Non-Monogamy in Clinical Practice: Deconstructing Misconceptions and Biases and Nurturing Client Success (4 CE Hours)

Course Description: This comprehensive course delves into the multifaceted world of non-monogamy, providing clinicians with the necessary tools to support clients who have chosen this relationship model or are non-monogamous by orientation. The course emphasizes understanding how our most common theoretical orientations relate to non-monogamous clients, identifying and challenging common misconceptions, and promoting positive practices within non-monogamous relationships.

Students will start by exploring fundamental theories and psychotherapy approaches regarding how they can apply to non-monogamy. This foundational knowledge will equip clinicians with an integrative lens to understand the diversity and fluidity of non-monogamous relationships.

The course will further debunk common misconceptions associated with non-monogamy, promoting a fact-based perspective that fosters respect for all consensual and ethical relationship choices. This understanding will give clinicians insights into the biases that often inadvertently infiltrate therapeutic spaces.

Furthermore, participants will explore nine pivotal qualities, skills, and habits exhibited by successful non-monogamous individuals or groups. This information will help clinicians to provide effective therapeutic guidance for their non-monogamous clients, enhancing relationship resilience and emotional wellbeing.

Finally, the course will address the critical issue of internalized shame around polyamory and other forms of non-monogamy. Participants will learn strategies to help clients combat this shame, reinforcing a positive, accepting, and authentic self-identity.

Learning Objectives:

1.     Discuss the principle theories applied to non-monogamy

2.     Describe five common misconceptions of non-monogamy

3.     Explain nine qualities, skills, and habits of successful non-monogamous clients

4.     Discuss and explain how to combat internalized shame regarding polyamory

Schedule:

2:00: Introductions & Setting of the Container

2:15-4:00: PowerPoint Presentation on theoretical orientations of psychotherapy applied to non-monogamy and non-monogamous clients; the nine qualities, skills, and habits of successful non-monogamous clients; and five common misconceptions of non-monogamy.

4:00-5:00: PowerPoint Presentation and discussion on how to combat internalized shame around non-monogamy

5:00-5:30: Clinical case studies (with videos if needed)

5:30-6:00: Q & A and Wrap Up

Speaker Bio

Rachel Wright, MA, LMFT (she/her) is a distinguished psychotherapist and renowned speaker with expertise in modern relationships, mental health, and sex. Her mission is to help people live happier, healthier lives by providing insights and practical advice in a relatable and engaging way.

With a Master’s Degree in clinical psychology, Rachel has worked with thousands of clients worldwide, earning a reputation for her empathetic and humorous approach. Her message has resonated with audiences on stages across the globe, as well as on her podcast, The Wright Conversations – A Podcast About Sex, Relationships, & Mental Health. With over 45k downloads, the podcast has garnered widespread attention and featured interviews with experts in sex, relationships, mental health, and their intersections.

Rachel is also a seasoned educator and coach, having created the virtual workshop series What You Wish You Learned in School: Sex Ed and co-produced and hosted a show at Green Room 42 in NYC called “One Night Stand: A Night for Sexier & Healthier Broadway.” She was also SHAPE Magazine’s Sex + Relationships Coach and is currently one of mindbodygreen’s article review experts.

As a widely recognized mental health and relationship expert, Rachel has been featured in numerous media outlets, including The New York Times, PIX 11 (NYC), Women’s Health (online and print), Cosmopolitan (online and print) and NBC News Radio, among others. Rachel’s personal touch, sense of humor, and deep empathy make her the perfect guide for anyone seeking to improve their mental health, relationships, and sexual well-being. When she’s not working, you can probably find her in her pajamas, eating gluten-free food, and belting out show tunes. Connect with Rachel on Instagram @thewright_rachel or visit her website www.rachelwrightnyc.com to learn more.