Surviving the emotional fallout after discovering your partner’s affair

Alex H.

I’ve been married for over a decade, but my partner and I have been together for more than 20 years. Therapy has been a huge help in improving our communication and navigating tough times. I also helped a close friend through a painful moment when they discovered their partner’s emotional affair. It was a shock for them, feeling like they weren’t enough, and they were ready to walk away. I encouraged them to take a step back, process their emotions, and focus on what they needed in the relationship. Through open conversations, they were able to understand that the affair was a symptom of deeper issues, not a reflection of their worth. Eventually, they chose to rebuild their trust and work through it together. They’re in a stronger place now.

Addiction, recovery, and rebuilding your life

Amanda D.

My story is one of loss, addiction, healing, and strength. I started using opioids in my early 20s, eventually turning to meth. Addiction stole over a decade of my life—time I can never get back. I was using to cope with trauma, depression, and grief. I’m the adult child of alcoholic parents, and I lost my sister and two cousins to addiction. I’ve attempted suicide. I’ve buried pain I didn’t think I could survive. But I did survive. In 2021, after another suicide attempt left me on a ventilator, I chose to live. I got sober and stayed sober. I went on suboxone, joined SMART Recovery, found support through my church, and leaned on my community. I went back to school, became a peer support worker, and now I help others find the hope I once thought I’d lost. My husband and I have been together since we were teens. Our addictions broke us apart—we divorced. But getting sober brought us back together. We remarried, and we’re now raising our three children with love and intention. I’ve helped others through addiction, parenting challenges, mental illness, and grief. Whether you’re trying to get sober, rebuild your family, or find peace after loss, I’ve walked a road like yours—and I’m here to walk it with you.

Finding your voice that's been silenced by a toxic partner

Amethyst F.

Growing up, I found myself taking care of my parents more than they took care of me, as they struggled with mental health and substance use. That early reversal of roles shaped many of my future relationships, sometimes leaving me vulnerable to manipulation and abuse. One of the hardest experiences was being in an open relationship with a narcissistic partner, where I tried to support another woman he was also involved with. Even as I was being triangulated against, I worked to uplift her voice and plant seeds of strength. Years later, when she faced the same patterns and needed to escape with her child, she reached out to me, and we were able to walk that road of healing together. My journey through complex PTSD, depression, anxiety, and heartbreak has taught me how important it is to have someone who listens without judgment. I would be honored to offer that space for you, wherever you are on your path.

Reclaiming your confidence after a toxic job experience

Angela V.

I once left a job that looked amazing on the outside—but behind closed doors, it was chaotic, unkind, and eroding my self-worth. I questioned my judgment, second-guessed every decision, and carried a quiet shame about what had happened. Leaving was only the beginning of healing. I had to unpack what I experienced, untangle my identity from the toxic culture, and remind myself of who I really was. It wasn’t instant, but with reflection, support, and new opportunities, I began to feel strong again. If you’ve walked away from a painful work environment, you’re not alone—and it’s not your fault. Let’s talk about how to process what you’ve been through and rebuild your confidence moving forward.

How to regain confidence after addiction

Angelo F.

Addiction took a toll not just on my health, but on how I saw myself. At my lowest, I felt like a shell of the person I used to be—ashamed, doubtful, and afraid I had lost my potential for good. Even after I started my recovery journey, I struggled with self-doubt. I wondered if I could be trusted again, if I could rebuild what I’d broken, or if others would ever see me differently. But what I learned is that confidence isn’t something you either have or don’t—it’s something you can rebuild. Little by little, I started making choices that aligned with the person I wanted to be, not the person I was in the midst of addiction. I celebrated small wins, acknowledged my growth, and started taking up space again in my own life. Confidence, for me, came from doing hard things, showing up anyway, and realizing I didn’t have to be perfect to be worthy. It’s still a practice—but one that’s now grounded in truth, not fear.

Healing from controlling relationships and rebuilding trust

Carrie D.

My first marriage was with someone who had strong narcissistic tendencies and a need for control. I spent years feeling isolated, questioning my worth, and struggling to maintain my independence. Eventually, I found the strength to leave, but the emotional scars stayed with me. I met my second husband not long after, and although he was everything my ex wasn’t—kind, patient, and supportive—I still had to work through deep-seated fears and mistrust. Therapy played a huge role in helping me recognize the trauma patterns and rebuild a healthier, more open way of loving and trusting someone again. We even spent some time living apart during our marriage to give me the space I needed to heal and reconnect with myself. Now, after 15 years together, I can say that true healing is possible, and relationships after trauma can thrive. I would love to support others navigating the hard, but hopeful, path to trust and healthy connection again.

Healing from controlling relationships and rebuilding trust

Carrie D.

My first marriage was with someone who had strong narcissistic tendencies and a need for control. I spent years feeling isolated, questioning my worth, and struggling to maintain my independence. Eventually, I found the strength to leave, but the emotional scars stayed with me. I met my second husband not long after, and although he was everything my ex wasn’t—kind, patient, and supportive—I still had to work through deep-seated fears and mistrust. Therapy played a huge role in helping me recognize the trauma patterns and rebuild a healthier, more open way of loving and trusting someone again. We even spent some time living apart during our marriage to give me the space I needed to heal and reconnect with myself. Now, after 15 years together, I can say that true healing is possible, and relationships after trauma can thrive. I would love to support others navigating the hard, but hopeful, path to trust and healthy connection again.

Recovering from alcohol and finding your way back after relapse

Charles C N.

I started drinking in high school, just partying and having fun—or at least that’s what I told myself. But over the years, that “fun” became a crutch, then a habit, and eventually an addiction. I convinced myself I was a functional alcoholic, even as I racked up DUIs, lost jobs, hurt relationships, and ended up behind bars. My self-worth hit rock bottom. There were times I got sober, but the truth is, relapse happened. And every time it did, the guilt felt heavier. Depression and anxiety were constant shadows. But with outpatient therapy, support from people who cared, and the grace of God, I kept getting back up. Now, I’ve been sober again since March 2025. I understand how hard it is to admit the problem—how scary it feels to start over, especially if you’ve relapsed. But I also know it’s never too late. I’ve helped others get back on their feet and stay there, and I’m here to remind you that you’re not alone and that healing is always possible.

Rebuilding relationships after conflict

Darius C.

A few years ago, I had a close friend I’d known for four years, and a misunderstanding between us led to silence for three months. It hurt. But I also believed our friendship still had value. So, I took the first step and reached out. We talked through what happened, shared our perspectives, and slowly started to rebuild. It wasn’t easy, but it was worth it. That experience taught me that relationships can be transitional and still be worth repairing—if both people are willing to show up with honesty and accountability. I also center my work around supporting the LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities because I know how layered and nuanced our experiences can be. If you're going through a tough time in a relationship—romantic, platonic, or family-related—let’s talk it out.

Navigating jealousy and trust in open/polyamorous relationships

Egan M.

Navigating jealousy and trust has been a major part of my journey in relationships, especially in my current open/polyamorous partnership. I’ve been with my partner for almost five years, and while we’re incredibly happy and engaged, our relationship has required ongoing communication, trust-building, and managing difficult emotions. Early on, I struggled with jealousy, an emotion I hadn’t anticipated in an open relationship. There were moments of insecurity, uncertainty, and fear of losing my partner to someone else. But over time, I learned that jealousy isn’t something to avoid; it’s an emotion to understand and work through. I discovered the importance of setting clear boundaries, checking in regularly with my partner, and being honest with myself about what I needed. These conversations haven’t always been easy, but they’ve strengthened our bond and deepened our trust. I also helped a friend navigate jealousy in her own polyamorous relationship, which gave me even more insight into how to handle these challenges. If you're struggling with jealousy or trust in your open relationship, I’d love to share what’s worked for me and help you navigate these complex feelings with empathy and understanding.

Breaking free from survival mode to find real success

Eric S.

For a long time, I was driven by survival. When my parents divorced in my early teens, our financial world collapsed and I turned to gangs and drugs to cope. I got clean by 16 and shifted into overdrive, becoming a star student, getting into UC Berkeley, and chasing a version of success that looked impressive on the outside. But underneath, I was still operating from fear, anger, and the need to prove my worth. In my 20s and early 30s, I kept achieving professionally but felt emotionally stuck. The success I had built was rooted in pain I hadn’t yet faced. It wasn’t until I became a father that I started to truly slow down and question what was driving me. I realized I didn’t want to just survive anymore, I wanted to be whole. That meant revisiting old wounds, letting go of perfectionism, and learning to lead my life with intention instead of fear. Today, I’m still a work in progress, but I’m no longer pushing from that survival edge. I’ve helped other high performers, founders, and friends recognize their own patterns, and I’d be honored to support you as you shift from surviving to truly living.

Navigating relationships after heartbreak

Jamie G.

Growing up with a single dad, I learned early on that relationships are complicated. My relationship with him was difficult at times, but as I grew older, I learned to approach it with empathy. I realized he did the best he could with the tools he had. This understanding helped me heal from some of my own past wounds, and I began to approach my relationships with more openness and compassion. My journey took another turn when the person I thought I would spend my life with ended our relationship. It was a painful loss, and I had to rebuild from scratch, reevaluating my life and what I wanted in relationships. The heartbreak forced me to dig deep into my own emotional resilience and find ways to heal. Through these experiences, I learned that true healing comes from within. By practicing empathy, open communication, and forgiveness—both with others and myself—I’ve been able to transform the way I approach all relationships, romantic or otherwise. Now, I use these lessons to support others who may be navigating their own challenges in love and life. Healing is a process.

Surviving an abusive relationship

Julie B.

I’ve been through a lot in my life, from raising a daughter with severe ADHD to surviving a traumatic, abusive relationship where I was kidnapped and held hostage. The challenges I’ve faced personally have inspired me to pursue a career in psychology, and today I work as a 911 dispatcher, where I help others navigate their most difficult moments. I’ve also gone through CIT training to better assist individuals in crisis. Despite the trauma, I’ve found strength in my experiences and use them to connect with and support others. One of the most meaningful moments of my career was when a woman I had helped leave an abusive relationship came to thank me in person. That moment solidified my commitment to helping people who are going through what I once did. I want others to know they are not alone, and that healing is possible.

Navigating toxic relationships while staying true to yourself

Kate F.

I’ve been through more than one relationship that left me feeling small—emotionally and even physically unsafe at times. I know what it’s like to question your worth, to feel isolated, and to not even recognize yourself in the mirror. I also know that healing doesn’t happen all at once. It’s a long, winding process of reconnecting with yourself—your needs, your voice, your intuition. Through years of therapy and real, hard conversations with myself, I learned how to build a relationship with me. And that changed everything. The stronger that relationship became, the easier it got to communicate my needs, to set boundaries, and to choose the people I allowed into my life. Now, as I work toward becoming a certified life coach, I hold space for others to do that same work—on their own terms, in their own time. Whether you're questioning a romantic relationship, feeling drained by a toxic job dynamic, or just trying to be heard in your own family, I’m here to talk it through—without judgment, pressure, or a checklist of what to do next.

Sobriety, motherhood, and navigating life's tough seasons

Kim R.

Hi, I’m a mom of two adult sons and have been sober since 2012 — a decision that completely transformed my life. I know firsthand how easy it is to hide behind a smile while feeling like you’re falling apart inside. My journey with alcohol began early, and for a long time, I didn’t recognize the toll it was taking on me and my relationships. Recovery has taught me how to manage my feelings, rebuild trust with myself and others, and show up for the people I love. Whether it’s struggles with substance use, supporting family members through mental health issues, dealing with friendship losses, or navigating life’s curveballs like divorce or starting over, I’m here to listen, support, and share what’s helped me find purpose again. I believe in meeting people where they are—with kindness, humor, and no judgment.

Trusting your instincts as a parent when typical advice falls short

Kimberly S.

When I started my parenting journey over a decade ago, I felt like I was drowning in well-meaning advice that didn’t fit my child or my instincts. I remember the sleepless nights with a colicky newborn, feeling like something was off but not having the words—or confidence—to explain it. As my child grew, their behaviors became more dysregulated, and I often felt judged or dismissed, even by professionals. It was emotionally exhausting to constantly wonder if I was overreacting or missing something important. Eventually, I started listening to the quiet voice inside me that said, "Keep pushing." That’s when we began the journey through evaluations, therapies, and working with schools to get the support we needed. Through all of that, I learned how important it is to trust your gut and advocate fiercely for your child, even when the answers aren't clear. Now, I’ve become the go-to person in my circle for other moms trying to make sense of their own situations. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, unheard, or unsure, I’m here to listen and help you sort through it—without judgment and with a deep respect for your intuition.

Navigating postpartum depression, anxiety, and healing after abuse

Margarida V.

I’ve struggled with anxiety and depression for much of my life, but nothing prepared me for the depths of postpartum depression after the birth of my son. It hit me hard—different from anything I had experienced before—and it took a long time to realize that fear and guilt were shaping every part of my early parenting journey. Learning that I could only control so much, and that doing my best was truly enough, was one of the hardest but most freeing lessons. In my personal life, I also have experience supporting others through deeply difficult times, including helping a close friend leave a dangerous and abusive relationship. I know firsthand that true healing often starts by simply having someone willing to listen without judgment. Today, I’m passionate about offering that same space for others: whether you need resources, a sounding board, or simply someone to sit with you while you figure it out, I’m here.

Navigating anxious relationships and building emotional safety

Megan S.

In my twenties, I found myself trapped in a cycle of anxious-avoidant relationships that left me feeling constantly unsettled. I bounced between messy breakups and even messier reconciliations, each time hoping things would finally click. On top of that, I was battling severe anxiety, panic attacks, and long-standing issues with body image and self-esteem. It felt like every area of my life was a pressure cooker. At one point, even my professional relationships started mirroring the same unhealthy patterns I saw in romance. I didn’t magically wake up healed one day (wouldn’t that be nice?), but little by little, I learned how to regulate my nervous system, set real boundaries, and listen to my true needs not just my fears. Through therapies like Attachment Theory and Internal Family Systems work, plus some brutally honest self-reflection, I found a path forward. Now, I’m passionate about being a safe, steady space for others trying to break free from anxious relationship loops. Whether you're fresh out of a breakup, stuck in confusion, or just craving healthier connections, I’m here to help you feel grounded, understood, and equipped with real tools not just pep talks.

Rebuilding your life after addiction

Michelle S.

I spent years in and out of jail, living on the streets, and using just about every substance you can imagine. But on October 2nd, over two and a half years ago, I got clean—and I haven’t looked back. With four kids and an incredibly supportive partner of 11 years who stuck with me through the worst, I made a decision to dedicate my life to helping others like me. Because when you’ve lived it, you know how alone it can feel. Now, I’m a Certified Recovery Peer Specialist and Opioid Prevention Specialist, and I run a relapse prevention support group where I connect with people going through the same struggles I faced. I also work with incarcerated individuals through NAMI, offering peer support because I’ve been where they are. Sometimes, I even stop and talk to strangers on the street if I sense they’re hurting—because you never know when a conversation might be the lifeline someone needs.

Healing the relationship with yourself after emotional abuse

Rachel M.

When I was 18, I entered my first long-term relationship, and it lasted over five years. It slowly turned emotionally abusive, filled with threats, manipulation, and deep emotional confusion. I didn’t have the confidence or clarity to leave when I needed to, and staying so long made me feel like I had lost myself. After finally getting out, I spiraled - dealing with complex PTSD, depression, anxiety, and thoughts that scared me. What followed was a years-long journey of coming home to myself. I had to completely overhaul my relationships, learn boundaries, and understand why I kept searching for love outside of me instead of within. I started therapy, found somatic tools, leaned on safe people, and slowly rebuilt my inner voice: the one that says I’m enough. Now, I’m engaged to someone kind and emotionally safe, but that relationship wouldn’t have been possible without first healing the one I have with myself. That’s where all change began. I’d love to support anyone who feels like they’ve lost their sense of self and are ready to reconnect with the person they truly are.