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

 

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

I know firsthand how hard it is to be in relationships differently from the norm. People are constantly doubting the legitimacy of your relationship, plus it’s difficult to connect with people when you’re something of a trailblazer. You’re opening up new possibilities. As exciting as that is, be also prepared for challenges! They’re challenges of your choosing and there’s something special and authentic about that.

— Renya NeoNorton, Marriage & Family Therapist
 

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. 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, CA

I have both professional and personal experience in initiating and navigating ethically non-monogamous relationships. It can be a very exciting journey full of discovery and connection but it can also be challenging. I give partners and individuals tools and resources to understand and minimize the negative possibilities and enhance the positive ones.

— Jamila Dawson, Sex Therapist in , 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

Non-monogamy and polyamory break the conventional molds of relationships, often presenting unique challenges and requiring nuanced navigation. These relationship dynamics necessitate a complex balance of love, trust, and communication between multiple partners, and it is our mission to equip you with the tools and understanding to nurture these connections in a healthy and satisfying way. At CCC, we understand that non-monogamous and polyamorous relationships are not a one-size-fits-all model.

— Courageous Couples Counseling, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
 

I have an advanced training and years of experience working with different forms of relationships. Whether you have been on this journey for a while or just consider opening your relationship- it would be my honor to accompany you on this journey and to help you navigate challenges and to establish a healthy foundation where you can thrive and feel safe with your partner(s).

— Daria Chase, Psychologist in New York, NY

I am experienced in supporting people who have or are questioning opening their relationship.

— Michael Zwizanski, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist
 

I have worked with a wide variety of relationship structures with clients that include ethical non-monogamy, poly relationships, relationship anarchy, etc. I also have lived experience in this area.

— Gregory Gooden, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in POMONA, CA

Do you feel like you can’t say how you really feel? Do you love your partner, and also realize no single person could, or even should be everything? Do you watch RomComs shouting “just date both of them!” You might be poly, swinging, or you might be somewhere in the middle; how you date, copulate, and relate is valid. Whether you are trying to explore who you are, come out, or do what you do better, I am here to replace the lack of Disney movies showcasing your flavor of romance.

— Love Let Out , PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
 

I have experience with and enjoy providing therapy to the polyamorous / non-monogamous community & would love to work with you individually or in relationship. Any fellow Multiamory podcast fans out there?

— Kristen Weick, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Winter Park, FL

I've worked with many clients who've 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
 

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

I work with relationships of all sorts, from monogamous to open to polyamorous. My approach supports stronger communication, emotional engagement, and the practical aspects of navigating various relationship structures that divest from problematic societal expectations and promote growth in connection with others. I believe strongly that relationships help us heal, in all forms. "Trauma happens in relationship and is healed in relationship."

— Elliot Helt, Associate Marriage & Family Therapist in Denver, CO
 

If 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, CO

I have been involved in the alternative lifestyles myself for several years now. I have helped numerous people understand and navigate the emotional waters of getting involved in open relationships. Conquering issues of jealousy and knowing how to, not just battle these fears, but how to use better marital communication to grow the relationship to a deeper and more fulfilling relationship than ever before, is a primary goal for me as a therapist.

— Monte Miller, Psychologist in Austin, TX
 

As someone who has explored ENM personally, my clients regularly express a tremendous sense of relief not having to educate me on the lingo or having to fear that I'll think their relationship structure is the cause of their issues. I also assist clients in deciding if ethical non-monogamy is for them and supporting them in beginning their explorations of opening up.

— Tori Buckley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO

I work with people in all types of relationship structures. Whether you are a monogomous couple, a monogomous couple considering opening your relationship, partners in a newish ENM relationship that are struggling with issues around jealousy or boundaries setting, or you are in a long-tern poly relationship and navigating new triad dynamic, I can assist with navigating all of those complex dynamics. -Kink/Fetish/BDSM positive -LGBTQAI+ ally

— Anissa Bahrenburg, Sex Therapist in Portland, OR
 

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 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