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

 

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 am emphatically affirming of all relationship structures and using components of mindful self-compassion, I believe our best way to the relationships we want is to take juicy care of ourselves and can learn how to better identify what we want and then practice drawing the boundaries and structure to get and preserve it.

— Treah Caldwell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Brookhaven, GA
 

“I don’t want an open relationship, but I want to support my partner.” Not everyone is certain about the relationship they want or need all the time. Sometimes these needs are fixed, and sometimes they shift over time. I have worked with mono-poly couples in my practice, where one partner identifies as monogamous and the other as polyamorous. I can work with triads, quads or other family units just as I would work with a couple.

— Mike Lysaght, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in Sacramento, CA

People 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, CO
 

I enjoy working with individuals and their partner(s) to create relationships that work for all parties. I empower my clients to set up the parameters that best suit their individual and relational needs. My approach is to move at your pace and provide the respect and care needed, as these conversations often are uncomfortable. Whether this process is new or you’re a seasoned pro at polyamorous/ open relationships, we can help smooth out any roadblocks preventing thriving relationships.

— Brianna Hollestelle, Marriage and Family Therapist Associate in Parker, CO

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
 

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

My personal and professional experiences with polyamorous relationships have led me to specialize in working with others within the community. I'd love to support you on your journey and help you navigate concerns about your poly relationships.

— Misty Gibson, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Seattle, WA
 

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

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
 

Intentionally choosing an alternative lifestyle, consenting partners, and including others in the relationship can be powerful. In therapy the focus is on the issues that you are bringing, not on your lifestyle. While the lifestyle is important in understanding you and the interactions you have, there is no assumption that you or your lifestyle needs to be fixed or made more socially acceptable. I can help you sort out the dynamics in your fluid partnerships, without judgments.

— Dr. Evelyn Comber, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Rockford, IL

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
 

As a Poly-Friendly Professional, I am affirming of relationships of all structures and specialize in assisting individuals dealing with the complexities of multiple intimate connections. I offer compassionate guidance for those seeking to expand the boundaries of their current relationship, as well as those who are already practicing non-monogamy. I’m experienced in supporting couples who are considering opening up their relationship or marriage for the first time.

— Noelle Benach, Counselor in Baltimore, MD

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

— Michael Zwizanski, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist
 

Whether you are polyamorous, ENM, open, or monogamous, I’m interested in helping support you in navigating tough conversations, building a solid foundation together, and getting your relational needs met. I often work with folks who are ethically non-monogamous. I want to support you in being your full, authentic self while being in relationship in a way that aligns with who you are and what you need.

— Sarah Howeth, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR

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
 

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

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
 

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