Managing Conflict in Relationships: Tips from a Brooklyn Therapist

By Yana Shenker, LCSW-R
Founder, Resilient Mind Psychotherapy

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Conflict is a natural part of any relationship — whether you’ve been together for a year or a lifetime. Disagreements can arise over finances, parenting, household responsibilities, intimacy, or simply different communication styles. While occasional arguments are normal, how you manage conflict determines whether it strengthens or damages your bond. As Brooklyn relationship therapists, our team at Resilient Mind Psychotherapy has seen how couples can transform moments of tension into opportunities for growth.
With the right guidance and tools, even challenging conversations can strengthen trust, improve understanding, and rebuild meaningful connection. Below are practical, evidence-based tips for managing conflict in relationships, designed to be both realistic and user-friendly.

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1. Pause Before Reacting

When emotions run high, it’s tempting to respond immediately — often with words you don’t mean. A short pause can prevent escalation.

• Take deep breaths to slow your heart rate.

• Step away for a few minutes if needed.

• Remind yourself: “My goal is resolution, not victory.”

Therapist Insight: At Resilient Mind Psychotherapy, we teach mindfulness techniques so couples can pause in tense moments and approach discussions with a calmer mindset.

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2. Use “I” Statements, Not “You” Accusations

Saying, “You never listen” often leads to defensiveness. Instead, frame your concerns as personal experiences:

• “I feel unheard when I’m interrupted.”

• “I get stressed when bills are paid late.”

This shifts the focus from blame to understanding, making it easier for your partner to engage constructively.

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3. Listen to Understand, Not to Win

Active listening is about more than waiting for your turn to talk. Try to:

• Paraphrase what your partner says (“So you’re feeling…”).

• Ask clarifying questions.

• Avoid interrupting.

Tip: If you’re too upset to listen, schedule a time to revisit the topic.

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4. Address the Issue, Not the Person

Conflict often spirals when couples bring up unrelated past issues or attack each other’s character. Stay focused on the current concern.

• Keep the conversation about the specific behavior or situation.

• Avoid “always” and “never” language, which exaggerates and inflames.

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5. Recognize Your Triggers

Some topics — like money, in-laws, or chores — may trigger strong emotional responses. Recognizing these patterns helps you prepare and respond more calmly.
In therapy, we explore these triggers to uncover deeper beliefs or unresolved hurts that may be fueling repeated arguments.

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6. Agree on Fair-Fighting Rules

Healthy conflict resolution often means establishing boundaries, such as:

• No yelling or name-calling.

• No interrupting.

• Taking breaks when needed.

Therapist Tip: Couples who set and honor these boundaries build a sense of safety and mutual respect.

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7. Learn to Compromise Without Losing Yourself

Compromise isn’t about giving up your needs — it’s about finding solutions that respect both partners.

• List each person’s must-haves.

• Brainstorm creative solutions that meet both sets of needs.

• Remember, flexibility today builds trust for tomorrow.

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8. Repair After Arguments

Even when handled well, conflict can leave emotional residue.

• Apologize sincerely if you’ve hurt your partner.

• Offer reassurance and affection.

• Acknowledge what you’ve learned from the disagreement.

Why It Matters: Repairing quickly prevents resentment from building over time.

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9. Know When to Seek Professional Help

Sometimes, patterns of conflict feel too entrenched to resolve alone. A trained therapist can help you:

• Identify hidden sources of tension.

• Improve communication skills.

• Practice conflict-resolution tools in real time.

Resilient Mind Psychotherapy offers relationship counseling in Brooklyn, both in-person and online, to help couples reconnect and resolve differences in healthy, sustainable ways.

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Turning Conflict Into Connection

Conflict doesn’t have to be destructive. With practice, it can become a pathway to greater intimacy, empathy, and teamwork. By pausing before reacting, speaking from personal experience, and truly listening, you can turn even heated moments into opportunities for growth.

If you and your partner are ready to learn effective conflict management skills, we can help. At Resilient Mind Psychotherapy, our approach blends emotion-focused therapy, cognitive-behavioral techniques, and a safe, supportive environment to guide you toward healthier, more satisfying communication.

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📍 Located in Brooklyn, NY — Serving All of New York State Online
We accept Cigna, Aetna, Fidelis Care and 1199SEIU insurance plans.

👉 Learn more about our services: Relationship Counseling in Brooklyn

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References:

• Gottman, J., & Silver, N. (2015). The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work. Harmony Books.

• Markman, H., Stanley, S., & Blumberg, S. (2010). Fighting for Your Marriage. Jossey-Bass.