Dr. Elyssa Helfer (she/her/her)

LMFT, PhD, CST
Accepting Clients

Welcome! I am Elyssa, a kink-specializing, curse word using, affirming sex therapist. If you are ready, let me join you on your journey.

Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in California

About My Clients

While I am able to work with a number of mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, work stress, and more, my primary focus of practice is sexuality. Sexual expression, sexuality and gender identity are key factors in the well being of any individual. We are living in a world where we are not encouraged to explore our sexuality and inner most desires and I want to change that. Whether exploring Kink/BDSM, Swing Lifestyles, Consensual Non Monogamy and more, I am here to help.

My Background and Approach

I believe that the best relationships form from authenticity and understanding. I approach therapy from a perspective that we are all humans; flawed, misunderstood and fundamentally seeking connection and love. I consider myself a modern clinician, constantly evolving and adapting to meet the needs of my clients. My approach may be eclectic and I am not one to shy away from the occasional (or not so occasional) curse word but I am passionate about what I do and believe that quality, honest, and deep work can be life changing.

Why I am a Good Fit for You

This is a weird title (but it is a drop-down menu and not a fill in the blank so I gotta do what I gotta do) because I may not be a good fit for you and that is OK. Things you should know: First, I saw a meme that said, "Me to my therapist after she makes me talk about trauma and work through my shit," with a photo underneath of a man leaving the room saying, "Fuck you, and I'll see you next Monday." If that does not describe my style, I don't know what does. Second, you should know that I firmly take an anti-oppression approach in ALL of my work. I actively fight against the systems which perpetuate harm to my clients. I believe wholeheartedly that only working to "change" a client does not mean shit if we are not working to change the system that has harmed them in the first place. Identites I hold: Queer, Fat, Non-monogamous, Kinky.

I offer online counseling in the following states:

At A Glance

  • Experience: 9 years of practice
  • Languages: English
  • Rate: $225 - 250/session

Reach out to Dr. Elyssa