Polyamorous Couples Counseling in Los Angeles, C A
Discover how polyamorous couples counseling can help you deal with ethical non-monogamy relationship issues. At Therapy for Adults, we empower participants in any type of relationship structure to heal heartache and restore romance.
Polyamorists and Polyamorous Couples Counseling
Marriages and other romantic relationships will always have challenges, despite how healthy the connection is or how madly in love the partners are. When there are more than two lovers involved, the difficulties can seem like triple the amount of those practicing monogamy and of traditional matrimony. Feelings of anxiety, depression, and more can be overwhelming and put unnecessary stress upon all members involved.
Asking for help in polyamorous relationships can feel daunting. There might be a fear of judgment or a concern that those outside the relationship won't understand or relate. However, seeking polyamory relationship therapy from a knowledgeable practitioner can provide significant support. Such therapy (also known as ethical non-monogamy counseling or ENM couples counseling) helps polyamorists identify the root causes of their challenges and develop crucial skills to navigate them. A therapist specializing in polyamory can offer ENM couples the necessary tools to address their issues in a safe and comfortable environment, which can sometimes be difficult to find.
Talking about the hardships of polyamory can assist all partners’ ability to change their behavior and way of thinking to allow opportunities to work through their problems successfully. Learning to cope with the challenges plural relationships face with guidance from an experienced polyamory therapist in LA enables couples to repair damage and improve their love life.
Logistics of Polyamorous Relationships
Sex
Being inclusive and supportive of your lover’s exploration of their sexual desires and dividing your own sexual attention fairly will allow all involved to not feel ignored or like a third wheel. The approval and love you nurture with your partners will continue to grow and mature for the better.
Social Dynamics:
Discussion about whether you will have a strong or passive involvement in and with your significant other’s other relations has to be decided. A good comprehension of the intricacies of having multiple relationships is helpful for partners. Preparedness to create awareness of established rules or practices will help things run smoothly.
Maintaining your identity:
Check in with your feelings
remember your personal goals
Having your own hobbies will facilitate positive self-esteem, self-worth, and value.
Common Issues Discussed in Polyamorous Couples Counseling
Managing negative feelings
The negative emotions of jealousy and resentment can lead to serious repercussions, including a breakdown of trust and significant hurt within a relationship. By fostering effective communication in relationships, often achieved through couples counseling, partners can openly explore the impact of these feelings and address them honestly. This approach allows for the gradual replacement of harm with a more harmonious connection.
No rewards in attention competition
Fighting for more attention or the affection of one member is unvalidated, a waste of energy, and negatively impacts all involved. Communicating with your partner is important, not villainizing the other party.
Ethics, Morality, & Legality of Polyamory in the US
Society’s Stigma
The majority of the general public has only been taught that loving unions are between two people, mainly one husband and one wife. Society isn’t educated about the definitions of alternative forms of love. And their exposure to variations is limited, negative, and/or associated with immorality. Biases remain toward polyamorists mainly because some religious groups that practice polygamy or polyamory have allowed abuse towards the wives of polygamous unions, and ultra-conservative religions with huge media platforms have voiced their hateful views loudly to the general public, thus influencing their opinions of both polygamy and polyamory. This is unfortunate, as such negative perceptions can strengthen the taboo and shame of polyamorous relationships.
Coming out to your loved ones and the public as polyamorous
When is the right time to “come out” to friends, family, co-workers, and neighbors? Fear and uncertainty can be terrifying. How will you answer their questions? Honestly share your feelings. Expect some mixed reactions and disagreement. Be prepared for some negative responses and feelings of being deceived. There will be some acceptance or at least respect for your decision, but also prepare for some positive and accepting responses. You will be surprised who in your life is understanding and might also disclose to you about their own nontraditional relationships.
Here Are Some Common Inquiries About Polyamory
What are the different types of polyamorous relationships?
Bigamy—The custom or practice of marriage to a person while already married to another, often unbeknown to the other.
Polyamory—The custom or practice of having more than one open romantic relationship with more than one consenting person at the same time. A form of consensual non-monogamy and marriage is more often than not part of the equation.
Polyandry—The custom or practice of having more than one or being married to more than one husband at the same time.
Polygamy—The custom or practice of having more than one spouse (wife or husband) at the same time.
Polygyny—The custom or practice of having more than one wife or being married to more than one wife at the same time.
Polygynandry—A social and mating structure and/or marital arrangement where both males and females have multiple mating partners and/or spouses. Often referred to as group marriage.
Can polyamorous couples have successful marriages?
Yes. As long as a few crucial components are present. Full consent from all individuals in the arrangement is imperative. Open and honest communication about each other’s needs and motivations, emotional satisfaction, physical fulfillment is necessary. Build the relationship on love and not obligation.
Are Polyamorous Relationships legal in the US?
Legal protection for polyamorous couples is limited. Understanding the legalities can be tricky, especially when they may vary from state to state or differ from federal law. Marriage licenses, child custody, inheritance, taxation, and adoption are just some of factors that can complicate the situation even more.
There are laws in all 50 states against the practice of bigamy and polygamy and both are considered crimes and punishable by a fine, imprisonment, or both, according to the law of the individual state and the circumstances of the offense.
Benefits of Polyamorous Couples Counseling in Los Angeles, CA
Recognizing the diverse approaches to therapy available, especially with the benefits of online couples therapy counseling becoming increasingly clear, can significantly aid multiple-partner unions. Working with an educated polyamory therapist allows you to reconcile emotional pain and enhance sexual intimacy, often from the comfort of your own home. With professional guidance, such as that offered by experienced therapists, you will explore opportunities for support to navigate the unique challenges that plural relationships face, ultimately helping you to heal suffering and renew intimacy. Discovering methods of help to understand the intricacies of polyamorous relationships, potentially through online sessions with a knowledgeable therapist, can help mend any rifts and foster greater sensuality.
Start Polyamorous Couples Counseling in Los Angeles, CA Today
If you're in a polyamorous relationship and struggling with communication, jealousy, or other challenges, seeking out the help of a polyamory therapist can be a game-changer. Ethical non-monogamy counseling and couples therapy in Los Angeles, CA, can help you learn effective communication skills, explore boundaries, and express expectations. At Therapy for Adults, you will find a safe and non-judgmental environment to work through difficult emotions. Don't let relationship issues fester or go unaddressed—take the first step towards a healthier and happier relationship by following these steps:
Contact Steven today for a free consultation or schedule it online.
Start getting support for your relationships
Other Therapy Services I Offer in Los Angeles
Therapy for Adults provides a range of services to help support individuals and couples in achieving their goals and living their best lives. I specialize in dating and relationship issues therapy to help you navigate the complexities of modern relationships and build fulfilling connections. I also offer dating coaching, helping clients to develop the skills and confidence they need to find and maintain healthy relationships. For those struggling with managing and overcoming feelings of stress and worry, I offer anxiety therapy. Additionally, I offer therapy for highly sensitive people, providing a safe and nurturing space to explore the unique challenges faced by those with this trait.
All of these are available throughout California with online therapy.
