Understanding Ethical Non-Monogamy: A Guide for Mental Health Practitioners

Course Description:

This comprehensive training offers a blend of foundational knowledge, practical tools, and therapeutic strategies tailored to address the unique challenges faced by clients engaged in ENM.

Participants will explore the various forms of Ethical Non-Monogamy, including polyamory, open relationships, swinging, hierarchical polyamory, relationship anarchy, polyfidelity, and solo polyamory. The course delves into the key principles that underpin these relationships, such as consent, continuous consent, communication, and emotional intelligence, helping practitioners to support clients effectively and ethically.

Moreover, the course addresses common biases in therapy and provides actionable strategies to mitigate these biases, ensuring that practitioners approach ENM clients without pathologization or judgment. With a strong emphasis on inclusivity and cultural competence, this course equips mental health providers with the skills necessary to navigate the complexities of ENM dynamics.

Through real-world vignettes and case studies, participants will learn how to manage sensitive topics such as jealousy, boundary-setting, and emotional articulation within ENM contexts. Additionally, the course includes guidance on ethical responsibilities, advocacy for inclusivity, and the importance of continuous professional development to stay updated on evolving practices within ENM communities.

Duration: 2 hours
Format: Video and audio (closed captioning provided)
Designed for: Social work and mental health professionals seeking to broaden their understanding and competency in supporting clients who practice Ethical Non-Monogamy (ENM).

Content Highlights:

• Navigating Biases in ENM Therapy: Understand and mitigate personal biases to provide unbiased support.
• Comprehensive Exploration of ENM: Gain foundational knowledge of Ethical Non-Monogamy.
• Therapeutic Approaches: Learn effective strategies for supporting ENM clients.
• Practical Tools: Acquire insights into ENM diversity, ethical considerations, and practical tools for
  inclusive practice.

Learning Objectives:

1. To Define the Spectrum of ENM Relationships
   Objective: Participants will be able to identify and distinguish between the various forms of Ethical Non-Monogamy (ENM). They will also recall key principles and recognize societal norms and stigmas related to these relationship structures.
2. To Demonstrate Clinical Competency in ENM Dynamics
   Objective: Attendees will be able to describe strategies for managing emotions like jealousy, illustrate the application of therapeutic approaches, and explain how to approach consultations with ENM clients effectively and without bias.
3. To Describe and Enhance Therapeutic Ethics and Advocacy
   Objective: Learners will be able to describe the ethical responsibilities of therapists working with ENM clients, explain the importance of continuous professional development, and identify steps to advocate for inclusivity and enhanced visibility of ENM in mental health practice.

Target Audience:

• Social Workers
• Counselors
• Therapists

Content Level: Beginning

Instructor Bio:

Ann Russo, LCSW, MA, Theology

• Sex-Positive Therapist, CEO, and Founder of AMR Therapy
• Over 20 years of experience as a clinician, educator, and advocate
• Expertise in cognitive behavioral therapy, sex-positive therapy, and psychodynamic principles Focus on marginalized communities and alternative relationship dynamics
• Renowned provider of trainings on sex and sexuality

Course Outline:

• Introduction to Ethical Non-Monogamy: Unveiling the Spectrum
• Learning Objectives
• What is Ethical Non-Monogamy?
• Different Forms of ENM
• Key Principles of ENM
• Why It Matters
• Navigating Societal Norms
• Relationship Dynamics
• Initial Consultations
• Therapeutic Approaches for ENM
• Understanding and Managing Jealousy in ENM
• Vignettes: Navigating Complex Negotiations in ENM
• Biases in Therapy
• Resources
• Key Takeaways
• Post-Test

Amount of CE Credit Offered:

2 continuing education credits (ASWB ACE approved, provider #000)

CE Credit Type:

ASWB ACE

Course Interaction & System Requirements:

Format: Self-paced, non-interactive online learning

System Requirements:

• Windows 7 or higher, MacOS 10.12 or higher
• Latest versions of Google Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge
• Stable internet connection

Enrollment Options:
• Earn CE Credits: $30 (recognized by ASWB and ACE)
• Personal Enrichment: $20 (no credit)

Registration Deadline:

Ongoing, as this is a self-paced course

Refund Policy:

No refunds, as the course is non-cancellable once accessed.

Cancellation Policy:

This course is non-cancellable.

Instructions for Requesting Accessibility Accommodations:

For special accommodations, email: ce@amrtherapy.com

Provider Approval Statement:

This course is approved by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program (provider #000) for 2 continuing education credits. ASWB Approval Period: 08/15/2024 – 08/15/2027. Social workers should contact their regulatory board to determine course approval for continuing education credits.

Course Completion Requirements:

1. Watch the course video or listen to the audio version.
2. Review provided materials.
3. Complete the post-test with a passing score of 80%.
4. Fill out the course evaluation.

Certification

Certificates of completion are downloadable immediately after finishing the course and passing the post-test. Additionally, certificates will be emailed to participants within 24 hours of course completion.

Credits: 2 continuing education credits (ASWB ACE approved, provider #000)

Contact Information:

For questions, concerns, or special accommodations, email: ce@amrtherapy.com