After the Storm: A Couple's Guide to Talking About a Fight is a 2-page printable handout with bright, playful sticker-style illustrations. It walks partners through talking about a fight once both people feel calm, so each person can feel heard. You don't need to agree on what "really" happened.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
Page 1 lays out six steps, each with its own sticker illustration:
1. Let the storm pass
2. Share your weather (feelings)
3. Two views of one storm
4. Spot the old lightning (older hurts)
5. Own your raindrops
6. Plan for clearer skies
It also includes tips for pausing if things heat up again and a note on when this tool isn't the right fit.
Page 2 is a fill-in sheet with "Me" and "My partner" side by side. It includes:
- a feelings checklist
- space to share each person's view, older hurts and apologies
- a shared plan for next time and a pause signal
- repair phrases to keep handy
- two reflection prompts
Delivery: Instant digital download (PDF, A4, prints fine on US Letter). No physical item will be shipped. Print as many copies as you need for personal use.
WHO IS THIS FOR?
Couples who want a calmer way to talk through a disagreement. A therapist or counselor may also choose to use it with clients.
PLEASE NOTE
This handout is for psychoeducation and self-reflection only. It is not a diagnosis, treatment, or a substitute for couples counseling or mental health care, and no specific results are promised. It is not intended for relationships involving abuse or fear. In the US, the National Domestic Violence Hotline is 1-800-799-7233 (or text START to 88788). In a crisis, call or text 988, or call 911 in an emergency.
Created by Colorful Emotions Counseling | Ashley Gonzalez, M.S.
After the Storm: A Couple's Guide to Talking About a Fight is a 2-page printable handout with bright, playful sticker-style illustrations. It walks partners through talking about a fight once both people feel calm, so each person can feel heard. You don't need to agree on what "really" happened.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
Page 1 lays out six steps, each with its own sticker illustration:
1. Let the storm pass
2. Share your weather (feelings)
3. Two views of one storm
4. Spot the old lightning (older hurts)
5. Own your raindrops
6. Plan for clearer skies
It also includes tips for pausing if things heat up again and a note on when this tool isn't the right fit.
Page 2 is a fill-in sheet with "Me" and "My partner" side by side. It includes:
- a feelings checklist
- space to share each person's view, older hurts and apologies
- a shared plan for next time and a pause signal
- repair phrases to keep handy
- two reflection prompts
Delivery: Instant digital download (PDF, A4, prints fine on US Letter). No physical item will be shipped. Print as many copies as you need for personal use.
WHO IS THIS FOR?
Couples who want a calmer way to talk through a disagreement. A therapist or counselor may also choose to use it with clients.
PLEASE NOTE
This handout is for psychoeducation and self-reflection only. It is not a diagnosis, treatment, or a substitute for couples counseling or mental health care, and no specific results are promised. It is not intended for relationships involving abuse or fear. In the US, the National Domestic Violence Hotline is 1-800-799-7233 (or text START to 88788). In a crisis, call or text 988, or call 911 in an emergency.
Created by Colorful Emotions Counseling | Ashley Gonzalez, M.S.
