ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on kink practices. Recent research and Bisbey’s clinical experience highlight that therapists working with people from the kink, fetish and BDSM communities need to be careful of their bias and judgements. Bisbey explains the most common biases in the case of kink, BDSM and fetish. These misconceptions apply to heterosexuals and LGBTQIA+ people who engage in kink/BDSM/fetish. In addition, research and clinical experience highlight that therapists (including sex therapists) have a woeful lack of knowledge when it comes to kink/BDSM/fetish. Many have only what they have been exposed to in popular culture. This chapter will present a framework for uncovering and addressing bias/judgement as well as one for gaining the information and experience needed to provide effective and affirming therapy for people who present in these categories – whether they are seeking therapy for issues to do with sex and relationships or for issues entirely unrelated to their sexuality.
