Polyamorous and Open Relationships

Many individuals find joy in having close relationships on both sexual and emotional levels with multiple partners. These relationship styles require honest communication and healthy boundaries. As a trained sex therapist, I work with participants to strengthen communication skills and utilize resources that best support the sustainability of consensual and ethical non-monogamous relationship styles.

Do you feel like you can’t say how you really feel? Do you love your partner, and also realize no single person could, or even should be everything? Do you watch RomComs shouting “just date both of them!” You might be poly, swinging, or you might be somewhere in the middle; how you date, copulate, and relate is valid. Whether you are trying to explore who you are, come out, or do what you do better, I am here to replace the lack of Disney movies showcasing your flavor of romance.

Whether you seek individual, couples, or support for the entire polycule, I offer a safe and informed space to explore and navigate the complexities of non-traditional relationship dynamics. With a deep understanding of communication, boundary-setting, and emotional intelligence, I help clients build healthy and fulfilling connections while addressing challenges unique to polyamorous and open relationships.

I often work with clients to better understand their partner(s) wants and needs, especially as they arise in relation to open relationships and polyamory. I have worked with clients during all stages of the "opening up" process and with multiple types of open relationships (swinging, polyamory, and open relationships).

Polyamory and open relationships fall under the general umbrella term of non-monogamy. Not every partnership is made for non-monogamy, but for some it is a way of life, a way of connecting with multiple people to get various wants and needs met. Some partnerships are at beginning stages of non-monogamy and others find that they need guidance on how to revamp their agreements and deal with common issues of agreement violations, jealousy, trust, better communication skills, etc.

There remain many misunderstandings and stigmas surrounding this way of living. As a person with lived experience in this community, I am sensitive and attuned to the complex challenges (and rich rewards) that can come with polyamory.

Most of my clients are ENM and I have worked with a wide range of structures and experiences, whether just starting out or several decades in.

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!

I practice Ethical Non-Monogamy and understand your need for an alternative to the current socio-cultural norms.

I come with a deep understanding and knowledge of what it is to be polyamorous/ENM and the unique challenges that can come with this relationship structure. Whether you need assistance processing through broken boundaries, dismantling couple’s privilege, or letting go of the relationship escalator, I’m here to help. I have lead support groups and guided folks through the tender process of discovering ENM for themselves and the complexities that come with.

I've been studying non-monogamy both personally and professionally for over 6 years, during which time I have had my fair share of hard-learned polyamory lessons. Living one's life outside the monogamy script is *hard* and a decision not to be taken lightly. Polyamory is the single most potent growth/healing catalyst that I have ever witnessed (personally & professionally). It will trigger you unlike anything else... please, use it as the opportunity to metabolize/compost your sh*t that it is!

I have personal and professional experience working with individuals who are a part of the poly and ENM communities. I find working with this community (of which I am a part of) very rewarding and critical given how marginalized and unsupported this population is.

Whether your involved in or wanting to explore an ethical non monogamous relationship, as a couple or solo I will help not only answer but ask questions that will guide you and have you better equiped for any bumps that lay ahead. There are plenty of informative books on this topic, together we will figure out a course that is tailored to you.

All partnerships are welcome

Communication is important but I take this topic deeper by exploring relationship traumas and attachment issues. We will work on co-creating the relationship environment you most desire by using transparent communication, face value trust, relationship agreements, externalizing foundational values, and exploring old patterns. I will also walk you through showing up for a partner's trauma and I have lots of resources to share.

Have been studying relationships for 30 years. I have done a deep dive in polyamorous relationships, from a professional and a personal standpoint. I get it. No judgments or shame here. I understand the complex nature of poly. I know the benefits of these relationships and also the pitfalls. Good solid communication, trust and self-love are needed for these relationships to thrive.

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.

As a therapist in East Tennessee, I know that finding polyam-friendly providers can still be a challenge. Everyone deserves to have a non-judgmental and informed space to process. It would be a privilege to navigate your story with you, whether you are exploring non-monogamy for the first time, working through relationship issues in an established polyamorous relationship, or just wanting a therapist who understands that non-monogamy is part of your life.

My expertise with Polyamorous and Open relationships: I have worked with multiple couples exploring opening up their relationships, as well as navigating the complications that come from open relationships. I firmly believe that non-monogamy is not for everyone, and I am thrilled to help couples and moresomes navigate this rewarding way of engaging in relationships.