When a relationship has been hit with infidelity, it can rupture the trust between partners, and entirely change their dynamic from that point forward. Many couples may find themselves entirely uncertain about how to repair the situation, and seek the help of a psychotherapist for infidelity issues. Further, each partner may also be struggling with their own reactions. After an affair, especially if a couple wants to repair the relationship, they may find it helpful to work with a psychotherapist. Learn more about the repercussions of infidelity and how a therapist can help:
Working with a Psychotherapist for Infidelity
Effects of Infidelity for the Betrayed
When you think about the repercussions of infidelity, whether it may be a one-night stand or a long-term affair, you might most often think about the effects it would have on the betrayed partner. Indeed, that is the person in the union that most people would feel most sympathetic towards.
Similarly, the betrayed partner will have many reactions including feeling deceived or lied to and a sense that trust was betrayed. These reactions could also cause anxiety and sadness. In some cases, the betrayed may even feel a sense of low self-esteem or low self-worth in the wake of an affair. This partner may find counseling helpful to help them cope with what happened and the resulting reactions.
Effects of Infidelity for the Unfaithful
Although most people might initially feel most sympathetic towards the betrayed partner in a union, the unfaithful partner (that is the one who committed infidelity) might also be dealing with many different reactions. They may be feeling guilt or shame and they may experience their own self-deprecating thoughts regarding their actions. Depending on the prospects of resolution, they may also be depressed.
Further, the unfaithful partner may have already been dealing with something that led to their affair. It could have been that they were feeling unfulfilled in the relationship or alienated in some way. This is not to excuse their behavior; however, it is another component that may need to be addressed to resolve the situation. Therapy can help with both the pre-existing problems and the resulting reactions.
Effects of Infidelity for the Relationship
Of course, not only each partner will be affected by infidelity, but the relationship as a whole will also be altered. It is for this reason that many couples find it necessary to seek couples counseling after an affair has occurred. Relationship counseling can help a couple to work through what has happened and help them to identify what steps they want to take next for their relationship.
In some cases, partners may want to repair the rupture that occurred and certainly couples counseling can help with that. In other cases, the partners may find it impossible or prefer not to repair the relationship. A couples therapist can also assist partners in reaching an amicable end to the relationship.
Closing Thoughts
Infidelity can have a big impact on a relationship and the partners involved. It is not easy for couples to repair the rupture, especially without outside help. If your relationship has been affected by infidelity consider working with a counselor.
Contact experienced relationship therapist and Licensed Clinical Social Worker Laurie Sloan at 212-413-7088 to schedule an appointment for relationship counseling.
For more information please visit my main website : www.LaurieSloane.com