Not at all. You can come alone, with one partner, with multiple partners, or in any configuration that feels right. Some clients do individual work focused on their own relationship patterns, some do dyadic couples work, and some bring their polycule for group sessions. We’re flexible and follow your lead. What matters is that the format serves your growth.

Absolutely not. Our therapists are trained in and affirming of non-monogamous relationship structures. We don’t view polyamory or open relationships as something to be “fixed” or a phase to grow out of. If monogamy isn’t right for you, we respect that completely. Our job is to help you build the relationships you want — whatever form they take — with more skill, clarity, and joy.

This is one of the most common reasons people seek our help. When one partner wants to explore non-monogamy and the other is uncertain or resistant, there’s a lot of vulnerability on both sides. We create a safe space to explore these conversations honestly — including fears, desires, boundaries, and what each person truly needs. Not every exploration leads to opening up, and that’s okay too. The goal is clarity and mutual respect, whatever you decide.

They’re related but distinct. Polyamory typically refers to having multiple loving, committed relationships with the knowledge and consent of everyone involved. Open relationships more commonly refer to a primary partnership where one or both partners have sexual connections with others. But there’s a whole spectrum — relationship anarchy, solo polyamory, swinging, and many other configurations. What they share is a commitment to ethical, consensual engagement. We’re familiar with all of these structures.

No. Jealousy is a normal human emotion that arises in all relationship structures — monogamous and non-monogamous alike. Experiencing jealousy doesn’t mean you’re doing non-monogamy wrong. It usually means there’s something important underneath — an unmet need, a fear of loss, an attachment wound, or an area where agreements need renegotiation. Therapy helps you understand your jealousy, work with it compassionately, and develop tools to navigate it.

Yes! You don’t need to identify as polyamorous or be in an open relationship to work with us. Many clients come in curious, questioning, or exploring what non-monogamy might look like for them. Some are processing feelings for someone outside their current relationship. Some are rethinking the relationship structures they were taught. Whatever stage you’re at, we meet you there without pressure or agenda.

Many therapists claim to be “open-minded” about non-monogamy but lack specific training or experience. At TPN, our therapists have specialized knowledge of polyamorous dynamics, ENM research, attachment theory in non-monogamous contexts, and the unique challenges our clients face. We don’t need you to educate us. Plus, our collaborative community model means your therapist is supported by a network of clinicians with deep expertise in sexuality, relationships, and identity.

This is one of the things therapy is best at. Shame around non-monogamy often comes from years of cultural messaging that monogamy is the only “right” way to love. It can be reinforced by family disapproval, social stigma, or even previous therapists who pathologized your choices. We help you unpack where that shame comes from, challenge the beliefs that maintain it, and build a relationship with yourself grounded in pride and authenticity.

Confidentiality is something we discuss openly from the start. When working with multiple partners — whether in joint sessions or seeing partners individually — we establish clear agreements about what is shared and what isn’t. Our standard practice is a “no secrets” policy in joint therapy (meaning we won’t keep information from one partner that was shared by another in the context of the shared work), but we tailor this to your specific situation and needs.

That’s completely okay. You don’t need to be in crisis to benefit from therapy. Many of our clients come in simply wanting to grow, communicate better, or have a professional space to process the complexities of loving multiple people. If you’re curious, reaching out is the first step — there’s no commitment beyond showing up for yourself. Your first session is a conversation, not a contract.