Someone recently sent me this image from Burning Man, and I had to share it. It’s a stunning art installation titled “Love” by artist Alexander Milov. Two wireframe adults sit back-to-back, turned away from each other in what looks like emotional shutdown. But inside each figure is a child—glowing, innocent, and reaching out to the other. It's a brilliant visual metaphor for what often happens during relationship conflict.
When couples are in distress, it may look like anger, withdrawal, defensiveness, or blame. But underneath, it’s often two hurt parts—our younger, more vulnerable selves—trying to reach out and be understood. These “child parts” may feel scared, rejected, ashamed, or unlovable, and what they long for most is connection, safety, and acceptance from their partner.
In therapy, we help couples tune into these deeper emotional layers. When you can notice and speak from the part of you that feels vulnerable instead of the one that wants to protect, defend, or criticize, something beautiful happens. Your partner often softens. You move toward each other. The emotional wall starts to come down.
This is a core element of what we explore in couples therapy. We don’t just look at what’s going wrong—we help you see what’s really happening underneath the surface so you can start responding differently. And yes, this is a skill you can learn. :)
If this image speaks to you, or if you're curious about healing old patterns in your relationship, reach out to us at Clarity Counseling Seattle. We’d be honored to help you reconnect—both with your partner and with the younger parts of yourself.