Episode Details

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at:⁠ OLDPodcast.com⁠.

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.”

Listen Now