Couples therapy for kinky couples, also known as BDSM (Bondage, Discipline, Dominance, Submission, Sadism, Masochism) or alternative lifestyle couples, can involve addressing unique challenges and dynamics specific to their sexual preferences and practices. Here are some key aspects of what couples therapy for kinky couples might involve:

1. Non-judgmental and sex-positive environment: A sex-positive and non-judgmental therapist creates a safe space where couples can openly discuss their kinks, desires, and concerns without fear of shame or stigma. The therapist should have knowledge and understanding of BDSM dynamics, consent, boundaries, and risk-aware consensual kink (RACK) principles.
2. Communication and negotiation skills: BDSM relationships heavily rely on clear communication, negotiation of boundaries, and consent. The therapist helps the couple enhance their communication skills, learn effective negotiation techniques, and establish healthy and consensual power dynamics within their relationship.
3. Exploration of roles and dynamics: Couples therapy can explore the roles, power dynamics, and hierarchy within BDSM relationships. This may involve understanding Dominant/submissive dynamics, exploring switch roles, or examining how power exchange dynamics impact the couple’s overall relationship satisfaction and intimacy.
4. Consent and boundaries: Consent and boundaries are crucial in BDSM relationships. The therapist helps couples establish and negotiate consensual limits, explore the concept of safewords, and ensure both partners feel safe and respected within their dynamic.
5. Emotional and psychological well-being: BDSM can bring up emotional and psychological challenges, such as addressing past traumas, dealing with guilt or shame, or navigating feelings of submission or dominance. The therapist assists individuals and the couple in exploring these emotional aspects, fostering emotional well-being, and ensuring that the BDSM activities align with the couple’s values and overall relationship goals.
6. Conflict resolution and problem-solving: Like any relationship, BDSM relationships can experience conflicts or challenges. The therapist helps the couple develop conflict resolution skills specific to their BDSM dynamic, such as negotiating scenes, resolving disagreements about limits or rules, or addressing conflicts arising from differences in kink preferences.
7. Safety and risk management: BDSM involves certain physical risks, such as bondage or impact play. Couples therapy can address safety concerns, educate the couple on risk management, and discuss strategies for ensuring physical and emotional safety during BDSM activities.

It’s essential to find a therapist , like Maria Carrington who is knowledgeable and comfortable working with alternative lifestyle couples and has an understanding of BDSM dynamics and practices. This ensures that the therapist can provide appropriate guidance and support specific to the couple’s needs within their kinky relationship.