A therapist who brings their whole self into the room
I'm Kelly Howard — a sex-positive, trauma-informed psychotherapist specializing in sex, intimacy, and relationship therapy for individuals and relationships of all configurations throughout California. I offer Telehealth sessions, which means I work with clients across the state from my home in the East Bay.
I came to this work because I believe everyone deserves a therapist who doesn't flinch. Sexuality, desire, gender, kink, non-monogamy, and relationship transitions are not fringe topics in my practice — they're the heart of it. I hold a deep respect for the courage it takes to look honestly at your intimate life and ask for support.
ABOUT KELLY
MY APPROACH
How we work together
I meet you wherever you are. There is no agenda, no "right" outcome, and nothing too much for this space. My style is warm, curious, and non-judgmental — and I actively invite your feedback so that therapy feels curated to you, not generic.
I draw on a range of evidence-based and integrative frameworks depending on what each client needs.
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For couples and partners building communication skills and repairing the relational foundation.
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Exploring inner parts and protective patterns that shape how we show up in relationships.
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Staying present with what's alive in the session rather than only analyzing the past.
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Practical skill-building for managing patterns, emotions, and communication.
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I also offer harm-reduction integrative therapy (HRIT) for clients incorporating psychedelics into their personal healing journey.
CREDENTIALS
Training & Experience
Masters in Counseling Psychology | Golden Gate University
Sex Therapist Certification | Sexual Health Alliance
Sexuality Coach & Consultant Certification | Sexual Health Alliance
Gottman Couples Therapist, Level 1 | Gottman Institute
Year-long Traineeship | Pacific Center for Human Growth
Crisis Center Volunteer | The Trevor Project
Psychedelic Peer Support Sitter | Zendo Project
POSITIONALITY
Where I’m coming from
I believe therapy is more honest when a therapist names the perspective and privilege they bring into the room. Using the BOLD ADDRESSING framework from Roger Kuhn, PhD, here is my positionality:
I live in a white, short-statured, athletic body on unceded Lisjan Ohlone land within a multi-family community home. I am settling into early middle age with an acquired chronic pain and chronic illness disability. I am a former Christian with an open mind toward spirituality and practices of Buddhism while holding an agnostic worldview. I am an 8th generation American with family lineage predominantly from England, Scotland, Wales, Ireland, and Germany. I identify as a pansexual, gender non-binary (GNB) femme who holds non-monogamous relationship structures.
I am a perpetual student, educator, and healer — with a deep desire to keep learning about relationships and the human condition throughout my life and career.
Ready to see if we’re a good fit?
The best way to get a sense of how I work is to have a conversation. I offer free, no-obligation consultations — and if it turns out I'm not the right match, I'll point you toward someone who might be.