Following an affair, the recovery of the marriage is not the only option. But partners who decide to heal together will take different steps toward that goal.

​The vertical pairing of the steps listed below depicts how partners are connected to each other’s experiences and actions. Discovery should be met with disclosure. One partner’s trauma should lead to the other’s remorse which, in turn, can shorten the traumatic ordeal. Empathy should be offered to pain. Honesty needs to be met with acceptance. Atonement encourages forgiveness, and both partners must take the vulnerable risks necessary to reestablish trust.

If either partner fails to take the necessary steps, the journey stops. If they remain stuck, then complete relationship healing cannot occur.

Having already reviewed the steps of the Involved Partner, let's consider what steps the Injured Partner must take if a couple chooses to heal their marriage...

To even suggest that it might be beneficial to consider gratitude during the traumatic pain of betrayal might seem utterly ridiculous, but that's exactly what Stephen tried to do.