Offering a meaningful apology requires courage, self-awareness, and a deep commitment to repair and change.

We’ve all had moments where we know we messed up. Maybe it was a harsh word spoken in frustration, a forgotten commitment or a bigger act that hurt someone we care about. In those moments, many of us reach for “I’m sorry” to try to repair things.

When done well, an apology is one of the most powerful relational tools for connection and repair because it speaks to a fundamental human need: to feel seen, valued and understood – especially in moments of pain. Genuine acknowledgment and a commitment to change are often what those who have been hurt need to move forward.

As a therapist, I’ve come to realize that not all apologies are effective, or enough. A reflexive “sorry” can be a l

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