Toxic Relationship Recovery

by Cory Bertrand LPC-Supervisor

Toxic abuse has many forms physical, sexual, spiritual, financial, coercion,

manipulation, deceptions, emotional, verbal, control, monitoring, recurring boundary violations, constant tension, false narratives about who you are, false accusations etc.

Toxic relationships can have many different components of abuse. Most often people default to physical abuse. However, bruises on the body heal faster than the mind. People don’t stay in therapy for years after physical abuse because the bruises haven’t healed, it is how it affects the mind, emotions and the physical sensations attached to those memories that have ongoing effects. This is not intended to minimize the experience of physical abuse but to encourage those who have not had external wounds to recognize the depth of internal wounding and how it impacts us.

If you are coming out of toxic relationship you are likely to have Post Traumatic Stress experiences which involve hyperarousal, high levels of anxiety, intrusive thoughts, intrusive memories, nightmares and frequent dissociation. Difficulty making decisions, rapid mood shifts, strong physical reactions to triggers resulting in spiraling, melt downs, panic attacks or anger outbursts.

Coming out of these relationships can leave you feeling crazy, confused, detached from a once confident self, questioning your value, fearful of the future. You may wonder if you will ever be the person, you remember yourself being. Let’s work together to develop an understanding and ability to detect early warning signs of toxic relationships. Learning how to set firm limits and advocate for yourself protects your interests in

having healthy relationships and bonding with healthy people. I would love to help you reconnect with yourself, discover your strength and build a new life.

By Cory Bertrand LPC-Supervisor