Q: It has been so long since I have felt close to my partner. Is there any chance we can feel close again?
A: Unless your partner has grieved the relationship and emotionally moved on, it is very possible to feel close again. Couples get locked into emotional dances that often distance the couple from each other. I would suggest that you get curious about your partner and ask some open ended questions. Don’t think you know your partner very well. In fact, if you don’t feel close, you probably have a lot to learn about your partner. If your partner refuses to talk, don’t just give up. He may be very awkward with becoming vulnerable. Acknowledge to him how difficult it is. If he is so shut down that he will not participate no matter how patient and kind you are, a good “couples” therapist may be in order so that his fears can be addressed. If he has been withdrawn for a while, ask him what he is protecting himself from. The first step is to create a safe environment where both partners can risk opening up again. Don’t take his withdrawal personally, no matter how hard that may be. His self-protective mechanism is just that- self protective, not meant to make you miserable, even though that may be exactly how you feel.
Also, look within yourself and see what you are protecting yourself from by keeping the relationship as distant as it is. Healthy relationships are not for the feint of heart. They require courage and you need to make your relationship an interpersonal adventure. Ask yourself- am I holding back physically? Am I willing to stretch a little and meet his physical needs if that has not happened in a while? How can I open up more to my partner?
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