Friday, February 27th, 12–1 PM CT
Considering Non-Monogamy: What to Know About Boundaries, Attachment, and Communication with Gabe Gonzalez
You’ve wondered what it would look like to open your relationship in a healthy way, or what consensual non-monogamy means beyond what you’ve seen online—and now you’re feeling unsure, curious, or a little overwhelmed by the idea of figuring it out alone.
This makes sense. Consensual non-monogamy (CNM), and all its structures and expressions, can be deeply fulfilling, but it can also bring up confusion, shame, and stigma, with very few resources that help you navigate questions in an affirming, attachment-informed way.
Led by Gabe Gonzalez, LCSW, a relationship therapist who specializes in supporting consensual non-monogamous (CNM) relationships, as well as those in the LGBTQIA+, kink, and BDSM communities, you’ll walk away with a clearer picture of the landscape of consensual non-monogamy, the relationship realities that can arise, and thoughtful next steps for your own journey.
A brief self-reflection exercise and a short Q&A will follow to support integration of the material and give space for your questions.
Whether you’re just beginning to consider non-monogamy, currently in a poly relationship, or trying to increase self-understanding, we would love to have you join us.
❋ This workshop is designed to help you better understand what consensual non-monogamy is (and isn’t), how attachment shows up in these relationship structures, and what it might actually look like to explore or practice non-monogamy in a grounded, informed way.
Here’s what we’ll cover
Understanding the Landscape of ENM, CNM, and Polyamory
What we mean by CNM (consensual non-monogamy), polyamory, and opening your relationship
Common language, norms, and structures within non-monogamous communities
Myths, misconceptions, and cultural narratives that contribute to shame, confusion, or stigma
Attachment Realities in Non-Monogamous Relationships
How different attachment styles can show up in CNM/poly dynamics
Why new or intensified feelings (jealousy, fear, insecurity, craving reassurance) often emerge when relationships open up
How to begin navigating these attachment challenges with more curiosity and compassion instead of self-blame
Normalizing Exploration and Finding Your Next Step
How to discern whether CNM/polyamory is aligned for you, your partner(s), and your values
Ways to explore this relationship structure without abandoning your emotional needs or pressuring yourself to “just be okay”
Developing familiarity with the supports that exist outside your relationship, such as therapy, community, and education
Meet the Facilitator: Gabriel Gonzalez, LCSW
Certified Poly & ENM Therapist, Relationship and Attachment Specialist
Gabriel Gonzalez is a bilingual (English/Spanish), queer-identified licensed clinical social worker with more than 17 years of experience.
As a therapist rooted in trauma-informed, systemic approaches (including EFT, EMDR, and other evidence-based modalities), he brings deep clinical experience and cultural humility to his work.
His commitment to working with the full range of relational experiences—including those that are often misunderstood, stigmatized, or dismissed—means you can expect a grounded, inclusive, and affirming space that welcomes diverse identities, relationship configurations, and emotional experiences.
Who this workshop is for
You’re considering an ENM/CNM/poly relationship.
You’ve already opened up your relationship and are running into unexpected feelings or challenges.
You’ve been in non-monogamous dynamics for a while, and patterns are surfacing that weren’t as visible before.
You want an informed, non-shaming, and attachment-informed approach to this topic.
This workshop is not for
Individuals, couples, or partners currently in an active crisis or unsafe situation.
Anyone looking for “quick tips,” scripts, or strategies to convince a partner to open or close a relationship.
Those wanting to debate the validity of non-monogamy or shame people who are exploring it.
Permission to Explore Without Shame
Adults thinking of opening their relationship are often told they’re ‘too much,’ ‘greedy,’ or that it’s just ‘cheating with different rules.’ None of that reflects the reality of consensual non-monogamy.
Much of this comes from misinformation, stigma, and cultural discomfort with non-traditional relationship structures. As a result, even when your values and desires are aligned with CNM, you can feel isolated, unsupported, or unsure where to turn for compassionate guidance.
This workshop offers a different experience.
Instead of judgment or overgeneralization, you’ll receive education, perspective, and tools to help you understand the realities of consensual non-monogamy, so you can explore at your own pace with more clarity, confidence, and self-trust.
FAQ’s about this workshop
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Yes. You’ll receive the replay after the workshop and have access for two weeks after the workshop.
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No. This is an educational workshop. Gabe will offer information, frameworks, and reflection prompts, but this does not constitute therapy, diagnosis, or individualized treatment. If you determine you’d benefit from therapy, you’ll receive guidance on how to seek out a therapist who is affirming of ENM/CNM/polyamory.
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Your privacy matters. Attendees will be asked to honor a confidentiality agreement and not share identifying details about others outside the workshop. You’re welcome to keep your camera off, use only a first name or pseudonym, and participate in whatever way feels safest. However, since this isn’t therapy, we cannot guarantee that your information will not be shared by other people. If you want a space that is fully confidential to explore this topic, we recommend that you reach out to our team to discuss individual or relationship therapy.
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As long as you’re approaching the topic with openness and respect, you’re welcome. This workshop is designed for people who are curious, considering, or currently engaging in non-monogamous relationships and want a more grounded, attachment-informed perspective.
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Yes, as time allows. There will be space for a brief Q&A where participants can submit questions. Facilitators cannot provide personalized therapy in this setting, but can offer general guidance and further resources to explore.
About Heights Couples Therapy
This workshop is hosted by Heights Couples Therapy, a specialty group practice in Houston, Texas, supporting individuals, partners, and families navigating intense lives as they build and sustain relationships capable of weathering life’s storms.
We proudly maintain an anti-racist practice that is LGBTQ+-affirming, poly-friendly, and kink-knowledgeable. We believe everyone deserves loving, fulfilling relationships in any configuration or expression that honors their authentic selves.
Looking for support? Connect with our team here.