Alternatives to "I'm sorry you feel that way."

[Handler]

"I'm sorry you feel that way."

I would try to avoid that one - it can actually be perceived as invalidating to their experience. Especially if they are already touchy.

Thank you for the thoughtful responses.

She is very touchy at times and perhaps this saying is not helping.

What is your goal in doing this? Is this tactical or strategic for you?

My goal is to make her feel like I'm listening to her and to get her to be more comfortable in talking to me.

A more distant goal is to prevent us from being divorced.

I don't know your situation enough to really give you some good examples of where this could apply. But in general, if you can elicit more information from someone about What they are feeling, how they are thinking, what they are perceiving, and what they want.. it can be useful for you as well as allow them to feel more fully 'heard.'

Perhaps you can give some examples.

Here are some examples:

She told me this evening that it is very hard for her to be in the same house with me.

She told me this evening that her animosity grows toward me when she feels that I am lengthening the divorce process.

She has told me that she is not interested in spending time with me.