BDSM is not only a form of sexual expression, but it can also serve any number functions for its practitioners; a source of community, a relational framework, a creative outlet, a shameful secret, an expression of spirituality, and a cause for isolation among many others. It speaks to the infinite complexities of human interactions, which manifest in the therapeutic process. However, for many clinicians, clinical, personal, and cultural misconceptions about BDSM can work their way into the therapy room in the form of transference or countertransference. This class is designed to address the issues specific to working with kinky clients from a strengths based, client centered perspective. Participants will learn to identify how kink can come up in the therapy room, identify potential barriers to care, manage countertransference issues, and learn how to avoid common clinical pitfalls when working with kinky clients.