CE Eligible
We’re In This Together:
Applying Community Psychology to Polyamorous Networks
Sunday, May 3rd | 8:30AM | Room: Chandler | 301
Polycules are often described as networks of relationships but many of us long for something deeper: a felt sense of community. This session explores how polyules can intentionally cultivate connection, care, and resilience using a well-established sociological framework for “sense of community.”
Drawing from community psychology, we’ll examine four key elements: membership, shared influence, integration and fulfillment of needs, and emotional connection. Participants will explore how these elements show up (or fall away) in polycule dynamics, and how their presence affects trust, conflict, and sustainability.
Through discussion, reflection, and real-world examples, this session invites attendees to think beyond dyads and logistics and toward polycules as living systems. Suitable for a wide range of poly structures, this workshop offers practical tools for strengthening connection while honoring autonomy, consent, and diverse needs.
1.
A clear, accessible understanding of the four elements of a sense of community and how they apply to polycules.
2.
Ideas for intentionally cultivating shared emotional connection through time, traditions, and meaning-making.
3.
Reflection questions to help participants evaluate their current polycule(s) and identify small, realistic steps toward greater community.
Lindsay Hayes holds an MA in communication and an MA in Couple and Family Therapy. Her Master’s thesis was a qualitative study on the lived experience of being in a polycule. She is currently a student in the PhD in Counseling Studies program at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland where she continues to study polyamory. She is a member of the adjunct faculty at the University of Denver. Lindsay practices therapy part-time at Legacy Trails Therapy and lives in Denver.