Polyamory and ENM Therapists in Chicago, IL
I particularly enjoy working with nontraditional and frequently "othered" relationship structures, including kink/BDSM dynamics and polyamory/CNM.
Authentic connections with other human beings are central to our personal growth, well-being, and liberation. Fear of judgement from others and harm caused by oppressive systems leave many adults socially isolated. I hope to help you interrupt this cycle, person-to-person. Therapy is about growth and connection through life's hurdles. My clinical work is feminist, collaborative, and relational. I am nonjudgmental, curious, and straightforward in the therapy room. I work primarily with LGBT+, neurodivergent, chronically ill/dynamically disabled, kinky, and poly clients.
I particularly enjoy working with nontraditional and frequently "othered" relationship structures, including kink/BDSM dynamics and polyamory/CNM.
Authentic connections with other human beings are central to our personal growth, well-being, and liberation. Fear of judgement from others and harm caused by oppressive systems leave many adults socially isolated. I hope to help you interrupt this cycle, person-to-person. Therapy is about growth and connection through life's hurdles. My clinical work is feminist, collaborative, and relational. I am nonjudgmental, curious, and straightforward in the therapy room. I work primarily with LGBT+, neurodivergent, chronically ill/dynamically disabled, kinky, and poly clients.
I am passionate about helping people look for ways to make meaning and find joy in their day to day lives by understanding, naming, and processing past traumatic experiences, marginalization, and systemic oppression. I bring warmth, a comforting energy, and authenticity so you can process, communicate emotions, and better understand yourself. I work to be creative and curious, grounded and centered, and pace therapeutic work to promote your growth and healing. I primarily see LGBTQ+ adults and people who experience(d) anxiety, depression, OCD, sexual trauma, complex trauma/C-PTSD, and those impacted by systemic oppression.
I am passionate about helping people look for ways to make meaning and find joy in their day to day lives by understanding, naming, and processing past traumatic experiences, marginalization, and systemic oppression. I bring warmth, a comforting energy, and authenticity so you can process, communicate emotions, and better understand yourself. I work to be creative and curious, grounded and centered, and pace therapeutic work to promote your growth and healing. I primarily see LGBTQ+ adults and people who experience(d) anxiety, depression, OCD, sexual trauma, complex trauma/C-PTSD, and those impacted by systemic oppression.
Danielle Carlson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60647
Waitlist for new clients
I help clients connect to their deeper nature and inner wisdom through compassionate self-exploration. As a queer-identified therapist, I work to offer an affirming space that holds my clients’ varied and marginalized identities, experiences in the world, and their own personal strengths and struggles. My focus is working with queer and trans relationships and individuals, as well as folks in the non-monogamy and kink communities. I work collaboratively with clients to examine trans-generational patterns, heal the effects of past trauma, create more meaningful relationships, and enrich their relationships to themselves.
I help clients connect to their deeper nature and inner wisdom through compassionate self-exploration. As a queer-identified therapist, I work to offer an affirming space that holds my clients’ varied and marginalized identities, experiences in the world, and their own personal strengths and struggles. My focus is working with queer and trans relationships and individuals, as well as folks in the non-monogamy and kink communities. I work collaboratively with clients to examine trans-generational patterns, heal the effects of past trauma, create more meaningful relationships, and enrich their relationships to themselves.
My ideal client would be someone who is seeking support with neurodivergence, gender identity exploration and dysphoria, those who are polyamorous and/or have ethical nonmonogamy dynamics, and individuals who may need support with managing trauma via cognitive processing.
I'm a nonbinary, queer psychotherapist from the south. My experience has been primarily LGBTQIA affirming therapy, trauma focused interventions, and person-centered approaches. My background includes a decade of community organizing and social work, focused through the lens of social justice, anti-racism, harm reduction, and queer affirming frameworks.
My ideal client would be someone who is seeking support with neurodivergence, gender identity exploration and dysphoria, those who are polyamorous and/or have ethical nonmonogamy dynamics, and individuals who may need support with managing trauma via cognitive processing.
I'm a nonbinary, queer psychotherapist from the south. My experience has been primarily LGBTQIA affirming therapy, trauma focused interventions, and person-centered approaches. My background includes a decade of community organizing and social work, focused through the lens of social justice, anti-racism, harm reduction, and queer affirming frameworks.
Do you ever feel like you’re living a double life or are not the person who you present to the world? Do you make choices in the moment that you regret later? Do you feel guilt around your sexual desires? You deserve to be at peace with who you are, despite how you’ve been told you “have to be.” Life may feel like a box now, but together, we will work to communicate your desires in your relationship and end the need to hide yourself. I support my client’s ability to do this by releasing the fear of judgment and replacing it with curiosity by providing a safe space for you to redefine your understanding of masculinity and sexuality.
Do you ever feel like you’re living a double life or are not the person who you present to the world? Do you make choices in the moment that you regret later? Do you feel guilt around your sexual desires? You deserve to be at peace with who you are, despite how you’ve been told you “have to be.” Life may feel like a box now, but together, we will work to communicate your desires in your relationship and end the need to hide yourself. I support my client’s ability to do this by releasing the fear of judgment and replacing it with curiosity by providing a safe space for you to redefine your understanding of masculinity and sexuality.
You are not alone. It is so easy to shame or become critical of ourselves when we feel like we did not meet our own expectations. It is easy to compare ourselves to others and feel like everyone else seems so secure and confident. In this therapy space, we will journey together as you unravel all you need to feel grounded and equipped for new challenges. I bring warmth, light, and peaceful energy into the therapy space so that you feel comfortable showing up as your whole self. Our space will help support you as you obtain the tools, such as mindfulness and self-compassion practices, to best heal and care for yourself.
You are not alone. It is so easy to shame or become critical of ourselves when we feel like we did not meet our own expectations. It is easy to compare ourselves to others and feel like everyone else seems so secure and confident. In this therapy space, we will journey together as you unravel all you need to feel grounded and equipped for new challenges. I bring warmth, light, and peaceful energy into the therapy space so that you feel comfortable showing up as your whole self. Our space will help support you as you obtain the tools, such as mindfulness and self-compassion practices, to best heal and care for yourself.
I am a social worker and therapist specializing in trauma responsive care and contemporary psychodynamic therapy. I’m passionate about providing sex- and kink-positive therapy, particularly to the LGBTQIA+ community and those exploring relational dynamics, gender identity, and sexuality. I have additional training and experience working with older adults and those who have experienced intimate partner violence.
I am a social worker and therapist specializing in trauma responsive care and contemporary psychodynamic therapy. I’m passionate about providing sex- and kink-positive therapy, particularly to the LGBTQIA+ community and those exploring relational dynamics, gender identity, and sexuality. I have additional training and experience working with older adults and those who have experienced intimate partner violence.
You can expect our sessions to provide a sanctuary that is polyamory, sex worker, kink, and LGBTQIA+ affirming, QTBIPOC-centered, antiracist, trauma-informed, COVID-safer, and nonjudgmental so that you feel safe to show up as your authentic self.
I work with individuals, couples, and families to utilize a person-centered, strengths-based, and evidence-based approach. In my work, I implement systemic modalities such as Narrative Therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). I value building trust in our therapeutic relationship so that we can collaborate to customize your plan.
You can expect our sessions to provide a sanctuary that is polyamory, sex worker, kink, and LGBTQIA+ affirming, QTBIPOC-centered, antiracist, trauma-informed, COVID-safer, and nonjudgmental so that you feel safe to show up as your authentic self.
I work with individuals, couples, and families to utilize a person-centered, strengths-based, and evidence-based approach. In my work, I implement systemic modalities such as Narrative Therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). I value building trust in our therapeutic relationship so that we can collaborate to customize your plan.
I specialize in supporting people with marginalized sexualities and relationships, including kink/BDSM, polyamory, ethical non-monogamy, and general concerns with sex / sexual desire.
My approach to therapy is person-centered: I see us as equal collaborators in the healing process. I believe the therapeutic relationship in and of itself is the most powerful healing tool we have. Within that relationship, I also use mindfulness, depth, and harm-reduction interventions to help you gain insight and pursue a more authentic life.
I specialize in supporting people with marginalized sexualities and relationships, including kink/BDSM, polyamory, ethical non-monogamy, and general concerns with sex / sexual desire.
My approach to therapy is person-centered: I see us as equal collaborators in the healing process. I believe the therapeutic relationship in and of itself is the most powerful healing tool we have. Within that relationship, I also use mindfulness, depth, and harm-reduction interventions to help you gain insight and pursue a more authentic life.
You are good. Rarely do folks act in ways that don't make sense to them. Maybe you are experiencing frustration in relationships. Maybe you are feeling overwhelmed by sadness, fears, or exhaustion. You are human. In this space you will be heard and validated as you discover more about yourself and develop compassion for the parts of you that may seem most dark. And sometimes the path to wellness is to allow ourselves to be discovered more deeply.
You are good. Rarely do folks act in ways that don't make sense to them. Maybe you are experiencing frustration in relationships. Maybe you are feeling overwhelmed by sadness, fears, or exhaustion. You are human. In this space you will be heard and validated as you discover more about yourself and develop compassion for the parts of you that may seem most dark. And sometimes the path to wellness is to allow ourselves to be discovered more deeply.
Whether you’re exploring non-monogamy/ polyamory, kink/BDSM, queer identity, sex work, or feeling stuck in desire discrepancy or sexual shame, you deserve nuanced, informed support.
I work with partners and individuals on intimacy concerns, out-of-control sexual behavior, non-monogamy exploration, kink/BDSM exploration, men’s issues, nihilism/existential dread, and religious trauma.
My approach is sex-positive, queer/kink/sex-work affirming. Together we focus on emotional processing, attunement, and relational structures which work.
Whether you’re exploring non-monogamy/ polyamory, kink/BDSM, queer identity, sex work, or feeling stuck in desire discrepancy or sexual shame, you deserve nuanced, informed support.
I work with partners and individuals on intimacy concerns, out-of-control sexual behavior, non-monogamy exploration, kink/BDSM exploration, men’s issues, nihilism/existential dread, and religious trauma.
My approach is sex-positive, queer/kink/sex-work affirming. Together we focus on emotional processing, attunement, and relational structures which work.
You deserve relationships, intimacy, and a life that feels alive and true to you. I work with individuals, couples, and polycules who are exploring identity, navigating relational conflict, or seeking deeper connection with themselves and others. Many of the people I support identify as LGBTQIA+, practice consensual non-monogamy, or are curious about cultivating a healthier, more liberated relationship with pleasure. At the same time, my practice is open to anyone longing for more authenticity, healing, and connection in their life. I hold this work within ongoing clinical mentorship from Jessica Fern, author of Polysecure.
You deserve relationships, intimacy, and a life that feels alive and true to you. I work with individuals, couples, and polycules who are exploring identity, navigating relational conflict, or seeking deeper connection with themselves and others. Many of the people I support identify as LGBTQIA+, practice consensual non-monogamy, or are curious about cultivating a healthier, more liberated relationship with pleasure. At the same time, my practice is open to anyone longing for more authenticity, healing, and connection in their life. I hold this work within ongoing clinical mentorship from Jessica Fern, author of Polysecure.
I’d like to be the first to welcome you to a journey of emotional connection and growth. If you are seeking to improve your relationships, whether with a partner, family member, or within yourself, I’m here to help. I have a passion for helping individuals and couples navigate the struggles of relationships. I offer a compassionate and evidence-based approach to therapy tailored to your unique needs.
I’d like to be the first to welcome you to a journey of emotional connection and growth. If you are seeking to improve your relationships, whether with a partner, family member, or within yourself, I’m here to help. I have a passion for helping individuals and couples navigate the struggles of relationships. I offer a compassionate and evidence-based approach to therapy tailored to your unique needs.
If you’re navigating polyamory, consensual non-monogamy, you may be longing for more clarity, security, and ease in your relationships.
I also support women experiencing perimenopause and menopause-related life changes. Peri- and menopause can be a difficult time, filled with physical discomfort and emotional upheaval. I offer a safe and supportive space where you can share your experiences and learn effective strategies to feel more balanced.
If you’re navigating polyamory, consensual non-monogamy, you may be longing for more clarity, security, and ease in your relationships.
I also support women experiencing perimenopause and menopause-related life changes. Peri- and menopause can be a difficult time, filled with physical discomfort and emotional upheaval. I offer a safe and supportive space where you can share your experiences and learn effective strategies to feel more balanced.
I am Buddhist, neurodivergent, polyamorous, sex-positive, and kink-informed.
Therapy is one of the few protected spaces in our society where you can explore and process anything happening in your life with the warmth and curiosity of another person. Through an empirically grounded and disciplined relational therapy, my clients feel lighter and truly understood for having me on their team in pursuit of them being well and happy, without judgement or condescension. I’m passionate about working with clients who are structurally underserved (BIPOC, Queer, Disabled…) or experiencing distress in their close relationships, but I have years of experience working with clients on a wide variety of topics.
I am Buddhist, neurodivergent, polyamorous, sex-positive, and kink-informed.
Therapy is one of the few protected spaces in our society where you can explore and process anything happening in your life with the warmth and curiosity of another person. Through an empirically grounded and disciplined relational therapy, my clients feel lighter and truly understood for having me on their team in pursuit of them being well and happy, without judgement or condescension. I’m passionate about working with clients who are structurally underserved (BIPOC, Queer, Disabled…) or experiencing distress in their close relationships, but I have years of experience working with clients on a wide variety of topics.
I am committed to using evidence-based practices for helping all clients achieve their goals and improve their mental health. I have substantial experience working with individuals navigating challenges with gender identity, sexuality/sexual orientation, identity formation, life and career transitions, healthy living, work-life balance, stress management, and general mental health concerns (e.g., depression, anxiety, mood instability, etc.). I believe in creating a safe, nonjudgemental space where the client and I can explore their goals together.
I am committed to using evidence-based practices for helping all clients achieve their goals and improve their mental health. I have substantial experience working with individuals navigating challenges with gender identity, sexuality/sexual orientation, identity formation, life and career transitions, healthy living, work-life balance, stress management, and general mental health concerns (e.g., depression, anxiety, mood instability, etc.). I believe in creating a safe, nonjudgemental space where the client and I can explore their goals together.
I help individuals and loved ones express themselves in tough times. Whether you're undergoing life transitions, seeking deeper connection, or feeling adrift, you deserve companionship. When life is challenging, it is brave and wise to reach out to others. If you're interested in working from an attachment and trauma-informed lens, please reach out. I'd love to learn more about you.
I help individuals and loved ones express themselves in tough times. Whether you're undergoing life transitions, seeking deeper connection, or feeling adrift, you deserve companionship. When life is challenging, it is brave and wise to reach out to others. If you're interested in working from an attachment and trauma-informed lens, please reach out. I'd love to learn more about you.
I’m most passionate about working with folx who are queer, kinky, polyamorous/ENM, and/or in relationships navigating interracial dynamics, mixed orientations, disability and other relational diversities.
My background in sex therapy and financial therapy uniquely positions me to help folx navigate these common challenges: desire discrepancy, cultivating sexual or financial intimacy, resolving money conflicts, overcoming betrayal or infidelity, processing sexual or financial trauma, and sexual/relational identity exploration ( polyamory, kink, etc.).
I’m most passionate about working with folx who are queer, kinky, polyamorous/ENM, and/or in relationships navigating interracial dynamics, mixed orientations, disability and other relational diversities.
My background in sex therapy and financial therapy uniquely positions me to help folx navigate these common challenges: desire discrepancy, cultivating sexual or financial intimacy, resolving money conflicts, overcoming betrayal or infidelity, processing sexual or financial trauma, and sexual/relational identity exploration ( polyamory, kink, etc.).
Heyo! I’m Nathan, a bi/queer counselor and huge nerd.
I’m a big believer that compassion and kindness have the power to ripple out from even the smallest interactions to change the world. As a Highly Sensitive Person myself, I am most excited about working with other people who have been told they’re “too sensitive” or “too much”. Emotional and sensory sensitivities are superpowers, and like a lot of superpowers, they come with great responsibility.
I provide a soft, queer and non-monogamy affirming environment, and hope to create a space that feels safe, so that we can expand your self-knowledge and build radical acceptance.
Heyo! I’m Nathan, a bi/queer counselor and huge nerd.
I’m a big believer that compassion and kindness have the power to ripple out from even the smallest interactions to change the world. As a Highly Sensitive Person myself, I am most excited about working with other people who have been told they’re “too sensitive” or “too much”. Emotional and sensory sensitivities are superpowers, and like a lot of superpowers, they come with great responsibility.
I provide a soft, queer and non-monogamy affirming environment, and hope to create a space that feels safe, so that we can expand your self-knowledge and build radical acceptance.
My specialties include anxiety, relationships, sexuality, polyamory/non-monogamy, and multicultural identities.
If you’re finding yourself stuck in the same relationship patterns, therapy can be a great place to explore a new way of connecting with others. Oftentimes, what gets in the way are unhealed wounds, survival strategies that have outlasted their effectiveness, and fears of experiencing the same emotional pains. Through deep exploration of these dynamics with yourself and others, I help my clients engage in the hard work of building relationship security. I can help you cultivate self-compassion, improve your communication skills, and get more in touch with your emotional experiences.
My specialties include anxiety, relationships, sexuality, polyamory/non-monogamy, and multicultural identities.
If you’re finding yourself stuck in the same relationship patterns, therapy can be a great place to explore a new way of connecting with others. Oftentimes, what gets in the way are unhealed wounds, survival strategies that have outlasted their effectiveness, and fears of experiencing the same emotional pains. Through deep exploration of these dynamics with yourself and others, I help my clients engage in the hard work of building relationship security. I can help you cultivate self-compassion, improve your communication skills, and get more in touch with your emotional experiences.
See more therapy options for Chicago
Nearby Polyamory & ENM Therapists Searches for Chicago
- Berwyn
- Cicero
- Evergreen Park
- Forest Park
- La Grange
- Lakeview
- Lincoln Park
- Lincolnwood
- Oak Lawn
- Oak Park
- River Forest
- Westchester
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.