What is Consensual Non-Monogamy?
At Embrace Sexual Wellness, we work with people from various backgrounds. We understand that sexuality can be a delicate topic and we are here to help you explore your sexuality and lifestyle in a non-judgmental environment without making it the main emphasis of our sessions or treating it like something that is “wrong”. We support your sexual wellness goals whether you are kinky, curious about humiliation play, dominance/submission, role play, bondage, cuckholding, foot fetish, or you have erotic interests you’ve never shared with anyone. Our therapists are actively Anti-Oppressive, Kink-Aware, Polyam-Friendly, and LGBTQIA+ celebratory professionals and we welcome people of all abilities, backgrounds, genders, sexual orientations, and relationship configurations.
Is It Normal to Be Curious About an Open Relationship?
Absolutely! Non-traditional relationships including consensual non-monogamy and polyamory can inspire curiosity because of the opportunities for connection, support and interpersonal growth. A 2021 study found the number of people in the United States who would like to engage in polyamorous relationships is 1 in 6 – about the same as the number of Americans who have a cat. Sex researchers found the prevalence of people in America who have already been involved in a polyamorous relationship is 1 in 9, which is basically as common as earning a graduate degree in the United States.
What does CNM look like in a relationship?
CNM affirming therapists can help with self-esteem, attachment style, boundary setting and clear communication, power dynamics, stress, grief, sexual challenges, anxiety and mood. We won’t assume that your concerns are directly related to your relationship style. In therapy, we work on understanding the root cause of your concerns and develop tools for exploring your sexual wellness goals without stress and shame.
Sex therapy can be very helpful in exploring new relationship dynamics or leveling up your education about consensual monogamy so you can explore with safety and your own boundaries in mind. Whether you are a newbie or you have been in the lifestyle community for decades, we can help you enhance your pleasure and navigate any challenges that come up along the way.
Is Consensual Non-Monogamy Healthy? Can it work for everyone?
There is not substantial data suggesting consensual non-monogamy is unhealthy. In fact, research has shown that people who engage in CNM relationships are quite similar in health compared to people in monogamous relationships with similar levels of psychological wellbeing, passionate love and attachment, and report similar attitudes about their relationship quality, including commitment and satisfaction. Sexual health data suggests people who engage in polyamory practice safer sex strategies and report similar rates of contracting STIs as those engaged in monogamy.
Non-monogamous relationship structures may not be a good fit for everyone, but those who do engage tend to be happy. One study found that older adults in open relationships reported being happier, healthier and more sexually active than the general population. Other research suggests people with higher degrees of openness tend to have more positive attitudes about CNM and willingness to engage whereas people who have higher conscientiousness tend to not.
How Can Therapy Help with Consensual Non-Monogamy?
Sex therapy can be helpful to create a safe and validating space for you to explore your sexuality and relationship style without judgment. Sex-positive therapists recognize the diversity of sexual expression and behaviors, relationship structures and lifestyle choices. They’ll create an inclusive environment and can help you develop tools for dealing with negative sexual scripts about sex and sexual activity, while enhancing your understanding of your own sexuality.
Recognizing that sex therapy is working involves improvements in communication, comfort, and sexual satisfaction. If you're experiencing sexual issues or are simply looking to enhance your sexual well-being, don’t hesitate to seek the guidance of a qualified sex therapist. It can be the first step toward a more fulfilling and satisfying sex life.
If You’re Interested in Exploring CNM relationships, Therapy can Help
If you have been considering starting therapy but have been reluctant because you did not want to feel judged by your therapist based on your relationship, our team can help. We can work with you on the issues you identify without judging your sexual preferences, lifestyle or identity. Whether you are starting therapy alone or with a partner, reaching out for support can help you improve your health and wellbeing.
For more information on how Embrace Sexual Wellness can help with your concerns, feel free to request a free 10-minute phone consultation. A clinician will be able to answer any questions and help you get started.
