Newby here, desperate for some advice (thread 5)

[ForGump]

I would think that your W being able to express everything is cathartic and therapeutic in and of itself. Maybe not all her thoughts have been particularly reasonable, so the act of expressing herself could shape her thoughts and feelings, help her see herself better and think more reasonably.

Also, it seems to me, that the particulars aren't that important -- unless there were some egregious problems, like violence, drugs, etc. The willingness to talk about your relationship, and to accept the other's point of view w/o necessarily agreeing ... I mean, isn't that what makes a good marriage? So simply by being willing to talk honestly and openly, your W has taken the very first step to reconciling.

Don't tell her that, though.