The Power of Two

When I think about marriage, the first thing that comes to mind is a strong union that is maintained by love, connection, understanding and friendship.  I am currently reading the book The Power of Two: Secrets to a Strong and Loving Marriage and I am learning a lot about how we communicate with our significant other plays a big role in how the relationship will be and if it is going to be a healthy and strong relationship. One of my favorite sections in the book is the three different Healing Strategies which are Hearing, apologizing, and piecing together the puzzle. The author, Susan Heitler, goes in depth for each strategy and provides different examples on how to practice each strategy.

The healing strategy One: Hearing, is about understanding our partner’s concerns and listening in a non-judgmental way. Hearing can be a powerful tool to further understand and to clear out any resentment. Heitler mentions that when we listen to our partner and when we hear each other out, we can both feel healed.

The second healing strategy: Apologizing, can help couples work through emotional wounds. According to Heitler, apologizing is a five-step process that involves expressing regret, accepting responsibility, clarifying non intentionality, explaining the circumstances and repair the damage. Following the apology sequence can help couples work through complex misunderstandings.

Lastly, piecing together the puzzle, which can help couples understand each other and how the conflict started. This strategy involves figuring out what happened, apologizing with the five-step process from the apologizing strategy, and turning the conflict into an equal opportunity to grow.

Overall, The Power of Two provides different examples and provides important communication skills to create a strong marriage, which I believe can be applied to any type of relationship, whether it be with family or friends.

If you or someone you know would like to speak to a professional counselor about couples therapy or relationship topics, please feel free to contact Olive Branch Counseling Associates, Inc. on 708-633-8000. We are located at 6819-167^th St. in Tinley Park, Illinois 60477.

Mariana Rodriguez Graduate Intern, 2025.

Reference:

Heitler, S. M. (1997). The Power of Two: Secrets to a Strong and Loving Marriage. New Harbinger Publications, Inc.