Dominican psychologist Ana Simó in Santo Domingo has advised a separated woman against giving her former husband an ultimatum over caring for his sick father.
The reader, who shares two children with her ex-partner, wrote to the advice columnist asking whether it was wrong to force him to choose between resuming their relationship and continuing to care for his ailing parent.
According to the woman, the couple remains separated even though her former husband continues to seek her out. He currently lives with his father as his sole caregiver, despite having other siblings.
The reader explained that she believes this family obligation is the primary factor preventing him from returning to her and restoring their marriage.
Advice on relationship breakup and reconciliation
In her response, Simó stated that making the man choose would only put into words what the woman already knows regarding his commitment as his father's sole caregiver.
The psychologist explained that while she understood the reader might not share her former partner's level of commitment, caring for his father was likely not the sole reason for their separation.
Simó advised the woman to perform an exercise of looking inward to examine everything that damaged their relationship. She stressed that this reflection should not seek to assign blame, but rather to take responsibility for past issues.
Following that self-reflection, Simó recommended that the reader speak with her former partner to see if they could find a way forward where both feel comfortable.
Background on therapist Ana Simó
Simó is a prominent psychologist, sexologist, and couples and family therapist based in Santo Domingo. She holds a doctorate in human sexuality and serves as the director of the Centro Vida y Familia Ana Simó.
Her relationship column in Vida y Familia offers guidance on emotional health, family responsibility, and communication strategies for couples navigating separation and domestic challenges.
