Trauma, Recovery & Resilience
Therapy Blog 

It can feel confusing and even painful to realize that you still miss someone who hurt you. After all, if a relationship caused emotional pain, why would your heart continue to long for that person? This is especially common in abusive relationships, where complex emotional dynamics make it difficult to separate love from harm. Many people wonder whether something is “wrong” with them, but missing someone who caused pain is a normal part of processing loss and trauma. Underst

Have you ever walked away from a conversation feeling confused, guilty, or questioning your own memory, even though you were sure of what you experienced? That lingering thought, “Am I the problem?”, is often the quiet aftermath of gaslighting. This subtle but deeply damaging form of emotional manipulation can erode self-trust, distort reality, and leave individuals feeling isolated and unsure of themselves. Many people in therapy initially struggle to identify their experi

Co-parenting can be challenging under the best circumstances, but when one parent has a narcissistic personality, it adds a whole new layer of complexity. Narcissistic ex-spouses often prioritize their own needs, manipulate situations, and can create tension that impacts not only the co-parenting relationship but also the well-being of the children involved. Understanding the dynamics of co-parenting with a narcissistic ex spouse is essential for protecting your children, mai

Anxiety, PTSD, and the lingering effects of childhood trauma can profoundly impact a person’s daily life. Navigating these challenges without support often feels overwhelming and isolating. While many forms of therapy exist, trauma-informed therapy has emerged as a critical approach for addressing these complex mental health concerns. Clients working with Tonya Coulliette receive compassionate, personalized care designed to support their healing and growth. This blog explores

Dissociation is a complex psychological phenomenon that can be confusing and concerning for those experiencing it or witnessing it in loved ones. Often linked to trauma, dissociation involves a disconnection between thoughts, feelings, memories, or even the sense of self. Understanding what dissociation is and how it relates to trauma can help individuals recognize symptoms, seek appropriate support, and work toward healing with the guidance of a trauma therapist. At Tonya Co

Growing up in a high-conflict home leaves a lasting imprint. Even long after the yelling, tension, or instability stops, the body and mind may continue reliving the stress. Many adults don’t realize how deeply their upbringing shaped their sense of safety, communication style, relationships, and self-worth. The good news is that healing is possible. With support, reflection, and healthy tools, you can rewrite old patterns and build a calmer, more grounded life. This guide exp

Ending a relationship with a narcissist can leave lasting emotional scars. Unlike typical breakups, relationships with narcissists often involve cycles of idealization, devaluation, and discard, which can make the healing process complex and overwhelming. Understanding the stages of re-orienting after a narcissistic relationship can help survivors navigate emotional turbulence and rebuild their sense of self. Tonya Coulliette Therapy provides guidance and support for those se

When most people think of narcissistic abuse, overt behaviors such as anger outbursts, controlling actions, or public humiliation come to mind. However, covert narcissism operates in a more subtle and hidden manner, leaving deep psychological scars that are often harder to recognize. Covert narcissists use tactics like gaslighting, emotional invalidation, and subtle manipulation, creating an environment where victims question their own perceptions and self-worth. Healing from

Leaving a harmful or traumatic situation takes incredible courage, yet many survivors are surprised to find themselves overwhelmed with guilt afterward. Instead of feeling relief or freedom, they may struggle with self-blame, second-guessing their decisions, or questioning whether they deserved to leave at all. This experience is known as trauma survivor guilt, and it is far more common than many realize. With the guidance of trauma therapy, survivors can begin to process the

Gaslighting is a form of psychological manipulation that makes individuals question their own memory, perception, or reality. Often subtle and gradual, this tactic leaves people feeling confused, powerless, and unsure of their own experiences. Whether it occurs in personal relationships, professional settings, or even within families, gaslighting can cause deep emotional wounds. Healing from its impact takes time, but with the support of a trauma therapist and the right tools

Our family of origin profoundly shapes how we approach relationships, including parenting. Many adults find themselves repeating patterns learned in childhood, sometimes nurturing and supportive, other times dysfunctional or limiting. Recognizing these inherited patterns is the first step toward breaking the cycle and consciously choosing healthier ways to relate to your children. Understanding how therapy can help you break parenting patterns can transform not only your fami

Leaving a high-conflict or narcissistic relationship is one of the hardest decisions you can make. The emotional aftermath often lingers long after the relationship ends, leaving you with feelings of guilt, self-doubt, and mistrust. Healing takes time, but with compassion and support, it is possible to rebuild your confidence, restore your sense of self, and open the door to healthier connections. Walking away from a high-conflict or narcissistic relationship is rarely simple

Our life experiences shape the way we see ourselves, others, and the world around us. For some, past traumas or negative patterns can create deep emotional wounds, often influencing relationships and self-esteem well into adulthood. Among these, wounds caused by narcissistic relationships can be particularly challenging to heal. Schema therapy creates an opportunity to explore and transform these stories, supporting the restoration of self-esteem and emotional health. At Tony

Life can feel heavy sometimes. Between work, family, and the constant pressure to “keep it together,” it’s easy to push your own needs aside. Many people wait until they’re at a breaking point before reaching out for help, but therapy doesn’t have to be the last resort. Therapy can be one of the most meaningful investments you make in yourself, a way to honor your well-being, find support in the hard moments, and create space to grow into the version of yourself you want to b

Starting therapy can feel overwhelming, especially when you're seeking help for something as deeply personal as trauma. Whether you're dealing with past abuse, a difficult life event, or chronic stress, working with a trauma-informed therapist can make a significant difference in your healing journey. This guide will help you understand what trauma-informed therapy involves and what you can expect during your first few sessions. What Is Trauma-Informed Therapy? Trauma-informe

Seeking help is never a sign of defeat, it’s one of the bravest decisions a person can make. Starting therapy, whether for anxiety, trauma, or everyday life stressors, demonstrates a powerful commitment to self-awareness and emotional health. Yet despite the growing conversation around mental health, many individuals still view therapy as a last resort rather than a proactive step toward healing. Rewriting the Narrative Around Therapy For generations, society has misunderstoo

Trauma therapy is a type of psychotherapy focused on helping people process and heal from traumatic events. The goal is to reduce the long-lasting symptoms of trauma, such as anxiety, depression, flashbacks, or emotional numbness, and help individuals regain control over their lives. Unlike general counseling, trauma therapy uses specific, evidence-based techniques that address the unique impact of trauma on both the brain and body. It involves emotional processing as well as

How can you identify a narcissist? Many people associate narcissism with vanity or self-importance, but the reality is far more complex. Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) involves a persistent pattern of grandiosity, a need for admiration, and a lack of empathy. It can be subtle, deceptive, and deeply harmful in relationships. If you’ve ever wondered what the 12 traits of a narcissistic personality are, this list may shed light, and surprise you. How to Identify a Narci

The 9 Traits of Borderline Personality Disorder Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is a complex and often misunderstood mental health condition that affects how individuals perceive themselves and relate to others. This disorder can lead to emotional instability, impulsive behavior, and intense interpersonal conflicts. Recognizing the signs early on is essential, especially for those seeking therapy and exploring telehealth options for support. At TONYA COULLIETTE, LAC, LP

In today’s fast-paced and digitally connected world, access to mental health care is evolving. One of the most transformative changes is the rise of telehealth therapy, a tool that is proving to be a true lifeline for individuals navigating mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and substance use disorders. By offering convenience, privacy, and flexibility, online therapy is reshaping how people receive support, making professional care more accessib