Open Relationships Non-Monogamy Therapists in Pleasanton, TX
![Photo of Kyle Middleton, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7bdd561b-910d-476d-9076-6a57d87c7beb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I'm glad you found your way here! I'm Kyle Middleton, a licensed professional counselor with a passion for supporting individuals, families, and couples on their journey toward healing and growth. I am dedicated to helping people navigate the complexities of family dynamics, trauma, and personal challenges with compassion and understanding.
Hello, I'm glad you found your way here! I'm Kyle Middleton, a licensed professional counselor with a passion for supporting individuals, families, and couples on their journey toward healing and growth. I am dedicated to helping people navigate the complexities of family dynamics, trauma, and personal challenges with compassion and understanding.
![Photo of Allison Maspero, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a4c3057f-e756-4046-88e5-8c494078726b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Allison Maspero
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pleasanton, TX 78064 (Online Only)
Society tells us what to feel, enjoy, experience, and what is beautiful. Screw societal norms and expectations. Let's break those barriers and create new norms. Want to try kink, poly, or open marriage? Great! Let's find the best way to do it! Feel that panic growing during confrontation? So do I. Let's find healthy ways to reduce it. Having relationship problems? We all do, no one is perfect; but we can learn to communicate better. Overweight? Me too! I'm beautiful and so are you!
Society tells us what to feel, enjoy, experience, and what is beautiful. Screw societal norms and expectations. Let's break those barriers and create new norms. Want to try kink, poly, or open marriage? Great! Let's find the best way to do it! Feel that panic growing during confrontation? So do I. Let's find healthy ways to reduce it. Having relationship problems? We all do, no one is perfect; but we can learn to communicate better. Overweight? Me too! I'm beautiful and so are you!
![Photo of Charlotte M Taber, MS, LPC, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5127cb6a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Charlotte M Taber
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, TX 78064
People who seek therapy are the sanest of us all. They look around at their lives and they realize that they want something better and they have the courage to go out and get it.
People who seek therapy are the sanest of us all. They look around at their lives and they realize that they want something better and they have the courage to go out and get it.
![Photo of Victoria Turner, MS, LPC-A](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0778a0ec-a7c6-4160-b1de-db7db6b27c06/2/320x400.jpeg)
Victoria Turner
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, LPC-A
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pleasanton, TX 78064 (Online Only)
Therapy isn’t what it used to be! It doesn’t have to be stuffy or scary. I want you to feel comfortable, safe, and enjoy the process! This is your journey, your time, and your money, so I want to make sure the experience is tailored to you and your needs. Whether you want to talk about a traumatic event or just process every day life, I’m here for you.
Therapy isn’t what it used to be! It doesn’t have to be stuffy or scary. I want you to feel comfortable, safe, and enjoy the process! This is your journey, your time, and your money, so I want to make sure the experience is tailored to you and your needs. Whether you want to talk about a traumatic event or just process every day life, I’m here for you.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Stephen Clifton, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48334a6e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Stephen Clifton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
I assist people that are going through difficult life changes and need to talk through any troubling emotions or feelings that may be causing them distress. I help people that may be having a difficult time with relationships, self-acceptance, addiction and low self-esteem. My typical client is an adult that may be struggling with depression, anxiety and/or symptoms related to addiction. I also work with clients that are transitioning, in the lifestyle or are practicing polyamory.
I assist people that are going through difficult life changes and need to talk through any troubling emotions or feelings that may be causing them distress. I help people that may be having a difficult time with relationships, self-acceptance, addiction and low self-esteem. My typical client is an adult that may be struggling with depression, anxiety and/or symptoms related to addiction. I also work with clients that are transitioning, in the lifestyle or are practicing polyamory.
![Photo of Thuydy Nguyen, LMFT, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e5a68992-94c0-4c92-9b00-c8dd215408a1/2/320x400.png)
Thuydy Nguyen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78701 (Online Only)
I specialize in intimacy challenges, sexual trauma, painful sex, erectile dysfunction, porn addiction, compulsive masturbation, sexual dysfunction, and alternative sexualities, including BDSM, kink, non-monogamy, swinging, and polyamory.
Are you limited by not knowing your true self or do you have troubles communicating with others? Do you question your role in a relationship, or have you thought: “How can I openly communicate with my partner about my needs, wants, and desires?” Finding and understanding the “true you” while relating to others is a difficult process to do alone. As relationship and a certified sex therapist, I specialize in treating relationship and sexual issues, helping individuals and couples navigate these challenges. Together, therapy can help you develop resiliency and new tools to connect with yourself and others.
I specialize in intimacy challenges, sexual trauma, painful sex, erectile dysfunction, porn addiction, compulsive masturbation, sexual dysfunction, and alternative sexualities, including BDSM, kink, non-monogamy, swinging, and polyamory.
Are you limited by not knowing your true self or do you have troubles communicating with others? Do you question your role in a relationship, or have you thought: “How can I openly communicate with my partner about my needs, wants, and desires?” Finding and understanding the “true you” while relating to others is a difficult process to do alone. As relationship and a certified sex therapist, I specialize in treating relationship and sexual issues, helping individuals and couples navigate these challenges. Together, therapy can help you develop resiliency and new tools to connect with yourself and others.
![Photo of Paul Courtland Soper, LCSW-S, CST, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b0d9e0a2-bb61-4d16-a993-7adf830e3549/2/320x400.jpeg)
Paul Courtland Soper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, CST, CCTP
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78701 (Online Only)
I'm a sex therapist and psychotherapist, specializing in trauma, polyamory, consensual non monogamy and open relationships, with a particular focus on the LGBTQ+ community.
I am currently taking new telehealth clients for sex therapy, couples therapy and trauma therapy. My ideal client wants to heal. With all the trauma from the past few years, self-work has never been more necessary and normalized. Coming out of a global pandemic, with relationships and sex lives suffering, we all need to be intentional about rebuilding emotional, mental and sexual health. Whether you’re trying to heal from trauma, improve communication and intimacy in your relationship(s), explore polyamory or consensual non monogamy, or explore sexual and/or gender identity, I believe I can help you to achieve your personal goals.
I'm a sex therapist and psychotherapist, specializing in trauma, polyamory, consensual non monogamy and open relationships, with a particular focus on the LGBTQ+ community.
I am currently taking new telehealth clients for sex therapy, couples therapy and trauma therapy. My ideal client wants to heal. With all the trauma from the past few years, self-work has never been more necessary and normalized. Coming out of a global pandemic, with relationships and sex lives suffering, we all need to be intentional about rebuilding emotional, mental and sexual health. Whether you’re trying to heal from trauma, improve communication and intimacy in your relationship(s), explore polyamory or consensual non monogamy, or explore sexual and/or gender identity, I believe I can help you to achieve your personal goals.
![Photo of Michele Flores, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b164bcc9-64c1-4b09-81d2-89551d660052/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michele Flores
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78228 (Online Only)
My ideal client navigates the complexities of life within the queer or kink communities, or in nontraditional relationships like polyamory. They might be a parent, like me, raising a non-binary or special needs child, seeking balance and understanding. They need a safe, non-judgmental space to explore their identity and relationships. As a Latina, part of the LGBTQIA+ community, and a therapist with degrees in Psychology and Marriage and Family Therapy, I bring empathy and experience, using modalities like EFT and Gottman to help them thrive and embrace their authentic selves.
My ideal client navigates the complexities of life within the queer or kink communities, or in nontraditional relationships like polyamory. They might be a parent, like me, raising a non-binary or special needs child, seeking balance and understanding. They need a safe, non-judgmental space to explore their identity and relationships. As a Latina, part of the LGBTQIA+ community, and a therapist with degrees in Psychology and Marriage and Family Therapy, I bring empathy and experience, using modalities like EFT and Gottman to help them thrive and embrace their authentic selves.
![Photo of Margaret Bean, LMFT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e58ead43-6479-489f-95c4-c1f6a79bc565/1/320x400.jpeg)
Margaret Bean
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78230
My working experiences have offered me a wide range of opportunities to counsel couples, families, children, adolescents, and adults. I have knowledge in many areas including trauma, PTSD, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, anxiety, self-esteem, multigenerational challenges, sexual assault, human trafficking, life transitions, and grief. experience working with members of the queer identity through all stages of their identity exploration and acceptance. I am also informed in various relationship practices including monogamous and alternative styles such as polyamory, kink, long-distance, and open relationships.
My working experiences have offered me a wide range of opportunities to counsel couples, families, children, adolescents, and adults. I have knowledge in many areas including trauma, PTSD, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, anxiety, self-esteem, multigenerational challenges, sexual assault, human trafficking, life transitions, and grief. experience working with members of the queer identity through all stages of their identity exploration and acceptance. I am also informed in various relationship practices including monogamous and alternative styles such as polyamory, kink, long-distance, and open relationships.
![Photo of Derek Leighton, LMFT-S, LPC-S, CST, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d86af72-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Derek Leighton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMFT-S, LPC-S, CST, EMDR
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703
I work with straight and gay and lesbian clients, and those who are in non-traditional families, including multiple partners ( polyamory).
AASECT Certified Sex Therapist available to help you experience relationships and sexuality in self-defined, healthy ways. Are you looking for more satisfaction in life? Or maybe struggling with out-of-control sexual behaviors? I believe it's important that you find a therapist that is the right fit for you. I offer counseling services to Couples, Individuals, and Families. After spending 23 years in high tech, my passion for helping others develop their careers and seek personal growth led to a natural transition to working as a psychotherapist.
I work with straight and gay and lesbian clients, and those who are in non-traditional families, including multiple partners ( polyamory).
AASECT Certified Sex Therapist available to help you experience relationships and sexuality in self-defined, healthy ways. Are you looking for more satisfaction in life? Or maybe struggling with out-of-control sexual behaviors? I believe it's important that you find a therapist that is the right fit for you. I offer counseling services to Couples, Individuals, and Families. After spending 23 years in high tech, my passion for helping others develop their careers and seek personal growth led to a natural transition to working as a psychotherapist.
![Photo of Lavelda Naylor, MA, LMFT-S, DCC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e3d2dfb3-73a2-48d4-b902-de2315c7b155/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lavelda Naylor
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT-S, DCC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78213 (Online Only)
Meaning in life can be hard to find when we are struggling to just get through each day, and therapy can help. If you feel empty, overwhelmed or lost, please reach out because you don't have to go through this without support. Let's normalize getting therapy! While I work with many issues, I specialize in mood disorders, adult 'giftedness' /GT issues, polyamory and relationship problems of all types. If you have felt othered or marginalized before, I want to assure you I offer affirming care and operate from an intersectional, inclusive point of view. Currently accepting new clients for virtual therapy only.
Meaning in life can be hard to find when we are struggling to just get through each day, and therapy can help. If you feel empty, overwhelmed or lost, please reach out because you don't have to go through this without support. Let's normalize getting therapy! While I work with many issues, I specialize in mood disorders, adult 'giftedness' /GT issues, polyamory and relationship problems of all types. If you have felt othered or marginalized before, I want to assure you I offer affirming care and operate from an intersectional, inclusive point of view. Currently accepting new clients for virtual therapy only.
![Photo of Courtney Lougheed, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/caa8ffd0-aaa2-4faf-850f-3f6ec60306e3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Courtney Lougheed
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78739 (Online Only)
I enjoy supporting neurodivergent (ADHD/Autism), LGBTQIA+, and Polyamory/Consensual Non-Monogamamy individuals.
Do you find yourself struggling with big emotions? Wondering how you can move forward when you feel you are carrying loads of pain from the past? My passion is to help you discover your own personal strength. I walk alongside you in your therapeutic journey by holding compassion, warmth, and above all—a truly safe space to explore your emotions without judgment. I work collaboratively with you to set the pace for therapy work, trusting your nervous systems to know when, and at what speed, to share and process personal vulnerable experiences.
I enjoy supporting neurodivergent (ADHD/Autism), LGBTQIA+, and Polyamory/Consensual Non-Monogamamy individuals.
Do you find yourself struggling with big emotions? Wondering how you can move forward when you feel you are carrying loads of pain from the past? My passion is to help you discover your own personal strength. I walk alongside you in your therapeutic journey by holding compassion, warmth, and above all—a truly safe space to explore your emotions without judgment. I work collaboratively with you to set the pace for therapy work, trusting your nervous systems to know when, and at what speed, to share and process personal vulnerable experiences.
![Photo of Elizabeth A Owens, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/658298d6-e874-403f-9da3-90ea32ec989f/3/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth A Owens
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78216 (Online Only)
I specialize in working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and also people identified as Gifted/Talented - "gifted, geeky, and queer." I have experience counseling people though all stages of gender questioning, discovery, and transition. I counsel people with gender and/or sexuality issues (such as coming out, family issues, relationship problems, HRT support), and I am sex positive and knowledgable in polyamory, ethical nonmonogamy, kink, and alternative lifestyles. I work with adolescents, teens, young adults, and adults. Sensitive, intuitive and empathetic, and open to special and unique gifts. We can talk about whatever!
I specialize in working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and also people identified as Gifted/Talented - "gifted, geeky, and queer." I have experience counseling people though all stages of gender questioning, discovery, and transition. I counsel people with gender and/or sexuality issues (such as coming out, family issues, relationship problems, HRT support), and I am sex positive and knowledgable in polyamory, ethical nonmonogamy, kink, and alternative lifestyles. I work with adolescents, teens, young adults, and adults. Sensitive, intuitive and empathetic, and open to special and unique gifts. We can talk about whatever!
![Photo of Jennifer Grant, LCSW-S, BCD, CAAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1f40cf4b-8fd6-4f8b-bf63-856de86d5870/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Grant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, BCD, CAAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Floresville, TX 78114 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Supervisor, Board Certified Diplomate, Certified Trauma & Resilience Practioner, Certified Animal Assisted Practitioner, Certified Neuropsychotherapist (LCSW-S, BCD, CTRP-C, CAAP, NPT-C). I'm an experienced trauma clinician working with military, first responders and their families, people in monogamous, non-traditional relationships or polyamory, and LGBTQ+ persons. I employ multiple methods to help clients with mood disorders, anxiety, phobias, adjustment, grief and relational problems. I help couples overcome barriers to communication, historical trauma, infidelity, and intimacy ruptures.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Supervisor, Board Certified Diplomate, Certified Trauma & Resilience Practioner, Certified Animal Assisted Practitioner, Certified Neuropsychotherapist (LCSW-S, BCD, CTRP-C, CAAP, NPT-C). I'm an experienced trauma clinician working with military, first responders and their families, people in monogamous, non-traditional relationships or polyamory, and LGBTQ+ persons. I employ multiple methods to help clients with mood disorders, anxiety, phobias, adjustment, grief and relational problems. I help couples overcome barriers to communication, historical trauma, infidelity, and intimacy ruptures.
![Photo of Cody Glover - Polyamory, Swinger, Kink / BDSM, LGBT+ Counseling, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df452278-62e9-44d8-b1b6-007d5fe5d1aa/1/320x400.png)
Polyamory, Swinger, Kink / BDSM, LGBT+ Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746 (Online Only)
We specialize in open, nonmonogamous relationships such as polyamory and swinging, alternative lifestyles such as kink / BDSM, LGBT+, and secular or alternative faiths such as paganism. Trying to live more freely and authentically can be hard. Some struggle feeling something is wrong with them. Some people have just been polybombed, the love of their life seeming to say they’re not enough. Others, having taken the leap can’t seem to stop fighting. Feeling isolated, scared, tired, and like they're going to lose everything.
We specialize in open, nonmonogamous relationships such as polyamory and swinging, alternative lifestyles such as kink / BDSM, LGBT+, and secular or alternative faiths such as paganism. Trying to live more freely and authentically can be hard. Some struggle feeling something is wrong with them. Some people have just been polybombed, the love of their life seeming to say they’re not enough. Others, having taken the leap can’t seem to stop fighting. Feeling isolated, scared, tired, and like they're going to lose everything.
![Photo of Julianna Height - Intimate Possibilities, LLC, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a1c3e60-01a9-40c7-8066-0aa6eb690bf1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Intimate Possibilities, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Uvalde, TX 78801
Orgasms are not guaranteed and can be elusive. Sometimes the body doesn't want to cooperate with you. Your head can be your greatest obstacle to your enjoyment. Sometimes we just don't know why we can't have great sexual fulfillment every time. It can take therapy for you to know what you need to feel sexually satisfied. ED, porn/sex addiction, LGBTQIA+, polyamory, BDSM, kinks, and fetishes can all play a part in your ability to be sexually satisfied.
Orgasms are not guaranteed and can be elusive. Sometimes the body doesn't want to cooperate with you. Your head can be your greatest obstacle to your enjoyment. Sometimes we just don't know why we can't have great sexual fulfillment every time. It can take therapy for you to know what you need to feel sexually satisfied. ED, porn/sex addiction, LGBTQIA+, polyamory, BDSM, kinks, and fetishes can all play a part in your ability to be sexually satisfied.
![Photo of Dr. Alison Marks, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5c5183f0-fe78-455d-bf1d-e96c89966fa5/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a sex-positive, LGBTQIA+ affirming, kink-friendly therapist who is comfortable working with diverse and alternative relationships; including polyamory and non-monogamy.
I am passionate about empowering clients to explore the interactions between their thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and life circumstances as an avenue for making small-yet-powerful changes in their lives.
I am a sex-positive, LGBTQIA+ affirming, kink-friendly therapist who is comfortable working with diverse and alternative relationships; including polyamory and non-monogamy.
I am passionate about empowering clients to explore the interactions between their thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and life circumstances as an avenue for making small-yet-powerful changes in their lives.
![Photo of Emery Rodriguez, MS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7eb3e509-ce67-4b5a-832a-9b0b4d774151/3/320x400.jpeg)
I work with teens, young adults, college students, adults ages 25+, empaths, 2SLGBTQ+, and BIPOC clients! Together we navigate issues related to anxiety, attachment, family unacceptance, gender dysphoria, grief & loss, Health at Every Size (HAES), kink/BDSM, life transitions, multi-ethnic/racial, neurodiversity, non-monogamy/ polyamory, self-esteem, self-compassion, spirituality, stress, relationships, transgender issues, and trauma. Most of my clients come to me seeking a safe, nonjudgmental space to be their authentic selves while working collaboratively toward towards balance, wholeness, and liberation.
I work with teens, young adults, college students, adults ages 25+, empaths, 2SLGBTQ+, and BIPOC clients! Together we navigate issues related to anxiety, attachment, family unacceptance, gender dysphoria, grief & loss, Health at Every Size (HAES), kink/BDSM, life transitions, multi-ethnic/racial, neurodiversity, non-monogamy/ polyamory, self-esteem, self-compassion, spirituality, stress, relationships, transgender issues, and trauma. Most of my clients come to me seeking a safe, nonjudgmental space to be their authentic selves while working collaboratively toward towards balance, wholeness, and liberation.
![Photo of Miranda M. Solis, MS, NCC, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f6036023-4f9f-43a6-a70c-48cf86761495/1/320x400.jpeg)
Miranda M. Solis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78229
I graduated from UTSA in 2012 with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with minors in Sociology and Philosophy and again in 2015 with a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I worked in higher education, counseling college students for nine years. While I have a passion for helping young adults navigate their mental health, I equally enjoy working with teens, couples and families. I draw from various therapeutic styles, including CBT and Relational-Cultural Theory. I enjoy taking a person-centered approach to journey alongside my clients throughout the therapeutic process.
I graduated from UTSA in 2012 with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with minors in Sociology and Philosophy and again in 2015 with a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I worked in higher education, counseling college students for nine years. While I have a passion for helping young adults navigate their mental health, I equally enjoy working with teens, couples and families. I draw from various therapeutic styles, including CBT and Relational-Cultural Theory. I enjoy taking a person-centered approach to journey alongside my clients throughout the therapeutic process.
![Photo of Mark Steele, MA, NCC, LPC-A](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a4ca5355-465b-49a1-ba09-16fdf6caa127/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mark Steele
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, NCC, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
Sometimes we encounter barriers in our lives that are overwhelming and keep us from becoming the person we want to be. Maybe you've experienced trauma during another time of your life. The residual effects of such distressing events can lead to chronic stress and anxiety, depression, and addictive behaviors in a struggle to cope. Whatever your reason for seeking therapy, I strive to provide a safe, welcoming space to help you feel understood and empowered as you navigate life's challenges. I am also conversant in ASL, enabling me to offer accessible culturally-sensitive therapy to the Deaf community.
Sometimes we encounter barriers in our lives that are overwhelming and keep us from becoming the person we want to be. Maybe you've experienced trauma during another time of your life. The residual effects of such distressing events can lead to chronic stress and anxiety, depression, and addictive behaviors in a struggle to cope. Whatever your reason for seeking therapy, I strive to provide a safe, welcoming space to help you feel understood and empowered as you navigate life's challenges. I am also conversant in ASL, enabling me to offer accessible culturally-sensitive therapy to the Deaf community.
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Nearby Open Relationships Non-Monogamy Therapists Searches for Pleasanton
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Why might an individual want to see a therapist specializing in open relationships and consensual non-monogamy?
A client seeking help with an open or consensually non-monogamous relationship will prefer to talk with a professional whom they can count on to be nonjudgmental. Talking with a supportive therapist may on its own help relieve some of the stigma and challenges partners face. That said, the most important factor in the success of any type of therapy is the ability of the client and practitioner to form a strong, trusting bond. For this reason, an individual or couple could find success with a therapist who does not specialize in non-monogamous relationships but with whom they can build trust.
When should open or consensually non-monogamous partners seek counseling?
Like other couples, polyamorous partners typically seek counseling when they face relationship challenges they can’t solve themselves. In non-monogamous relationships, this could include breaches of trust, including infidelity; unclear rules or violations of boundaries; jealousy of outside partners; the stress of juggling the needs of multiple partners; or the effect of high partner turnover on children. Like those of other couples, polyamorous bonds can be threatened by increasingly frequent arguments, poor or dysfunctional communication, diminished emotional or physical intimacy, or the feeling that something is wrong, even if they don’t know what it is.
Do therapists have special training to gain expertise in open relationships and consensual non-monogamy?
No, but individuals seeking help with non-monogamous relationships would most likely consult a licensed professional with specific training in couples counseling or couples therapy. Couples counseling and couples therapy both involve teaching concrete strategies to navigate conflict in relationships. A good therapist can engage both partners as they explain these approaches but can also work with a single partner.
How long does therapy for consensually non-monogamous couples typically last?
Couples therapy for any type of couple, tends to be relatively time-limited, lasting around 12 weeks on average. A good therapist will tailor sessions to the individual partners’ emotions and sometimes their past, along with patterns found to be repeating in the relationship. In many cases, clients should expect their therapist to assign “homework” between weekly sessions.