Infidelity Counseling

The definition of infidelity varies from individual to individual, depending upon what they consider an infidel act. A majority of people agree that having a sexual relationship outside of marriage is infidelity. But what about the flirting that is so common with social media these days? When a person is already committed to someone but still flirts with other girls, it sometimes goes beyond texting. Is it also considered infidelity?

When a partner cheats on them, individuals may feel devastated, alone, betrayed, or even confused. Infidelity often contributes to depression in those who have been tricked. In some cases, an affair ends a relationship. In other cases, couples can make their relationship work. The individual may choose to do this on their own or with the assistance of a therapist. Therapy may strengthen the relationship.

Sometimes those individuals who suffer from infidelity are later diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Several therapists have begun using the term post-infidelity stress disorder to refer to the emotional reaction to infidelity similar to other traumatic events.

As a result of infidelity, people can also find themselves having trouble undertaking other roles, such as being a parent. Psychiatrists have found that when people are emotionally traumatized by betrayal, they are less likely to perform well in other areas.

The shock of discovering your partner’s infidelity can be emotionally and physically draining. Therapy may be an option for those who are dealing with these feelings. When a person is affected by infidelity, individual therapy can be helpful. Getting therapy may help explain how you should respond to your partner’s affair. You might be asked to forgive, let go, or move on. The feelings that come with infidelity can be dealt with in many ways. Your therapist can help you explore your options. Separating from or reconciling with your partner is an option. It can take a long time to recover from an affair. Especially for couples seeking reconciliation, the process may be lengthy.

Infidelity therapy can strengthen and restore a relationship. However, the betrayed partner may still find it difficult to trust the other. Even after the affair has ended, the couple may still be unable to grasp why it occurred. Perhaps they will have a hard time accepting the change in their lives.

Therapists teach couples how to deal with the aftereffects of an affair by using techniques learned in therapy. The two can develop a new, open, and honest relationship.