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Ethical Considerations in Supporting Non-Monogamous Communities – Chelsea Nixon, LMSW

PM Breakouts – 60 minutes

OVERVIEW
Ethical non-monogamy encompasses a spectrum of relationship styles, including polyamory, open relationships, and other consensually non-exclusive arrangements. These communities often face unique challenges related to mental health and well-being, and in today’s diverse and ever-expanding world, mental health professionals are increasingly encountering individuals and partnered people who practice ethical non-monogamy. This presentation aims to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of ethical non-monogamy, along with essential tools and ethical considerations for effectively serving this community.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES
As a result of attending this presentation, participants will:

1. Be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to serve consensually non-monogamous communities in an ethical, affirming, and culturally competent manner;

2. Understand the impact of minority stress on this population and highlight the role of mental health professionals in reducing stigma and promoting healthy relationships; and

3. Gain confidence navigating ethical dilemmas when working with clients in ENM relationships.

TARGET AUDIENCE
Mental health workers in direct practice with individuals, couples, and/or families

PRESENTER
Chelsea is a sex positive, secular therapist who is passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families transform fear and shame that gets in the way of full, authentic expression and deep connections to self and others. She is a Certified Imago Relationship Therapist and has advanced training in Interal Family Systems and Perinatal Mental Health. She works in a group practice in the Nashville area primarily seeing clients with alternative relationship orientations and family structures, LGBTQIA+ identities, spiritual wounding, and intimacy disorders. Additionally, she helps operate Bright Horse Counseling, a therapy practice in Brentwood, TN whose vision is to normalize therapy and eliminate the stigma that prevents us from engaging in regular mental health care.