In our latest live stream, viewers flooded the chat with questions about how to navigate communication breakdowns and rebuild trust after setbacks. Here are the top three queries and Michael’s therapist-grade takeaways:
- “How do we stop spiraling into blame during arguments?”
Michael advises adopting an “I feel… when you…” formula. By starting with your own emotions rather than assigning fault, you shift the conversation from attack to shared problem-solving. - “Is it normal to lose trust after a lie, even a small one?”
Trust is like a glass—once cracked, it can be repaired but the scar remains. Michael suggests micro-reassurances: brief, consistent actions over time (like sharing small updates or making promises you can keep) that slowly mend the fracture and prove reliability. - “What if my partner shuts down instead of talking?”
When someone withdraws, pushing harder often backfires. Instead, Michael recommends gentle invitations: acknowledge their space (“I see you’re quiet—would you prefer to talk later?”) and offer physical comfort (a hand on the shoulder) to show you’re present, even if they’re not ready to speak.
Each segment of the live Q&A highlighted that building safer emotional climates—where both partners feel heard and respected—is less about grand declarations and more about consistent, compassionate practice. If you missed the stream, you can catch the full replay below and grab the downloadable handout of Michael’s key dialogue tools.