Couples or partners in relationships seek out counseling for a variety of issues but one of the main reasons they come in for therapy is due to one partner’s extramarital affair. The disclosure of an affair places extreme stress on a marriage or relationship, and it is not uncommon for either partner to experience anxiety, depression and a deep sense of loss. The partner involved in the affair may feel guilt or shame, while the other partner often feels anger, betrayal and emotional abandonment.
Couple therapy in this case can often result in a more intense bond between partners, as members of the couple learn to communicate their needs more clearly and discover areas where the relationship may need to be strengthened. For instance, there may be a lack of emotional intimacy between partners and therapy will be aimed at having the couple work to rediscover feelings of closeness and trust. All of the emotions and resulting behaviors a couple is experiencing can be addressed in marriage or couple therapy, which provides a safe haven for passionate expression, clarity and resolution.
At times couples are on the verge of divorce, and in this case therapy may allow them get through this difficult transition as smoothly as possible. When children are involved, therapy can be a calming option to aid the family in focusing on creating a healthy and loving environment post-divorce.
