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For countless LGBTQIA+ individuals, religion isn’t just a source of spiritual guidance—it can also be a profound source of pain. When faith communities preach condemnation, enforce exclusion, or demand conformity to rigid gender and sexual norms, they often cultivate environments of guilt, rejection, and fear. Many of us are taught from a young age that […]
I’ve always said that to be queer is to hold a mirror to yourself and embrace every reflection—flaws, strengths, desires, and all. It’s a radical act of self-love, and it requires real work. This deeply personal journey of acceptance and joy is why I’m thrilled to be a guest on this podcast, talking about topics […]
I didn’t grow up hiding who I was. I had the immense privilege of being raised in a queer household—a space where love and acceptance were the norm, where being yourself was celebrated. But even in that safety, we couldn’t escape the harsh realities of the world outside. We were surrounded by Christian communities that […]
Wake Up, Therapists! The World of Relationships Has Changed. We can’t ignore it anymore. Ethical Non-Monogamy (ENM) isn’t some niche, fringe movement. It’s everywhere. As therapists, we’re already failing by not being prepared for clients who come to us for help with these relationship structures. Whether it’s polyamory, swinging, or relationship anarchy—these are real, valid […]
In an evolving society where diverse relationship structures are increasingly embraced, consensual non-monogamy (CNM) and polyamory are gaining recognition. However, despite this growing visibility, mental health professionals often find themselves unprepared to address the unique needs and challenges associated with these relationship dynamics. As highlighted in recent research, including a Psychology Today article by Dr. Heath Schechinger, […]
Introduction: Reclaiming Female Sexual Autonomy in Christianity Female sexual autonomy within Christianity is a deeply personal topic for me. My experiences with conservative Christian ideologies have driven my passion for exploring and challenging traditional narratives surrounding female sexuality. This exploration is a critical part of my upcoming book, “Her Own Terms: Navigating the Landscape of […]
As therapists, it’s crucial to be well-versed in various relationship structures to provide inclusive and effective care. One such structure is ethical non-monogamy (ENM), which allows individuals to engage in multiple romantic or sexual relationships with the consent of all parties involved. Some people refer to this as alternative relationships, consensual non-monogamy, or simply non-monogamy. […]
Introduction My message today is a blend of challenge and invitation: adapt your practice to serve Ethical Non-Monogamy (ENM) and queer populations effectively, or risk losing relevance. This shift is not about passing judgment but fostering growth and responding to urgent change. Ignoring these shifts is not merely a disservice but a significant professional oversight. […]
Queer couples navigate a world that is often structured without consideration for their needs and experiences. Did you know that according to the National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs, queer individuals face a higher rate of hate violence compared to their heterosexual counterparts? Or that, as reported by the Human Rights Campaign, 46% of queer workers […]
As a therapist with a unique upbringing in a household of non-traditional relationships, I’ve always been fascinated by the intricacies of human connection, particularly in the realm of consensual non-monogamy (CNM) and polyamory. While society often perpetuates a narrow view of relationships, I’ve witnessed firsthand the beauty, complexity, and resilience of CNM dynamics. Growing up, […]
This is a topic close to my heart, both as a mental health advocate, a theologian and someone who has personally navigated the complexities of integrating spirituality with sexual identity. The journey of reconciling these aspects of our lives can be challenging, filled with questions, doubts, and often a sense of isolation. Yet, it’s also […]
My grandfather and at the Abraham House hospice in Utica, NY a few weeks prior to his passing. Relational success, acting as my compass in both personal and professional realms, weaves a tapestry of connections—from the warmth of family bonds to the nuanced dance between employer and employee. This guiding principle stood out prominently during […]
The mental wellbeing of queer women is a topic that resonates deeply with me, both personally and professionally. As we delve into the complex fabric of their experiences, it’s crucial to not only rely on statistics but to also share stories that bring these numbers to life. The National LGBT Health Education Center reveals a […]
AMR Therapy: Working to Create a Safe Space AMR Therapy pushes the conventional bounds of an online psychotherapy business, created for individuals exploring their identities, navigating the complexities of religion and queerness, or finding their way through non-monogamous relationships. Yet, our mission extends beyond these specific dimensions. It stands as a haven for anyone wishing […]
As I delve into the complexities of “alternative relationships” within my practice and discussions with peers, especially within the queer therapy community, I find myself at the intersection of language, identity, and societal norms. The term “alternative relationships,” encompassing non-monogamous, polyamorous, open, and other non-traditional relationship structures, has sparked extensive debate and reflection. Drawing on […]
Group will be led by therapist, Briana Monroe In an era where the traditional contours of relationships are increasingly being reimagined, Non-Monogamy emerges as a pivotal conversation. It’s more than a trend; it’s a reflection of the diverse ways individuals seek connection, love, and fulfillment. As curiosity and adoption of non-monogamous relationships grow, so does […]
Religion, sexuality, and purity culture have long been intertwined, shaping personal beliefs, societal norms, and individual experiences. While religion can provide a framework for understanding morality and ethics, it has also been used to enforce restrictive and harmful concepts, particularly in the realm of sexuality. Purity culture, a subset of religious teachings that emphasizes the […]
Standing in front of my MSW class over a decade ago, I found myself at the beginning of what would become a transformative exploration into the nuances of gender and sexuality. That presentation, far from just an academic requirement, marked the start of my dedicated effort to illuminate the critical importance of these distinctions in […]
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