Polyamory Therapy

Is Polyamory Therapy Similar to Couples Counseling?

The answer is yes and no. Couples counseling is typically designed for a pair who practice monogamy. They may be seeking guidance for unresolved conflict, intimacy issues, or an inability to communicate needs. Polyamory therapy or poly-affirming therapy is inclusive and offers a safe space for individuals from consensual non-monogamous relationships with one or more partners (with many of those partners being a part of the LGBTQIA+ or queer community). 

Polyamory Therapy Benefits 

Poly relationships can be highly fulfilling but there are challenges that can complicate any dynamic. Polyamory therapy can be structured to suit all partners at once or for someone who is struggling with issues outside of their CNM relationship, but prefer a poly-informed therapist. 

Polyamory therapy can be helpful for typical relationship issues like balancing quality time together, effective communication, restoring trust, and conflict resolution. There are unique issues as well that tend to complicate a CNM relationship.

The following examples include: 

• Appropriate boundary setting

• Assertive and effective communication skill building 

• Dealing with difficult emotions (jealousy, resentment, or anxiety etc.)

• Managing the social stigma, and discrimination

• Igniting Intimacy and satisfying sexual needs

Choosing Your Therapist

Finding a knowledgeable, understanding, and non-judgemental therapist can be a challenge for people engaged in polyamory. It's important to search for a polyamory-friendly or polyamory-affirmative therapist. If a therapist is polyamory-friendly this means they are open-minded and accepting, but may not be experienced in working with the polyamorous community. When a therapist is polyamory-affirmative, they have training and knowledge about polyamory. A polyamory-affirmative therapist will be outwardly supportive of your relationship and is willing to acknowledge the societal expectations and bias that may impact your relationship. 

Regardless of which therapist you choose, initial sessions will involve you and your partners detailing your relationship arrangement and identifying core issues requiring support. Your therapy sessions should not be spent explaining poly norms and labels or defending your choices.

I believe in providing a safe, confidential, and collaborative space to explore your relationship. My therapeutic style is a blend of compassionate curiosity and humor with an overall goal of building an authentic bond with the people I work with.