When two is too few: Addressing polyamorous clients in therapy

Abstract

Polyamory is a growing practice among many couples and individuals in current US society. Despite the boom in interest over the recent decades through media and pop culture, academic acknowledgement of this lifestyle remains slim. As more polyamorous systems seek counseling for related or non-related reasons it is becoming increasingly important to address a long history of bias and marginalization against these clients by therapists. This discussion aims to address the definitions and prevalence of polyamory and examine therapist competencies in working with polyamorous clients. Future implications for research related to counseling polyamorous clients will be explored.

LAY SUMMARY

The goal of this article is to introduce and discuss issues surrounding polyamory. More acknowledgement is needed about the practice of polyamory, especially in how these dynamics are addressed in the counseling setting. Guidelines are presented to help improve therapist skills and education for working with polyamorous individuals seeking therapy.

Keywords:

• poly
• polyamory
• non-monogamy
• therapy

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Brittany Trexler

Brittany Trexler is a doctoral student in the Human Sexuality Studies program at Widener University, concentrating in sex therapy. She currently works as a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia. Her research interests are in non-monogamy, alternative sexualities, and education for counseling professionals.