About Kendra

Kendra Twenter LMFT San Francisco Sex Therapist Headshot

Kendra Twenter, LMFT (she/her)

San Francisco Sex Therapist specializing in Kink, Polyamory, BIPoC and LGBTQIA+ Affirming Care

LMFT #162213

 
 
If you’ve been searching for LGBTQ+ affirming therapy in California, a Black therapist who understands systemic trauma, or a decolonial therapist for polyamorous or non-traditional relationships, I may be the right fit for you.
If you’re ready to begin, I’m here. The porch light stays on.

I believe we are complex beings who get a lifetime to explore ourselves alongside the world. I find joy in creating a space where clients can show up as themselves, explore different parts of their lives, and work toward the goals they’ve set, whether that’s discussing opening up a relationship, healing from a family rupture, or navigating a life transition. My passion is supporting clients in building the connections they desire and deserve.
— Kendra Twenter, LMFT

About

Kendra Twenter is a sex therapist and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT #162213) in San Francisco specializing in kink-informed care, non-monogamy, LGBTQIA+ affirming, BIPoC and decolonial therapy for individuals (ages 12+), couples, partners, and families. She is also a Ph.D. student in Human Sexuality at the California Institute of Integral Studies.

Credentials

  • LMFT #162213

  • Ph.D. student, Human Sexuality, California Institute of Integral Studies

  • M.A., Counseling Psychology, University of San Francisco

  • M.A., Sociology and Sexuality, San Francisco State University

  • Certification in Sexuality and Religion, Pacific School of Religion

  • Certified: Kink-Informed Therapy, Anti-Racist Practice, Diversity & Inclusion

Approach

Kendra's clinical approach is rooted in client-centered care, attachment theory, trauma-informed practice, and sex-positive principles. She works with individuals (12+), couples, partners and families navigating complex issues around intimacy, desire, identity, and relationship structure. Her style is client-centered and strength-based, with a deep commitment to creating affirming spaces for Black, LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, kink, polyamorous / EMN, and neurodivergent clients.

With experience spanning community non-profit settings and private practice, Kendra has developed particular expertise supporting clients through anxiety, relationship challenges, and the mental health impact of systemic oppression. She integrates evidence-based modalities, including CBT, mindfulness, and somatic awareness, with a grounded understanding of human sexuality and attachment neuroscience.

Kendra is also an experienced educator, having led workshops on decolonizing therapy, radical wellness, and sexuality for Bay Area organizations and national conferences. She is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Human Sexuality, with research interests at the intersection of spirituality, identity, and intimate relationships.

Specialties

  • Sex Therapy Desire discrepancy, sexual anxiety, pleasure enhancement, kink/BDSM-affirming care, non-monogamy, polyamory, and the intersection of sex with religion and spirituality

  • Relationship & Couples Counseling Attachment-based modalities, communication challenges, intimacy building, premarital counseling

  • Trauma-Informed Care Relational trauma, sexual trauma, systemic oppression, somatic awareness

  • LGBTQIA+ Affirming Therapy Gender identity exploration, coming out, transition support, queer relationship dynamics

  • BIPOC Mental Health Culturally responsive care, racial identity and intersectionality, decolonizing therapy practices

  • Anxiety & Life Transitions Anxiety disorders, stress management, career and identity shifts, personal growth

  • Sex Worker Affirming Care Non-judgmental, informed support for individuals in sex work

  • Holistic & Mind-Body Integration Mindfulness, somatic experiencing, nervous system regulation

FAQ

Is Kendra Twenter a Black sex therapist?

Yes. Kendra is a Black sex therapist whose decolonial approach centers culturally responsive care and an understanding of systemic trauma.

Does Kendra work with kink and polyamorous clients?

Yes. Kendra provides kink-informed and BDSM-affirming care and works with clients in non-monogamous and polyamorous relationship structures.

Does Kendra work with LGBTQIA+ clients?

Yes. Kendra provides LGBTQIA+ affirming therapy, including support for gender identity exploration, coming out, and queer relationship dynamics.

Does Kendra work with Monogomous and Hetersexual clients?

Yes. Kendra provides therapy, including support for all sexualities and relationship identities..

Does Kendra see individuals, couples, or families?

All three. Kendra works with individuals ages 12 and up, couples & partners and families.

Does Kendra see individuals, couples, or families?

All three. Kendra works with individuals ages 12 and up, couples & partners and families.

What therapeutic approaches does Kendra use?

Kendra integrates attachment theory, trauma-informed care, CBT,

mindfulness, and somatic awareness, alongside specialized training in

human sexuality.