How Election Outcomes Can Strain Relationships: Navigating Political Differences in Couples Therapy in NYC
In the political climate of today, to say that every election that passes creates an atmosphere of stress would be an understatement. In her couples therapy practice at the Keely Group, Michelle Comery, LCSW, often sees relationships put to the test around election season. The strain of differing values, the stress of waiting for results, and the influence of political views can significantly impact even the closest relationships.
Political discussions have grown more personal in recent years, and Michelle finds during couples therapy in NYC that couples may feel the weight of these differences most intensely in times of electoral uncertainty. But as she emphasizes to clients, these challenges can become opportunities for understanding and growth when approached with open-mindedness and empathy.
Assessing Core Values
Michelle believes that at the root of every political stance is an individual’s core values. When differences emerge in a relationship, she encourages couples to explore what’s driving each partner’s perspective. What are their underlying concerns? For some, it may be social justice, while for others, it could be economic stability. In sessions, she helps couples dig deeper into these motivations. Guiding them to communicate their values in a way that fosters openness and empathy.
When couples start viewing their discussions as a reflection of their core values rather than political labels, they often find that they can respect each other’s motivations even if they don’t agree on every issue. Michelle encourages couples to use phrases like, “I don’t agree with you, but I understand why you may feel this way.” This language allows space for each person’s viewpoint without pressuring them to align.
Understanding Grief When Outcomes Disappoint
Michelle acknowledges that election results can feel like a deeply personal loss for some. When the outcome isn’t what a partner had hoped, they may go through a period of grief and mourning. During these times, she encourages couples to support one another, even when they don’t fully agree on the issue. Michelle emphasizes the importance of being a comforting presence. Reminding couples to check in with each other’s emotions and to express empathy, even amid differing political beliefs.
In these moments, Michelle introduces reflective listening techniques to ensure partners feel heard. She encourages clients to say things like, “It sounds like you’re really disappointed. I may not see it the same way, but I can see how important this is to you.” When each partner feels understood, they’re more likely to feel emotionally supported.
Holding Space for All Beliefs
Michelle often encounters the question of neutrality in these discussions. As a couples therapist in NYC, she makes it clear that her role is not to validate one viewpoint or condemn another. Her goal is to help couples understand the emotions driving each perspective without judgment or taking sides.
In their relationships, Michelle encourages couples to hold space for each other’s beliefs. Not to agree but to foster a safe environment where each person feels free to express their concerns, anxieties, and hopes. By learning phrases like, “I’m surprised you feel this way, but I want to understand why,” couples can keep curiosity alive, preserving the space for both perspectives.
Maintaining Relationships Across Differences
Political differences can sometimes be surprising. Especially if a partner’s stance seems to contrast with previously shared values. Many couples in therapy find themselves questioning whether it’s possible to maintain a relationship with someone who holds a different political perspective. Michelle guides clients through this uncertainty by helping them reconnect with the strengths they already share. She encourages them to explore how they have supported each other through other challenging times and to discover whether common ground can be found.
Michelle suggests that some couples may find stability by focusing on shared values like kindness, loyalty, or family commitment. For others, respecting each other’s autonomy is key. She emphasizes that stress is a natural response to differences, but giving each other space to process independently can alleviate some of the tension.
Election Season Self-Care: Setting Boundaries and Managing Media
Michelle advises couples to discuss their boundaries around media consumption and political discussion as elections approach. Some people may benefit from limiting exposure to the news. While others may need to discuss the election openly to process their emotions. She encourages couples to find a balance that feels comfortable for both, such as one partner expressing, “I can see that you don’t want to talk about the election much, but I really need to. I’ll talk with friends about it, and maybe we can check in briefly later.” This approach enables each partner to honor their needs without pressuring the other to engage in a way that feels uncomfortable.
Family Dynamics: When Political Differences Extend to Relatives
For many couples, political differences aren’t limited to their relationship; they extend to family members. Michelle sees this dynamic frequently, especially around election season when family gatherings can feel especially tense. She encourages couples to communicate openly about how they want to approach family interactions. Particularly if one partner feels uncomfortable or outnumbered.
In these cases, Michelle works with couples to prioritize each other’s comfort. Whether it’s by setting boundaries around political discussions at family gatherings or by finding ways to support one another during those interactions.
Keep the Conversation Going With The Help of Couples Therapy in NYC
Michelle reminds couples that the influence of elections and political events on relationships doesn’t end after election day. She encourages them to continue having these conversations over time, making room to explore how these issues evolve. In her view and with the help of couples therapy, communicating openly, showing empathy, and creating space for each other’s perspectives are critical tools for fostering understanding—even when couples don’t see eye-to-eye politically.
Ultimately, Michelle believes that political differences can be an invitation for couples to reconnect, celebrate their shared strengths, and support each other through the uncertainty of election outcomes. When partners choose empathy and understanding, they not only grow as individuals but also strengthen their bond, creating a relationship that can weather even the most challenging political seasons.
Restore Balance in Your Relationship With Couples Therapy in NYC
If political differences are causing strain in your relationship, couples therapy in NYC can offer a safe space to bridge the gap. Together, we’ll work on communication skills that honor both perspectives, helping you reconnect and find understanding beyond the divide. Reach out to The Keely Group to restore balance and resilience in your relationship, no matter what the next election holds. Follow these three simple steps to get started:
Read through our FAQ page to answer any lingering questions you may have about couples therapy.
Fill out our convenient online contact form to get in touch with a skilled couples therapist.
Start restoring the balance in your relationship during the election!
Other Online Mental Health Services Offered at The Keely Group in NYC
In addition to helping you and your partner work on restoring balance to your relationship during election time with Couples Therapy in NYC, The Keely Group provides a range of online services tailored to meet the needs of busy professionals. We recognize that you may encounter various challenges in your daily life that can impact you and your relationships, which is why we offer online therapy services to assist you in managing these issues. Our main goal is to help you simplify your life, which is why we offer a variety of services, including:
