There are few things in life that are as devastating as infidelity. Affairs of the Heart is dedicated to helping individuals and couples work through the complex emotions and challenges that arise from infidelity. With a tailored approach that combines evidence-based techniques and empathetic support, we work with clients to explore their emotions, restore trust, and choose to stay and rebuild after an affair if that decision makes the most sense for that particular couple.
An affair does not have to mean the end of a marriage. Instead of dwelling on the past, couples can focus on building a new chapter in the relationship. This involves setting new goals, creating new memories, and fostering a renewed sense of connection.
Betrayal trauma refers to the deep emotional pain and psychological distress experienced when someone is betrayed by a person they deeply trust, such as a partner, family member, or close friend. This type of trauma is particularly intense because it disrupts the victim's sense of safety, security, and trust in the relationship. It can lead to a range of emotional and psychological symptoms, including:
Feelings of anger, sadness, confusion, and betrayal are common, often accompanied by mood swings and emotional numbness. The betrayed person's entire world as they believed it to be has been shattered. While some people are filled with anger and hurt upon discovering their partner’s betrayal, other people go numb and feel emotionless.
The ability to trust others, even beyond the betrayer, can be severely impacted, leading to difficulty in forming new relationships or maintaining existing ones. The betrayed individual may experience feelings of fear, anxiety and hypervigilance. The person may become overly alert and sensitive to potential signs of further betrayal, leading to anxiety and stress. They no longer feel safe in their relationship.
Betrayal can cause the individual to question their self-worth, identity, and decisions, leading to low self-esteem and feelings of inadequacy.
Recurrent, distressing memories or thoughts about the betrayal can occur, sometimes leading to symptoms similar to PTSD and sometimes referred to as Post-Infidelity Stress Disorder (PISD) or (Betrayal trauma). Rumination: You may perseverate over your partner’s infidelity and have recurring thoughts about it.
Betrayal trauma can manifest physically through symptoms like headaches, fatigue, digestive issues, and sleep disturbances.
They may develop insomnia and have inconsistent sleep patterns. As a result, they may struggle to focus, have reduced work performance and overall daily functioning may be affected.
To protect themselves from further hurt, individuals may withdraw emotionally, avoid situations that remind them of the betrayal, or disengage from relationships altogether. They might also find themselves withdrawing from friends and family and preferring to be alone. They may no longer find enjoyment in activities that once brought pleasure.
Couples counseling for infidelity is an area of specialization that often involves several steps.
Couples counseling for infidelity is an area of specialization that often involves several steps.
We offer a variety of evidence-based counseling practices specializing in successful affair recovery.
Deciding whether to stay after an affair is a personal choice that depends on the circumstances, the individuals involved, and their ability to rebuild trust. It's essential to communicate openly, consider the reasons behind the cheating,
We offer a variety of evidence-based counseling practices specializing in successful affair recovery.
Deciding whether to stay after an affair is a personal choice that depends on the circumstances, the individuals involved, and their ability to rebuild trust. It's essential to communicate openly, consider the reasons behind the cheating, and assess whether both partners are willing to work towards rebuilding the relationship. Seeking guidance from a counselor or therapist can be beneficial in navigating such a complex situation.
People end up in affairs for various reasons, and it's not exclusive to any gender. Factors can include dissatisfaction in the relationship, lack of emotional connection, personal insecurities, or seeking excitement. It's important to know the type of affair that occured in order to appropriately frame the treatment process.
Our approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, compassion, and non-judgment.
We strive to create a safe and supportive environment where our clients feel comfortable exploring their thoughts and feelings, and where they can develop the skills and tools they need to rebuild their relationship.
Counselors work with couples dealing with infid
Our approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, compassion, and non-judgment.
We strive to create a safe and supportive environment where our clients feel comfortable exploring their thoughts and feelings, and where they can develop the skills and tools they need to rebuild their relationship.
Counselors work with couples dealing with infidelity by providing a safe space for communication and transparency. They help couples explore the underlying issues contributing to the infidelity, address trust issues, and develop effective communication and coping strategies.
The process involves rebuilding trust, fostering understanding, and guiding the couple through the decision-making process about the future of their relationship.
— Jean de La Bruyère
Insurance does not cover "infidelity" or "affair recovery" since it is not a recognized medical diagnosis. This is an area of specialization that requires specific strategies and treatment plans that are separate from individual or traditional family therapy.
Suggested time frame: 3- 6 sessions.
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