Affairs, Trust, and the Work of Healing After Betrayal
This Complex Life · Marie Vakakis
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Show Notes
Affairs can devastate a relationship, leaving couples questioning everything they thought they knew about each other. In this episode of This Complex Life, I sit down with couples therapist Andrea Dindinger to talk about healing after betrayal, the slow process of rebuilding trust, and the courage it takes to move forward.
We unpack why affairs happen, what betrayal does to relationships, and how couples can recover together or separately with intention and care.
What you'll learn in this episode:
- Why betrayal can feel so destabilising and isolating
- How couples can start rebuilding trust after an affair
- Signs a relationship can heal versus when it’s time to walk away
- The importance of self-reflection and understanding attachment needs
- How therapists support couples in high-conflict or post-betrayal recovery
- Why healing isn’t about quick fixes but consistent emotional work
Healing after betrayal takes time, courage, and a lot of honest conversations. Whether you’re the one who’s been hurt or the one seeking forgiveness, there’s a path forward if both partners are willing to do the work. Tune in for this compassionate and practical discussion, and share it with someone who may need hope and guidance.
Connect with Andrea Dindinger:
Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist & Relationship Coach
Andrea Dindinger is a San Francisco-based Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with more than 20 years’ experience helping people create meaningful, fulfilling intimate relationships.
https://www.andreadindinger.com/
https://enroll.andreadindinger.com/relationship-reboot-course
Resources:
- The Therapy Hub
- Andrea Dindinger’s website
- Book: After the Affair by Janis A. Spring
- Esther Perels: The State of Affairs and Mating in Captivity
- Emily Nagoski's Come as You Are and Come Together
Connected Teens
https://marievakakis.com.au/connected-teens/
Connect with Marie
https://www.instagram.com/marievakakis/
Submit a question to the Podcast
https://forms.gle/nvNQyw9gJXMNnveY6
Mentioned in this episode:
Join me live Jan 28th for the Relationship New Year Reset https://marievakakis.com.au/relationship-new-year-reset-2026/