Get to know Afterglow

Afterglow began with a belief that understanding ourselves can open the door to a more connected, fulfilling, and pleasurable life. Founded by Dr. Ryan Kent, Afterglow Behavioral & Sexual Health, LLC brings together his background in counseling, human services, and sexual health. Its purpose is to create space for honest conversations about experiences that can be deeply personal and difficult to put into words. Here, mental health and sexual wellness are approached with compassion, curiosity, and respect for each person’s values and lived experience.

The name Afterglow captures the warmth, pleasure, and sometimes euphoric feeling that lingers after something positive or meaningful happens. For Ryan, that feeling extends to a breakthrough in therapy, a moment of sexual discovery, or the relief of finally feeling understood. It can emerge when someone begins to feel comfortable in their body or finds a new way to connect with a partner. The name reflects the hope that these moments can stay with us, shaping how we see ourselves and what we believe is possible.

That vision now connects the Afterglow family through Therapy & Consultation, Afterglow Publishing, and Afterglow Institute. Therapy offers a personal space for exploration and change. Publishing gives authors a way to share stories and insights that help others feel informed and less alone. Through speaking engagements, classes, and workshops, the Institute brings those conversations into communities and professional settings. Together, these efforts carry forward a shared belief: healing begins with understanding, and growth begins with Afterglow.

The Mission

Our mission is to empower individuals, couples, and communities to improve their mental and sexual well-being through compassionate therapy, expert consultation, independent publishing, and inclusive education that inspire confidence, connection, and growth.

The Vision

Our vision is a world where mental and sexual wellness are embraced, every person feels valued, and compassionate care, inclusive publishing, and accessible education empower people to thrive.

Core Values and

What to Expect from Us

Whole-Person Empowerment

We believe true wellness honors the mind, body, and soul. Our work supports each client's unique journey toward confidence, connection, and fulfillment.

Inclusive Judgment-Free Care

Everyone deserves a safe space to explore their identity, relationships, and desires. We create affirming, sex-positive environments where all individuals and couples feel seen, heard, and respected.

Growth Through Connection

We value the power of honest conversation, trust, and vulnerability. Whether healing from pain or building deeper intimacy, we guide clients toward their goals personally, professionally, and proficiantly.

man sitting on mountain cliff taking picture
man sitting on mountain cliff taking picture
man in black shirt and blue denim jeans walking on purple and yellow carpet
man in black shirt and blue denim jeans walking on purple and yellow carpet
person holding gold ring in dark room
person holding gold ring in dark room
Dr. Ryan Kent, D.Min, LCSW

Therapist & Founder

Dr. Ryan Kent, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and an AASECT and SHA Certified Sex Therapist. He is a lifelong learner with multiple graduate level degrees in religion, pastoral counseling, and clinical social work as well as a doctor of ministry in pastoral counseling. He is the founder of Afterglow Behavioral & Sexual Health, LLC, an author, international speaker, educator, and consultant specializing in the intersection of mental health, sexual wellness, chronic medical conditions, and human performance. He is the developer of the Wabi-Sabi Body and Firebreak Resistance Model therapeutic frameworks, evidence-informed approaches that help individuals cultivate resilience, confidence, and authentic connection while navigating struggles with body image and challenges (Wabi-Sabi Body) and problematic sexual behaviors (Firebreak Resistance).

Dr. Kent's work focuses on high-performing populations, including professional athletes, senior corporate executives, elected officials, military personnel, and entertainment celebrities. His clinical expertise centers on the psychological impacts of chronic medical conditions and acute injury, helping individuals address performance anxiety, identity changes, relationship challenges, body image concerns, and the complex ways physical health influences emotional well-being, intimacy, or peak performance.

A sought-after speaker and published author, Dr. Kent has presented nationally and internationally on mental health, sexual wellness, human performance, chronic illness, resilience, and relationships. His presentations integrate research, clinical expertise, and practical application, equipping audiences with strategies to strengthen psychological resilience, improve interpersonal connection, and optimize well-being in both personal and professional settings.

Connect with us

© 2026. All rights reserved.

Address: 5294 Madison Pike, Suite 202 Independence, KY 41051

Email: dr.kent@afterglowhealth.org

Phone: (859) 955-8852 (secure text or talk)