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

 

Amy and has been attending teaching Ethical/consensual non-monogamy conferences and events for the last 10 years. She has experience working with clients (10-85) in the community and those interested in exploring non-monogamy, learning terminology, transitioning relationship dynamics, opening yourself up to dating, and how to break up or transition with out destroying a friendship.

— Amy Studer, Licensed Professional Counselor in , MO

Wouldn't it be wonderful to work with a therapist and not have to explain your non-traditional relationship structures, someone who understands the complexity even if you aren't in therapy for relational issues. I am a member of the polyamorous community and have over adecade of insight into the challenges, and rewards associated with it.

— Hope Flores, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in Claremont, CA
 

I 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, TX

I provide affirming care that acknowledges the complexities and dynamics of non-monogamous relationships. My approach focuses on fostering healthy communication, consent culture, and emotional well-being, while addressing challenges such as jealousy, boundary-setting, and societal stigma. I work with clients to navigate these unique relationship structures in a way that aligns with their values and needs, ensuring that all partners feel supported and understood.

— Dr Stacie Freudenberg, Clinical Psychologist in Longmont, CO
 

As a psychologist with expertise in open relationships, polyamory, ethical non-monogamy (ENM), and kink lifestyles, I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space for individuals and couples to explore, understand, and navigate their unique relationship dynamics. I am dedicated to supporting clients in building authentic connections, enhancing communication, and managing challenges specific to non-traditional relationships.

— Dr. Anne M. Jackson, Clinical Psychologist in Gulf Breeze, FL

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
 

Originally 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, MI

Thinking about entering a polyamorous or non-monogamous relationship? Together we can work on building the communication skills to discuss with your partner(s) the ins and outs of being poly or ethically non-monogamous. With that, comes feelings of jealousy, distrust, insecurities, etc. We can work towards finding ways to be open and honest, genuine, and compassionate towards your partner(s).

— Miguel Lopez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fort Worth, TX
 

Emily specializes in supporting individuals and couples in polyamorous and open relationships. Through tailored therapy sessions, She helps clients navigate the complexities of multiple partnerships by fostering open communication, establishing healthy boundaries, and promoting mutual respect. By creating a safe and non-judgmental space, I work collaboratively with clients to address challenges, explore personal growth, and enhance relationship dynamics within the context of n

— Safe Space Counseling Services -Alice Zhao, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in , MD

I come with expert 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 as well as completed trainings and clinical articles about treating polyamorous folks.

— Kate Manser, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
 

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

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
 

This is something that is much more mainstream and open than it used to be and yet many people don't understand the philosophy behind it. I must admit, I struggled with that myself until someone I cared about very much shared with me that their relationship orientation was poly. I then felt the need to educate myself and learn, and discovered that there's a need for support in the poly community. I'm more than happy to discuss and help you navigate!

— Melanie Bettes, Counselor in Overland Park, KS

I often work with clients to better understand their partner(s) wants and needs, especially as they arise in relation to open relationships and polyamory. I have worked with clients during all stages of the "opening up" process and with multiple types of open relationships (swinging, polyamory, and open relationships).

— Mia Dal Santo, Marriage and Family Therapist Associate in Oak Park, IL
 

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

Navigating multiple relationships requires clear communication, mutual trust, and balance. We’ll work together to ensure everyone’s needs are met, establish healthy boundaries, and address any emotions like jealousy or insecurity. I offer a nonjudgmental space to explore your relationships, helping you create agreements that feel fair and empowering for all. Together, we’ll foster a supportive structure where every partner feels seen, heard, and valued for lasting harmony.

— Dr Catalina Lawsin, Psychologist in Santa Monica, CA
 

I 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, CA

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