Arguments and disagreements are a normal part of all relationships! But what separates a healthy relationship from an unhealthy relationship, is how the couple handles the argument. In other words, how each partner responds when he or she are angry.
Here are some quick tips on what do when you find yourself in this situation and how to respond in a healthy way.
Tips when arguing
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Learn how to manage your own response when feeling emotional
- Whether you need to take a deep breath, take a walk, or listen to music. Finding a way to manage your emotions in the heat of the moment is key! It is during this time that you need to stay focused in on how you are going to help your relationship. This is the time to stop the negative self-talk!
- I should also note that this does not mean ignoring your emotion, this is more focused on how you react based on your emotion.
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Allow for a break if needed
- Breaks are a time for both partners to find a way to calm down. The important part of this, is that both partners must come back to the conversation.
- Decide on a time-out signal or hand motion if needed.
- Respect your partner if they call for a time out!
- Call your own time out!
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Begin with what you are experiencing
- If you want your partner to hear you, start your response with what you are experiencing and take responsibility for your emotions. You can still do this by stating what is going on and it is best if you are specific.
- Example: When you don’t initiate physical intimacy, I feel lonely and unwanted, I would like if you initiated physical intimacy.
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Listen to your partner
- When your partner is sharing what he or she is experiencing, this is your time to listen with empathy. With this information, you can then validate your partner. This is not the time to plan your rebuttal or point out why you believe they are wrong.
Stay tuned as I will discuss these tips in more detail in the upcoming posts.
Begin Online Couples Counseling in San Antonio, TX
Getting Scheduled:
Getting started with a therapist for online couples counseling is easy and convenient while in the comfort of your own home. You can schedule online through our Client Portal. If you are planning to use your insurance, please note that only a few clinicians accept limited insurance plans for Online Couples therapy.
You can give our office a call at 210-706-0392, and our intake coordinator can answer any questions you may have. If your insurance is accepted, we will get you scheduled and gather the needed insurance information.
What we need from you:
In order to get scheduled for online couples counseling, we will need the following from you, your full name, email address, and phone number. We do require you to make a $40 deposit to hold your intake session. This deposit goes toward your first session’s payment.
What to expect between scheduling and your session:
After you are scheduled, you will receive a link to your secured client portal. You will have documents to sign and complete 24 hours before your intake session. Ten minutes before your session, you will receive a secured link for your video call. You can use this link to join in on your online therapy session.
Other Therapy & Counseling Services at Modern Wellness Counseling
In addition to online couples counseling , learn more about our therapy and counseling services including premarital counseling, Online Therapy for Anxiety, and individual counseling, to help you thrive in relationships and life!
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By: Priscilla Rodriguez, M.S., LMFT
Priscilla is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and understands that all relationships are unique. Priscilla teaches couples how to manage their differences in a healthy and efficient way. If you are interested in exploring how you and your partner can learn to manage differences, contact Priscilla for your free consultation.