Polyamorous and Open Relationships

All relationships are honored.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Polyamory 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.

Many therapists will try to tell you that monogamy is the only sustainable relationship model, even though one only needs to look at the statistics to know otherwise. There is no judgment in my office for relationship models that are different from the culture's only accepted model. I have personally lived a open relationship model since 1992.

I help clients in poly and open relationships by supporting them as they develop a greater sense of self through relationships with others. In my work with poly clients, we explore personal needs and how they are(n't) met and consider ways that these relationships can be structured.

I've worked with many clients who have 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.

I am affirming of any relationship configuration that is consensual and I enjoy helping people find peace within themselves so they can be connected, peaceful partners.

In our practice, we offer specialized support for individuals in polyamorous and open relationships, addressing specific challenges such as jealousy management, communication across multiple partners, and navigating agreements and boundaries. With compassion and practical strategies, we guide couples through the complexities of alternative relationship dynamics, fostering genuine connections and empowering them to navigate their unique journey with confidence and clarity.

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.

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!

Negotiating the rules for non-monogamy isn't easy. And yes, there are rules. In fact, there are often more rules in open relationships than there are in "monogamous" couples. Monogamy used to mean one partner for life. Now it simply means one partner at a time. Though I myself am monogamous, I have helped many couples navigate the expectations and boundaries of their relationships- some who have faced infidelity and others who are opening their relationships for the first time.

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.

My consent based approach is very applicable in addressing relationship based issues, and this has certainly been an important part of my work with clients in the past. In addition, this is something I have personal experience with as a Relationship Anarchist. In my experience, navigating a practice of love with multiple people taking into account attachment histories is sometimes very challenging but can also be very rewarding.

I specialize in trauma informed attachment work geared for ENM folks, poly folks and open relationships. I work individually and with couples(+) whether you are already practicing ENM or wanting to start. I am a poly relationship anarchist and have worked clinically with folks as well. I believe an ENM approach to relationships is deeply healing, satisfying and the embodiment of living life to its fullest. I adore helping people integrate ENM into their lives and support them where they are at.

I have been personally been practicing polyamory, and ethical non-monogamy (CNM) for about 8 years. ENM upholds and promotes values that I hope we share: personal autonomy, freedom of choice, abundance over scarcity, community-building, and most importantly - love. I also believe that living a ENM lifestyle is a political choice... anti-racist, anti-patriarchal, and anti-capitalistic in nature. ENM is not "better" than monogamy, but it can be a better option for some!