Open Relationships & Non-Monogamy

    Navigate ethical non-monogamy, polyamory, and alternative relationship structures

    What Is Open Relationship Therapy?

    Open relationship therapy is for individuals and partners navigating consensual non-monogamy, polyamory, swinging, relationship anarchy, and other alternative relationship structures. Whether you're opening an existing relationship, already practicing non-monogamy, or considering if it's right for you, therapy provides support for the unique challenges and opportunities these relationships offer.

    Non-monogamy requires exceptional communication, boundary-setting, emotional processing, and conflict resolution skills. I help individuals and partners develop these skills while addressing jealousy, insecurity, time management, and the complexities of multiple relationships. Building strong communication in any relationship structure benefits from couples therapy that supports all relationship configurations. I'm knowledgeable about diverse relationship structures and won't try to "fix" your non-monogamy.

    My role is to help you create relationships that work for you—whether that's polyamory, open relationships, swinging, or something entirely unique. For exploring sexual boundaries in multiple relationships, sex therapy can help navigate intimacy complexities. Your relationship structure is valid, and you deserve informed, affirming support.

    Who This Is For

    Couples considering opening their relationship
    Polyamorous individuals and polycules
    Those practicing ethical non-monogamy
    People navigating jealousy and insecurity
    Couples establishing agreements and boundaries
    Anyone exploring relationship anarchy
    Partners managing time and emotional resources
    Those dealing with conflict between partners
    Individuals questioning if ENM is right for them
    Experienced non-monogamous folks needing support

    What to Expect

    Understanding Your Structure

    We'll explore your current or desired relationship configuration, identify what's working and what isn't, and clarify your values around non-monogamy. I'll help you understand the different types of non-monogamy and find what fits you best.

    Communication & Agreements

    Successful non-monogamy requires explicit communication and clear agreements. We'll work on communication skills, boundary-setting, negotiation, and creating relationship agreements that protect everyone's emotional safety and autonomy.

    Managing Emotions

    Jealousy, insecurity, and compersion (joy at a partner's happiness with others) are all normal in non-monogamy. I'll help you process these emotions, understand their roots, and develop healthy coping strategies that don't restrict your or your partners' autonomy.

    Navigating Challenges

    Time management, metamour (partner's partner) conflicts, coming out, dealing with societal judgment—these are real challenges in non-monogamous relationships. We'll develop practical strategies to handle them effectively.

    Marissa's Approach

    I'm experienced working with non-monogamous individuals and relationships. I understand the terminology, common structures (hierarchical polyamory, solo poly, relationship anarchy, etc.), and the unique challenges that come with consensual non-monogamy. I won't waste time explaining why you "should" be monogamous—that's not my job.

    My approach is practical and focused on skill-building. Non-monogamy requires more communication, emotional awareness, and boundary work than traditional monogamy. I'll help you develop these skills while honoring your autonomy and relationship choices.

    I also understand that non-monogamy isn't always the answer. Sometimes couples discover through therapy that they're not compatible with this structure, and that's okay too. My role is to help you figure out what works for you, not push any particular relationship model.

    Common Issues Addressed

    Jealousy and insecurity management
    Opening an existing monogamous relationship
    Creating relationship agreements
    Time and energy management
    Metamour (partner's partner) conflicts
    Veto power and couple privilege
    Coming out as non-monogamous
    Handling societal judgment
    New relationship energy (NRE) imbalances
    Balancing multiple relationships
    Safer sex practices and agreements
    Deciding if ENM is right for you

    Outcomes & Benefits

    After open relationship therapy, clients typically experience:

    Enhanced communication and negotiation skills
    Better emotional regulation and jealousy management
    Clear, workable relationship agreements
    Improved conflict resolution between partners
    Greater clarity on relationship structure and values
    Tools for managing multiple relationships sustainably
    Confidence in their non-monogamous choices
    Stronger connections with all partners involved

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Investment in Your Relationships

    Schedule a consultation to discuss fees and payment options.

    Insurance Accepted:

    AetnaPacificSourceOut-of-Network Benefits

    Ready to Explore ENM Therapy?

    Schedule your free consultation today to discuss non-monogamy and alternative relationships.

    Related Services That May Help

    Supporting all relationship structures with affirming, knowledgeable care

    Couples Therapy

    Building communication skills? Our couples therapy supports all relationship structures and configurations.

    Sex Therapy

    Exploring sexual boundaries in multiple relationships? Sex therapy can help navigate intimacy complexities.

    Individual Therapy

    Processing jealousy or relationship anxiety? Individual therapy provides space to explore your feelings.