Trauma, Recovery & Resilience
Therapy Blog 

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...

Starting therapy can feel overwhelming, especially when you're seeking help for something as deeply personal as trauma. Whether you're...