Infidelity counseling is a specialized therapeutic approach designed for couples grappling with the aftermath of one or more partner’s infidelity. It offers a nurturing and non-judgmental environment where both individuals can delve into the underlying reasons behind the breach of trust, openly express their feelings, and collaboratively strive to mend their relationship.The overarching objective of infidelity counseling is to either facilitate a path to reconciliation, should both partners desire it, or guide them through the process of separation or divorce with clarity and empathy.
Infidelity counseling combines various therapeutic techniques, such as individual and couples therapy, cognitive-behavioral approaches for changing destructive thought patterns, communication skills training for conflict resolution, Emotionally focused therapy (EFT) to rebuild trust, narrative therapy to reframe relationship narratives, and mindfulness practices for managing intense emotions. These methods work together to foster self-awareness, emotional healing, and the reconstruction of trust, leading to a healthier, more resilient relationship.
The number of sessions needed for infidelity counseling can greatly vary based on the specific needs of the individuals or couples involved and the complexity of the issues being addressed. Thriveworks infidelity counseling in Charlotte, NC typically includes multiple sessions spanning from several weeks to several months, with the exact number of sessions decided in consultation with the therapist, considering the progress made during therapy and the therapeutic goals.
Marriage and monogamous relationships are an integral part of human nature and they exist in almost every culture on the planet. Infidelity is, surprisingly, just as ubiquitous as monogamous relationships, it occurs in the majority of societies and is universally condemned. This co-existence of monogamy and infidelity across different societies and cultures could lead one to believe that adultery is an intrinsic element of human nature.
Experts have estimated that between 20%-40% of American married men will have an extramarital relationship during their married life. For American women these figures are lower: 20%-25% of all married females are estimated to commit infidelity. The reasons behind an act of adultery are always particular to the individual and a variety of different factors influence one’s likelihood to cheat. The pervasive and seemingly normal occurrence of infidelity, combined with the complex reasons for one committing the act make dealing with the fallout particularly hard – counseling for infidelity can therefore be a particularly helpful part of this process.
Types Of Infidelity
Infidelity is not a simple phenomenon, experts recognize its 3 major forms – sexual infidelity, romantic infidelity and sexual and romantic infidelity combined. The type of infidelity a couple has been subjected to will undoubtedly determine the course that a relationship takes after disclosure. A simple act of sexual infidelity may be easier to reconcile, whereas when the unfaithful partner is involved in a romantic and sexual relation with a third person the couple is often more likely to part ways.
Counseling For Infidelity – Can It Help?
No matter what type of infidelity one has been affected by, the victim will experience a range of emotions as a result – grief, anger or distrust, for example. The ‘guilty’ partner will have a similar emotional experience, feelings such as remorse or extreme guilt are particularly common. This emotional intensity makes reconciliation or an amicable separation a hard to thing to achieve without the professional support. Counseling for infidelity can create an environment in which the communication necessary to achieve an amicable end to the relationship or to fully reconcile can be attained.
Here at Thriveworks Charlotte, our expert counselors have over many years worked with clients affected by the difficult experience of infidelity. We understand the problems and struggles you are experiencing and our counselors will help guide you to a resolution that best fits your individual circumstances. Please reach out to us now to arrange your first infidelity counseling session.
Coping Skills, Life Transition, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma / PTSD 
