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.
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 TherapistI'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, CounselorI help individuals and couples navigate the complexities and joys of non-monogamous, open, and polyamorous relationships. Clear goals, boundaries, trust, respect, consent, and communication are vital but not sufficient aspects to success in these partnerships. Whether you are newly considering opening up your relationship or have been a part of the community for some time, I’d be happy to help you explore, create, and thrive in the relationship structure that best suits your needs.
— Eric van der Voort, Sex Therapist in San Diego, CAI am experienced in supporting people who have or are questioning opening their relationship.
— Michael Zwizanski, Licensed Marriage & Family TherapistI have significant experience working and connecting with the polyamorous community. I work to support individuals in exploring and becoming comfortable in their identities and in finding successful and comfortable relationship configurations.
— eric bjorlin, Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Chicago, ILI 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, TXI have years of personal experience in the ethical non-monogamy community. I love helping couples find security in their relationship so that they feel safe to explore others. I nerd out about relationship dynamics and love reading everything I can about polyamory and alternative lifestyles. I work with people to increase secure attachment, increase sexual and emotional fulfillment, and create the life that they want.
— Tasha Trembath, Associate Marriage & Family Therapist in Covington, WAI see clients in all kinds of relationships, from monogamous to nonmonogamous, nontraditional to traditional, polyamorous, open or closed.
— Brent Armour, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in HOUSTON, TXI 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, WAPolyamory and other forms of non-monogamy are healthy and wonderful ways of engaging in relationships but it can be hard to find a counselor who is knowledgeable on non-monogamy and how it looks in the world. As someone who is polyamorous and is completing a dissertation on polyamorists, I excited to support you in your relationship orientation as it best fits for you.
— Carly Stevens, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Seattle, WAAmy 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 , MOEthical Non-Monogamous, Polyamorous, Polyfidelitous, Hub and Spoke, Dealing with new relationship dynamics.
— Cub Larkin, Licensed Mental Health CounselorI have significant experience working with individuals who are practicing non-monogamy, polyamory, and other forms of nontraditional relationship structures
— Willa Beckman, Psychotherapist in Philadelphia, PAI am polyamorous and have surrounded myself with like-minded people who believe love is infinite. I am well aware of the intricacies this lifestyle poses and am honored to hold space for those who are navigating this alternative lifestyle.
— Chrissie Bingham, Counselor in Milan, MIAs 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, MDI’ve work with poly/non-monogamous folks both individually and in their relationship structures. I firmly believe that the presence of sexual exclusivity does not determine the health of a relationship. I help my clients clearly define needs, wants, expectations and have specific experience in helping couples navigating opening up for the first time. I bring attachment work into understanding communication and relational patterns.
— Lucy Roth, Clinical Social WorkerNon-Traditional relationships are one of my favorite areas to work with because they can present some of the ripest opportunities for personal growth. Going against the grain of society will always come with challenges. Communication and working with jealousy and insecurity are at the core of open relationship health. But let's also make sure this isn't a way of reinforcing avoidant attachment styles! Lots of growth to be had in this arena. Buckle up and lets do it in a healthy way!
— Theo Kuczek, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA