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

 

There remain many misunderstandings and stigmas surrounding this way of living. As a person with lived experience in this community, I am sensitive and attuned to the complex challenges (and rich rewards) that can come with polyamory.

— Timothy Rasmussen, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Seattle, WA

As a therapist in East Tennessee, I know that finding polyam-friendly providers can still be a challenge. Everyone deserves to have a non-judgmental and informed space to process. It would be a privilege to navigate your story with you, whether you are exploring non-monogamy for the first time, working through relationship issues in an established polyamorous relationship, or just wanting a therapist who understands that non-monogamy is part of your life.

— Lauren Green, Mental Health Counselor in Knoxville, TN
 

Open 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, CA

My approach centers on fostering healthy communication, trust, and emotional connection while navigating challenges such as jealousy, boundary-setting, and relationship structure. Together, we focus on enhancing your relational well-being, promoting self-awareness, and embracing the fluidity of love and connection in a way that honors each individual’s unique needs and desires.

— Eric Meckel, Licensed Master of Social Work in Boulder, CO
 

I work with both individuals and couples who practice polyamory/non-monogamy (and otherwise). I have experience working with these relationship dynamics, and find the needed skills useful in many other areas of an individual's life.

— Jack Harmelin, Licensed Master of Social Work in Philadelphia, PA

Love is expansive. I work with folks who are open to all ways of relating to others and seek to deepen their own understanding of their own needs and limits.

— Allison Kent, Clinical Social Worker in Los Angeles, 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

Professional trainings and ongoing experience navigating Poly/ENM relationships with clients, in addition to personal identity.

— Laura Foxx, Art Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
 

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, and AASECT Certified Sex Therapist, I welcome working with people in non-traditional relationships, whether they be open, polyam, or "monogamish." I "get you" and honor your path!

— Paula Kirsch, Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Ferndale, MI

No matter your sexual or relational preferences, most of us grew up in a culture where our sexuality was shamed. There are relational risks that come with communicating our feelings, wants, and fantasies. Beyond knowing how you like to express yourself sexually, there are also deeper questions we might ask, like what is the meaning and role of sex in your life? What agreements stabilize and energize the relationship(s) you are in? How does ENM serve mutual growth and connectedness?

— Corrie Blissit, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in ,
 

Nearly a quarter of my caseload has been centered around relationships that are practicing ethical non monogamy, transitioning into opening or closing their relationships, and other conversations around the impacts of society’s expectations for monogamy.

— Ajay Dheer, Registered Marriage and Family Therapist Intern in Beaverton, OR

I specialize in supporting individuals and couples in polyamorous and open relationships. Through therapy sessions, I help 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 non-traditional love structures.

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

I 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, NC

Also 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 Therapist
 

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

Whether you're new to ethical non-monogamy or you’re experienced in practicing ENM or polyamory, I provide an affirming space to work through jealousy, boundary negotiation, and to process how your past experiences may be impacting your current relationships. I am an enthusiastically kink affirming and experienced clinician. Through gentle but intentional therapeutic process, you will gain clarity and safety in your expansive relational and sexual life. I love working with ENM couples!

— Alicia Dlugos, Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Philadelphia, PA
 

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