The Healing Trauma Podcast

*This new season of the HTP podcast will be a slowing down with an offering of older episodes from previous seasons.
In this conversation, Monique Koven and psychologist and author Allison Cook delve into the concept of parentification, where children take on adult responsibilities, leading to significant emotional and relational challenges in adulthood. They explore the effects of parentification on self-esteem, boundaries, and the ability to form healthy relationships. The discussion emphasizes the importance of recognizing these patterns, setting boundaries with parents, and navigating the complexities of caring for aging parents. They also touch on the healing process, dealing with guilt, and breaking the cycle of unhealthy family dynamics.
takeaways
Parentification involves a role reversal where children care for their parents.
This phenomenon can lead to long-term emotional and relational issues.
Children may feel overly responsible for their parents' needs.
Setting healthy boundaries with parents is crucial for emotional well-being.
Recognizing signs of guilt and manipulation from parents is important.
Healing from parentification involves reparenting oneself.
It's essential to negotiate responsibilities towards aging parents.
Creating safe spaces and support systems can aid in healing.
Understanding false guilt can help in breaking unhealthy cycles.
Open communication with children fosters healthier relationships.

**FREE TRAUMA SUPER CONFERENCE January 26th February 1st 2026.
Grab Your SEAT HERE:
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Dr. Alison Cook's Books, Website & Podcast
I Shouldn't Feel This Way: Name What’s Hard, Tame Your Guilt, and Transform Self-Sabotage into Brave Action https://amzn.to/4jLAeNz
Boundaries for Your Soul: How to Turn Your Overwhelming Thoughts and Feelings into Your Greatest Allies https://amzn.to/3ZeIY5g
The Best of You: Break Free from Painful Patterns, Mend Your Past, and Discover Your True Self in God https://amzn.to/4jNPLMH
https://www.dralisoncook.com/
https://www.dralisoncook.com/podcast

Find a list of trauma recovery books + resources for the healing trauma journey.

https://www.thehealingtraumapodcast.com/resources/

SUPPORT this podcast for the cost of a coffee. Your support is appreciated! When you buy me a coffee, your support goes towards keeping the podcast running.
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In this episode of the Healing Trauma Podcast, guest host Dr. Mark McNear speaks with Tammy Gustafson who shares her personal journey through betrayal trauma and the healing process that followed. As a licensed professional counselor, she discusses the complexities of betrayal, the misconceptions surrounding it, and the importance of understanding betrayal trauma as a legitimate form of trauma. Tammy emphasizes the need for time in the healing process, the significance of emotional regulation, and the role of fun and joy in recovery. She also highlights her professional insights gained from her experiences and the creation of her upcoming book aimed at helping others navigate their healing journey.

Takeaways
Betrayal trauma is a legitimate form of trauma that can overwhelm one's ability to process emotions.
The healing process takes time and cannot be rushed or bypassed.
It's crucial for betrayed partners to understand that the betrayal is not their fault.
Emotional dysregulation is common in betrayal trauma, and support systems are vital for recovery.
Finding joy and fun is an essential part of the healing journey.
Tammy emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries and recognizing one's worth.
The journey of healing can lead to personal growth and empowerment.
Tammy's upcoming book aims to guide betrayed partners through their healing process.
Healing from betrayal can lead to profound transformation and resilience.

About Our Guest
Tammy Gustafson, MA, LPC, is a trauma-informed
licensed professional counselor, coach, and speaker
with over 15 years of experience. She holds a master’s
degree in counseling and is the founder and CEO of
Betrayal Healing and LiveFree Counseling. Tammy
hosts the annual Betrayal Healing Conference, which
provides compassionate, expert guidance to
thousands of betrayed partners worldwide.

**FREE TRAUMA SUPER CONFERENCE 2026
Grab Your SEAT HERE:
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Guest Host: Guest Host: Dr. Mark McNear
https://www.instagram.com/drmarkmcnear/

Tammy's Book:
Broken to Brave: Your Courageous Act of Healing After Intimate Betrayal
https://amzn.to/4s5bZh0
website:https://tammygustafson.com/betrayal-healing/
https://www.instagram.com/tammylgustafson/

Find a list of trauma recovery books + resources for the healing trauma journey.

https://www.thehealingtraumapodcast.com/resources/

SUPPORT this podcast for the cost of a coffee. Your support is appreciated! When you buy me a coffee, your support goes towards keeping the podcast running.
HERE: https://buymeacoffee.com/thehealingtraumapodcast

Subscribe and watch on Youtube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJy4f23JvtdFuQGadOqy3PA

Disclaimer: This episode and website may contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no cost to you.

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*This episode is a re release from an earlier season of the HTP.
In this conversation, Monique Koven and holistic psychotherapist Esther Schwarz discuss the profound effects of childhood trauma and the journey of healing from complex PTSD. Esther shares her personal experiences with trauma, symptoms, and the importance of understanding and managing these challenges. They explore the role of support systems, the impact of overwhelm on daily functioning, and the necessity of educating partners about trauma. The conversation emphasizes resilience, hope, and the possibility of recovery, encouraging listeners to seek help and not give up on their healing journey.
takeaways
Esther shares her journey of living with childhood trauma.
Understanding complex PTSD is crucial for healing.
Support systems play a vital role in recovery.
Overwhelm can significantly impact daily functioning.
The journey from anxiety to recognizing complex trauma is complex.
Educating partners about trauma can enhance relationships.
Resilience is a key component in the healing process.
There is hope for recovery and personal growth.
Sharing experiences can help others feel less alone.
Don't give up before the miracle happens.

Find Esther here: https://www.instagram.com/estherschwarz.lmsw/
**FREE TRAUMA SUPER CONFERENCE
Grab Your SEAT HERE:
https://www.consciouslife.com/conferences/tsc-6?_ef_transaction_id=&oid=4&affid=697

Find a list of trauma recovery books + resources for the healing trauma journey.

https://www.thehealingtraumapodcast.com/resources/

SUPPORT this podcast for the cost of a coffee. Your support is appreciated! When you buy me a coffee, your support goes towards keeping the podcast running.
HERE: https://buymeacoffee.com/thehealingtraumapodcast

Subscribe and watch on Youtube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJy4f23JvtdFuQGadOqy3PA

Disclaimer: This episode and website may contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no cost to you.

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Trigger Warning: Contains sensitive content & language related to childhood sexual abuse.
In this episode of the Healing Trauma Podcast, Guest Host Dr. Mark McNear talks with Dr. Dan Allender to discuss the profound impact of trauma and the healing power of story work. They explore the complexities of personal narratives, the importance of kindness in therapy, and the long-term journey of healing from trauma. The conversation emphasizes the need for a compassionate approach to understanding one's story and the role of kindness in facilitating healing. Listeners are encouraged to engage with their own stories and recognize the ongoing nature of healing.
takeaways
Story work can lead to profound healing and joy.
Engaging with personal trauma stories is essential for healing.
Kindness is crucial in the therapeutic process.
Betrayal and powerlessness are common themes in trauma.
Shame can complicate the experience of pleasure in trauma.
Touch and arousal can evoke complex feelings in trauma survivors.
Healing is a lifelong journey, not a quick fix.
Understanding the past is essential for present healing.
Kindness differs from niceness; it involves deeper engagement.
The process of remembering trauma is vital for recovery.

About the Guest: Dr. Dan Allender, co-founder of The Allender Center and founding president of The Seattle School of Theology & Psychology, has pioneered a unique and innovative approach to trauma and abuse therapy over the past 30 years.
https://www.instagram.com/allendercenter/
TRAUMA SUPER CONFERENCE 2026: Sign up
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Guest Host: Dr. Mark McNear
https://www.instagram.com/drmarkmcnear/

Find a list of trauma recovery books + resources for the healing trauma journey.

https://www.thehealingtraumapodcast.com/resources/

SUPPORT this podcast for the cost of a coffee. Your support is appreciated! When you buy me a coffee, your support goes towards keeping the podcast running.
HERE: https://buymeacoffee.com/thehealingtraumapodcast

Subscribe and watch on Youtube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJy4f23JvtdFuQGadOqy3PA

Disclaimer: This episode and website may contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no cost to you.

Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-healing-trauma-podcast/donations

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*This episode is a re release from an earlier season of the HTP. It is a wonderful conversation about understanding Developmental Trauma.
In this conversation, Monique is chatting with trauma therapist Mily Gomez. Mily discusses the concept of developmental trauma, its impact on emotional regulation, attachment styles, and relationships. She explains how early experiences shape our ability to connect with others and manage our emotions. The discussion also covers the importance of validation, support, and the healing process through reparenting and somatic work. Mily emphasizes the need for individuals to develop tools for self-regulation and the significance of building healthy attachments in adulthood.
takeaways
Developmental trauma occurs from conception to age two or three.
Implicit memory affects how we feel without conscious awareness.
Early experiences set the foundation for emotional regulation.
Insecure attachment can lead to trust issues in relationships.
Validation and support are crucial for healing.
Reparenting oneself is a key part of the healing process.
Somatic experiencing helps in processing trauma stored in the body.
Clients can learn to self-regulate their emotions.
Healthy attachments can be built even after trauma.
Therapy provides a safe space for exploring difficult emotions.

Find Milly Gomez on IG
https://www.instagram.com/latibulecounseling/

Free Trauma Super Conference 2026
https://www.consciouslife.com/conferences/tsc-6?_ef_transaction_id=&oid=4&affid=697

Find a list of trauma recovery books + resources for the healing trauma journey.

https://www.thehealingtraumapodcast.com/resources/

SUPPORT this podcast for the cost of a coffee. Your support is appreciated! When you buy me a coffee, your support goes towards keeping the podcast running.
HERE: https://buymeacoffee.com/thehealingtraumapodcast

Subscribe and watch on Youtube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJy4f23JvtdFuQGadOqy3PA

Disclaimer: This episode and website may contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no cost to you.

Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-healing-trauma-podcast/donations

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