We often confuse reconciliation with conflict resolution. In our anxiousness to fix conflicts, we sometimes push people, particularly children, to say they are sorry. But relationships and situation don’t get fixed or restored when we try to force it. We can always invite reconciliation but not demand it. An apology can make an issue go away for a while but it won’t heal a relationship.
Adapted from a book by Bill Thrall.
Dr.Baya Mebarek, Psy.D.,LMFT
www.sandiegofamilytherapy.net
Baya Mebarek, Psy.D., LMFT
Baya Mebarek, Psy.D., LMFT is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with more than 20 years of experience helping couples strengthen their relationships. Based in San Diego and providing online therapy throughout California, she specializes in couples therapy, marriage counseling, premarital counseling, affair recovery, communication and conflict, emotional disconnection, and rebuilding trust. Her integrative approach draws on research-based relationship strategies, attachment-informed therapy, and a deep understanding of the emotional patterns that can leave couples feeling hurt, misunderstood, or disconnected.
