If you and/or your spouse are experiencing emotional distress such as guilt or difficulty fully trusting, that is not surprising. Once the honeymoon period is over and real life sets in, there is more space to reflect upon what has happened. During this time questions can arise which may be difficult to process together without assistance. You also may be experiencing difficulties with children, extended family members, friends and/or colleagues who, naturally, have their own reactions to what has transpired.
It is not true that relationships which begin as affairs never work out, though some do not. But it is true that there’s frequently built-in stress when infidelity is at the root of the relationship. Couples counseling sometimes can provide the only opportunity to work through these issues together in a safe and non-judgmental space.
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist and have been helping couples and individuals navigate difficulties in relationships for 38 years. I can be contacted at (925) 948-0562 or at therapy@susanberger.net. When reaching out, please indicate the best times to reach you in person. If you live outside of the San Francisco Bay Area, please go to the Links page on this blog where you can find a geographical listing of therapists who work effectively with affairs.