Even though they both fall under the umbrella of consensual non-monogamy, polyamory and open relationships are two very different things. Polyamory means having multiple romantic relationships at the same time, with the knowledge and consent of everyone involved. An open relationship is a relationship where the parties are free to take new partners. Whatever form of non-monogamy you practice or are interested in exploring, you and your partner(s) will have to navigate things like boundaries, safe sex, and jealousy. If you are running into issues or roadblocks, seeing a qualified mental health professional provides a safe and supportive space to discuss your concerns and improve communication skills. Reach out to one of TherapyDen’s polyamorous and open relationships experts today.
All relationship structures are welcome in my space!
— Dr. Elyssa Helfer, Licensed Marriage & Family TherapistMy training as a therapist landed me with a degree in Marriage and Family therapy, which basically means I work with relationship systems. As a non monogomous therapist I quickly began applying what I was learning in school to non monogomous relationship structures to better serve communities I belong to and work with. My training to work with relationships started in grad school, Gottman level 1 and now Developmental Model and with Martha Kauppi in polyamory course and consultation.
— Birch Snogles, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in ann arbor, MII have studied (and practiced) ethical nonmonogamy throughout my life. From the early publication of The Ethical Slut to the wonderful integration of attachment theory in Polysecure, I have been studying and treating open relationships for years. I stay abreast of new theories as they emerge, and continue to expand upon my understanding of how to thrive within a myriad of relationship structures.
— Grace Ballard, Sex Therapist in New York, NYIf you're exploring various forms of ethical non-monogamy, kink, or other alternative lifestyles, I can support you in creating healthy relationships with yourself and partner(s). My specialization lies in working with individuals and relationship(s) who seek assistance in navigating issues around trust, communication, intimacy, hierarchy, veto power, jealousy, and sexual health. Mutual trust, consent and collaboration are at the heart of these lifestyles.
— Tammy 'Kaia' Bruski, Sex Therapist in Denver, COI have significant experience working and connecting with the polyamorous community. I work to support individuals in exploring and becoming comfortable in their identities and in finding successful and comfortable relationship configurations.
— eric bjorlin, Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Evanston, ILMy expertise with Polyamorous and Open relationships: I have worked with multiple couples exploring opening up their relationships, as well as navigating the complications that come from open relationships. I firmly believe that non-monogamy is not for everyone, and I am thrilled to help couples and moresomes navigate this rewarding way of engaging in relationships.
— Kelley O'Hanlon, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Redmond, WAI currently receive supervision and training from advanced clinicians who specialize in working with clients on polyamorous and ethically non-monogamous relationships. I am also personally and professionally well-versed in varied polyamorous/ENM relationship structures, as well as accompanying challenges and issues.
— Mary Alice Reilly, Clinical Social Worker in Silver Spring, MDMy training as a therapist landed me with a degree in Marriage and Family therapy, which basically means I work with relationship systems. As a non monogomous therapist I quickly began applying what I was learning in school to non monogomous relationship structures to better serve communities I belong to and work with. My training to work with relationships started in grad school, Gottman level 1 and now Developmental Model (attachment and relationship stage based).
— Birch Snogles, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in ann arbor, MIEthical Non-Monogamous, Polyamorous, Polyfidelitous, Hub and Spoke, Dealing with new relationship dynamics.
— Cub Larkin, Licensed Mental Health CounselorAmy and has been attending teaching Ethical/consensual non-monogamy conferences and events for the last 10 years. She has experience working with clients (10-85) in the community and those interested in exploring non-monogamy, learning terminology, transitioning relationship dynamics, opening yourself up to dating, and how to break up or transition with out destroying a friendship.
— Amy Studer, Licensed Professional Counselor in , MOYou want to: open your relationship with ease, navigate jealousy with love, or see if non-monogamy is right for you. When you first started exploring non-monogamy in your relationship you: Never realized how loud your inner critic was or were nervous about exploring CNM. If you’e having second thoughts about opening up or or just unsure what to do with all this jealousy I'd love to help you get some clarity and relief.
— Paige Bond, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in Orlando, FLTired of explaining to people what a "unicorn-hunter" is? It can be difficult to open up to someone who does not understand terms important to your day-to-day existence. I offer a listening ear and dynamic perspective on all types of non-monogamous relationships.
— Caitlyn Trullinger-Dwyer, Professional Counselor Associate in Tigard, ORWhether you are just considering the idea of opening up your relationship, or you've been open or poly for as long as you can remember, you need a therapist who understands ethical non-monogamy. I don't make assumptions about what is right for your relationship--only you can know that. I can help guide each person in the relationship to be able to know and express their own needs, negotiate relationship contracts, and build more connection and intimacy.
— Colleen Hennessy, Licensed Professional Counselor in , CAPeople open up their relationships to pursue more connection. Yet, living in a society that expects and prioritizes monogamy can often make this pursuit or practice feel isolating and insecure. Whether you’re newly considering the Lifestyle or have an established Polycule, I specialize in helping individuals—partnered or solo—work through this challenging process.
— Amanda Earle, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, COMany individuals find joy in having close relationships on both sexual and emotional levels with multiple partners. These relationship styles require honest communication and healthy boundaries. As a trained sex therapist, I work with participants to strengthen communication skills and utilize resources that best support the sustainability of consensual and ethical non-monogamous relationship styles.
— Janice Leonard, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TXWhether you're just beginning to explore ethical non-monogamy, or you've been non-monogamous for some time, you're welcome here. I provide non-monogamy affirming individual & relationship therapy, which includes partners in many relationship structures.
— Rea Pareja, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Portland, ORClients should feel affirmed that polyamory is a valid lifestyle, and my practice is welcoming towards polyamorous people. Furthermore, I have over two decades experience understanding the diverse spectrum of the consensually non-monogamy communities.
— Erick Sowell, Clinical Social Worker in Baltimore, MDI work with couples and ENM partnerships from an attachment perspective - helping partners identify the patterns that are rooted in attachment wounds and unmet attachment needs. I help partners communicate in a deeper, more attuned way to promote closeness, understanding, and intimacy. I am especially skilled at supporting partnerships that are struggling with the effects of discrimination due to their LGBTQ+ identities and/or ENM relationship structure.
— Antoinette Mastronardi, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CAI specialize in supporting couples, groups and polycules explore and navigate ethical monogamous relationships. Whether you are needing support in communication, deepening connection, resolving conflict or just need support, I can help.
— Justine Cuthberton, Addictions Counselor in Portland, ORThose who engage in non-mainstream relationships sometimes face special difficulties and challenges that many therapists are either untrained or inexperienced in addressing. Through both education and experience, I am knowledgeable about poly/ENM/open relationships, and I have experience working with diverse relationship groupings and the unique (and non-unique!) issues and conflicts that arise therein.
— Roxane Williams, Associate Clinical Social Worker in , CA