Open Relationships Non-Monogamy Therapists in Westport, CT
Kirsten Lesch
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSW, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Westport, CT 06880
You deserve a life that feels good. We know that even good relationships can get stuck in unhealthy patterns. Do you find that when you are trying to connect with your partner you end up in a cycle of communication that's not helpful or productive? Do you retreat and silence it until next time? There is always next time… Maybe this time they will understand…we become louder in hopes they see how hurt we are. The more we aren't seen and heard the more resentful we become. The explosions become more significant and the intimacy ceases, now you are just resentful roommates.—It doesn’t have to be this way.
You deserve a life that feels good. We know that even good relationships can get stuck in unhealthy patterns. Do you find that when you are trying to connect with your partner you end up in a cycle of communication that's not helpful or productive? Do you retreat and silence it until next time? There is always next time… Maybe this time they will understand…we become louder in hopes they see how hurt we are. The more we aren't seen and heard the more resentful we become. The explosions become more significant and the intimacy ceases, now you are just resentful roommates.—It doesn’t have to be this way.
Shannon Broderick
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Westport, CT 06880
Lift Wellness Group has proudly served as Southwestern Connecticut's premier outpatient counseling, psychotherapy, medical and dietary group for seven years. Located in the heart of downtown Westport, CT, our multidisciplinary team provides eating disorder recovery services, psychiatric evaluations and medication management, dietary services, group therapy, meal support, CBT, DBT, EMDR, executive function coaching, ADHD evaluations and treatment, play therapy, couples counseling, mood and anxiety treatment, therapy for teens, young adult counseling, both in person and remotely in CT, TN, VA, CO, TX, NY, FL, MA, DC, GA, NC, PA.
Lift Wellness Group has proudly served as Southwestern Connecticut's premier outpatient counseling, psychotherapy, medical and dietary group for seven years. Located in the heart of downtown Westport, CT, our multidisciplinary team provides eating disorder recovery services, psychiatric evaluations and medication management, dietary services, group therapy, meal support, CBT, DBT, EMDR, executive function coaching, ADHD evaluations and treatment, play therapy, couples counseling, mood and anxiety treatment, therapy for teens, young adult counseling, both in person and remotely in CT, TN, VA, CO, TX, NY, FL, MA, DC, GA, NC, PA.
Sarah Gersick
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06880
Hello! I am an experienced licensed clinical psychologist. My orientation is relational psychodynamic, which means my clients and I approach problems through the lens of past and current relationships. My style is minimally structured and highly client-centered: you set the agenda and the pace. I also use cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness, and family-systems techniques where they fit best. I see individuals and couples age 13 through older adults. My areas of specialty include depression, anxiety, trauma and PTSD, developmental issues, personality/characterological concerns, and relationship issues, among others.
Hello! I am an experienced licensed clinical psychologist. My orientation is relational psychodynamic, which means my clients and I approach problems through the lens of past and current relationships. My style is minimally structured and highly client-centered: you set the agenda and the pace. I also use cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness, and family-systems techniques where they fit best. I see individuals and couples age 13 through older adults. My areas of specialty include depression, anxiety, trauma and PTSD, developmental issues, personality/characterological concerns, and relationship issues, among others.
David Walenczyk
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06880 (Online Only)
I’ve been in practice for 30 years specializing in couples and family work, addiction, adolescent issues, as well working with the LGBTQ community. I’m only accepting tele-health clients (online) currently and provide both pyschotherapy and consultation. I’m also available to provide supervision to MFTA’s working toward licensure or post licensure.
I’ve been in practice for 30 years specializing in couples and family work, addiction, adolescent issues, as well working with the LGBTQ community. I’m only accepting tele-health clients (online) currently and provide both pyschotherapy and consultation. I’m also available to provide supervision to MFTA’s working toward licensure or post licensure.
Mandy Manuel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06880
Therapy is a personal journey and a "one size fits all" model does not apply. I take time to assess the goals and needs of each person to tailor an approach that is effective and comfortable for each individual. I utilize a collaborative approach to therapy with an understanding that both change and self-acceptance are necessary for positive outcomes. "Homework" may be provided if desired to aid in the therapeutic process and accelerate change and growth. In a supportive and accepting environment, I will help you reach your goals to be the best you and live authentically.
Therapy is a personal journey and a "one size fits all" model does not apply. I take time to assess the goals and needs of each person to tailor an approach that is effective and comfortable for each individual. I utilize a collaborative approach to therapy with an understanding that both change and self-acceptance are necessary for positive outcomes. "Homework" may be provided if desired to aid in the therapeutic process and accelerate change and growth. In a supportive and accepting environment, I will help you reach your goals to be the best you and live authentically.
Margo Friedman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LADC
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06880 (Online Only)
Everyone has battles to fight and hurdles to overcome at some point in their lives. I specialize in supporting patients and their loved ones as they navigate complex illnesses such as chronic Lyme Disease and tick borne illnesses. I am a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor and help patients, couples and families who are impacted by addiction and co-occurring mental health issues. It is important to me that my patients feel they can safely express their emotions and receive supportive feedback in a nonjudgmental manner. I would like to help you develop life-long coping strategies and achieve a better quality of life.
Everyone has battles to fight and hurdles to overcome at some point in their lives. I specialize in supporting patients and their loved ones as they navigate complex illnesses such as chronic Lyme Disease and tick borne illnesses. I am a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor and help patients, couples and families who are impacted by addiction and co-occurring mental health issues. It is important to me that my patients feel they can safely express their emotions and receive supportive feedback in a nonjudgmental manner. I would like to help you develop life-long coping strategies and achieve a better quality of life.
Lexi Garber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06880 (Online Only)
I believe in the beautiful complexity of humans and in human fortitude to navigate what hurts. As a therapist, I am here to help deepen your understanding of the wonder and the pain within your story and make space for something new. Reaching for support takes courage; I will meet you on your path, we'll assess your needs together, and work to let healing unfold. I have expertise and a special dedication to those managing perinatal challenges including infertility and loss. I also work with those coping with anxiety, trauma, depression, the myriad of life’s transitions, and the unique experience of first responders.
I believe in the beautiful complexity of humans and in human fortitude to navigate what hurts. As a therapist, I am here to help deepen your understanding of the wonder and the pain within your story and make space for something new. Reaching for support takes courage; I will meet you on your path, we'll assess your needs together, and work to let healing unfold. I have expertise and a special dedication to those managing perinatal challenges including infertility and loss. I also work with those coping with anxiety, trauma, depression, the myriad of life’s transitions, and the unique experience of first responders.
Jason Powell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06880
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) as well as a Certified Sex Therapist (CST) through AASECT with a bachelor’s degree from Indiana University and a master’s degree from Antioch University. I am passionate about working with couples and individuals who are experiencing a range of challenges including relational distress, infidelity, a lack of intimacy, depression, desire discrepancy and more.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) as well as a Certified Sex Therapist (CST) through AASECT with a bachelor’s degree from Indiana University and a master’s degree from Antioch University. I am passionate about working with couples and individuals who are experiencing a range of challenges including relational distress, infidelity, a lack of intimacy, depression, desire discrepancy and more.
Samantha Dareff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Westport, CT 06880
Seeking support takes courage, so congratulations on taking that first step! Psychotherapy is a collaborate process where you and I will work together to help you succeed through transitions, get the most out of your relationships, and find greater fulfillment in your life. You will be met with warmth and compassion so that you are able to explore your feelings openly in a safe, non-judgmental space. I work from a relational and psychodynamic perspective, which often stimulates discussion around your thoughts, feelings, and beliefs, in order to identify unwanted repeating patterns in your life.
Seeking support takes courage, so congratulations on taking that first step! Psychotherapy is a collaborate process where you and I will work together to help you succeed through transitions, get the most out of your relationships, and find greater fulfillment in your life. You will be met with warmth and compassion so that you are able to explore your feelings openly in a safe, non-judgmental space. I work from a relational and psychodynamic perspective, which often stimulates discussion around your thoughts, feelings, and beliefs, in order to identify unwanted repeating patterns in your life.
Ebru Halper
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westport, CT 06880
Things at home are more stressful than ever—trying to find balance in the midst of endless demands is overwhelming. You are doing your best, but the whole house feels on edge, especially you and your partner. Certain pre-existing relational dynamics are now magnified and there’s a storm brewing inside of you. You're feeling angry, resentful and unsupported. You know you play a part in this dance, you’re ready to roll up your sleeves to right this ship, but can’t do it alone anymore. There's a part of you that knows you could be better and another part that is so lost. You need some clarity and guidance.
Things at home are more stressful than ever—trying to find balance in the midst of endless demands is overwhelming. You are doing your best, but the whole house feels on edge, especially you and your partner. Certain pre-existing relational dynamics are now magnified and there’s a storm brewing inside of you. You're feeling angry, resentful and unsupported. You know you play a part in this dance, you’re ready to roll up your sleeves to right this ship, but can’t do it alone anymore. There's a part of you that knows you could be better and another part that is so lost. You need some clarity and guidance.
Phillip Racies
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westport, CT 06880 (Online Only)
Life is an ocean of never-ending challenge; we can get overwhelmed, anxious, isolated, and feel out of control. Without proper support we miss the opportunities for growth that adversity offers. I provide a supportive structure that allows exploration of the most important aspects of your life and helps you develop concrete practical skills to better respond to the complex challenges life presents - - whether in individual, couples, or family therapy. You will learn to better know, understand, and accept more of your experiences and interactions as you discover and shape more satisfying layers of yourself and your relationships.
Life is an ocean of never-ending challenge; we can get overwhelmed, anxious, isolated, and feel out of control. Without proper support we miss the opportunities for growth that adversity offers. I provide a supportive structure that allows exploration of the most important aspects of your life and helps you develop concrete practical skills to better respond to the complex challenges life presents - - whether in individual, couples, or family therapy. You will learn to better know, understand, and accept more of your experiences and interactions as you discover and shape more satisfying layers of yourself and your relationships.
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Merritt Juliano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06880
As a certified perinatal mental health practitioner, I welcome women navigating the pregnancy and postpartum period. I also specialize in women's issues, highly sensitive people, climate-aware therapy, nature connection and spiritual emergence. I incorporate breathwork, meditation, and mindful outdoor experiences. I understand the dynamic complexities of life and try to understand and support the whole person within the context of his or her unique journey through life.
As a certified perinatal mental health practitioner, I welcome women navigating the pregnancy and postpartum period. I also specialize in women's issues, highly sensitive people, climate-aware therapy, nature connection and spiritual emergence. I incorporate breathwork, meditation, and mindful outdoor experiences. I understand the dynamic complexities of life and try to understand and support the whole person within the context of his or her unique journey through life.
Matthew Love, Psy.D
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Westport, CT 06880
Life has many challenges. It's how you grow from your past that defines who you are in life. You may feel alone, misunderstood, and unfulfilled with your life or personal relationships. Perhaps you're having intense negative emotions. People typically enter therapy when they are in distress, although it's usually the long-term and underlying struggles that concern them the most. Initially, we will work quickly to address your immediate pain and provide relief. As therapy progresses, our focus may shift so you develop more positive and enriching relationships with yourself and others.
Life has many challenges. It's how you grow from your past that defines who you are in life. You may feel alone, misunderstood, and unfulfilled with your life or personal relationships. Perhaps you're having intense negative emotions. People typically enter therapy when they are in distress, although it's usually the long-term and underlying struggles that concern them the most. Initially, we will work quickly to address your immediate pain and provide relief. As therapy progresses, our focus may shift so you develop more positive and enriching relationships with yourself and others.
Dr. Caitlin Stell
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Westport, CT 06880
Are you finding it hard to navigate feelings of depression or anxiety, a major life change, or difficult relationships (family/romantic/friendship)? Are you trying to leave behind painful parts of your past? Reaching out takes courage and you don't have to do this alone. I specialize in helping teens & adults with trauma recovery, depression, anxiety, life transitions, self-worth issues, identity exploration, relationships, and grief/loss. Together we will find tools to reduce your pain, address the root of your troubles, and help you to break free from patterns that aren't bringing you to the life you want to be living.
Are you finding it hard to navigate feelings of depression or anxiety, a major life change, or difficult relationships (family/romantic/friendship)? Are you trying to leave behind painful parts of your past? Reaching out takes courage and you don't have to do this alone. I specialize in helping teens & adults with trauma recovery, depression, anxiety, life transitions, self-worth issues, identity exploration, relationships, and grief/loss. Together we will find tools to reduce your pain, address the root of your troubles, and help you to break free from patterns that aren't bringing you to the life you want to be living.
Erin Jackson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westport, CT 06880 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who has been in the field of human services for nearly two decades. Though I began with a career in law enforcement, I gradually began to feel a calling toward a different perspective of human services. As the world began to change and discrepancies within the legal system became more overt, I wanted to continue to serve my community in a way that would not penalize individuals for their shortcomings, substance use issues, or unaddressed mental health issues. As such, I decided to shift from law enforcement to pursue more clinical work with individuals, families, and groups.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who has been in the field of human services for nearly two decades. Though I began with a career in law enforcement, I gradually began to feel a calling toward a different perspective of human services. As the world began to change and discrepancies within the legal system became more overt, I wanted to continue to serve my community in a way that would not penalize individuals for their shortcomings, substance use issues, or unaddressed mental health issues. As such, I decided to shift from law enforcement to pursue more clinical work with individuals, families, and groups.
Janette Pellus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, QS, C-DBT, C-KAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westport, CT 06880 (Online Only)
The ups and downs of life can trigger crisis; leaving us confused, emotionally upset, and sometimes leading to dysfunctional coping. We do not have control over all situations in life but finding meaning and purpose in these times can provide a framework for personal growth and development. I love to work with those who want to understand the origins of their problems, experiencing life transitions, problems in essential relationships, depression, and childhood trauma or loss. Therapy sessions are conducted via secure Video conference.
The ups and downs of life can trigger crisis; leaving us confused, emotionally upset, and sometimes leading to dysfunctional coping. We do not have control over all situations in life but finding meaning and purpose in these times can provide a framework for personal growth and development. I love to work with those who want to understand the origins of their problems, experiencing life transitions, problems in essential relationships, depression, and childhood trauma or loss. Therapy sessions are conducted via secure Video conference.
Kirsten Lesch
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06880
Do you feel lonely, yet you aren’t alone? Another scroll through your social feed -and you ask why doesn't my life look like that? YOU look at your partner, thinking, “Where's our happily ever after?" You used to have so much fun together - talking and laughing nonstop-but now you haven’t had a meaningful conversation in weeks. What’s the point of talking? It’s just fight after fight. At first, it seemed like you had so much in common. Now, you're not sure you even KNOW who your partner is anymore. Romance, intimacy, fun, and trust are long gone. "Would it be better if we just called it quits?"
Do you feel lonely, yet you aren’t alone? Another scroll through your social feed -and you ask why doesn't my life look like that? YOU look at your partner, thinking, “Where's our happily ever after?" You used to have so much fun together - talking and laughing nonstop-but now you haven’t had a meaningful conversation in weeks. What’s the point of talking? It’s just fight after fight. At first, it seemed like you had so much in common. Now, you're not sure you even KNOW who your partner is anymore. Romance, intimacy, fun, and trust are long gone. "Would it be better if we just called it quits?"
Romi Terk
Licensed Master Social Work, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westport, CT 06880 (Online Only)
Therapy provides us with the opportunity to introspect through a lens of curiosity and acceptance, as opposed to shame and judgment. I support individuals and couples facing barriers to their emotional, relational, and sexual wellbeing to nurture a deeper and more compassionate understanding of themselves and one another.
Therapy provides us with the opportunity to introspect through a lens of curiosity and acceptance, as opposed to shame and judgment. I support individuals and couples facing barriers to their emotional, relational, and sexual wellbeing to nurture a deeper and more compassionate understanding of themselves and one another.
Rivia Mind
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06880
At Rivia Mind, we focus on both treatment and prevention. We believe in listening to each patient and creating a partnership to work on maintaining and improving lifelong health. We are a treatment center that offers up to date, evidence based treatment for a wide range of psychological struggles that get in the way of you living life to the fullest. A consultation begins with a comprehensive evaluation and a personalized treatment plan to help you reach your goals.
At Rivia Mind, we focus on both treatment and prevention. We believe in listening to each patient and creating a partnership to work on maintaining and improving lifelong health. We are a treatment center that offers up to date, evidence based treatment for a wide range of psychological struggles that get in the way of you living life to the fullest. A consultation begins with a comprehensive evaluation and a personalized treatment plan to help you reach your goals.
Madeline Cooper Psychotherapy and Sex Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Westport, CT 06880 (Online Only)
Sexuality, intimacy & relationship dynamics play a key role in our lives, and yet, so many people are afraid and hesitant to talk about these topics - our therapists are not those people. As psychotherapists and sex therapists, we work to give you a safe space to talk through and develop coping skills for issues involving your sexual and mental health. Opening up and going to therapy can be scary and difficult, but we strive to make it a worthwhile experience for everyone who comes to see me. We challenge o0ur clients but also support them in living their most authentic lives, and always provide a non-judgmental, listening ear.
Sexuality, intimacy & relationship dynamics play a key role in our lives, and yet, so many people are afraid and hesitant to talk about these topics - our therapists are not those people. As psychotherapists and sex therapists, we work to give you a safe space to talk through and develop coping skills for issues involving your sexual and mental health. Opening up and going to therapy can be scary and difficult, but we strive to make it a worthwhile experience for everyone who comes to see me. We challenge o0ur clients but also support them in living their most authentic lives, and always provide a non-judgmental, listening ear.
See more therapy options for Westport
Open Relationships Non-Monogamy Therapists
Why might an individual want to see a therapist specializing in open relationships and consensual non-monogamy?
A client seeking help with an open or consensually non-monogamous relationship will prefer to talk with a professional whom they can count on to be nonjudgmental. Talking with a supportive therapist may on its own help relieve some of the stigma and challenges partners face. That said, the most important factor in the success of any type of therapy is the ability of the client and practitioner to form a strong, trusting bond. For this reason, an individual or couple could find success with a therapist who does not specialize in non-monogamous relationships but with whom they can build trust.
When should open or consensually non-monogamous partners seek counseling?
Like other couples, polyamorous partners typically seek counseling when they face relationship challenges they can’t solve themselves. In non-monogamous relationships, this could include breaches of trust, including infidelity; unclear rules or violations of boundaries; jealousy of outside partners; the stress of juggling the needs of multiple partners; or the effect of high partner turnover on children. Like those of other couples, polyamorous bonds can be threatened by increasingly frequent arguments, poor or dysfunctional communication, diminished emotional or physical intimacy, or the feeling that something is wrong, even if they don’t know what it is.
Do therapists have special training to gain expertise in open relationships and consensual non-monogamy?
No, but individuals seeking help with non-monogamous relationships would most likely consult a licensed professional with specific training in couples counseling or couples therapy. Couples counseling and couples therapy both involve teaching concrete strategies to navigate conflict in relationships. A good therapist can engage both partners as they explain these approaches but can also work with a single partner.
How long does therapy for consensually non-monogamous couples typically last?
Couples therapy for any type of couple, tends to be relatively time-limited, lasting around 12 weeks on average. A good therapist will tailor sessions to the individual partners’ emotions and sometimes their past, along with patterns found to be repeating in the relationship. In many cases, clients should expect their therapist to assign “homework” between weekly sessions.