About this event
In recent years, ethical non-monogamy (ENM) has grown increasingly popular as an alternative to traditional monogamy. ENM encompasses a wide range of relational styles and structures, including open relationships, polyamory and swinging. In addition to the relationship challenges presented in monogamy, ethically non-monogamous relationships encounter a unique set challenges, including, but not limited to, stigmatization, navigating a monogamy-centric society, unlearning compulsively monogamous norms, making space for relationship fluidity and impermanence, and managing attachment needs and boundaries when there are multiple individuals involved.
This training is for counselors and therapists interested in learning more about ENM. Perhaps a client has expressed an interest in opening their relationship with their monogamous partner, or maybe they are curious about polyamory. Perhaps your client has been faced with a request from their partner to open up and is struggling to manage highly activated emotions. Or you may already be working with a client in an open/poly situation and feel unsure of how to help them navigate challenges in their relationship.
Learning Objectives
After completion of this course, participants will be able to:
- Describe elements of the paradigm shift from monogamy to non-monogomy.
- Identify ways in which the dominant culture privileges monogamy, and the impact on non-monogamous clients.
- Be familiar with ENM terminology and common forms of ENM relationships.
- Describe common issues arising in non-monogamous relationships, and interventions therapists may use to help clients navigate them.
