Many people in Berkeley are exploring new ways to connect through open relationships and non-monogamy.
With these changes, some are looking for mental health professionals who understand the unique needs of non-traditional partnerships.
Therapists who work with open relationships in Berkeley can help people communicate, build trust, and navigate common challenges.
These professionals create a supportive space where individuals and couples can discuss their feelings and experiences.
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1) Kaley Berlin, LCSW – specializes in open and polyamorous relationship therapy
Kaley Berlin, LCSW, offers therapy for those in open or polyamorous relationships.
She is based in Albany, close to Berkeley, and has experience with relationship diversity.
Kaley focuses on helping clients manage life stressors, including challenges related to non-monogamy.
She creates a supportive environment for clients who want to explore their needs and improve their relationships.
Learn more about her services at her official website and on Psychology Today.
2) Binky Mendoza, AMFT – focuses on couples and open relationship dynamics
Binky Mendoza is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT) who works with couples, including those practicing polyamory or non-monogamy.
They provide support for clients in different relationship structures.
Binky helps clients develop tools to navigate relationship challenges and improve communication.
They have training in somatic psychology and emphasize growth within romantic partnerships.
Learn more about Binky Mendoza at the San Francisco Marriage and Couples Center and Open Path Collective.
Ad, keeps our community free. The perspectives presented on this website are genuinely our own and we do not accept money for reviews.
4.5 (7,802+) FROM TRUSTPILOT
Try BetterHelp
Fill out a brief questionnaire and get matched with an experienced therapist online in as little as 24 hours.
✓ Over 35K licensed professionals
✓ Subscriptions as low as $65/week, billed every four weeks
✓ Financial aid available
✓ Cancel plan or change therapist anytime
✓ 20% off your first month through Therapy Helpers
3) Annie Wright – offers coaching for non-monogamous relationship challenges
Annie Wright is a licensed marriage and family therapist in Berkeley, CA.
She provides coaching and support for adults facing relationship issues, including challenges in non-monogamous and open relationships.
Her practice focuses on helping clients address emotional blocks, trust concerns, and communication issues.
Annie also offers executive coaching for professionals seeking balance in their personal and romantic lives.
Learn more at Annie Wright Relational Trauma Therapy & Executive Coaching and her Psychology Today profile.
4) Sara Nicoletti, LMFT – experienced with open relationship counseling
Sara Nicoletti, LMFT, offers counseling for individuals, couples, and families in Berkeley, CA.
She is skilled in working with diverse relationship styles, including open relationships and non-monogamy.
Her approach is holistic, using methods like EMDR, somatic therapy, and mindfulness.
She provides support for those facing relationship challenges, life changes, or anxiety.
Learn more about Sara Nicoletti at her East Bay Therapy practice and on Psychology Today.
5) Jill Lebeau, LMFT – skilled in communication within polyamorous contexts
Jill Lebeau, LMFT, is a psychotherapist based in Berkeley with over 30 years of experience.
She specializes in supporting clients who seek better communication in open or polyamorous relationships.
Clients describe her style as positive and practical.
She helps people feel heard and respected while navigating the challenges of non-traditional relationships.
Learn more about her work at her website or view her professional profile.
6) Jaime Nisenbaum, Ph.D. – addresses emotional complexities of open relationships
Jaime Nisenbaum, Ph.D., is a clinical psychologist in Berkeley with over 20 years of experience.
They offer individual and couples therapy in a supportive setting.
Dr. Nisenbaum helps clients navigate emotional challenges, communication, and boundaries in open relationships.
Their approach involves techniques such as psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and mindfulness.
Therapy is available in both English and Portuguese.
Learn more through Psychology Today, their official website, or Yelp.
7) Blue Oak Therapy Center – diverse therapists supporting non-monogamy
Blue Oak Therapy Center in Berkeley has been serving the community since 1987 with a team of therapists from diverse backgrounds.
They offer care for individuals, couples, and families exploring many relationship styles, including non-monogamy and open relationships.
Clients can access affordable therapy with flexible options.
Therapists use a variety of approaches to meet each person’s needs.
For more details, visit Blue Oak Therapy Center’s official website and their Facebook page.
8) Terrek Humphreys, Life Coach – provides guidance on open relationship balance
Terrek Humphreys offers life coaching for adults and adolescents in Berkeley, helping clients create balance in different areas of life, including relationships.
Terrek supports clients in building clear plans and healthy habits, which can help with the unique challenges of open relationships.
Those looking for personalized strategies and regular support can learn more by visiting Terrek Humphreys’s profiles on Yelp and SoulSearch.
Frequently Asked Questions
People looking for open relationship therapy in Berkeley often want therapists who understand nontraditional dynamics, have experience with polyamory, and respect diverse backgrounds.
Many also wonder about therapy methods and local support options.
What qualifications should I look for in a therapist specializing in open relationships?
A qualified therapist should hold relevant licenses, such as LCSW, LMFT, or AMFT, and should have direct experience working with open or polyamorous relationships.
Look for therapists like Kaley Berlin, LCSW, and Binky Mendoza, AMFT, who specialize in these areas.
It is also helpful if the therapist has continued training or certifications in human sexuality or couples counseling.
How can I find a culturally competent therapist for non-monogamous partnerships in Berkeley?
Seek out counselors who openly list non-monogamy and cultural competence in their practice areas.
Many therapists in Berkeley specifically serve the LGBTQ+ and polyamorous communities.
Platforms like Inclusive Therapists can help connect clients with professionals centering people with different identities and backgrounds.
What therapy modalities are most effective for issues in open relationships?
Some effective therapy modalities for open relationships include Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and narrative therapy.
Therapists such as Annie Wright and Jill Lebeau, LMFT, use these approaches to improve communication and resolve relationship tension.
Therapists often tailor their methods to fit each relationship’s needs.
Can individual therapy be beneficial for someone in an open relationship, or is couples therapy recommended?
Individual therapy can help with personal challenges related to jealousy, boundaries, or self-esteem.
Couples therapy or group sessions may focus on improving trust, agreements, and communication within the relationship.
Both types of therapy can be valuable, depending on the person’s situation and goals.
What are typical challenges that therapists help address for those in open relationships?
Therapists help clients work through jealousy, insecurity, time management, and consent issues.
Communication struggles are common topics, especially when different partners have differing needs.
Many therapists, such as Sara Nicoletti, LMFT, guide clients in setting healthy boundaries and managing emotions in complex relationship structures.
Are there any local support groups for open relationships that work alongside therapy?
Berkeley has support groups for people in open and polyamorous relationships. These groups often provide peer support.
They can be found through local therapy clinics or online directories.
Therapists may recommend such groups to complement one-on-one sessions or couples counseling. This makes it easier for clients to find understanding and shared experiences.
