Everyone deserves a shame-free space to explore their identity and values, including their sexuality, in order to build a meaningful and fulfilling life.
Many clients come to me to work specifically on issues related to gender, sexual identity or sexual relationships, while others simply want a therapist who welcomes all aspects of who they are, whether or not sexuality or gender is a focus of our work. I see myself as a partner in my clients’ journeys toward greater understanding of and alignment with their values and identity. Clients have described me as warm, humorous, and insightful.
I work from a relational and strengths-based perspective, drawing primarily from attachment theory, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and parts work. I believe that every body is a good body, deserving of care and respect, and that our bodies are a source of information as well as a resource to support our mental and emotional well-being.
I work with clients 18 years old and up and welcome clients of all identities, backgrounds, and relationship/family structures. I see clients in person in DC and offer telehealth sessions to clients in DC, MD, and VA.
In addition to my professional training as a therapist, I have been a volunteer abortion doula for nearly 10 years and spent 15+ years working in sexual and reproductive health research and policy.
I hold masters degrees in social work and public health, as well as certification as a sex therapist through the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT). I completed internships at Bread for the City and Whitman Walker and did my supervisory training at the Pincus Center.
Kate Gilles
LICSW, CST
