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.

Need help finding the right therapist?
Find Your Match

Meet the specialists

 

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

Those 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
 

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've been studying non-monogamy both personally and professionally for over 6 years, during which time I have had my fair share of hard-learned polyamory lessons. Living one's life outside the monogamy script is *hard* and a decision not to be taken lightly. Polyamory is the single most potent growth/healing catalyst that I have ever witnessed (personally & professionally). It will trigger you unlike anything else... please, use it as the opportunity to metabolize/compost your sh*t that it is!

— Luce O'Steen, Associate Marriage & Family Therapist
 

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

Having a decade of experience navigating non-monogamous relationships ensures that clients do not need to fear judgment from me, nor do they need to worry about having to educate their therapist about their lifestyle.

— Bex Lipps, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Seattle, WA
 

Navigating the intricate connections of relationships is a journey filled with complexities and nuances, especially when exploring the realm of multiple partners. Whether you're embarking on the conversation about embracing an open or polyamorous relationship, taking the first steps to open your current connection, or finding yourself in the midst of challenges within an alternative relationship, rest assured – you've found the perfect space to unravel these intricacies.

— Michael Grey, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in Irvine, CA

I am affirming of any relationship configuration that is consensual and I enjoy helping people find peace within themselves so they can be connected, peaceful partners.

— Heather Lenox, Clinical Social Worker in Charlotte, NC
 

I specialize in trauma informed attachment work geared for ENM folks, poly folks and open relationships. I work individually and with couples(+) whether you are already practicing ENM or wanting to start. I am a poly relationship anarchist and have worked clinically with folks as well. I believe an ENM approach to relationships is deeply healing, satisfying and the embodiment of living life to its fullest. I adore helping people integrate ENM into their lives and support them where they are at.

— S. L. McIntyre, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA

Poly, 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, VA
 

Clients 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, MD

Times are changing, and compulsory monogamy is on the way out. So many couples are “opening up” without support or education about what that may consist of. Modern healthy relationships are consensual, communicative, and respectful, no matter what the “rules” are. How do we know what we want in our relationships when we have been taught to feel ashamed of our desires? How do we navigate jealousy or fear in a way that is beneficial to our relationships? Let's explore boundaries and preferences!

— Lauren Sill, Marriage and Family Therapist Associate
 

Specializing in polyamorous and open relationships means I embrace the diverse ways people navigate love and connection. Recognizing the unique dynamics of ENM, I can provide a non-judgmental space to explore communication, boundaries, and emotional complexities. I value the opportunity to help clients build healthy connections, foster trust, and enhancing self-awareness within the framework of ENM.

— Neeka Wittern, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Las Vegas, NV, NV

All relationship structures are welcome in my space!

— Dr. Elyssa Helfer, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist
 

I've worked with many clients who have engaged in various forms of ethical non-monogamy in individual and couples sessions. I've had friends who engaged in ethical non-monogamy since I was in undergrad. I tried it myself, but didn't find it was a good fit for me I educate clients about ethical non-monogamy as an option if they have historically been monogamous. I educate clients about how to do it well cause it involves a lot of communication and negotiation of needs as well as clear boundaries.

— Tia (Christia) Young, Counselor

Relationship structures outside of mononormative standards come with their own unique benefits and challenges. My job as a poly-affirming therapist is to dispel shame around non-monogamy and help guide you towards the most ethical and supportive practices. I have both personal and professional experience with non-monogamy and am a firm believer that we are all capable of giving and receiving the kind of love that fulfills us.

— Robin Roemer, Associate Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
 

Many therapists have a difficult time understanding polyamorous and open relationships and the specific opportunities and challenges that the lifestyle brings. There are innumerable ways to have relationships and I am open to exploring all the ways that you can have healthy and happy relationships. I generally see individuals, not couples.

— Liz Silverman, Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Brooklyn, NY

I have extensive work with a variety of ways relationship can be defined in regards to open/non monogamy/ENM and other ways of labeling non traditional relationships. I help you find meaning in your relationship, explore what it may mean by opening your relationship up, or looking at the obstacles that may be present through building trust, safety, grounded agreements, and clear communication/goals.

— Adrian Scharfetter, Sex Therapist in Sacramento, CA
 

I have years of counseling experience supporting clients of all relationship expressions. I am personally polyamorous, and have professional experience supporting clients through the process of opening relationships, and navigating the relationship and attachment needs of polyamory / ethical non-monogamy. I can help you identify and learn to effectively communicate your needs to partners so. Feeling held, safe, and secure with multiple partners is possible.

— Jack Dickey, Counselor in Denver, CO