Hunter Kelly,
MHC-LP, Ed.M., MA
Therapist
Pronouns: he/she/it
There is no “right way” to approach therapy, and you deserve a space tailored to your needs. If the thought of explaining the definition of “polycule” or “T4T” to a therapist feels exhausting to you, you’re in the right place. Therapy is for you, to help explore and process what feels heavy or important to you, without the burden of educating your therapist about your community.
About Hunter
I am a neurodivergent, transsexual, and genderfluid lesbian who is polyamorous and active in the kink/BDSM scene. I am also a former sex worker who grew up in a rural, conservative town. Because of this, I approach my role as a therapist with a profound commitment to the necessity of providing clients with a truly safe space to do our work together. My work as a therapist is informed heavily by my experiences as a trans person and as a sex worker – I strive to consistently dismantle internalized shame and systemic oppression through trauma-informed approaches.
Working with Hunter
With marginalized identities, occupations, and relationship structures, it might feel overwhelming to find a therapeutic space where you feel deeply understood. My approach is rooted in trauma-informed and harm reduction orientations, and I view therapy as a collaborative journey. My goal is always to meet you where you are, and to forge a path together to explore all areas of your life, from relationship issues to burnout, feeling “stuck”, or childhood trauma. I use an eclectic approach of modalities to support this client-led structure, including CBT, DBT, ERP, psychodynamic, creative arts, and mindfulness practices.
Specialty
I specialize in:
Gender, including medical transition and TGNC
Sexuality and identity
Polyamory/non-monogamy/alternative relationship structures
Kink/BDSM
Sex work
Depression
Anxiety
Shame and guilt
Obsessive-compulsive disorder
ADHD/neurodivergence
Complex trauma
Chronic illness
HIV/AIDS
Substance use
Education, Training, and Certifications
Ed.M. in Mental Health Counseling from Teachers College, Columbia University
M.A. in Psychological Counseling from Teachers College, Columbia University
B.A. in Psychology with a minor in dance from Marymount Manhattan College
Training in ERP from NOCD and Therapy Express
Training in harm reduction, CBT, and DBT during fieldwork at GMHC
Co-facilitated support groups for men living with HIV and AIDS at GMHC.