Infidelity can be crushing to one's self-esteem, but it doesn't have to be. Once we realize that we cannot control other people nor should we want to, we can focus on building ourselves up again in healthy ways. There's much to be learned from painful situations. Pain, though uncomfortable, is a pathway to growth.
Most people believe that infidelity is the end of a relationship but it need not be. Infidelity can be an opportunity for a couple to gain insight into the underlying problems in their relationship and potentially heal and move to a higher ground and better foundation for their relationship.
Recovery from an affair can be a lengthy process. The infidelity can be used as a way to strengthen the relationship if both parties are fully committed to treatment. Taking responsibility for the hurt, along with healing from the trauma that has been created are critical components of the process. Learning how to communicate needs more effectively and reaching out to your partner when feeling vulnerable are critical parts.
Have you experienced infidelity in your relationship? Whether you're looking to repair and move forward or separate and move on, I specialize in helping individuals and relationship heal past hurt and strengthen their connections using the Gottman Method as well as Emotionally focused couples therapy.