Many people in Santa Monica, CA are seeking support for open relationships and polyamory.
Finding the right mental health professional can make it easier to navigate communication, trust, and boundaries in these types of relationships.
Therapists who understand open relationships can help people address challenges and strengthen connections with their partners.
Working with a knowledgeable therapist can make a positive difference in relationship satisfaction and personal growth.
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1) Nicole Nowparvar, LCSW
Nicole Nowparvar is a therapist and life coach based in Santa Monica, California.
She provides individual, family, and group therapy for teenagers and young adults.
Nicole uses a calm and empathetic approach.
She helps clients build better communication skills and handle life transitions.
She is known for being non-judgmental and supportive.
For more details, visit her official website, check her Yelp profile, or view her Psychology Today profile.
2) Dr. Lena Dicken, PsyD
Dr. Lena Dicken is a licensed psychologist practicing in Santa Monica, California.
She has been in private practice since 2012 and brings experience in helping clients with relationship difficulties.
Dr. Dicken uses a holistic and eclectic approach that blends several types of therapy.
Her office is located on Pier Ave and she focuses on mental wellness and personal growth.
Learn more about her at her official website and Psychology Today profile.
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
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) Ray Doktor, PsyD
Ray Doktor, PsyD, is a relationship and life coach based in Santa Monica, CA.
He has over 30 years of experience in psychology and coaching.
Dr. Doktor works with individuals and couples on issues like communication, relationships, and personal growth.
He is known for helping people explore relationship styles, including open relationships.
Learn more at his official website or read his profile on Yelp.
4) Amy Margolis, LCSW
Amy Margolis is a licensed therapist and Co-Clinical Director at Santa Monica Counseling.
She has experience working with individuals, couples, and groups facing relationship challenges.
She supports clients who are exploring open relationships, helping them with communication, boundaries, and emotional well-being.
Amy is known for creating a safe environment to discuss sensitive topics.
Learn more on the official website and at her Psychology Today profile.
5) Sloane Hofer, Associate MFT
Sloane Hofer is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist in Santa Monica, CA.
Sloane brings a background in psychodynamic, trauma-informed, and somatic therapy.
They affirm and support LGBTQIA+ clients and people from diverse backgrounds.
Sloane works with individuals and couples seeking help for open relationships.
Learn more about Sloane Hofer at the Open Path Collective and LinkedIn.
6) Dr. Kate Truitt & Associates
Dr. Kate Truitt & Associates is a therapy practice known for working with people from all walks of life.
Their team uses neuroscience-backed methods to help clients address personal and relationship concerns.
While their main office is in Pasadena, they serve many clients in the Los Angeles area.
Some therapists with this group may offer support for open relationships.
To learn more, visit Dr. Kate Truitt & Associates on Yelp and LinkedIn.
7) James D Babl, PhD
James D Babl, PhD, is a clinical psychologist based in Santa Monica, CA.
He has a doctorate in clinical psychology and experience as a Clinical Director.
Dr. Babl provides care for adults and couples and has worked in settings focused on relationship concerns.
His office offers a comfortable and private environment.
For more details, visit his profile on TherapyNext or Psychology Today.
8) Jacqueline Liebman-Gentile, MA
Jacqueline Liebman-Gentile, MA, is a marriage and family therapist in Santa Monica.
She has experience working with people facing stress from modern life, including those in non-traditional relationships.
Her approach is practical and supportive for clients exploring open relationships.
She provides therapy sessions online and in person.
Find her professional profile on Psychology Today and 7 Cups.
Frequently Asked Questions
Therapists for open relationships in Santa Monica often have training in ethical non-monogamy and experience with unique relationship challenges.
Specialized approaches can make therapy more supportive and relevant for non-traditional partnerships.
What qualifications should I look for in a therapist specializing in open relationships?
Look for a therapist who is licensed, such as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), or a psychologist (PsyD or PhD).
They should have experience working with non-monogamous clients and knowledge of ethical non-monogamy.
It’s helpful if the therapist clearly states that they are affirming or knowledgeable about open relationships on their profile or website.
Can you recommend any therapists in Santa Monica who are experienced with non-monogamous clients?
Several therapists in Santa Monica have experience supporting non-monogamous clients.
These include Nicole Nowparvar, LCSW, Dr. Lena Dicken, PsyD, Ray Doktor, PsyD, Amy Margolis, LCSW, and Sloane Hofer, Associate MFT.
You can find more polyamory-friendly therapists in Santa Monica by checking TherapyDen’s listing for mental health professionals who are open relationship specialists.
What are common issues that therapists help address for clients in open relationships?
Therapists often help with communication challenges, boundary setting, and managing jealousy.
They may assist in building trust, dealing with time management between partners, or navigating different emotional needs.
Other common topics include negotiating agreements and resolving misunderstandings about rules or expectations in the relationship.
How do I start a conversation with my partner about seeking therapy for our open relationship?
Begin by expressing your thoughts and feelings clearly and calmly.
Mention that therapy is not a sign of failure but a tool for building better communication and understanding.
Explain that a therapist can help both partners work together on any worries, questions, or conflicts that come up.
What should I expect during the first therapy session for addressing open relationship dynamics?
During the first session, therapists usually ask questions to understand the relationship structure and each partner’s goals.
They may discuss relationship history, current challenges, and what both partners hope to achieve.
Clients can expect the therapist to create a nonjudgmental and supportive environment.
This environment ensures that everyone feels heard.
Are there specific therapeutic approaches that are more effective for open relationship counseling?
Approaches that focus on communication and empathy, such as Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), can be useful.
Some therapists also use a sex-positive or narrative therapy framework.
Therapists with training in LGBTQ+ and non-traditional relationships are often better prepared to support open relationships.
For more information, see the TherapyDen directory for open relationship specialists.
