Multiplicities of Desire:
Working with the Intersection of Bisexuality and Polyamory
3-hour course (video + post test + evaluation)
Presented By: Stephanie Sullivan, LLMFT
Abstract: Bisexuality can have multiple meanings, but will be defined here as the potential to be attracted to people of more than one sex or gender, either romantically, sexually, or both (Eisner, 2013). Therapists who are working with a client who is bisexual in the polyamorous community may have to consider how their client’s bisexuality impacts them therapeutically. Bisexual individuals may be discriminated against, stereotyped, and/or have their identity erased in ways that are unique to the bi community (Bradford, 2004; Keppel, 2006; Turell, Brown, & Herrmann, 2017). Their client may have different needs, risk factors, and meaning-making than straight, gay, or lesbian clients. In addition, therapists should be acquainted with how being bisexual in the polyamorous community can be both a gift and a curse (Klesse, 2006; Robinson, 2013; Weitzman, 2006). Couples, particularly heterosexual couples, may “hunt” for a bisexual partner to incorporate into their relationship. This course will detail how therapists can help both couples and a bisexual person navigate the ethics, benefits, and disadvantages of bisexuality in polyamory. It will address “unicorn hunting,” and help therapists learn to facilitate conversations about bisexuality and healthy, ethical relationships in polyamory.
After completion of this course, participants should be able to:
- List two ways bisexual erasure can impact a bisexual client.
- Outline five stereotypes about bisexual individuals.
- Identify three benefits and three disadvantages to being both polyamorous and bisexual.
- List 3 potential problems that unicorns and unicorn-hunting couples may experience.
Licensed therapists price is $90.
Licensed therapists who work in nonprofits price is $70. (Enter code bisexualitypolyamorynp at checkout)
Student/unlicensed price is $40. (Enter code plbisexualitypolyamory at checkout)
You can also get access to this course and all other courses – current and future – with the Lifetime Membership for a one-time fee.
What are people saying about this course:
- Very knowledgeable presenter with expertise in a niche area
- I learned more about the bisexual community, and information about the intersection of bisexuality and polyamory.
- I learned how to help couples or individuals within relationships navigate expectations and communication regarding possible open or polyamorous relationships and helping bisexual clients navigate things such as whether and how to come out.
The Affirmative Couch, LLC is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. The Affirmative Couch, LLC maintains responsibility for this program and its content.
$90.00
