAND
Joe James, Ph.D.
Psychologist
Location: 4400 East West Highway, Suite 712 Bethesda, MD 20814, in person sessions and phone consultations
301.657.1144
DrJoe (at) DrJoeJames.com
Brief Statement: I have been working with individuals, couples, triads, foursomes and moresomes from the swinging, polyamory and BDSM communities in the Washington, D.C. area since 1995. I strive to create a warm and nonjudgmental atmostphere in which people can comfortably explore the issues they are struggling with. Whether you are seeking therapy for reasons related to your lifestyle or for reasons unrelated, you can rest assured that I am knowledgeable and accepting of that aspect of your life.
Shervon Laurice, MS, LCPC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
Location: Silver Spring MD; phone consultations or sessions.
301-873-4457, slaurice (at) gmail.com
Brief Statement: I work with clients on issues around depression, anxiety, sexual identity/GLBTQ, stress, traditonal & alternative lifestyle relationships, spirituality, and personal growth. I practice a holistic, mindfulness approach to therapy in which I walk with my clients on their journey toward self-discovery and personal growth. My focus is to facilitate life change by helping clients “clear away the mud” from the lens with which they view themselves, others and the world around them.
MASSACHUSETTS
Aimee K. Bouchard, Attorney at Law
Springfield, MA
413-732-0489
aimee@aimeebouchard.com
I am a poly and kink friendly family law attorney currently licensed in Massachusetts. I have experience with divorce, child custody and support, care and protection and state intervention cases, as well as estate planning and probate matters. I am also trained as a family law mediator. Sliding fee scale available.
Randi Kaufman, PsyD
Clinical Psychologist
1218 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge, MA, 02138
617-441-2100; randi.kaufman2(at)verizon.net
Brief statment: I am a poly/kink/GLBTQ-friendly psychologist, and have been providing psychotherapy for folks with alternative lifestyles for over 10 years.
Bill Slaughter MD MA
MD psychiatrist, psychotherapist
Location: 49 Hancock St, Cambridge MA 02139 (serving Boston metropolitan area); Phone consultations or sessions can likely be arranged
(617) 233-8957
Brief statement: Since 1985 I’ve worked in the human potential/healthcare field with people in many situations. My initial training was at a buddhist school and since then Jungian analytic and contemporary psychiatric training have also been very influential to how I work. Polyamorous arrangements and sexuality/relatedness issues in general are issues which come up in my practice frequently, as well as other common challenges such as life choices, direction, and transitions, as well as mood, substance use, spirituality, attention and mindfulness, anxiety, and the like. I’m happy to talk initially briefly by phone if you like to see if an initial meeting might make sense and be possible. Sliding fee scale; flexible payment arrangements possible; many insurances accepted; out-of-network coverage likely for others.
MICHIGAN
Eric S Blumberg, Ph. D., LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Location: Bonaventure Center, 11111 Hall Road, Suite 303, Utica, MI 48317
office: 586-997-3153 (general clinic questions such as insurances accepted); cell: 248-416-0685 (for appointments)
esblumberg (at) pobox.com
Brief statement: Sexologist and counselor/therapist providing lifestyle sensitive counseling to poly, kink, and LGBT people. Knowledgeable about and accepting of alternative lifestyles. Provides warm and genuine therapy and relationship counseling/coaching to all, based on the issues brought in rather than vanilla community judgmental expectations about what “should” be worked on. With my sexologist hat I provide coaching in the areas Tristan writes about and films, and I am an expert at coaching men and women on extending their sexual pleasure to include multiple (mostly women) and extended up to 1/2 hour (men and women) orgasms. Very experienced in working with highly sexual women to discuss any issues that may be arising from this normal but higher than usual desire aspect of their lives.
MINNESOTA
Scott Bartell, MSW, LICSW, ACSW, DCSW
Psychotherapist / Consultant
Location: 3204-18th Ave. So., Suite #5, Minneapolis, MN 55407
612-722-7877
Brief statement: Scott Bartell knows poly culture and is supportive to that and other minority groups. He is a proponent of Sex Positivity. His theoretical approach is Ericksonian Utilization, using Cognitive-Behavioral Restructuring, hypnotherapy, EMDR, Gestalt as each client needs. Can take most insurances; individual adult clients only at this time.
MISSOURI
Bryan Paschke, Attorney at Law
Location: 5 1/2 Topping Lane, Des Peres, MO 63131
314-732-3891, btpaschke@gmail.com
Brief Statement: I am a member of the Missouri bar as well as being licensed to practice before the patent office. However, I am more than willing to help poly groups set up rational legal structures which will give as many of the advantages of family as possible while helping them to predict possible or probable events, hiccups and pitfalls (what if one or more of the people want to dissolve the relationship? what if someone wants to add someone (s) on a temporary or permanent basis? what about kids resulting from the union? What if one or more people in the relationship becomes ill/injured?, etc).
NEVADA
see: M. Francesca Gentille under California
NEW HAMPSHIRE
Lee M. Faver, PhD ABPP
Licensed, Board Certified Psychologist
Location: 25 Carriage Lane, Westmoreland, NH 03467
603-852-8238; lee (at) leemfaver.com
Brief Statement: I provide individual and couple therapy from a highly integrated, self-psychology based approach, and practice on the NH/Vermont border. My experience in the arenas of sexuality, orientation, gender issues and reassignment, BDSM/kink and polyamory spans 20 years. I am a sex-positive professional with experience helping people in opposite-sex, same-sex and polyamorous relationships. Other expertise includes: Depression, Trauma, Interpersonal & Relationship Difficulties, Coupling, Uncoupling & Divorce, Pre-marital counseling, Affairs, Healthy and Destructive Sexuality, Major Life Transitions, Loss & Grief, Substance Use & Abuse, and Health-Related Behavior Change.
NEW JERSEY
see: Liz Lipman-Stern under New York
Institute for Personal Growth
Group practice of 24 LCSW’s, LPC’s and PhD’s helping clients for over 25 years.
Location: Located in NJ with offices in Jersey City, Highland Park and Freehold
800-379-9220; ipgcounseling@gmail.com
Brief statement about experience, your practice, anything else you want to say: The Institute for Personal Growth provides counseling and psychotherapy in New Jersey to people from all walks of life, concerning a vast number of issues and using a wide range of techniques and approaches in psychotherapy including but not limited to issues around polyamory, BDSM, couples work, sex therapy–we have 5 AASECT certified sex therapists on staff– and a variety of other issues. Our large staff of therapists have experience, qualification and specialization in virtually every conceivable issue or area of mental health and psychology. Please visit our website.
NEW YORK
Michelle L. Belgard DO
Board Certified in Internal Medicine
Location: Rainbow Medical, 2 Fifth Ave Suite 1 (Accessed at 18 Washington Square North), New York, NY 10011
212.777.1817, mlbelgard(at)hotmail.com
Brief statement: I’m a GLBTQ Poly and BDSM friendly Internist welcoming new patients. I’ve been personally involved in the alternative lifestyle scene for over 20 years.
Liz Lipman-Stern, LCSW
Certified Psychotherapist and AASECT-certified Sex Therapist
Locations: Highland Park, NJ and Manhattan, NY; Phone consultations and sessions available
908.420.0898; Liz(at)outsidetheboxcounts.com
Brief Statement: With over 20 years experience, I provide non-judgmental, knowledgeable, and compassionate counseling to individuals, couples, triads and larger intimate groupings in person and individuals and sometimes couples via telephone. I welcome you to call or email me for more information.
The Medical Center for Female Sexuality
Medical practice specializing in female sexuality
Locations: 2975 Westchester Avenue, Purchase, NY 10577 , and 800 Second Avenue, New York, NY
914.328.3700 and 646.839,0700: doctor@centerforfemalesexuality.com
Brief statement: The Medical Center for Female Sexuality integrates a medical and psychological treatment modality to address the unique sexual problems that women face. The treatment team is led by a physician who specializes in treating sexual dysfunction. Patients are seen by a PhD who performs a psychosexual evaluation and a nurse practitioner or physician’s assistant for a full medical exam. The treatment team develops an integrated treatment program to meet each patient’s individual needs.
Mark Michaels and Patricia Johnson
Tantra Teachers
Location: New York Metropolitan area
914-962-7328, info (at) TantraPM.com
Brief Statement: We have been teaching Tantra and Kriya Yoga together since 1999. We are the authors of The Essence of Tantric Sexuality, a National Best Books 2007 Award-Winner in the Health: Sexuality category and an Award-Winning Finalist in the Religion: Eastern Religions category, and Tantra for Erotic Empowerment. We also wrote and appeared in two instructional DVDs: “Tantric Sexual Massage for Lovers” and “Advanced Tantric Sex Secrets” (Alexander Institute, 2008), and have contributed articles to various online and print publications, including Chronogram and Debonair. We’re available for group workshops and private instructions and honor all consensual forms of sexual expression.
Reid Mihalko
Sex and Relationship Coach and Educator
Location: New York Metro Area (also San Francisco, Los Angeles, Las Vegas); in person and phone sessions and workshops
212.737.6368, 917.207.4554; reid(at)reidaboutsex.com
Brief Statement: Reid Mihalko is a coach, writer and educator with a remarkable ability to create a profound sense of safety for clients upon meeting or speaking with them. His coaching focuses on opening up new space for sexual and sensual self-expression inside relationships through the use of role modeling, forthright communication, and a deeper, pragmatic understanding of how relationships and emotions work. Reid’s coaching approach is simple: He uses that sense of safety he so easily generates as a tuning fork to teach people how to make themselves feel safe and empowered. From their own foundation of safety, and applying the powerful communication tools and perspectives woven through Reid’s life and work, clients can then invite others into their “safe-space.” Reid has worked with thousands of individuals from all walks of life, all orientations, relationship “lovestyles,” countries and religions.
Ilona Paris, LMHC
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Sex Therapist
Location: New York, NY; phone consultations and sessions available
ilonacparis@yahoo.com
Brief Statement: Ilona Paris is an expert in sexuality specializing in helping people explore their choices without cultural, political or religious stereotypes to bog them down thus causing fear and humiliation. She works to help people have a healthy foundation to explore that which they desire. Specializes in working with sex workers.
Katherine Rachlin, Ph.D.
Licensed Clinical Psychologist
49 West 24th Street, 9th Floor
New York, NY 10010
212-206-3636; krachlin@aol.com
Brief Statement: Kit Rachlin is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and AASECT Certified Sex Therapist specializing in gender identity and sexuality, including transgender, CD, BDSM, polyamory, and alternate lifestyles. Kit is a member of the board of directors of the World Professional Association for Transgender Health, a member of the Taskforce on Gender Variance, Gender Identity and Intersex Conditions of the American Psychological Association, and a past member of the board of directors of FTM International. Dr. Rachlin offers psychotherapy for individuals, couples, and families, referrals to peer and professional resources, supervision for professionals, and speaking / training / consultation services.
NORTH CAROLINA
OREGON
Wendy Blenning, MSW
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Location: 2304 E Burnside St., Suite # 105, Portland, Oregon 97214
503.329.3225; wendy@wendyblenning.com
Brief Statement: For over 25 years I have been providing mental health counseling and therapy to individuals, couples and families. I have experience serving diverse populations addressing issues including depression, anxiety, sexuality, gender, relationships, marital/partner difficulties, life transitions, self esteem, personal growth, stress management, work issues, decision-making, interpersonal problems, grief, loss, terminal illness, women’s issues, coming out, and HIV disease. Currently, my practice is focused on providing services to LGBTQ folks, as well as to folks who practice “alternative lifestyles”.
Sheridan M. Horning
Licensed Acupuncturist and Massage Therapist and Certified Qi Gong Instructor
Location: 2926 NE Flanders, Portland, Oregon 97232
503-703-5572; sheridanhorning@comcast.net
Brief Statement: I have been treating people with bodywork for 8 years and acupuncture for the past 2, and during this time, many patients with diverse sexual and relationship lifestyles have found it very easy to discuss topics with me that are at times considered taboo. I love to contribute whatever insight I find, and this usually puts the patient at ease, which leads to even deeper healing when combined with acupuncture, bodywork, nutritional and lifestyle counseling, and qi gong instruction.
Meg Jeske, M.A.
Professional Counselor
Location: 1305 NE Fremont, Portland, OR 97212; phone sessions available
503.753.1184; meg(at)liontreecounseling.com
Brief statement: Individual and relationships counseling with a focus on queer and trans identified individuals. I am queer identified and have personal and professional experience with trans, kink and poly communities. My clinical interests include gender, sexuality, grief & loss, parenting, and adoption. I have a foundation in relational theory and my work with clients often explores how relationships of all kinds inform, entangle and enhance their lives. Initial consultation at no charge, $40 for 50 minute session, sliding scale available. Phone sessions available at same rates.
Anna Marti
Intimacy Coaching, Sex and Spirit Coaching
Location: Portland, OR
503-705-7753, annamarti15 (at) hotmail.com
Brief statement: Anna Marti is an Intimacy Coach, passionate in supporting men and women of all ages, all orientations, alone or partnered, towards creating new and practical maps towards a vibrant and nourishing erotic connection with themselves and the world. She provides a bridge between more esoteric ‘tantric’ teachings and western psychotherapeutic and somatic practices that are congruent with personal values. Sessions contain a combination of teaching, counseling and experiential practices. She has been practicing for 17 years and is a member of AASECT, ASEP and SSSS.
Beth Richman, LCSW, CADC I
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Location:4110 SE Hawthorne Blvd., PMB 152, Portland, OR 97214
503-754-6145; BethRichmanLCSW(at)yahoo.com
Brief Statement:
I believe you have a deep wisdom about your experience. I see my role as providing guidance to assist you with trusting your instincts. I have a compassionate, caring, patient perspective, which I have found very effective in my extensive work with the kink, poly, swinger, queer, trans, and questioning communities. My specialties include complex relationship issues, trauma, dissociation, sex challenges, sexuality challenges, anxiety, depression, identity shifts, as well as others. My style is down to earth, casual yet professional, and I use humor in a respectful way.
PENNSYLVANIA
David Dean Schwartz, MSW, LCSW, Ed.D
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Location: Orchard Counseling & Education, 8302 Old York Rd., Elkins Park, PA 19027; serving SE Pennsylvania and Southern NJ.
215-392-4636, dave (at) orchardcounseling (dot) com
Brief statement: Alternative sexual lifestyles present wonderful opportunities, and also difficult challenges. Our empowering, sex-positive approach to individual and couples counseling balances respect for differences with a sensitivity to the real challenges of living a non-traditional lifestyle. Please see our website for more information.
Lisa B. Schwartz, Ph.D.
Location: 301 Oxford Valley Road, Suite 402B, Yardley PA 19067
215-321-6824; lisabschwartz@verizon.net
Robert F. Smith, LSW, CAC
Services Offered: Addictions, Alternative Lifestyle Coach and Therapist.
Location: Offices located in Norristown and North Wales, PA; Phone / online sessions available
484.686.4903; Robert.Smith@Safe-mail.net
Brief Statement: I am polyamorous myself and have been for over 30 years. I’m a psychotherapist licensed in the states of Pennsylvania and NJ. My specialties are alternative relationship styles, polyamory, communication, spirituality, sexuality,truth-telling and life-coaching. I welcome clients from a variety of subcultures, including Bisexual, Lesbian, Gay, Transgender, BDSM, Polyamory, Pagan, Swingers, etc
RHODE ISLAND
TENNESSEE
Chris Hancock, LCSW
Psychotherapist in Private Practice
Location: Nashville, TN; Phone consultations are available
615.430.2778; chancock-lcsw@hotmail.com
Brief Statement: I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker/Psychotherapist from New York with 10 years experience. Currently I live and practice in Nashville, TN where I also make music semi-professionally. I take an interpersonal/relational approach to my work with people and serve diverse populations including individuals who are engaged in, curious about or struggling with alternative relationships styles. knowledgeable and affirming of non-traditional, consensual non-monogamy and/or polyamorous configurations, I am aware that one size has never and will never fit all. I accept some insurance plans and offer a sliding scale to make psychotherapy or consultation more affordable.
TEXAS
Denis “Woodja” Flanigan, M.S., L.P.A.
Psychotherapist
Location: 2600 Southwest Fwy, Suite 409, Houston, TX 77098. Offering brief phone consultations and in-office sessions.
713-589-9804 denisflanigan (at) aol.com
Brief Statement: Offering individual psychotherapy, relationship counseling, career counseling, personality assessments, and presentations addressing various issues. Active in the local GLBT and leather/BDSM communities and is accepting of persons from a range of genders (M, F, T), ethnicities, and sexual lifestyles (e.g., polyamorous, swingers/the lifestyle, Sir/boy, BDSM, GLBT/heterosexual, etc.). Initial consultation at no charge
Robert McGarey, M.A.
Poly Relationship counselor
Loction: Available nationally by phone. Located at The Human Potential Center, 2007 Bert Avenue, Austin, TX 78704
Phone consultations or sessions? Yes, and the first introductory half-hour session is free 512-441-8988; Bob (at) HumanPotentialCenter.org
Brief statement : Personal Growth/Relationship Sessions for Individuals, Couples, Triads, Quads or Moresomes. Author of The Poly Communication Survival Kit. Frequent presenter at national poly conferences. Over 25 years experience with poly issues. Knowledgeable, insightful, non-judgmental. Phone sessions available. $120 for full 60-minute hour. Sliding scale available.
VERMONT
Please see Lee M. Faver, PhD, under New Hampshire
VIRGINIA
Jo Davis & Kim Mosny
Midwives
Location: Greater Richmond, VA area + 2 hour radius
804.658.9882; jdavis(at)richmondmidwife.com
Brief statement: We are a practice of midwives, serving the Greater Richmond area community. We serve all women in a safe and inclusive environment. We offer well woman care, sexual health care, sexual education and family planning counseling. We also offer prenatal care and the homebirth/waterbirth option in with providers who are lifestyle sensitive and family focused.
Sarah Sloane
Life coach / communications & relationship coach
Location: Northern Virginia / Washington DC area; phone/online consultations
sarah.sloane (at) gmail.com
Brief Statement: Sarah Sloane is an educator and coach focusing particularly on working with clients who self identify as polyamorous, kinky, queer, and other sexual / gender minorities. Sarah’s commitment to clients is to work with them to identify areas of challenge and blockage in all areas of their lives, and support them in goal creation and attainment, using her coaching skills, her compassion, and her knowledge in the areas of time management, organization, and mission statement / goal creation and planning. Additional information sex positive professionals is available here.
WASHINGTON
Dr. Katie Baker, ND, LMP
Naturopathic Physician, Licensed Massage Therapist
Location: Stone Turtle Health, 6204B 8th Ave NW, Seattle, WA 98107
206.355.4309/ fax 206.297.6325; info@stoneturtlehealth.com
Brief statement: At Stone Turtle Health, we’re committed to the health of our community. We provide primary care services and therapeutic massage therapy (not relazation massage). In addition, we also have other providers onsite- family counselors, massage therapists and will be adding an acupuncturist soon. Our goal is to help you make health decisions that are best for you and the ones you love, not to judge. Please call or email today with questions or to schedule and appointment (or check out our website).
Atta Dawahare, LMHC
Counseling for Individuals & Couples
Location: Union Therapy, 216 1st Ave, Suite 390, Seattle, WA 98122
206.992.2097; Atta@uniontherapy.com
Brief Statement: My desire is to work with highly functioning people who desire to live more fully. I specialize in dealing with relational issues. These issues can range from being unsatisfied with life and where life seems to be leading to dealing with complex emotional, spiritual, sexual, verbal and physical abuse. I deal with marital problems and divorce, family dynamic issues, and feelings of helplessness in life and love. I work with people of all sexual orientations, religious beliefs, and gender. I am a LGBTQ and Polyamory friendly therapist.
Jody Myers, MA
Therapist and/or consultant for individuals, couples, and families
Location: Seattle area
206-437-5623, jodymyers (at) mac.com; findingthebalance (at) oz.net
Brief statement: I accept and embrace the diversity of human experience and expression. Within that construct, I act as a catalyst stimulating growth and learning that can facilitate each unique situation to unfold and expand into more personal satisfaction.
Jennyfer Raden, MA, LMHC, CGE
Couples Counseling
Location: Greater Seattle area
206.850.4624; jennyfer@healthycouples.org
Brief statement: At Healthy Couples you will experience confidential, couples counseling. Relax in a safe, comfortable sex positive environment. Learn to use tools applicable to your everyday life and build healthy habits without changing who you are. All sexual preferences welcome: GLBTQ, BDSM, Poly, Open, Swing, Het.
Thekla Richter
Life Coach
Location: Seattle, WA; Phone appointments available
206.569.5990; coach(at)theklarichter.com
Brief statement: As a life balance coach, I help busy people find ways to make their full lives more balanced, more fulfilling and less overwhelming. During 45-minute phone sessions, I support you and facilitate your progress by: listening, questioning, encouraging, and facilitating action. It’s a fun, challenging and rewarding process that can help you build the kind of life you long for.
Richard Wagner, Ph.D., ACS
Therapist, Counselor and Educator
Seattle, WA
Phone sessions are available
206-709-8813; dr_dick@drdicksexadvice.com
Brief Statement: I affirm the fundamental goodness of sexuality in human life, both as a personal need and as an interpersonal bond. I know the unhappiness and anxiety, which sex-negative attitudes can engender in individuals, alienating them from their own body and the bodies of others. I know that such attitudes affect not only a person’s sex life, but also his/her ability to relate well with others. Sexual wellbeing is more than simply being able to perform. It is also taking responsibility for one’s eroticism as an integral part of one’s personality and involvement with others. Between the extremes of total sexual repression and relentless sexual pursuit, a person can find that unique place, where he/she is free to live a life of self-respect, enjoyment and love. Each person is a special ensemble of dispositions and needs and his/her uniqueness must be respected. My aim is to provide such information and guidance as will help the individual approach his/her unique sexuality in a realistic and responsible manner, as well as further his/her independent growth, personal integrity, and have a more joyful experience of living.
WISCONSIN
Kara Luening, MSW, APSW, CST-Candidate
Psychotherapist - Gender Specialist & Sex Therapist
Full Circle Counseling Solutions, LLC, 709 E. Juneau Ave., Suite 801, Milwaukee WI 53202
414-687-0008; kara (at) fullcirclemilwaukee.com
Brief Statement: Sometimes the traditional institution of marriage no longer works for a couple. This can be related to many different situations, i.e. self-growth, deeper love for more than one person, greater self-insight and truth, and the longing for “something more.” I assist couples who are in a healthy position to begin opening up their reality to be more conducive to their truth. If you are ready to begin your journey into living out your desires together as a couple in mutual love and respect, then let’s talk. Couples of all diverse lifestyles and belief systems welcome.
Jasmine St. John, MS, MFT
Individual & couples therapy
Location: Madison, WI
608-663-6154, jsj (at) jsjtherapy.com
Brief statement: Specializing in alternative relationships configurations, GLBT, polyamory, alternative family formations, sexual identity, sex workers, fetishes, BDSM, sexual exploration, swinging, sexual abuse, sexual spirituality, introducing sexual ideas to your partner/s, self acceptance of sexual preferences, and non traditional approaches to sexuality. The therapist also works with traditional couples in regards to their relationship, sexual choices, and communication.
WYOMING
Wally Wolfe, LPC
Professor (Psychology and Human Sexuality) with part-time general counseling practice. The “LPC” reflects Wyoming licensure as a professional counselor.
Location: Northwest College, Frisby Building, 231 W. 6th St, Powell, WY 82435.
307-754-6132, wally.wolfe (at) northwestcollege.edu
Brief statement : 20+ years of experience as a therapist, 15+ years teaching Human Sexuality, research interest in alternative sexualities in rural communities (we don’t all live in NYC or Southern California), listed as a “kink friendly” professional with the National Coalition for Sexual Freedom. Safe¸ non-judgmental, and (this is a rural area) very careful with confidentiality.
INTERNATIONAL PROFESSIONALS
Australia:
Frances Amaroux, BA Psych
Coach and Counsellor
Location: Balmain/ Sydney; phone or Skype conferencing sessions also available.
info@ALTcoach.com
Brief Statement: In private practice since 1991… Poly and kink friendly counsellor and coach. Specializing in relationships of all shapes and sizes ;-). Also, Depression, Anxiety, Phobias ( using NLP and EFT), Self Esteem, New Directions and Spiritual (not religious) Exploration.
Great Britain:
Grant Denkinson
Psychotherapist (in advanced clinical training)
Location: Leicester, England.
07909 678273; granttherapist(at)nym.hush.com
Brief statement: I offer short or longer-term work with individuals using an integrative professional approach working on your issues at your pace.
Worldwide
Ash Rehn, BSocWk, MA, MAASW (Acc.)
Counsellor, Narrative Therapist
Online Counselling through a choice of email, instant message chat, phone or webcam sessions
ash (at) forwardtherapy.com
Brief Statement: Ash commenced working as a counsellor in 1989 and offers the privacy and comfort of therapy over the Internet. Ash uses narrative therapy and collaborative practices and takes an interviewing approach instead of ‘advice-giving’. This model of therapy is gentle and respectful but has powerful results. Ash enjoys working with gay, lesbian, bisexual and trans folk.
Shiva Rodriguez
Adviser / Non-Monogamy Lifestyle Coach
Brief statement: I have been involved in various forms of non-monogamous lifestyles for over twenty years. I’ve also spent three years working as a Q&A columnist for an online magazine about human sexuality. My live advice line is geared toward helping newcomers to non-monogamy decide what relationship structure is best for their needs and assisting callers through any difficulties they may be experiencing in their relationships. Appointments are available day or night.
OTHER DIRECTORIES AND LISTS
American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists (AASECT)
Bisexuality-Aware Professionals Directory
list of professionals who are sensitive to the unique needs of bisexual clientele.
Kink-Aware Professionals
Resource for people who are seeking psychotherapeutic, medical, and legal professionals who are informed about the diversity of consensual, adult sexuality (maintained by the National Coalition for Sexual Freedom).
Kink-Aware Professionals - Canada
Poly-Friendly Professionals
list of professionals who have been referred or who have identified themselves as being open-minded about polyamory and polyamorous issues.
If you or someone you know would like to be added to the Open List, email the following information to sarah (at) puckerup.com:
-Name
-Title/Occupation/License/What You Do (examples: MSW, PhD., relationship coach)
-Location: this can be a street address or the area you serve, like New York Metropolitan area
-do you do phone consultations or sessions?
-phone number(s)
-Email address
-website
-brief statement about experience, your practice, anything else you want to say
