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.
I have years of personal experience in the ethical non-monogamy community. I love helping couples find security in their relationship so that they feel safe to explore others. I nerd out about relationship dynamics and love reading everything I can about polyamory and alternative lifestyles. I work with people to increase secure attachment, increase sexual and emotional fulfillment, and create the life that they want.
— Tasha Trembath, Associate Marriage & Family Therapist in Covington, WAI see clients in all kinds of relationships, from monogamous to nonmonogamous, nontraditional to traditional, polyamorous, open or closed.
— Brent Armour, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in HOUSTON, TXI work with individuals navigating consensual non-monogamy. Some of the common issues I work with include: deciding whether or not to open a relationship, working through jealousy, dealing with "new relationship energy", structuring your open relationship, time management, communication issues, etc.
— Meghan Arroyo, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in Monrovia, CAShannon helps clients in polyamorous and open relationships navigate unique challenges, such as communication, jealousy, and boundaries. Using a non-judgmental approach, she fosters open dialogue, supports emotional awareness, and assists clients in building trust and maintaining healthy dynamics that align with their values and relationship goals.
— Shannon Murphy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, COI 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, CAWhether 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. There are plenty of informative books on this topic, together we will figure out a course that is tailored to you.
— Gwen Lotery, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Monica, CAOriginally inspired by Dr. Ruth Westheimer, I knew I wanted to be a sex therapist someday. I just didn't know it was possible. After graduation I learned that I could specialize in sex therapy! So I did! As a graduate of U of M's Sexual Health Certificate Program, I welcome working with people in non-traditional relationships, whether they be open, poly, or "monogamish." I "get you" and honor your path!
— Paula Kirsch, Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Ferndale, MIAlso as a member and ally to this community I want folx to know that there is a nonjudgmental and open space to be heard when it comes to poly and enm life.
— Melisa Medalle, Associate Marriage & Family TherapistI have experience working with client's exploring polyamory and open relationships. I practice polyamory myself.
— Mel Alexander, Art Therapist in , CAWhile ethical non-monogamy can be incredibly rewarding, it can also come with its own set of challenges. I offer a non-judgmental space where we can work together on those challenges. I work with folks experiencing jealousy, struggling to communicate their needs and boundaries, or just looking for support and guidance as they navigate the ups and downs of a relationship style that doesn’t always have a clear road map.
— Julia Markovitz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Philadelphia, PAI have been involved in the swinger lifestyle ("The LIfestyle") for several years now. I have helped numerous people understand and navigate the
— Monte Miller, Psychologist in Austin, TXAll relationship structures are welcome in my space!
— Dr. Elyssa Helfer, Licensed Marriage & Family TherapistPoly, ENM, CNM individuals, couples+ and those that have been surprised by their partner's desire to be poly, will find affirming care in my therapy room. Beyond this, also kink, swinging, and other forms of adult sexual practices often defined as outside of "conventional"
— Ami Lynch, Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Arlington, VAI specialize in supporting individuals and couples navigating polyamory, open relationships, and other forms of consensual non-monogamy. With extensive experience and deep knowledge of alternative relationship dynamics, I help clients address challenges like communication, boundary-setting, and jealousy. My affirming, non-judgmental approach ensures a safe space to explore and strengthen these unique relationships.
— Dr. Rachael Meir, Clinical Psychologist in Gulfport, FLOpen relationships are more about transformation rather than exploration. Embracing our infinite ability to love, we are reminded of the possibilities of transforming our own lives by letting go of the binds and tight holds we have on each other and begin embracing ourselves do we truly understand what love really looks, feels like, and means. True autonomy and freedom are about transformation not exploration. If you seek open relationships for some other reason you may be missing the point.
— Mou Ghose, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CAClients 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 have been a member of the polyamorous community for many years, and one of my main interests in therapy is working with fellow non-monogamous individuals/couples/groups on relationship issues, such as boundaries, jealousy, and communication.
— Jonah Leslie, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Durham, NCI 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, PAWe treat individuals and couples in both traditional and non-traditional relationships. Our staff is knowledgeable on both personal and professional levels with non-traditional relationship styles, and loves supporting those looking to create security and ease in how they relate.
— Barefoot and Balanced Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Clackamas, OR