As more and more people experiment with non-monogamy, therapists everywhere are being called upon to work with polyamory-related relational challenges. Are you prepared to help a client navigate the predictable pitfalls that come with a transition into an open relationship? Clients may be affected by pre-existing unresolved relational issues, like infidelity or substance abuse. They may have significant knowledge deficits about non-monogamous relationship styles, or difficulty making and keeping agreements. Or they may not be able to agree on whether to open their relationship in the first place. How can you help clients build the skills they need in order to make polyamory work well, and what skills are those? Gain concrete strategies for handling the key difficulties your clients will face when opening up. Expect case examples, worksheets and exercises, and an opportunity to ask Martha about your toughest polyamory-related cases.

Learning Objectives:

1. Participants will be able to identify the skills needed in order to be a strong participant in a healthy polyamorous relationship, and discuss how therapy can help build those skills.

2. Participants will be able to describe at least 3 aspects of healthy, workable polyamory.

3. Participants will be able to describe at least two important interventions when clients have a difference of opinion about whether to open up.