Ep.31 Can a Marriage Survive Infidelity? Healing, Betrayal and What Comes Next

One of our most popular guests is back!  In episode 8 we chatted about midlife relationships and intimacy, especially important in the wake of menopause and the many life changes thrown at us in midlife.  This time Julie Hattershire, a licensed sex and relationship therapist, and I discuss infidelity, its aftermath, and we unpack ethical non-monogamy. A staggering 40-45% of marriages are rocked by infidelity, with about 60% of those marriages opting to stay together.  The divorce rates for open or ethical non-monogamous relationships are surprisingly not that promising.  In Julie's experience many marriages can come out on the other side of infidelity stronger and healthier than they were before the crisis of the betrayal.In this episode Julie Hattershire and I discuss:- Infidelity and the aftermath - how you heal whether you decide to stay in the marriage or not- Can marriages be repaired after infidelity?- What to do and not do in regard to children who are caught in the middle of infidelity- Defining ethical non-monogamy and polyamoryYou can find Julie Hattershire MSW, LISW-S atBe Connected Counseling and Coachinghttps://bconnected.care/or [email protected] am a huge fan of Revaree for vaginal dryness, and I have been a very happy customer for almost two years!Check out all Bonafide's sexual health and wellness products at https://hellobonafide.com/Use discount code AFAF25 at checkout for 25% off on any subscription purchase_________________________________________If you’re doing “all the right things” and still feel stuck, adding a layer of support may be an option. I’ve partnered with a trusted telehealth platform offering modern solutions for women in midlife—including micro-dosed GLP-1 and other peptide therapies.https://elliemd.com/michelefolan - Create a free account to view all products.Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/askingforafriend_pod/✨ Sign up for my weekly newsletter: https://michelefolanfasterway.myflodesk.com/i6i44jw4fqLike to connect? Email me at [email protected] Transcripts are created with AI and may not be perfectly accurate.Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional healthcare services. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified healthcare provider with any questions regarding a medical condition.