ABSTRACT
This chapter offers psychotherapists tools to understand and work with this growing population of polyamorous clients as they create these diverse relationships. It explores two cases: Jonathon Siegel and Dino Bongiletti; and Judy and Sam Munro. Polyamorous people learn to communicate needs, negotiate agreements, set boundaries, and take responsibility for their jealousy rather than controlling their partners' choices. This can build trust and security, decreasing possessiveness and competition, and lessening suspicions about undisclosed cheating. Counselors can hence feel secure in supporting their clients who embark on polyamorous relationships. The counselor helps them redefine their goals to address both men's needs for security and freedom and to articulate the bases for their commitment. Therapists can also use polyamory-inclusive language. Many clients have used session time to educate therapists about polyamory. It is vital that therapists educate themselves, via books and online resources. Counselors might also subscribe to polyamory email lists, to immerse themselves in the flow of community conversations.
