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Episode 2778:
Terry Gaspard explains how trial separations can serve as a constructive pause for couples overwhelmed by conflict, offering time to reflect, heal, and rediscover shared values. Through tools like the Gottman-Rapoport Intervention and the Two-Oval Compromise, partners can practice empathy, clarify core needs, and strengthen communication, whether to reunite or move forward separately with understanding and respect.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.gottman.com/blog/do-trial-separations-work/
Quotes to ponder:
“When both partners feel understood, they will be better prepared to work out the terms for their trial separation.”
“Most of the couples who consider a trial separation have grown weary of ongoing struggles and they feel too overwhelmed to make a decision about staying together or splitting up.”
“The goal of the method is to help couples to honestly discuss their feelings and beliefs about an issue without blaming or criticizing each other.”