Meet Megan McKinney

We had the good fortune of connecting with Megan McKinney and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Megan, other than deciding to work for yourself, what was the single most important decision you made that contributed to your success?
The decision to pursue sex therapy in a conservative state with limited access to comprehensive sex education stands as one of the most pivotal choices I made in my career, aside from choosing to work for myself. In a region where conversations about sex are often stigmatized and misunderstood, venturing into the field of sex therapy was both a challenging and transformative decision. Not only did it shape my career, but it also allowed me to contribute meaningfully to an underserved community in need of education, support, and healing.

In many conservative states, sex education is either minimal or abstinence-based, leaving individuals with little understanding of their sexual health. This lack of education fosters confusion, shame, and silence surrounding sexuality, which often leads to emotional, psychological, and relational struggles. Furthermore, there is a direct link between the absence of comprehensive sex education and the prevalence of sexual trauma. Without an understanding of healthy sexual boundaries, consent, and respectful relationships, individuals are more vulnerable to exploitation and harm. Recognizing this gap in services, I felt a strong compulsion to be part of the solution. My goal was to provide accurate information, create a safe space for healing, and promote healthier attitudes toward sexuality and relationships. In doing so, I have been able to help individuals and couples change their beliefs around sex and sexuality, as well as improve overall sexual health.

At the time, the decision felt risky and still feels risky today. Many people view sex therapy as unnecessary or even taboo, and for some, just the mention of sexuality in a therapeutic context is enough to elicit discomfort. Despite the challenges, I believe deeply that there is a need for someone to be available to guide individuals through their struggles, whether they are related to communication issues, intimacy concerns, or sexual dysfunctions. The lack of available resources fueled my determination to pursue this field.

Ultimately, pursuing sex therapy is more than just a career decision; it is a mission. It is a choice rooted in empathy, a desire to make a difference, and a commitment to breaking barriers. The joy and excitement that comes from helping individuals and couples not only understand their sexual health but also feel empowered to enjoy sex in a fulfilling and authentic way is truly rewarding. Witnessing clients regain confidence, decrease shame and embrace their desires, as well as experience healthier relationships is both inspiring and deeply fulfilling. Looking back, it was undoubtedly one of the most important decisions I made, and it has contributed immensely to my success in this field.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
What sets my business apart is my direct, straightforward approach and ability to have honest, open conversations. I believe in creating a space where it feels more like sitting down with a close friend than a traditional therapy session. I don’t sugarcoat things, and I’m not afraid to dive into tough conversations. This authenticity helps clients feel comfortable, heard, and empowered. Instead of feeling like they’re in a clinical, distant environment, they feel like they can talk openly, explore their sexuality and relationships, and work through challenges in a way that’s relatable and grounded.

Getting to where I am today has been anything but linear. The journey has been long, layered, and marked by growth, discomfort, setbacks, and deep reflection. I’ve had to face my own questions and insecurities around sex and unpack what it truly meant—for me personally and professionally—to step into this field. Like my clients, I’ve done the hard, vulnerable work of examining my own story, challenging shame, and redefining what empowerment looks like. There were times of doubt and uncertainty, but each turning point reaffirmed my commitment to this path. Every challenge became a checkpoint that brought me back to my core mission: creating a space rooted in honesty, education, and empowerment.

The lessons I’ve learned along the way have been invaluable: that authenticity is the foundation of trust, that finding the words to name our experiences is often the first step toward healing, and that what matters most isn’t where you begin, but the growth, resilience, and purpose you find along the way.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
For a perfect weekend in Dallas, start your day with a walk around White Rock Lake or coffee at La Reunion, followed by a stroll through the shops and boutiques in Bishop Arts for some relaxed window shopping. In the evening, dinner at Beverley’s or Sister—both offer incredible food and a great vibe— and end the night with a show at The Bomb Factory or Dallas Comedy Club.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want to dedicate this shout-out to my mom and all the incredible women who have supported me along the way, allowing me to start these important conversations early on. Your openness, guidance, and willingness to discuss sexuality, boundaries, and self-empowerment were pivotal in shaping my journey. Your courage to engage in these conversations with me not only inspired me but also laid the foundation for my mission to create a space for healing and growth. Thank you for being the trailblazers in my life, encouraging me to explore, learn, and, ultimately, empower others along this path.

Website: https://pillowtalksextherapy.com

Image Credits
Photos taken by Laurence Gayao