Polyamorous and Open Relationships

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.

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Meet the specialists

 

Most of my clients are ENM and I have worked with a wide range of structures and experiences, whether just starting out or several decades in.

— Asel Kulmeshkenova, Associate Marriage & Family Therapist in Eagan, MN
 

Poly? Open? ENM? CNM? Triads? Quads? Hierarchical? Relationship anarchist? Prefer no label at all? No matter how your relationship is structured, I support you in feeling happier and more satisfied in your relationship(s) by helping you lay the groundwork for the foundation of any solid partnership: trust, open communication, and respect.

— Katherine Wikrent, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in New Orleans, LA

Whether you seek individual, couples, or support for the entire polycule, I offer a safe and informed space to explore and navigate the complexities of non-traditional relationship dynamics. With a deep understanding of communication, boundary-setting, and emotional intelligence, I help clients build healthy and fulfilling connections while addressing challenges unique to polyamorous and open relationships.

— Lauren Garza, Ph.D., Clinical Psychologist in , PA
 

In my work with couples, I work with folks looking for support with relationship issues within consensually non-monogamous relationships and related to exploring non-monogamy.

— Sarah Malavenda, Psychotherapist in Chicago, IL

Have been studying relationships for 30 years. I have done a deep dive in polyamorous relationships, from a professional and a personal standpoint. I get it. No judgments or shame here. I understand the complex nature of poly. I know the benefits of these relationships and also the pitfalls. Good solid communication, trust and self-love are needed for these relationships to thrive.

— Monte Miller, Psychologist in Austin, TX
 

Polyamory, open relationships, and swinging are becoming more accepted ways of creating and maintaining relationships in lieu of traditional monogamy. If you're non-monogamous, you may prefer to create and maintain connections with multiple partners. I specialize in working with individuals and poly families who need help with improving communication, sorting out hierarchies of relationships, addressing jealousy with metamours, healing infidelity/ broken agreements, and rebuilding trust.

— Tammy 'Kaia' Bruski, Sex Therapist in Denver, CO

There remain many misunderstandings and stigmas surrounding this way of living. As a person with lived experience in this community, I am sensitive and attuned to the complex challenges (and rich rewards) that can come with polyamory.

— Timothy Rasmussen, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Seattle, WA
 

Nearly a quarter of my caseload has been centered around relationships that are practicing ethical non monogamy, transitioning into opening or closing their relationships, and other conversations around the impacts of society’s expectations for monogamy.

— Ajay Dheer, Registered Marriage and Family Therapist Intern in Beaverton, OR

Communication is important but I take this topic deeper by exploring relationship traumas and attachment issues. We will work on co-creating the relationship environment you most desire by using transparent communication, face value trust, relationship agreements, externalizing foundational values, and exploring old patterns. I will also walk you through showing up for a partner's trauma and I have lots of resources to share.

— Lacey Stewart, Counselor in Manhattan, KS
 

Whether your involved in or wanting to explore an ethical non monogamous relationship, as a couple or solo I will help not only answer but ask questions that will guide you and have you better equiped for any bumps that lay ahead. Together we will figure out a course that is tailored and best for you. At any time any agreemnets can be altered, lets talk about it.

— Gwen Lotery, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Monica, CA

Every relationship is different and has a unique dynamic. My experience with polyamorous and open relationships helps inform my perspective of working with you and members of you personal circle no matter how big it is, nor which genders it is comprised of.

— Beck Pazdral, Counselor in Seattle, WA
 

I believe that love is love. I think our cultural tendency to default to the concepts of monogamy are mostly just that -- a cultural default. I have known personally and professionally the possibilities of relationships that are other-than-monogamous. I am familiar with the inherent challenges and respect every individual's right to choose all of their relationships. I also recognize -- very importantly in a conservative community such as where I practice -- both the impacts of extended family and community relationships and the crucial importance of discretion. As with all of my clients, professional confidentiality is adhered to with vigilance.

— Tracy Morris, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in Lacey, WA

My therapeutic approach centers on communication, consent, and navigating complex emotions with care. Using Gestalt, narrative, and somatic therapies, I help you strengthen trust, set healthy boundaries, and balance personal needs with relationship goals. As someone with deep experience in sex-positive work, I’m committed to supporting your journey toward connection, self-acceptance, and empowerment.

— Ruby Linhan Booth, Clinical Social Worker
 

Navigating the field of polyamory and open relationships can be difficult and frustrating for a couple that is excited to try this unconventional way of life. Although it may not be the norm, it can lead to relationship satisfaction and personal happiness that some people cannot achieve in a monogamous relationship. However, sometimes the couple needs the expertise of therapist to help them address issues that may arise in the relationship.

— Leon Banister, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Miami, FL

I have extensive experience working with non-monogamous individuals and groups both as a therapist and a coach. I am also an active member of the non-monogamous community.

— Rebecca Szymborski, Social Worker in New York, NY
 

I work with both individuals and couples who practice polyamory/non-monogamy (and otherwise). I have experience working with these relationship dynamics, and find the needed skills useful in many other areas of an individual's life.

— Jack Harmelin, Licensed Master of Social Work in Philadelphia, PA

I come with a deep understanding and knowledge of what it is to be polyamorous/ENM and the unique challenges that can come with this relationship structure. Whether you need assistance processing through broken boundaries, dismantling couple’s privilege, or letting go of the relationship escalator, I’m here to help. I have lead support groups and guided folks through the tender process of discovering ENM for themselves and the complexities that come with.

— Kate Manser, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
 

Whether you're new to ethical non-monogamy or you’re experienced in practicing ENM or polyamory, I provide an affirming space to work through jealousy, boundary negotiation, and to process how your past experiences may be impacting your current relationships. I am an enthusiastically kink affirming and experienced clinician. Through gentle but intentional therapeutic process, you will gain clarity and safety in your expansive relational and sexual life. I love working with ENM couples!

— Alicia Dlugos, Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Philadelphia, PA

Consensual non monogamous relationships are growing every year and having a therapist who is versed and trained in this relationship structure is so valuable for people looking to enter polyamory in an informed manner, or to address issues that may arise in poly relationships. Knowing that you can come to therapy to address open relationship dynamics from a supportive, welcoming stance is the empowering experience many clients need.

— Leah Logan, Clinical Social Worker in Boise, ID