Exploring Gender, Sexuality, and Relationships

In recent years, there has been a significant cultural shift: more people than ever before are opening up about their identities, curiosities, and experiences related to gender, sexuality, and relationships. While societal dialogue has become more inclusive and expressive, individuals often still need a safe, validating space to process these deeply personal topics. That’s where Open Arms Wellness in St. Louis, Missouri, can help.

Our clinicians understand that self-exploration—especially related to sexual orientation, gender identity, or nontraditional relationships—can be exciting, confusing, and even anxiety-inducing. Whether you're facing internal conflict, struggling with shame, or seeking a deeper understanding of your needs and desires, Open Arms Wellness is here to support you without judgment.

Media Influence and the Growth of Personal Exploration

Mainstream media has played a powerful role in transforming societal views about sex, love, and identity. From books and films to reality shows and podcasts, many forms of media now spotlight diverse ways of living and loving.

Pop Culture as a Gateway to Self-Discovery

Movies like Fifty Shades of Grey introduced mainstream audiences to BDSM, kink, and other alternative sexual practices. For some, these portrayals sparked curiosity or offered a sense of normalcy about their interests. Others felt comforted to know they weren't alone.

More recently, TV shows like Sister Wives and Polyamory: Married & Dating have made ethical non-monogamy and polyamorous relationships visible and open for discussion. Viewers are increasingly exploring these ideas for themselves, but navigating these uncharted waters often comes with questions, doubts, and emotional complexity.

According to a 2022 study published in Frontiers in Psychology, around 21% of U.S. adults report having engaged in some form of consensual non-monogamy (CNM) during their lifetime. While interest is growing, a lack of understanding or support can make the journey overwhelming.

Normalizing Curiosity and Kink

Sexuality is vast, and human interests span a wide range—from vanilla to adventurous. However, many people feel ashamed, confused, or anxious when they begin to acknowledge their own desires.

Whether it’s an interest in roleplay, dominance and submission, or other elements of kink, it’s important to know that curiosity is normal. Unfortunately, guilt and sexual shame—often learned through family, religion, or cultural norms—can make it difficult to feel at peace with these thoughts.

Therapy as a Safe Space

At Open Arms Wellness, we provide a safe, confidential space for individuals to explore their sexual interests without fear of judgment. Our therapists are trained to help you:

• Understand the emotional and psychological roots of sexual shame
• Build confidence around communication and consent
• Navigate your personal boundaries with curiosity and safety

A 2023 Kinsey Institute report found that more than 47% of adults surveyed had fantasized about BDSM-related activities, yet only a small fraction had ever discussed these interests with a partner or therapist. We believe these conversations deserve a place in the therapeutic space—and that healing can begin with open, honest dialogue.

Rethinking Relationships: Monogamy Is Not the Only Option

While traditional monogamy works well for many people, others find fulfillment in alternative relationship models. These include:

• Polyamory (loving multiple people)
• Ethical non-monogamy (consensually having more than one romantic/sexual relationship)
• Swinging
• Relationship anarchy

Yet despite increased visibility, many individuals feel isolated or stigmatized when stepping outside societal norms.

Therapy for Non-Traditional Relationships

Navigating open or polyamorous relationships requires thoughtful communication, emotional intelligence, and often guidance. Common concerns include:

• Managing jealousy and insecurity
• Negotiating boundaries and agreements
• Talking to children, family, or friends about your lifestyle
• Finding community and connection

At Open Arms Wellness, we specialize in non-monogamy-affirming therapy. We work with individuals and couples to understand their relationship values and support them in building secure, fulfilling partnerships.

And you're not alone in this journey—a 2023 YouGov poll found that 33% of U.S. adults under 45 say their ideal relationship would be something other than monogamous. Therapy can help you determine what’s right for you and how to pursue it in healthy, informed ways.

Gender Identity and the Need for Affirming Support

Just as sexual expression is fluid, so too is gender. More people are exploring gender identity beyond the binary framework of “male” or “female.” Whether someone identifies as transgender, nonbinary, gender-fluid, or is simply questioning, therapy can be a safe and validating space for self-discovery.

A 2022 Gallup poll reported that 7.2% of U.S. adults identify as LGBTQIA+, including a growing number who identify as transgender or nonbinary. In younger generations, that number is even higher—20.8% of Gen Z adults identify as LGBTQIA+.

At Open Arms Wellness in St. Louis, we provide gender-affirming care that:

• Respects your lived experience and identity
• Offers support for gender dysphoria and related anxiety or depression
• Helps you navigate coming out, transition options, or family dynamics

Whether you're early in your journey or seeking ongoing support, our therapists walk beside you with respect and openness.

Shame, Guilt, and the Power of Healing

Many clients we work with at Open Arms Wellness struggle with some form of internalized shame—especially around sexuality, gender, or relationships. Some have survived trauma, religious rejection, or family conflict. Others fear societal judgment or rejection.

Our trauma-informed therapists help clients:

• Identify the origin of shame
• Challenge harmful beliefs
• Rebuild self-esteem
• Create new narratives grounded in authenticity

Healing isn’t about fixing what’s wrong—it’s about embracing what’s real and learning to feel whole again.

Building a Trusting Therapeutic Relationship

At Open Arms Wellness, we understand that therapy is not just about tools and techniques—it’s about connection. Our clients frequently tell us that what made the biggest difference in their healing journey was feeling seen, heard, and respected.

Our therapists are trained to:

• Hold space without judgment
• Affirm your lived experience
• Move at your pace
• Support your goals, whatever they may be

Whether you're exploring new aspects of your identity, processing old wounds, or simply want to live more authentically, we’re here to support you.

Why Choose Open Arms Wellness in St. Louis?

With countless therapy options available, why choose us?

We’re proud to offer:

• Specialized care in sexuality, gender identity, and relationship diversity
• A team of licensed, affirming therapists
• An LGBTQIA+ friendly, trauma-informed, and body-positive environment
• Both in-person and telehealth therapy services
• A client-first approach that empowers your voice

When you walk into our office—or meet us online—you’ll be greeted not just with open arms, but with open hearts and open minds.

You’re Not Alone—And You Deserve to Be Understood

Whether you're curious about kink, exploring ethical non-monogamy, or working through gender identity questions, you deserve to be supported by professionals who understand. Therapy is not about labeling or limiting you—it’s about helping you embrace your truest self.

And remember:

• 21% of Americans have explored consensual non-monogamy
• 47% have fantasized about BDSM
• 33% of adults under 45 prefer something other than strict monogamy
• 20.8% of Gen Z identify as LGBTQIA+

These numbers don’t define you, but they remind us all: you are not alone.

At Open Arms Wellness in St. Louis, we honor your unique journey. Our goal is to support you in living freely, fully, and without shame.

Ready to Start?

The path to self-discovery and healing starts with a conversation. Whether you're just beginning to question or you're deep into your personal journey, Open Arms Wellness is ready to meet you with care and expertise.