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Choose To Be with Choose Recovery Services; Betrayal Trauma Healing

Choose Recovery Services - Alana Gordon and Amie Woolsey

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Choose To Be is focused on women healing from infidelity, and betrayal trauma. We are committed to helping women heal. Be a part of the conversation as we interview experts and others who have gone through this journey and gain tools to help you move forward. Alana and Amie bring their own experiences to the conversation, and their individual expertise makes for a unique and valuable resource. Alana Gordon-LMFT, CCPS, CSAT candidate, Betrayal Coach Amie Woolsey-Betrayal Coach, CPC, ELI-MP, A ...
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The goal of healing from sexual betrayal isn't just stopping the crisis. It's ultimately moving into genuine and meaningful connection with ourselves, each other, and the world around us. Join licensed therapist and author Geoff Steurer as he interviews experts and other guests about how to move out of the crisis of sexual betrayal (affairs, sexual addiction, pornography addiction) and toward connection. The information in these interviews transcends religious and cultural lines, as we all s ...
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show series
 
How many of you have the exact life that you mapped out when you were younger? The perfect spouse, perfect children, perfect life, where everyone does exactly what you want them to? It’s pretty fair to say that how life plays out is vastly different than what we picture in our heads, especially considering that the people in our lives get to choose…
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In the world of betrayal trauma, sometimes it can be hard to distinguish fact from fiction. In this week’s episode, Amie and Alana strive to do just that. They debunk common misconceptions about forgiveness, trust, moving on, and the roles of both partners in recovery. Tune in to hear valuable insights that challenge your beliefs and guide you in n…
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In this episode, we welcome Lisa Stoddard Reeves to discuss the complex aspects of forgiveness in relationships, particularly within Christian contexts. Lisa highlights the potential harms of oversimplifying forgiveness, especially in cases of significant betrayals. She examines the different dimensions and types of forgiveness — including extendin…
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Are you struggling with negative self-talk after experiencing betrayal? You are not alone! This week Amie and Alana explore the importance of healthy self-talk in your healing journey. Join them as they share personal experiences and practical strategies for recognizing negative thought patterns and replacing them with empowering beliefs that will …
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What do you think of when you think of a polygraph test? Do you think of a gimmick you’ve seen on TV, or do you think of a reliable truth-telling device? In this episode we welcome Jared Rockwood, a polygraph examiner with extensive experience and training, to discuss the role of polygraph tests in rebuilding trust after betrayal. Jared explains th…
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In the aftermath of betrayal, some partners commit to the hard work of healing and change, while others fall short. This episode speaks directly to those grappling with the realization that their partner isn’t doing the necessary work. Amie and Alana explore the stages of grief that often accompany this reality, and they offer practical advice on m…
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Do you ever wonder if it’s necessary to praise someone for a basic action you feel they should automatically be doing? In this episode we have a nuanced discussion about the dynamics between being supportive and appreciative within a relationship, especially when partners start contributing to the relationship after a period of not doing so. We exa…
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It’s hard to know what you can expect from your partner when trying to repair a relationship that has been affected by betrayal. However, one thing you CAN look for is consistency over time. But what does that really mean? This week Amie and Alana explore the topic of consistency over time and give you six main areas where you can watch for that co…
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Trauma responses can alter how we see ourselves, our relationships, and the world. In this episode we focus on managing betrayal trauma and its impact on our self-perception of goodness. While this can be affected through other traumas, betrayal uniquely affects our core identity and sense of safety. Join us as we discuss the importance of boundari…
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Are you struggling with trusting your partner after betrayal? This week Amie and Alana discuss where to even begin when it comes to trusting again. They give valuable insight on recognizing patterns, establishing safety, and taking wise steps toward healing. If you find yourself trusting too soon or wondering why it’s taking so long for you to trus…
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When we experience trauma, our brains and bodies react in complex and automatic ways designed to protect us. In this episode, we revisit a conversation we had in 2022 with Jody VanDrimmelen, a licensed clinical social worker. Jody breaks down the science behind trauma responses and offers practical strategies for healing. Learn how to listen to and…
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There are always complex challenges and dynamics in managing one's own recovery after betrayal or broken trust, and it is often tempting to become overly invested in a partner’s recovery journey as well. Perhaps you've heard the recovery metaphor of 'sweeping your side of the street,' and how partners can sometimes fall into patterns of over-contro…
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Are you reeling from the discovery of your partner’s betrayal? This episode offers a lifeline for those newly facing the storm of infidelity. Join Alana as she explores common emotional reactions, debunks self-blame myths, and offers practical advice on stabilization and self-care. Whether you’re experiencing betrayal or supporting someone who is, …
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Are you seeking solace, healing, and transformation from betrayal trauma in ways you’ve never felt before? If so, join us August 21-24, 2024 in Spanish Fork, Utah at our Revive and Thrive Intensive. This four-day retreat offers a sanctuary for those healing from betrayal trauma, combining expert-led classes, somatic practices, and supportive commun…
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If you could go back in time, what would you share with your younger self about their body, sexuality, relationships, and sexual connection? In this episode, we welcome Bonnie Young, a licensed marriage and family therapist, and founder of Azure Counseling. Bonnie discusses her book 'Sex Educated: Letters from a Latter-day Saint Therapist to Her Yo…
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Lace up those dancing shoes because there’s a new acronym in town - SHAWN B! In a past episode we talked all about NOT dancing with Walter. In this week’s episode we introduce you to the partner you SHOULD dance with - SHAWN B. Join Alana and our guest, Laura Fisher (a fellow Choose Recovery Services coach), as they talk about the betrayed experien…
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When you are on the sidelines watching a friend go through the trauma of betrayal, it can be difficult not to choose sides or to know when to help and when to step back. In this episode we explore the importance of assessing your role in their support system, setting clear boundaries, and managing personal resources while offering support to an ind…
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When your partner has a sexual addiction, it can be confusing and incredibly painful. Join Amie and Alana as they tackle a listener’s question about whether their partner thinks about them during these acting out times. While the answer to that question is painful either way and you may feel the impulse to try to micromanage and control your partne…
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Typically our podcast and practice focuses on repairing relationships. But within that work is the very real question of “should I stay or should I go?” In this episode we invited Amie Woolsey to discuss the challenging topic of deciding whether to stay in or leave a relationship following serious betrayals such as infidelity, abuse, or neglect. Th…
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One of the most agonizing questions after a betrayal is, “Should I stay or go?” In this episode, Amie and Alana delve into the complex process of determining the answer to that question. Learn how to confront your fears and conscientiously choose the right path for you - whether that’s rebuilding the relationship or starting anew. Listen to learn: …
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The safety needs for a betrayed partner immediately following betrayal can often feel extreme initially, but are crucial for the nervous system’s stability and recovery. Join us as we discuss how the betrayed partner's safety can be ensured by eliminating triggers and threats, and the importance of the betraying partner's responsiveness to these ne…
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When betrayal strikes, the question of “Who do I tell?” weighs heavily. In this episode, Amie and Alana provide a roadmap through this complex decision as they talk about finding emotional safety and trusting your intuition. Whether you’re just beginning your journey or are further along, this conversation provides a compassionate and nuanced persp…
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In this heartfelt interview, Ashlee Boyson shares her powerful story of overcoming devastating betrayal and loss. Starting from the time she became distant from her husband following the birth of their fifth child, Ashlee describes the overwhelming anxiety and turmoil she faced, culminating in discovering her husband's infidelity and his tragic mur…
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How do you love yourself first AND do the hard things? In this episode, Amie shares personal experiences and offers powerful perspectives on truly nurturing yourself through life’s chaos. You’ll learn practical tips for self-compassion, setting boundaries, and making time for yourself. This episode will give you the courage to turn inward as you fo…
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In this episode I share a question from a listener coping with life after divorce. Men tend to have less social support than women, often due to couple and family friendships being more driven by the women. This can leave men feeling isolated and lonely after divorce if those friendships ended when the marriage dissolved. Join me as I discuss the e…
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It can feel soul-crushing if your partner asks for a separation, but what if it’s actually an opportunity in disguise? This week Amie is a guest on Luke Gordon’s podcast. Luke is a men’s emotional health coach and cofounder at Choose Recovery Services. Listen in as Luke and Amie talk about how couples can use separation as a catalyst for profound i…
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There is a metaphor used in the Boy Scouts called the “blood circle”. To summarize, it encourages young boys to create an area around you where you are less likely to cut someone with your pocket knife. In this episode we are using this metaphor as it relates to unintentionally hurting others, specifically in the context of rebuilding trust in rela…
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Last week we learned the thought patterns of those who are in the victim and emerger stages of healing from trauma. Today Amie takes us through the final two stages - reclaimer and chooser. In this episode you’ll learn how to reframe toxic thought patterns and reclaim your truth. Understand how to shed your victimhood, separate your worth from emot…
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How do you deal with coercion and emotional immaturity from other people? Do you defend yourself, disengage, or meet the other person at their level and try to play their game? In this episode we discuss the importance of disengaging from unhealthy interactions, not engaging in defense, and focusing on our own actions and reactions. The Power of Co…
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Do you feel stuck in the cycle of victimhood after betrayal, believing thoughts like, “I’ll never trust again” or “I’m not enough”? In this week’s episode, Amie walks us through the “Victim to Chooser” framework sharing the progressive stages she sees clients navigate towards healing and wholeness. Listen in to see if you have thought patterns that…
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I was recently invited to be a guest on the “Therapy Brothers” podcast. In this thought-provoking episode, Brannon Patrick and I delve into the complex and crucial topic of rebuilding trust in relationships affected by betrayal. We explore the foundational role of honesty in the healing process, discuss the challenges and misconceptions about trust…
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Do you feel stuck wondering if you will ever heal from betrayal trauma? In this powerful episode Amie and Alana share their own experiences grappling with that exact question. They provide wisdom and practical tools for aiding your healing process whether you are just starting out or are further along the path. You can and will heal - as you keep t…
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Sobriety, safety, support, and stability are crucial in the aftermath of addiction and betrayal, and can be found in both inpatient and outpatient treatment scenarios. Join me as I outline the importance of personalized considerations, support systems, and cost implications in making the decision between inpatient and outpatient treatment for addic…
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