Non-Monogramy, Polyamory, BDSM, KINK, and Other Diverse Sexual Interests

Non-monogamous/Polyamorous Clients, Couples and Groups

Dr. Sasso understands that non-monogamous individuals are still among the most misunderstood and invisible in our society. Fears such as job loss, familial rejection, and loss of custody of children are all too real for many of these individuals, couples, and families. Dr. Sasso is sensitive to the issues of non-monogamous and polyamorous clients and seeks to strengthen these clients and families in ways that feel right to them, rather than attempt to change or judge their lifestyle.  When conflict or challenges arise in the context of an open relationship or relationship involving multiple partners, the models of traditional couples therapy are not adequate. Therapeutic techniques which hold monogamy as an element of “healthy” relationship functioning can be alienating and unhelpful to polyamorous and other non-monogamous clients. Even when relationship difficulties are not the focus of therapy, polyamorous and non-monogamous clients need a therapist who can understand their lifestyle and not make it a focus when it need not be.

Dr. Sasso is trained to work with non-monogamous clients, has experience assisting clients in navigating multiple romantic and/or sexual relationships, and feels strongly about assisting clients in strengthening the relationships structures they choose, rather than dictating what types of relationships are most ideal.  Dr. Sasso can assist polyamorous couples or groups with relationship conflicts or changing relationship statuses or structures, couples in which one partner is poly and the other is not, children of polyamorous families and couples, and non-monogamous and polyamorous individuals.

Kink/BDSM, Fetishes, and Other Sexually Diverse Clients

Clients who identify as “kinky” and/or as part of the BDSM community (engage in bondage/discipline, dominance/submission, sado-masochism or other forms of power exchange), and clients with fetishes or other less common forms of sexual expression or interests, often share very real concerns about how these interests may be received in therapy. Some clients pursue therapy for unrelated reasons, but never feel comfortable expressing that aspect of themselves. Other individuals and couples do feel therapy could help them explore or understand their own desires or negotiate sexual needs as a couple, but may fear being judged or misunderstood in therapy.  Dr. Sasso is trained and experienced in working with sexually diverse clients, including those with BDSM preferences, fetishes, and other sexual interests. Dr. Sasso views these practices as normal sexual expression and/or relationship play rather than problematic or pathological. However, she also understands that partners may differ in their interest or comfort level with these activities. Dr. Sasso feels strongly about creating a safe therapy space where individuals and couples can explore their unique sexual needs and identities to solve problems in ways that are right for them, whether these problems relate to sexual practices or identity, or other, unrelated concerns.