The Healing Trauma Podcast

Monique Koven

Everyone deserves to be seen, soothed, and understood. This podcast is here to light your path on the healing journey, offering empathy and hope along the way. Through conversations with trauma experts, w'ell share insights and practical support to help you heal and move forward. Disclaimer: This podcast is for information purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice.This podcast is not intended to replace professional medical and mental health advice. Guest view's do not necessarily reflect that of the host or podcast.

  1. Healing After Betrayal Trauma With Tammy Gustafson

    12/31/2025

    Healing After Betrayal Trauma With Tammy Gustafson

    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/ Tammy's Book:Broken to Brave: Your Courageous Act of Healing After Intimate Betrayalhttps://amzn.to/4s5bZh0 website:https://tammygustafson.com/betrayal-healing/ https://www.instagram.com/tammylgustafson/ Find a list of trauma recovery books + resources for the healing trauma journey. https://www.thehealingtraumapodcast.com/resources/ SUPPORT this podcast for the cost of a coffee. Your support is appreciated! When you buy me a coffee, your support goes towards keeping the podcast running. HERE: https://buymeacoffee.com/thehealingtraumapodcast Subscribe and watch on Youtube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJy4f23JvtdFuQGadOqy3PA Disclaimer: This episode and website may contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no cost to you. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-healing-trauma-podcast/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    31 min
  2. A Therapist's Journey Of Discovering Complex Trauma With Esther Schwarz

    12/17/2025

    A Therapist's Journey Of Discovering Complex Trauma With Esther Schwarz

    *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 Find a list of trauma recovery books + resources for the healing trauma journey. https://www.thehealingtraumapodcast.com/resources/ SUPPORT this podcast for the cost of a coffee. Your support is appreciated! When you buy me a coffee, your support goes towards keeping the podcast running. HERE: https://buymeacoffee.com/thehealingtraumapodcast Subscribe and watch on Youtube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJy4f23JvtdFuQGadOqy3PA Disclaimer: This episode and website may contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no cost to you. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-healing-trauma-podcast/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    37 min
  3. Honoring Your Story With Dr. Dan Allender

    12/05/2025

    Honoring Your Story With Dr. Dan Allender

    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/ Find a list of trauma recovery books + resources for the healing trauma journey. https://www.thehealingtraumapodcast.com/resources/ SUPPORT this podcast for the cost of a coffee. Your support is appreciated! When you buy me a coffee, your support goes towards keeping the podcast running. HERE: https://buymeacoffee.com/thehealingtraumapodcast Subscribe and watch on Youtube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJy4f23JvtdFuQGadOqy3PA Disclaimer: This episode and website may contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no cost to you. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-healing-trauma-podcast/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    39 min
  4. Understanding Developmental Trauma With Mily Gomez

    11/27/2025

    Understanding Developmental Trauma With Mily Gomez

    *This episode is a re release from an earlier season of the HTP. It is a wonderful conversation about understanding Developmental Trauma. In this conversation, Monique is chatting with trauma therapist Mily Gomez. Mily discusses the concept of developmental trauma, its impact on emotional regulation, attachment styles, and relationships. She explains how early experiences shape our ability to connect with others and manage our emotions. The discussion also covers the importance of validation, support, and the healing process through reparenting and somatic work. Mily emphasizes the need for individuals to develop tools for self-regulation and the significance of building healthy attachments in adulthood. takeaways Developmental trauma occurs from conception to age two or three.Implicit memory affects how we feel without conscious awareness.Early experiences set the foundation for emotional regulation.Insecure attachment can lead to trust issues in relationships.Validation and support are crucial for healing.Reparenting oneself is a key part of the healing process.Somatic experiencing helps in processing trauma stored in the body.Clients can learn to self-regulate their emotions.Healthy attachments can be built even after trauma.Therapy provides a safe space for exploring difficult emotions. Find Milly Gomez on IG https://www.instagram.com/latibulecounseling/ Free Trauma Super Conference 2026 https://www.consciouslife.com/conferences/tsc-6?_ef_transaction_id=&oid=4&affid=697 Find a list of trauma recovery books + resources for the healing trauma journey. https://www.thehealingtraumapodcast.com/resources/ SUPPORT this podcast for the cost of a coffee. Your support is appreciated! When you buy me a coffee, your support goes towards keeping the podcast running. HERE: https://buymeacoffee.com/thehealingtraumapodcast Subscribe and watch on Youtube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJy4f23JvtdFuQGadOqy3PA Disclaimer: This episode and website may contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no cost to you. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-healing-trauma-podcast/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    38 min
  5. Your Pain Has A Name: A Journey to Healing with Monica DiCristina

    11/15/2025

    Your Pain Has A Name: A Journey to Healing with Monica DiCristina

    In this conversation, author and trauma therapist Monica DiCristina shares her insights on the importance of naming pain and understanding one's emotional triggers. She discusses her book, 'Your Pain Has A Name,' and emphasizes the significance of accurate diagnosis in therapy. The discussion also touches on the impact of dismissal in therapeutic settings, the dangers of oversimplified healing approaches, and the importance of finding the right therapeutic relationship. Monica encourages listeners to keep seeking understanding and healing, reminding them that they are not alone in their struggles. takeaways Monica wrote her book to help others name their pain.Naming pain is essential for separating identity from trauma.Many people walk around feeling something is wrong with them.Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective healing.Understanding one's wiring can help in managing mental health.Dismissal in therapy can lead to feelings of isolation.Oversimplified healing approaches can be harmful.The therapeutic relationship is key to successful outcomes.It's important to find a therapist who feels right for you.Everyone's journey to understanding and healing is unique. Monica's new book: Your Pain Has a Name: A Therapist’s Invitation to Understanding Your Story and Sorting Out Who You Are from What Hurts https://amzn.to/4i3qmxF Where to Find Monica: Website: https://monicadicristina.com Instagram: @monicadicristina Still Becoming Podcast **FREE TRAUMA SUPER CONFERENCE Grab Your SEAT HERE: https://www.consciouslife.com/conferences/tsc-6?_ef_transaction_id=&oid=4&affid=697 Find a list of trauma recovery books + resources for the healing trauma journey. https://www.thehealingtraumapodcast.com/resources/ SUPPORT this podcast for the cost of a coffee. Your support is appreciated! When you buy me a coffee, your support goes towards keeping the podcast running. HERE: https://buymeacoffee.com/thehealingtraumapodcast Subscribe and watch on Youtube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJy4f23JvtdFuQGadOqy3PA Disclaimer: This episode and website may contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no cost to you. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-healing-trauma-podcast/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    23 min
  6. Generational Trauma With Gina Birkemeier

    11/03/2025

    Generational Trauma With Gina Birkemeier

    In this episode of the Healing Trauma Podcast, Monique Koven speaks with trauma therapist Gina Birkemeier about her book 'Generations Deep,' which explores the impact of generational trauma and the importance of healing. They discuss how family patterns shape our beliefs and behaviors, the significance of corrective experiences in healing, and the role of curiosity in breaking cycles of dysfunction. Gina shares her personal journey of recognizing and addressing inherited trauma, emphasizing the need for supportive relationships and the importance of not navigating this journey alone. takeaways The title of the book is 'Generations Deep, Unmasking Inherited Trauma and Dysfunction to Rewrite Our Stories.'Family patterns can carry significant weight and influence our lives.Healing is a non-linear process that involves ups and downs.Curiosity can help combat shame and rigidity in our lives.Corrective experiences are essential for emotional healing.Breaking cycles of trauma starts with individual healing.It's important to recognize and address inherited beliefs and behaviors.Supportive relationships can provide a foundation for healing.Self-reflection is crucial in understanding our childhood needs.Do not navigate the healing journey alone; seek support. Find Gina here: Gina Birkemeier, LPC, NCC Gina's Book: Generations Deep: Unmasking Inherited Dysfunction and Trauma to Rewrite Our Stories Through Faith and Therapy https://amzn.to/3X9ytPC Generations Workbook: Generations Deep Journal: Write Your Healing Story https://amzn.to/47lrR6L **FREE TRAUMA SUPER CONFERENCE 2026 Grab Your SEAT HERE: https://www.consciouslife.com/conferences/tsc-6?_ef_transaction_id=&oid=4&affid=697 Find a list of trauma recovery books + resources for the healing trauma journey. https://www.thehealingtraumapodcast.com/resources/ SUPPORT this podcast for the cost of a coffee. Your support is appreciated! When you buy me a coffee, your support goes towards keeping the podcast running. HERE: https://buymeacoffee.com/thehealingtraumapodcast Subscribe and watch on Youtube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJy4f23JvtdFuQGadOqy3PA Disclaimer: This episode and website may contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no cost to you. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-healing-trauma-podcast/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    33 min
  7. Transforming Your Inner Critic With Dr. Maureen Gallagher

    10/20/2025

    Transforming Your Inner Critic With Dr. Maureen Gallagher

    In this conversation, Monique and Dr. Maureen Gallagher explore the integration of Somatic Experiencing and Inner Relationship Focusing as powerful tools for healing trauma and understanding the inner critic. They discuss how these methods can help individuals build a compassionate relationship with their experiences, update old emotional learnings, and transform the inner critic into a supportive part of the self. The conversation emphasizes the importance of self-compassion, the role of attachment in personal growth, and the potential for learning these techniques to enhance emotional well-being. takeaways Somatic experiencing connects deeply with the nervous system.Inner relationship focusing builds a relationship with somatic experiences.The inner critic often stems from old emotional learnings.Transforming the inner critic involves understanding its protective role.Updating emotional learnings can alleviate unnecessary fears.Self-compassion is crucial for personal growth and healing.Integrating somatic experiencing with focusing enhances transformation.Learning these techniques can be done individually or with guidance.Building a secure attachment to self fosters emotional safety.Recognizing the inner critic as a part of oneself can change relationships. About Our Guest: Dr. Maureen Gallagher is a Licensed Psychologist (NY, NJ), Somatic Experiencing Practitioner and Faculty Member, Inner Relationship Focusing Trainer, Emotionally Focused Therapist and Supervisor and a Relational Psychoanalyst. Her work and teaching are dedicated to the embodiment of psychotherapy and related healing disciplines, in which she integrates somatic awareness and the use of somatic intervention along with adult attachment work and a relational focus. She brings a broad range of experience and training to this endeavor, including Certifications in Somatic Experiencing, Inner Relationship Focusing, Relational Psychoanalysis, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Integral Somatic Psychology, SE Touch skills training and Biodynamic Cranial Sacral Therapy. Her clinical work integrates focusing, somatic experiencing, relational psychoanalysis and experiential and process oriented models of attachment theory. She has maintained a private practice for over 20 years. She is the founder of Embodying Psychotherapy. Get started right away with the Inner Critics Companion Guide:  https://maureengallagherphd.com/inner-critics-companion-guidebook  Stay in touch with Maureen via her monthly letter:  https://maureengallagherphd.com/join-my-newsletter **FREE TRAUMA SUPER CONFERENCE 2026 Grab Your SEAT HERE: https://www.consciouslife.com/conferences/tsc-6?_ef_transaction_id=&oid=4&affid=697 Find a list of trauma recovery books + resources for the healing trauma journey. https://www.thehealingtraumapodcast.com/resources/ SUPPORT this podcast for the cost of a coffee. Your support is appreciated! When you buy me a coffee, your support goes towards keeping the podcast running. HERE: https://buymeacoffee.com/thehealingtraumapodcast Subscribe and watch on Youtube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJy4f23JvtdFuQGadOqy3PA Disclaimer: This episode and website may contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no cost to you. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-healing-trauma-podcast/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    30 min
  8. The Emotionally Immature Mother With Dr. Lindsay Gibson

    10/10/2025

    The Emotionally Immature Mother With Dr. Lindsay Gibson

    In this conversation, Monique welcomes back Dr. Lindsay Gibson to discuss the complexities of emotionally immature mothers and their impact on daughters. They explore the characteristics of emotional immaturity, the need for empathy and connection, and the challenges faced by adult children in navigating relationships with such parents. The discussion also touches on healing strategies, the importance of supportive relationships, and the future of parenting emotionally mature children. takeaways Emotional immaturity can manifest in various ways, affecting relationships.The need to be seen and understood is fundamental for emotional health.Daughters of emotionally immature mothers often feel invisible and misunderstood.Empathy is crucial for healthy relationships and emotional maturity.Navigating relationships with emotionally immature parents requires self-care and boundaries.Healing is a process that involves recognizing and managing one's own emotional needs.Supportive friendships can provide the empathy and connection lacking in parental relationships.Understanding emotional immaturity can help adult children cope with their experiences.Raising emotionally mature children involves fostering empathy and emotional intelligence.It's important to acknowledge the pain of unmet emotional needs and work towards healing. Watch this episode on youtube https://youtu.be/fthdfUk5WHE?si=X4qmjUrY5jbzT373 Find Lindsay's books here: Adult children of Emotionally Immature Parents https://amzn.to/4kpLu1l Recovering from Emotionally Immature Parents: Practical Tools to Establish Boundaries and Reclaim Your Emotional Autonomy  https://amzn.to/42YKdHg Self-Care for Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents: Honor Your Emotions, Nurture Your Self, and Live with Confidence https://amzn.to/3RTG6XX Disentangling from Emotionally Immature People: Avoid Emotional Traps, Stand Up for Your Self, and Transform Your Relationships as an Adult Child of Emotionally Immature Parents https://amzn.to/44qhHRo Connect with Monique on IG https://www.instagram.com/thehealingtraumapodcast/ **FREE TRAUMA SUPER CONFERENCE Grab Your SEAT HERE: https://www.consciouslife.com/conferences/tsc-6?_ef_transaction_id=&oid=4&affid=697 Find a list of trauma recovery books + resources for the healing trauma journey. https://www.thehealingtraumapodcast.com/resources/ SUPPORT this podcast for the cost of a coffee. Your support is appreciated! When you buy me a coffee, your support goes towards keeping the podcast running. HERE: https://buymeacoffee.com/thehealingtraumapodcast Subscribe and watch on Youtube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJy4f23JvtdFuQGadOqy3PA Disclaimer: This episode and website may contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no cost to you. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-healing-trauma-podcast/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    41 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Everyone deserves to be seen, soothed, and understood. This podcast is here to light your path on the healing journey, offering empathy and hope along the way. Through conversations with trauma experts, w'ell share insights and practical support to help you heal and move forward. Disclaimer: This podcast is for information purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice.This podcast is not intended to replace professional medical and mental health advice. Guest view's do not necessarily reflect that of the host or podcast.

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