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Wait?! Is It What They Said? Or What I Heard?
In this episode, Michael Flores, LPC-S, and Arrianna Cervantes, LPC-Associate, dive into one of the most common—and often overlooked—causes of conflict in relationships: the gap between what someone actually says and what the other person hears or interprets. Whether you’re communicating with your child, partner, co-parent, family member, or coworker, this dynamic plays a major role in how conversations either build connection or create tension. As Michael and Arrianna explain, many relationship breakdowns are, at their core, communication breakdowns.
They explore the three key layers of communication to be mindful of: the words you choose, the tone in which you say them, and the story the other person fills in—which is often the part we have the least control over. When someone feels misunderstood, it can quickly lead to defensiveness or disconnection. But when people feel truly heard, it creates space for authenticity, vulnerability, collaboration, and trust.
Michael and Arrianna also offer practical strategies for handling moments when something doesn’t land well. Instead of reacting or assuming intent, they model how to slow the conversation down and get curious—like reflecting back what you heard or asking for clarification in a neutral way. These small shifts can completely change the direction of a conversation and help prevent unnecessary conflict.
This episode is a MUST listen!
If you live in Texas and your child has a strained relationship with their other parent, Arrianna is working directly with families to navigate these situations. If you’re feeling confused, frustrated, or unsure what to do next, you can reach out to schedule an in-person or virtual appointment to get support and clarity on how to best help your child.
The Countering Alienation course is another powerful resource that helps parents learn how to effectively co-parent—even when the relationship with the other parent is strained. You can register here: https://www.beyonddivorcecourses.com/offers/LoSnQoUH/checkout
If this episode resonated with you, please share it with someone you love who may be struggling to communicate effectively—it could make all the difference in their relationships.
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By Brighter Possibilities Family CounselingIn this episode, Michael Flores, LPC-S, and Arrianna Cervantes, LPC-Associate, dive into one of the most common—and often overlooked—causes of conflict in relationships: the gap between what someone actually says and what the other person hears or interprets. Whether you’re communicating with your child, partner, co-parent, family member, or coworker, this dynamic plays a major role in how conversations either build connection or create tension. As Michael and Arrianna explain, many relationship breakdowns are, at their core, communication breakdowns.
They explore the three key layers of communication to be mindful of: the words you choose, the tone in which you say them, and the story the other person fills in—which is often the part we have the least control over. When someone feels misunderstood, it can quickly lead to defensiveness or disconnection. But when people feel truly heard, it creates space for authenticity, vulnerability, collaboration, and trust.
Michael and Arrianna also offer practical strategies for handling moments when something doesn’t land well. Instead of reacting or assuming intent, they model how to slow the conversation down and get curious—like reflecting back what you heard or asking for clarification in a neutral way. These small shifts can completely change the direction of a conversation and help prevent unnecessary conflict.
This episode is a MUST listen!
If you live in Texas and your child has a strained relationship with their other parent, Arrianna is working directly with families to navigate these situations. If you’re feeling confused, frustrated, or unsure what to do next, you can reach out to schedule an in-person or virtual appointment to get support and clarity on how to best help your child.
The Countering Alienation course is another powerful resource that helps parents learn how to effectively co-parent—even when the relationship with the other parent is strained. You can register here: https://www.beyonddivorcecourses.com/offers/LoSnQoUH/checkout
If this episode resonated with you, please share it with someone you love who may be struggling to communicate effectively—it could make all the difference in their relationships.