The Psychology of Open Relationships: Insights from a Sex Therapist

Join hosts John and Jackie Melfi, the force behind colette Swingers Clubs and the award-winning blog openlove101.com, as they dive deep into relationship psychology with licensed professional counselor Dr. Alyssa Webb-McCune. This enlightening conversation explores various relationship models, from traditional monogamy to swinging and polyamory. Dr. Webb-McCune shares her expertise on building healthy relationships, navigating boundaries, and understanding the psychology behind different relationship styles. Whether you're curious about consensual non-monogamy or looking to strengthen your current relationship, this episode offers valuable insights for everyone!   Key Topics Discussed: [00:00:00] Introduction to the Open Love 101 podcast [00:01:15] Dr. Webb-McCune introduces her counseling practice and approach [00:03:48] The importance of discussing relationship models and expectations [00:06:30] Different relationship models explained [00:07:58] Differences between swinging and polyamory [00:14:15] Psychological differences in various relationship styles [00:19:26] Navigating societal judgment and professional risks [00:23:27] Top tips for healthy relationships [00:26:50] Views on sexuality across different relationship models [00:34:09] How different relationship models can complement each other [00:37:18] The importance of regular relationship evaluations   Dr. Webb-McCune's Top Relationship Tips: Maintain a low level of consistent communication about small issues Learn to advocate for yourself and your needs Conduct quarterly relationship evaluations to check in with your partner If you're interested in Dr. Webb-McCune's services, she offers traditional counseling through Natural Balance Counseling as well as relationship advisory programs through Mental Balance Coaching and Consulting.   Don't forget to like and subscribe,   Check out Dr. Alyssa Webb-McCune: https://www.naturalbalancecounseling.com/ https://www.facebook.com/Naturalbalancecounseling https://www.instagram.com/naturalbalancecounseling/   #OpenRelationships #ConsensualNonMonogamy #RelationshipAdvice #SwingLifestyle #Polyamory #RelationshipModels #CouplesTherapy

Can you feel joy when your partner finds happiness with someone else? In this video, John and Jackie from OpenLove101.com dive into the concept of compersion—the emotional opposite of jealousy—and how it can create deeper connection, trust, and personal growth in non-monogamous relationships. They share their own experiences, discuss challenges rooted in traditional relationship norms, and explain how compersion can reduce pressure, expand emotional freedom, and even strengthen primary partnerships. 💡 A must-watch for anyone exploring open love, emotional maturity, or new ways to connect with their partner. #OpenLove101 #Compersion #NonMonogamy #RelationshipTalk #JohnAndJackie #OpenRelationships

How to Reconnect After a Lifestyle Misstep In this heartfelt episode, John and Jackie dive deep into the emotional side of open relationships—exploring the joys, challenges, and growth that come from forming emotional connections beyond a primary partner. They share how maintaining friendships, embracing vulnerability, and communicating openly can actually strengthen the bond between partners. Jackie discusses how love isn't finite, and John reflects on how emotional openness has enriched their lives. Together, they challenge the idea that intimacy with others weakens a relationship—instead, they show how it can deepen trust, compassion, and connection. 💬 Real love expands. With openness and communication, emotional connection becomes a gift—not a threat. #OpenLove101 #EmotionalIntimacy #OpenRelationships #NonMonogamy #RelationshipTalk #JohnAndJackie #CommunicationAndTrust

Curious about exploring a swingers club but not sure how to bring it up with your partner? In this video, John and Jackie from OpenLove101.com share personal stories and thoughtful advice on approaching the lifestyle with someone who may feel hesitant. Filmed in New Orleans during Mardi Gras, they discuss common fears, misconceptions, and the importance of honest, pressure-free communication. Jackie opens up about her own early doubts—and how one visit changed her perspective. Whether you're just curious or considering taking that first step, this video offers guidance on creating a safe, respectful, and open conversation. #OpenLove101 #SwingersClub #RelationshipTalk #JohnAndJackie #CommunicationInRelationships

Curious about the secrets behind open relationship success? Ever thought about how boundaries and rules can transform your love life? Let’s explore it together! In this exciting episode, we chat with lifestyle coach Diana Ryan about what it takes to build trust, intimacy, and open communication in a consensual non-monogamous relationship. Whether you're navigating swinging, threesomes, or exploring the open lifestyle for the first time, this conversation is packed with valuable insights! Tune in to learn how boundaries differ from rules, how to handle unmet expectations, and why communication is the cornerstone of every healthy relationship—monogamous or not. Discover the role of consent, the importance of personal autonomy, and tips for thriving in lifestyle clubs or with swingers. Plus, we dive into how inclusivity and respect create safe spaces for everyone! Ready to level up your relationship? Hit subscribe for more honest discussions, guides, and tips on creating deeper connections. Join the conversation and start building the life you and your partner deserve! ❤️ #modernintimacy #sextherapistlosangeles #navigatingmaritalissues #maritalsatisfaction #selfhelp

Jealousy in Relationships: How to Talk About It | John & Jackie | OpenLove101 Jealousy isn’t just one emotion—it’s a mix of fear, anger, and vulnerability. In this video, John and Jackie from OpenLove101.com dive into the emotional complexity of jealousy and how couples can navigate it with open, honest communication. They share personal stories and explore how different people process jealousy in unique ways. Discover how understanding your emotional triggers—and embracing the idea of compersion (joy in your partner’s joy)—can actually strengthen your relationship. 💬 Learn how talking through tough emotions can create deeper trust and connection. #OpenLove101 #RelationshipAdvice #Jealousy #Communication #JohnAndJackie #Compersion

How Single Men Can Succeed in Swingers Clubs | Tips from John & Jackie | OpenLove101 Filmed during Mardi Gras in New Orleans, John and Jackie from OpenLove101.com dive into what single men need to know before stepping into swingers clubs like Colette. From respectful etiquette to building genuine connections, they offer practical advice for creating positive experiences in the lifestyle. Learn why starting with friendly conversation—not propositions—is key, how to approach couples with kindness, and why emotional intelligence goes a long way in forming both friendships and intimate connections. 💡 Real talk, real tips, and real respect. #OpenLove101 #SwingersEtiquette #LifestyleAdvice #JohnAndJackie #SingleMenInSwingersClubs

Curious about an open lifestyle with your partner? Ever thought about what it’s like to embrace intimacy, trust, and communication in new ways? Let’s explore it together! 🌟 In this eye-opening conversation, John and Jackie from OpenLove101 chat with Black Coco, a proud unicorn in the swinging world, as she shares her incredible journey and breaks common myths about threesomes, swingers, and the open lifestyle. Discover the secrets of what it truly means to be a unicorn, how lifestyle clubs differ from societal assumptions, and the empowering message of freedom through sexuality! Tune in to learn how embracing your desires and building trust can transform your relationships. Did you know confidence is key to intimacy? Find out how to unlock yours! If you’ve been curious about swinging or simply want to understand the importance of communication and self-expression, this is for you! Don’t miss out—hit subscribe, join the conversation, and discover the confidence to explore your own journey. Let’s redefine what’s possible! 💬✨ #swingerlifestyleeducation #commonboundariesintheswingerlifestyle #swingereducation #swingerboundaries #modernunicorns #swingerlifestyleeducation #femaleledrelationship #swingers #sacredsexuality #swingereducation

In this candid conversation, John and Jackie from Openlove101 dive into how relationship dynamics evolve over time—especially in open and non-traditional partnerships. They share real-life experiences of how initial excitement around adventurous intimacy (like inviting others into the bedroom) can shift into feelings of jealousy and insecurity as emotional bonds deepen. From skydiving metaphors to intimate storytelling, they explore how emotional responses change, how communication is the glue that holds it all together, and why embracing uncomfortable feelings—like jealousy—can actually lead to growth, trust, and a stronger connection. 👉 Whether you're in a non-monogamous relationship or just curious about emotional growth in partnerships, this video is packed with insight, vulnerability, and tools for deeper connection. Topics Covered: How emotional responses shift over time Adventures vs. emotional security Facing jealousy with open communication Building resilience and trust Redefining emotional discomfort in relationships 🔔 Subscribe for more open, honest talks about love, relationships, and emotional intimacy. #OpenLove101 #JohnAndJackie #JealousyInRelationships #NonMonogamy #EmotionalGrowth #RelationshipAdvice

Discover the hidden truth about partner jealousy in open relationships! Ever struggled with feelings of control when your partner is with someone else? In this raw and honest video, I share my personal journey from experiencing intense anxiety to finding peace and excitement in open relationships.   Want to know how I transformed those uncomfortable feelings of jealousy into genuine excitement for my partner's experiences? I break down the exact steps that helped me overcome my fears, including practical communication strategies and mindset shifts that changed everything.   You'll learn: • Why jealousy is often about control, not love • How to identify and address your true fears • Practical steps to build trust and confidence • The power of open communication with your partner • Ways to turn anxiety into excitement   Whether you're new to open relationships or experienced in the lifestyle, this video offers valuable insights into managing emotions and building stronger connections. Ready to transform your relationship experience?   #OpenRelationships #RelationshipAdvice #Lifestyle #CouplesGrowth #Partnership #Trust #Communication   #selfimprovement #openrelationship #personaldevelopment #mentalhealth #relationshipfears   CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro 01:10 - John's Journey to Acceptance in Polyamory 02:46 - Overcoming Fears of Losing Control 06:57 - Coping with Partner's Outside Relationships 09:02 - Managing Jealousy and Insecurity 10:10 - Strategies for Emotional Resilience 11:19 - Reaction to Partner's Return Home 12:18 - Navigating Feelings with Partner 12:53 - Emotions After Partner's Infidelity 14:08 - Processing Betrayal and Trust Issues 14:35 - Understanding Feelings of Deception 14:59 - Healing from Cheating Experiences 15:44 - Long-term Effects of Infidelity 16:20 - Moving Forward After Betrayal