I have not read your other post that you referred to so not sure if i ask anything you have answered, so just lemme know if you have....but are you and your husband both wanting to explore with other couples? Is it something you have talked about? I know a few people that are in the lifestyle (swingers) and some that have very "open" marriages, and there is a bit of a difference IMO. Swingers have varying levels. Some are soft-swing (touching, oral but no penetration), some go all the way with their partner involved in it, some with their partner on another bed or chair, or just watching, some will play in totally separate areas. Other than being in a strong marriage/relationship and having very open communication, you need to set rules for the swinging lifestyle. You will not enter a lifestyle club/party that does not mention rules. The rules are do's and don'ts that you and your partner have such as no kissing, no penetration, no playing alone...things like that. There are people who are very open to the one-night stand and those swingers that incorporate friendships with people they find at swingers clubs. I have seen both of those aspects as well. Have some great friends we met at a club that we did family things with and never, ever had sex with or came close to having sex with! Having an open marraige can constitute much of the same things as swingers, but I have seen it include alot more. Things such as "relationships" outside of the marriage...dates, more than just casual sex. IMO that is risky business. Gives reason for doubts and such. I hope you get some answers and find some ways to have some great sex and fulfillment no matter what path you choose. As for speaking with a counselor, I am not sure I could ever talk about my sex life to a therapist, but if you can, that is awesome! Kudos to you! If nothing at all, keep the lines of communication open with your spouse!!!