Definitions
What is a kink coach, and how is it different from a therapist?
A coach helps you plan, communicate, and explore. The process is often goal-oriented. A therapist is licensed to diagnose and treat mental health conditions. They do different jobs, and plenty of folks work with both in parallel.
A kink-aware coach can support things like negotiating with partners, communicating your needs, exploring roles, and building a dynamic that suits you. Coaching is not therapy, and a coach does not diagnose or treat mental health conditions.
If you are working through trauma, or something that is affecting your daily life negatively, a licensed kink-aware therapist is likely the right fit. A coach can sit alongside that work.
Keep reading: Kink Coaching with Aidan Sunassee
Written for the kink community by Aidan Sunassee.