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:

https://www.consciouslife.com/conferences/tsc-6?_ef_transaction_id=&oid=4&affid=697

Guest Host: Guest Host: Dr. Mark McNear

https://www.instagram.com/drmarkmcnear/

https://amzn.to/4s5bZh0

website:https://tammygustafson.com/betrayal-healing/

https://www.instagram.com/tammylgustafson/

*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

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

https://www.consciouslife.com/conferences/tsc-6?_ef_transaction_id=&oid=4&affid=697

Guest Host: Dr. Mark McNear

https://www.instagram.com/drmarkmcnear/