Inner Source - Healing from Toxic Abuse

This episode invites Gloria Landaño to share her stirring journey of overcoming toxic abuse, including a traumatic kidnapping at 25 and subsequent toxic relationships. Hosted by Deborah Ashway, a licensed therapist with personal experience in addiction and abuse recovery, the episode explores the intricacies of trauma bonds, Stockholm syndrome, and the profound effects of toxic relationships. Gloria discusses the complexity of her healing process, the impact on her family, particularly her daughter, and the transformative power of acknowledging one's toxic traits, embracing vulnerability, and pursuing personal growth.

Through her story of courage, resilience, and empowerment, Gloria shines a light on the importance of self-compassion, the exploration of one's roots, and the potential for reinvention at any stage in life. This episode is not only Gloria's testament to human spirit's capacity to heal and flourish but also an informative resource offering hope and guidance to those on their healing journey from toxic abuse.

00:00 Introduction to Healing from Toxic Abuse

01:17 Gloria Landaño's Journey: From Kidnapping to Empowerment

03:01 The Transformative Power of Sharing and Healing

04:13 Understanding Trauma's Role in Personal Evolution

07:00 Navigating the Aftermath of Kidnapping and Stockholm Syndrome

10:16 Breaking the Cycle: From Toxic Relationships to Self-Discovery

22:02 The Impact of Trauma on Family Dynamics and Healing

27:37 Rebuilding Relationships: Communication and Forgiveness

32:45 Navigating the Aftermath of Kidnapping: A Journey to Self-Love

34:41 Understanding Stockholm Syndrome Through Personal Experience

40:04 The Cycle of Toxic Relationships and Self-Reflection

42:13 Rebuilding Life and Business After Abuse

52:04 Embracing a New Beginning: Life After Divorce and Rediscovery

57:10 The Power of Healing and Transformation

The Healing From Toxic Abuse podcast, hosted by Deborah Ashway, LCMHC, LCAS, focuses on aiding individuals in healing from toxic abuse and explores a journey through complex health disorders. In this episode, guest Jennifer Brower, author of Silent Killers, shares her personal experience with Lyme disease, mold toxicity, mercury poisoning, and coronavirus, highlighting her 25-year struggle after a spider bite. Jennifer's battle encompasses not just the physical ailments but also the emotional impact and the challenge of navigating the medical system and society's understanding of her conditions. The discussion includes the importance of alternative healing methods, self-advocacy, and the power of love and joy in the healing process. Jennifer also touches on the significance of detoxification and maintaining a strong immune system. This episode is a testament to resilience, the human spirit's strength, and the transformative power of healing and self-discovery.

00:00 Introduction to Healing from Toxic Abuse

01:16 Meet Jennifer Brower: A Journey of Resilience and Healing

01:35 The Start of Jennifer's Health Challenges: Spider Bite and Its Aftermath

01:57 Navigating Complex Health Disorders and the Importance of Self-Advocacy

11:03 Exploring Alternative Healing and the Power of Emotional Well-being

21:06 The Role of Joy and Love in Healing and Overcoming Health Challenges

35:26 Jennifer's Continued Journey and Resources for Healing

42:35 Closing Thoughts and the Power of Love in Healing

In this episode, I am honored to welcome special guest Comfort Woods, a survivor and advocate for those impacted by narcissistic abuse. Join us as we dive into Comfort's personal journey, her dedication to supporting others in their healing process, and the importance of sharing stories to build resilience and promote empowerment.

Throughout the conversation, Comfort shares invaluable insights on her personal experiences with toxic abuse, discussing the challenges she faced and the transformative process of breaking free. We discuss the power of storytelling and how sharing personal narratives can foster connection, inspire hope, and challenge the stigma surrounding toxic abuse. Comfort also shares practical strategies and resources for cultivating resilience and overcoming the lasting effects of narcissistic abuse.

Listen in as we amplify the voices of survivors and highlight the power of resilience in the face of adversity. Together, we can create a space for healing, growth, and empowerment while learning more about Comfort's mission to support and empower individuals on their healing journey, emphasizing the importance of community and self-compassion.

To contact Comfort Woods: https://comfortwoods.coach/

In this episode of "Healing From Toxic Abuse," we explore the chilling similarities between the tactics used by cults and those employed in toxic and controlling relationships. This discussion revolves around the stages of brainwashing and manipulation that both cults and abusive partners employ to gain control over their victims.We explore how the brainwashing techniques used by cults to recruit and retain members closely resemble the tactics used by abusive partners to assert dominance and maintain power in their relationships. From love-bombing and idealization to guilt-tripping and gaslighting, we break down the common stages of manipulation and discuss how they can lead to a sense of helplessness and entrapment.

We also touch on the importance of recognizing the warning signs of brainwashing and manipulation and how individuals can empower themselves to break free from these toxic patterns. We highlight suggestions for those who have experienced emotional abuse or have been involved in cult-like situations.

Tune in to this insightful episode to learn more about the striking parallels between cult brainwashing and abusive relationships, and how to reclaim your power and heal from toxic abuse.

#brainwashing #cults #manipulation #toxicrelationships

In this empowering episode, I sit down with the insightful and compassionate Sarah Westbrook, author of the groundbreaking book 'Trauma Bonded.' Together, we dive into the intricate web of toxic relationships, exploring the deep emotional wounds that result from them and the transformative journey towards healing.

Sarah Westbrook, a renowned expert in trauma recovery, shares her personal experiences and profound insights into the complex dynamics of toxic abuse. You will gain a deeper understanding of #TraumaBonding, a powerful yet often misunderstood aspect of toxic relationships. Through Sarah's extensive research and personal anecdotes, she offers invaluable guidance on recognizing, understanding, and ultimately breaking free from the chains of toxic bonds.

This episode is a source of hope for anyone navigating the challenging path of healing from toxic abuse. Sarah Westbrook's wisdom shines through as she discusses practical strategies, self-compassion, and her own, very personal journey. The conversation explores the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of self-discovery on the path to healing.

Listen in to gain insights that will empower you to reclaim your life, break free from toxic patterns, and embark on a journey of self-love and healing. #BreakingFree #ToxicRelationships #SelfLove #Empowerment #TraumaBonded #TraumaRecovery

You can email Sarah Westbrook at: daisygirlcommunications@gmail.com

You can find Deborah Ashway at:

www.InnerSourceTherapy.com

In this powerful episode, we look into the intricate web of perfectionism that often entangles survivors of narcissistic and manipulative relationships. Join in as we explore the roots of perfectionism as a coping mechanism, its development in the course of toxic abuse, and the profound impact it has on one's journey to healing.

Discover the paradoxical nature of perfectionism, initially adopted as a shield against criticism and manipulation, only to become a self-imposed prison. Deborah Ashway, LCMHC, LCAS, a seasoned therapist specializing in narcissistic abuse recovery, shares insights into how victims inadvertently embrace perfectionism as a means of regaining control and protecting their self-worth.

This episode offers a roadmap for dismantling the chains of perfectionism and reclaiming your authenticity. Learn strategies for cultivating self-compassion, embracing vulnerability, and navigating the path to genuine self-discovery after surviving toxic relationships.

Tune in to "The Thing About Perfectionism" and empower yourself with the knowledge and tools needed to break free from the perfectionist trap and embark on a journey towards true healing.

#ToxicAbuseRecovery #NarcissisticAbuse #HealingJourney #Perfectionism #SelfCompassion #Authenticity #EmotionalFreedom #ReclaimYourself #PodcastEpisode #SurvivorHealing

In this episode, we delve into the energy draining, pervasive and often unspoken aspect of toxic relationships – emotional exhaustion. Join me in the exploration of how individuals with traits from the dark triad, such as Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD), drain the energy and vitality from those around them, especially their partners.

Toxic people, particularly those with NPD, have a unique ability to leave their loved ones feeling emotionally depleted and drained. In this episode, we shed light on the insidious dynamics that lead to this exhaustion. We look at the why, and the how, providing you with a deeper understanding of the emotional toll that you pay being around toxic individuals.

We also discuss strategies and coping mechanisms to combat emotional exhaustion in the context of toxic relationships. This episode offers practical guidance for listeners who may be grappling with the debilitating effects of emotional exhaustion including depression, apathy, anxiety and panic attacks. Learn how to regain mental strength and heal from the toxic grip of narcissistic abuse as we explore how to enhance emotional strength.

My Website: https://innersourcetherapy.com/index.html

About me: https://deborahashway.com/about.html

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@therapist_debashway

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/innersourcetherapy

In this episode, we have the privilege of hosting the incredible Jana Wilson, the brilliant author of "Wise Little One," a book that has been a beacon of hope for countless survivors of toxic abuse.

Jana Wilson is not just an author; she is a survivor, a warrior, and a compassionate advocate for those who have endured the traumas of toxic relationships. Her own journey through the depths of abuse has transformed her into an inspiring force for change. Her book is a testament to her resilience and wisdom.

In this deeply moving and enlightening conversation, Jana shares her personal story of survival, recovery, and empowerment. She delves into the insights and revelations that led her to write "Wise Little One," a book that has been described as a roadmap to healing and self-discovery for survivors of toxic abuse.

Throughout the episode, Jana provides invaluable advice and guidance for listeners who may be navigating their own healing journeys. We explore themes of resilience, self-love, and the power of storytelling as a means of healing. She discusses the importance of self-compassion, setting boundaries, meditation, and finding strength in vulnerability. Jana's words are not just uplifting but also deeply practical, offering tangible tools and strategies for reclaiming one's life after abuse.

Join us as we dive deep into the wisdom and insights of Jana Wilson, an author whose words have the potential to transform the lives of those who have experienced toxic abuse. Whether you are a survivor seeking solace or someone looking to understand the journey of healing, this episode promises to be a source of inspiration and guidance.

Remember, healing is possible, and you are not alone on this path. Tune in to this episode of "Healing From Toxic Abuse" and discover the strength within you to overcome even the darkest of experiences.

Be sure to visit Jana Wilson’s website at www.JanaWilson.com

For more information about Inner Source Therapy visit www.InnerSourceTherapy.com

This podcast episode of Complexities of Growing Up with Narcissistic Parents delves deep into the intricate web of growing up with narcissistic parents. In this eye-opening exploration, we explore the profound and often distressing impact of narcissism on family dynamics and the emotional well-being of children.

We provide an essential overview of narcissism, unraveling its defining traits like grandiosity, manipulation, and a distinct lack of empathy, then look closer into how these traits shape parenting styles, giving rise to a family dynamic rife with complexities. Through real-life anecdotes and examples, we examine what it's like to be raised by narcissistic parents.

We take a journey into the heart of narcissistic parenting, dissecting the ways narcissistic traits manifest in parenting, from the painful lack of empathy that leaves children feeling emotionally invalidated to the self-centeredness that turns children into pawns in their parents' ego-driven games. We explore the unpredictable terrain of narcissistic households and the roles children often assume, whether as the golden child, scapegoat, or enabler.

We look at the profound emotional and psychological effects of growing up in such an environment and shine a light on the insidious concept of "narcissistic abuse" within parent-child relationships, uncovering the covert manipulation and emotional turmoil it entails. With an emphasis on the subtle tactics used by narcissistic abusers, we highlight the gradual erosion of self-esteem, emotional dependency, and the complex trauma that survivors often grapple with.

Join us in navigating narcissistic parenting as we navigate the intricate terrain of families affected by narcissism. Through understanding and awareness, I aim to empower individuals to break free from the cycle of narcissistic abuse, seek support, and embark on a journey of healing and self-discovery. Subscribe now to gain insight into this challenging topic and find solace in the knowledge that you are not alone in your experiences.

In this profound episode of "Healing From Toxic Abuse," we dive deep into the world of resilience and empowerment with our special guest, Francesca Raoelison. Join us as we embark on a transformative journey through Francesca's life and insights, shedding light on the path to healing from toxic relationships and abuse.

Francesca Raoelison, a renowned therapist, survivor, and advocate, brings a wealth of wisdom to the conversation. Through her personal experiences and professional expertise, she unveils the intricacies of toxic relationships, offering a compassionate and empowering perspective on recovery and growth.

You will enjoy this heartfelt conversation, exploring Francesca's story of triumph over adversity. From the initial stages of recognizing toxicity to the challenging process of breaking free, our guest shares invaluable insights that resonate with anyone who has grappled with the shadows of abusive dynamics.

Listeners will be captivated by Francesca's ability to turn pain into power, inspiring a newfound sense of hope. Through her journey, we learn about the importance of self-care, boundary setting, and the gradual restoration of self-esteem. This episode serves as a guiding light for those who seek to heal, offering practical advice and emotional support for anyone navigating their way towards a healthier future.

Tune in to this enlightening episode of "Healing From Toxic Abuse" to discover the resilience that resides within us all and to gain the tools necessary for reclaiming your life after trauma. Francesca Raoelison's transformative insights will remind you that healing is not only possible but also an essential step towards a life filled with empowerment and authenticity.

Remember, you are not alone on this journey to healing. Subscribe to "Healing From Toxic Abuse" and join our community of survivors and thrivers who are rewriting their stories and embracing a brighter tomorrow.

In this podcast episode, we delve into the connection between the ego and materialistic tendencies in narcissists. We explore the significance of the ego in cluster-B personality disorders, the dark triad, and toxic abuse. Our aim is to equip you with practical strategies and insights to navigate situations involving materialistic narcissists with grace and self-empowerment.

The materialistic nature of narcissists revolves around their constant need for external validation and admiration. They often place excessive emphasis on material possessions, status symbols, and external appearances to bolster their inflated sense of self-worth. 

We also explore the function of the ego, which serves as a map of the 3D world, helping us navigate and protect our sense of self. However, when the ego becomes overly dominant, it can lead to superficial and materialistic behavior. 

By valuing yourself for who you are and prioritizing meaningful experiences over possessions, you can reclaim your power and navigate relationships with materialistic narcissists confidently.

Remember, you are not alone in this journey of healing from toxic abuse. By prioritizing your well-being and embracing your inherent worth, you can break free from the influence of materialistic narcissists and build a life free from manipulation and toxicity. Stay strong and take care of yourself on your healing path.

In this episode of the ‘Healing From Toxic Abuse’ podcast series, we dive deep into the transformative journey of Jason Shires, a compassionate expert dedicated to guiding individuals towards rediscovering their true nature and breaking free from the shackles of suffering. As survivors of toxic abuse, we know all too well the wounds left behind by these traumatic experiences. Join us as we explore the profound connection between codependency, addiction, mental health, and the path to healing.

Through an intimate interview with Jason, we gain invaluable insights into his personal odyssey of self-discovery and inner healing. With unwavering authenticity, he shares his own profound experiences and the wisdom gained along the way. Discover how he embarked on a profound inward voyage that led to true liberation and a life free from the clutches of toxic abuse.

We delve into the fascinating intersection of codependency, addiction, and mental health, and unravel the intricate layers of the healing journey. Through Jason's compassionate guidance, we navigate the treacherous terrain of toxic relationships and emerge with a deeper understanding of ourselves, armed with the tools necessary to reclaim our lives.

If you're ready to embark on a transformative journey of healing, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in as we uncover the power within, embrace our authentic selves, and unlock the door to a future filled with hope, resilience, and freedom from the scars of toxic abuse, dependency, and codependency.

This episode is about reactive abuse, where we delve into the intricate complexities of reactive abuse, shed light on its dynamic impacts, and discuss the path to healing.

Join me as we navigate the uncharted waters of reactive abuse, a lesser known yet profoundly destructive aspect of toxic relationships. Reactive abuse occurs when a victim of chronic abuse finally reacts in self-defense, only to be blamed and labeled as the aggressor. This insidious form of psychological manipulation leaves victims feeling trapped, confused, and invalidated.

Throughout the episode, we explore various themes, including the patterns and triggers of reactive abuse, the psychological tactics used by abusers to twist the narrative, the consequences of gasoline and victim blaming, and the road to recovery and healing.

 By shedding light on reactive abuse, we aim to validate survivors' experiences and empower them to break free from the cycle of blame, shame, and self-doubt. We will discuss practical strategies and resources that can aid in reclaiming one's sense of self, rebuilding self-esteem, establishing healthy boundaries, and fostering growth and healing.

 Whether you are a survivor seeking validation and guidance or an ally wanting to deepen your understanding of tax relationships, this episode offers invaluable insights and a compassionate space to learn, heal, and grow.

Subscribe to “Healing from Toxic Relationships” and join us on this transformative journey as we shine a light on reactive abuse and provide a platform for survivors to reclaim their power, embrace healing, and forge a brighter future.

Note: The content discussed in this podcast is intended for informational purposes only and should not replace professional therapy or advice. If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, please seek help from a qualified professional or contact your local helpline.

In this enlightening episode, we dive deep into the realm of healing trauma and explore the powerful technique of Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) with our special guest, Brooke Bralove, LCSW-C.

Brooke Bralove, a renowned therapist and spiritual guide, joins us to shed light on the transformative potential of ART in overcoming the lingering effects of toxic abuse. Drawing from years of experience and expertise, Brook provides valuable insights into the spiritual dimensions of healing trauma through the utilization of ART.

During this captivating conversation, we embark on a thought-provoking conversation of the spiritual realm within the context of trauma recovery. We delves into how ART and EMDR can integrate spiritual elements into the therapeutic process, allowing individuals to tap into their inner wisdom and find profound healing and restoration.

Moreover, we explore the fascinating parallels between ART and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), a widely recognized therapeutic approach that treats underlying trauma and programming. Brooke shares her expertise on the similarities and differences between these two modalities, highlighting the unique benefits that ART brings to the table.

Join us as we unpack the inner workings of ART and its potential to accelerate the healing process. Discover how this innovative technique can help individuals reclaim their power, release emotional burdens, and create a solid foundation for a brighter, healthier future.

Whether you're a survivor of toxic abuse or a dedicated professional in the field of mental health, this episode will provide you with invaluable insights and practical tools to navigate the path of healing. Tune in to "Healing from Toxic Abuse" and embark on a transformative journey towards resilience, self-discovery, and freedom.

In this episode, we explore the concept of worry storms and how they are used by narcissists to control and manipulate their victims. A worry storm is a state of intense anxiety and fear that can be triggered by a variety of factors, including uncertainty, doubt, and the threat of loss or harm.  At its core, “Worry Storm” refers to a manipulative strategy frequently employed by narcissists to gain control over their victims. It involves the deliberate creation and amplification of anxiety, uncertainty and fear within the victim's mind, leading to a state of heightened alert and constant worry.  These toxic individuals skillfully exploit their victims' vulnerabilities. They use all kinds of tactics including gaslighting, manipulation, and emotional abuse to sow the seeds of doubt and insecurity. 

Join me in an exploration of what it means, why narcissists employ this tactic, the damage it causes and effective coping strategies for reclaiming your power.  Understanding why narcissists use this tactic is crucial to reclaiming your power and your emotional well-being. They use worry storms to establish dominance and Power, and Foster a sense of dependency and helplessness. The goal of their tactic is to keep you constantly on edge, questioning yourself, and seeking their validation. By undermining your confidence and sense of reality, they maintain control and prevent you from realizing your true potential. 

The damage caused by living in a perpetual state of worry can be profound and long lasting.   There is a path to hope and healing. In this episode we explore practical coping strategies to help you break free from the devastating effects of worry storms. tune into this episode of healing from toxic abuse and embark on a journey of transformation towards self-empowerment and healing. together we can overcome the manipulative tactics and toxicity, and create a future filled with joy, authenticity and resilience. 

Shaun Randall is an author and renowned quantum energy healer who has helped countless individuals heal from the effects of dependency, toxic relationships and other issues. His unique approach to healing has been praised by many, and he has become a leading figure in the field of energy healing.   

In this interview we discuss Shaun's views on dependency, toxic relationships, and quantum energy healing. We delve into the intricacies of these topics and explore how they relate to our lives. Dependency is a common issue in relationships, and Shaun believes that it is a significant problem that can have a lasting impact on our lives. He believes that dependency is caused by a lack of self-love and self-esteem. When we are dependent on others, we are giving away our power and allowing others to control us. This can lead to toxic relationships where we feel trapped and unable to break free. 

Shaun's approach to healing from dependency is to help individuals build their self-esteem and learn to love themselves. He believes that when we learn to love ourselves, we become less dependent on others and can build healthier relationships. 

When we are in a toxic relationship, we are often stuck in a cycle of negativity that can be hard to break free from. His approach to healing from toxic relationships is to help individuals establish healthy boundaries and communicate effectively. Quantum energy healing can help us release negative energy and emotions that may be holding us back from building healthier relationships.

We discuss Shaun's views on quantum energy healing. His approach to quantum energy healing is to help individuals connect with their inner selves and tap into the healing power of the universe. 

Shaun Randall is a powerful healer who has helped countless individuals heal from the effects of toxic relationships. His approach to healing is unique and effective, and his insights into dependency, toxic relationships and quantum energy healing are invaluable. If you are struggling with any of these issues, this episode is for you! 

This episode is on the topic of attention.  Attention is currency in the context of toxic abuse. We explore the different kinds of attention that is given by or received from a narcissist and how it affects the recovery process. In this episode, the various forms of attention that any narcissist may give such as a love bombing is examined. 

We will also delve into the opposite end of the spectrum where the narcissist may withhold attention or use the silent treatment as a form of punishment. Additionally we will examine how the attention received from a narcissist can perpetuate abuse and impact healing. The concept of trauma bonding, where people become addicted to the highs and lows of narcissistic attention makes it challenging to break free from the cycle. 

This episode offers practical tips and strategies to help survivors of narcissistic abuse navigate through the healing process and regain control of their lives. Whether you are a survivor of narcissistic abuse or someone who wants to learn more about the topic join me as I uncover the different kinds of attention given by or received from a narcissist and explore ways to heal from toxic abuse. 

If you’re in a relationship with a narcissist or anyone along the cluster-b dark-triad, you’re dealing with someone who constantly tries to control and manipulate you.  You’re always on guard, always walking on eggshells around this person, never quite sure what they’re going to do next. Narcissists and other manipulators can be incredibly challenging to deal with,Leaving you feeling frustrated, powerless and drained. But what if you could turn the tables on them? What if you could learn how to spot their tactics, outsmart their schemes, and take back control of your life? 

That's exactly what we will be exploring in this podcast. Sharing years of experience in dealing with narcissists and other manipulators, I will provide practical tips and strategies for protecting yourself and breaking free from their toxic influence. From understanding the psychology behind their behavior to learning how to set boundaries and avoid their traps, we'll cover the stuff you need to know to stay one step ahead of these master manipulators. 

So whether you're dealing with a difficult coworker, a toxic family member, or a romantic partner who's always trying to twist your words and emotions, this podcast is for you. Join me as we deep dive into the world of manipulation and give you the tools you need to fight back and reclaim your power. 

“Who is the prime target for a narcissist” is a question that many people find themselves asking after being in a relationship with one.  This episode explores the characteristics and vulnerabilities of individuals who are most likely to become victims of narcissistic abuse.  We delve into the psychology of narcissists and their manipulative tactics to examine the various traits that make certain individuals more susceptible to their charm. Being able to identify the motives and needs of narcissists helps reveal some of the warning signs that are often missed in the beginning stages.  Some of the qualities that narcissists are after may surprise you.  Learn how to recognize some of your own characteristics that may make you a prime target.

If you’re in a relationship with a narcissist, do you feel like you can’t be your true self? In this podcast episode, we explore what happens when you are your truest self with a narcissist. This episode focuses on guidance and advice on how to navigate this phenomenon. We discuss how to recognize the signs of this behavior, how to protect yourself and your boundaries, and how to reclaim your power. Listen in and learn how to recognize your own behavior in response to the narcissistic programming, how to handle it, and ultimately how to find the courage to be your truest self and stay true to your values.

This episode features a special guest, Nikki Eisenhauer from Emotional Badass, who joins me in discussing codependency and the ultimate fear of abandonment.  It takes people like Nikki to pave the way by opening up and sharing their story. Join us in this episode as we hear her journey through multiple toxic relationships to reconnecting with her own inner strength. If you have ever found yourself obsessively trying to please others or giving up so much of yourself, time, talents and resources out of fear of abandonment or being alone then her story is a ‘must listen to’.  You will be reminded that you deserve to experience loving and compassionate people like yourself.  Nikki Eisenhauer is truly an inspiration and I am so grateful for her to have joined me on this important topic.

People along the Dark Triad love to define others in a way that makes their inner world more tolerable. If you are in a toxic relationship with someone like this, you will be incorrectly defined, not as you are, but as they want to see you.  What happens when we begin to tune into their definitions of us instead of tuning into our truest, highest self?  This can set off an identity mindset that restricts your fullest potential. In this episode we look at the internal programming that results from an environment of constant, inconsistent consequences. Breaking down these rules can be difficult, but it is the programming that keeps you trapped.

Anyone that has been in a toxic relationship knows the feeling of searching for clues and answers to fix the relationship.  In this episode we explore the many tried tactics people in relationships with narcissists have used in attempts to change their relationship for the better.  We take a deeper look at the reasons their attempts have failed and how some are worse than others.  What behaviors do affect the narcissist, and are they really effective in the way we intend them to be?  Or are our attempts to change the relationship futile? Is it possible that trying to fix these relationships can actually make things worse?

Healthy boundaries are vital for our survival.  The intention of toxic people is to break down others’ boundaries in order to gain more for themselves.  By breaking down your boundaries, they are more able to control you and get what they need from you.  This episode takes a more in depth look at the mastermind behind toxic people's intention to blur and violate boundaries in ways that are often undetected.  We look at how they do this and the typical tactics used to distort, blur and violate boundaries.  Understanding the methods used, gives us more insight to why it is so hard to set boundaries after being submerged in toxic relationships.  And finally we learn fundamental skills of how to set appropriate boundaries in this episode

This episode focuses on the Fear of rejection, which also includes fear of abandonment, because of the way it impacts relationships.  The fear of rejection is based in a deep seeded need to be accepted or liked. Our ability to truly connect with others greatly depends on feeling safe and the ability to trust. Fear of rejection inhibits us from being our truest self.  The ultimate goal of emotional healing is returning to the truest, most authentic version of self. Learn what the signs and dangers are of the fear of rejection and techniques on how to overcome it.

This episode focuses on the inner programming that results after being with controlling and manipulative people. Many  abusive relationships follow the same patterns as brainwashing institutions such as cults.  In a toxic environment, our automatic thoughts adapt to the positive and negative experiences. We don’t even realize that they may become part of our internal dialogue and response system.  After a while we find that we are out of line with our truest and deepest selves including our own values, beliefs, opinions and memories.  Being out of line with our truest self results in a sense of instability, self-doubt, insecurity, anxiety, and depression.  Learning how we became conditioned by manipulators can be a big part of the healing process in piecing our lives back together.

Sometimes we stay in relationships much longer than we should because we believe, want to believe, or want to find out if the other person genuinely loves us.  Breaking a bond of authentic love can be one of the most difficult things we ever go through. But if the love is not authentic then the feeling may be one of being trapped.  When you know for sure whether the relationship is based on authentic love or if it is a transactional relationship you gain more power over your choices.  This episode details and provides examples of authentic love versus toxic love. so that you can make more informed choices about how to proceed in the relationship, and if you want to stay or leave.

Becoming the observer gives you the advantage of keen awareness and more emotional management.  Which means not getting sucked into irrational and pointless battles. It means becoming aware of yourself, your emotions, your responses, and how you interpret your experiences from a non-judgmental place.  It also allows you to observe others' reactions without emotional investment.

Sometimes it can be difficult to determine if you are in a toxic relationship, and ironically, especially when you’re in one.  There are many factors that contribute to a very powerful trauma-bond causing confusion, distortion of reality, and a lack of trust in  your own perceptions.  You might often have a strong desire to leave the relationship but get stuck wondering if you’re misreading the behaviors, or if the negative moments are just mistakes that can be mended, forgiven and put in the past only to find a repeated pattern of similar destructive behavior.  But it’s hard to tell how much of the dysfunction in the relationship is you  and how much of it is your partner. This episode provides 30 signs of toxic behaviors to help you identify where the toxicity resides in order to make more informed decisions.

We end up over-apologizing for everything.  This is our attempt to avoid more conflict and backlash.  Apologizing also helps defend against disappointing others.  But being in the habit of apologizing sets us up for low self-esteem and other negative affects.  This episode looks at the ‘sorry syndrome’, which can develop after being around toxic people for a while, as we take on more and more of their responsibilities.

You have been a great source of narcissistic supply, but you finally figured out that you have been dealing with a narcissist.  When they realize that you see this, there will be backlash.  That is because they know that they will be unable to fool you anymore and won’t be able to continue their narcissistic supply from you.  You are now interfering with their addiction, which is the supply of attention, admiration, power and control that you gave them.  They will be in withdrawal.  You might see a no gap transition, meaning they will quickly find another source of supply, maybe immediately into another relationship to stabilize their inner world.  You will also see narcissistic rage, which looks completely unfamiliar and like pure evil.  Look out for smear campaigns, verbal, emotional, mental and even possibly physical abuse, and of course, the victim mentality.

There are times when it is more difficult to leave a toxic relationship than to stay in one.  This episode offers four essential strategies to remain in a toxic environment without losing your mind or yourself.  These four counter actions, when practiced, can save you from further pain and can actually contribute to your healing.  Learn how to become stronger against manipulative tactics and use protective measures to free yourself of the control of others.

I have learned from trauma-focused therapy approaches that we need to feel our emotions.  We all want to avoid, dismiss, or deny difficult and hurtful feelings but the only way to heal is to feel.  This activates the natural healing process and frees us from the debilitating effects of unresolved trauma and deeply buried emotions.  Without going through this difficult part of the journey we live with chronic tension, anxiety, depression, apathy, low energy, depleted self-esteem, irritability, difficulty focusing, and troubled relationships.  This episode explains body-based trauma release approaches that help break the trauma cycle.  It takes you through realistic approaches and techniques to help you get to the core negative emotions that keep you stuck and start moving the flow of energy to become free of the binding hold that long held negative emotions have over you.

Loss is part of life, but more importantly it is a part of any toxic relationship.  Whether it is the loss of others or the loss of self, loss is almost a guarantee in and around toxic behaviors.  We always lose a part of ourselves when we are around someone with little empathy.  People who fall on the toxic spectrum have little empathy and are generally focused on getting their needs met before anything else and with little regard to others.  A big part of loss is that the fear of it can keep us stuck in toxic, unhealthy relationships.  The fear of loss itself is the very thing that traps us.  The fear becomes so great that we subtly begin to overlook lots of things that we would normally run from.

But the other part of loss is gain.  What we gain when we face loss, let go of what we no longer need and free ourselves of the fear of loss cannot be measured.  We not only regain ourselves, but we become stronger and our life has more meaning.  This episode focuses on the stages of loss and how to progress through them when the loss is connected to a toxic relationship.

If you want greater happiness, start showing yourself some compassion. According to research, self-compassion has powerful benefits that can contribute to your overall well-being in many areas of life including relationships, finance, physical and emotional health.  But how do we practice self-compassion?   In this episode we learn and put into practice different techniques to bring more compassion into our lives.  This episode also includes a mindfulness practice that you can use to help build and increase your self-compassion.

Finally, the narcissist apologized.  It sounded genuine.  Maybe? We want to believe that their apology was genuine, even though we know deep down that there’s a strong likelihood that it wasn’t.  So what do you do with that? If you don’t believe them, then it will be twisted back to you, as though you are heartless, have trust issues, or lack compassion.  But if you do believe them, you might be setting yourself up for more hurt and disappointment.  This episode looks at narcissistic/toxic apologies from different angles.   There are a few things that you definitely don’t want to do.  There are also a few things that might help you.