The Betrayal Recovery Transformation Podcast

Gigi Hopkins, Professional Certified Coach (PCC) and Director of Wives Care at Be Broken Ministries, joins us for a candid conversation about how healing from betrayal can produce unexpected gifts. With over 24 years of ministry experience and a passion for walking alongside women in the midst of betrayal trauma, Gigi offers both professional insight and deep personal compassion. She shares her “Gifts of Betrayal” list, encouraging us to see how God can transform pain into growth, maturity, and stronger relationships.From growing in faith to developing healthier boundaries, Gigi helps us recognize the ways God uses even the most devastating experiences to shape us into who we were created to be. Whether your marriage has ended or become stronger through healing, this conversation will remind you that hope and wholeness are possible.Key Takeaways from the Episode:Healing from betrayal can strengthen faith and transform character.Betrayal can teach us to be better stewards of what God entrusts to us.True friendship often grows deeper through shared vulnerability.Self-awareness is a critical part of the healing process.Healthy boundaries lead to healthier relationships.Healing shifts our perspective toward eternity and lasting hope.Some marriages end, while others become stronger than before—both can lead to growth.Connect with Gigi Hopkins:Wives Care at Be Broken Ministries: www.bebroken.org/wivescareLifter of My Head Coaching: www.lifterofmyhead.orgConnect with Us:www.watermarkcoach.com@watermarkcoachingThank you for listening! Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review our podcast to stay updated on future episodes and help others find the hope and support they deserve.Sponsored by and produced with the support of www.purelifealliance.com

How much truth is too much truth? What if you feel ready for disclosure, but your partner doesn't? What’s the actual goal of a therapeutic disclosure—and how do you know when you’re ready?In this episode, we sit down with Dan Drake, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and expert in betrayal trauma and sex addiction recovery. Dan unpacks the basics of therapeutic disclosure, a structured process where the full truth of sexual betrayal is disclosed in a safe, supported setting. He shares the potential risks and profound benefits of doing disclosure correctly, and clears up common misconceptions, especially among the men preparing to disclose and the women bracing for impact.Whether you’re just beginning the recovery process or preparing for a formal disclosure, this conversation offers compassionate guidance, clinical insight, and hope for deeper healing on the other side of the truth.About Our Guest: Dan Drake, LMFT, LPCC, CCPS-S, CSAT-S, is the founder of The Banyan Group, a therapy and coaching practice specializing in betrayal trauma, compulsive sexual behavior, and couples recovery. With over 20 years of clinical experience, Dan is widely respected for his work helping couples rebuild trust through the process of therapeutic disclosure and long-term recovery. Learn more about Dan’s work at www.thebanyangroup.org.Key Topics Discussed:What is therapeutic disclosure, and why does it matter?How do you know if you're ready for a disclosure (as the betrayed or the betrayer)?What role does the polygraph play in disclosure, and when is it helpful?Why disclosure isn't just a one-time confession but a step toward rebuilding trustCommon misunderstandings men and women bring into the processTips for doing disclosure remotely, safely, and with good aftercareA powerful final encouragement from Dan for both spouses on the healing pathConnect with Us:🌐 www.watermarkcoach.com🎙️ Betrayal Recovery Transformation Podcast📸 Instagram: @watermarkcoaching🔍 Looking for a trained guide to walk you through disclosure? Visit Kintsugi Recovery Partners and explore the Find a Guide section for professionals trained in Dan and Dr. Janice Caudill’s disclosure process.Sponsored by Pure Life Alliance

Pornography addiction is one of the most misunderstood struggles in the church today, often shrouded in shame and secrecy. Sam Black, Director of Recovery Education at Covenant Eyes and author of The Healing Church: What Churches Get Wrong About Pornography and How to Fix It, joins us to share how real freedom comes through accountability, grace, and informed support. Drawing from his journalism background and over 70 interviews with pastors, counselors, and people in recovery, Sam offers practical wisdom for churches, couples, and individuals navigating the path to healing.Key Takeaways:How Covenant Eyes Works – Sam explains how the software uses screen accountability and ally relationships to help individuals break free from pornography.What Makes Accountability Effective – Data shows accountability is most potent when allies are engaged, supportive, and focused on deeper heart change—not just behavior monitoring.Support for Spouses—Sam offers compassionate advice for wives who hope software will cure them, emphasizing that while it's a helpful tool, healing requires a broader process of trust-building and recovery.What Churches Get Wrong – Drawing from The Healing Church, Sam reveals common missteps ministry leaders make—like placing blame on spouses or assuming more sex will “fix” the problem—and how to shift toward grace-filled support.The Power of Collaboration: Sam shares why he invited Dr. Sheri Keffer to author a chapter in his book, emphasizing the importance of including voices from the betrayal trauma community in the healing process.Resources Mentioned:Covenant EyesThe Healing Church by Sam BlackAllied: Fighting Porn with Accountability, Faith, and Friends – Free eBookConnect with Sam Black:LinkedInRead Sam’s Articles at Covenant EyesConnect with Us!👉 Watermark Coaching👉 Follow us on Instagram: @WatermarkCoaching🌟 Thank you for listening! Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review The Betrayal Recovery Transformation Podcast. Your feedback helps us grow and ensures more people can find the hope and support they deserve.This podcast is sponsored by and produced with the support of Pure Life Alliance.

In this episode, we welcome Hope Ray, a Licensed Professional Counselor who coined Betrayal Violence. Hope is a leader in the field of betrayal trauma, offering deep insights into the effects of secrecy, deception, and relational power imbalances. She is also the creator of Complex Partner Trauma magazine, available on Amazon, which provides resources and support for betrayed partners.Throughout our conversation, we dive into Reality Collapse, the disorientation that betrayed partners experience, and explore how betrayal violence impacts healing and recovery. Hope shares her expertise on recognizing and navigating these complex emotional experiences, helping listeners regain clarity and reclaim their sense of reality.Key Takeaways from the Episode:🔹 Understanding Reality Collapse – Hope explains what Reality Collapse is, why it occurs, and how often a betrayed partner might experience it.🔹 Identifying Reality Collapse – We discuss the key signs that indicate someone is experiencing a Reality Collapse and how it can distort their perception of past and present experiences.🔹 Betrayal Violence and Its Effects – Hope unpacks how betrayal violence exacerbates trauma and why it’s essential to recognize its impact.🔹 Endangerment in Betrayal Trauma – What does endangerment mean in the context of betrayal trauma? Hope explains how betrayed partners can assess and safeguard their emotional and physical well-being.🔹 Processing Betrayal and Reality Collapse – Hope shares how Reality Collapse affects a betrayed partner's ability to process their experiences and the symptoms that indicate they may be struggling.🔹 Steps Toward Healing and Reclaiming Reality – Practical strategies for those who have experienced Reality Collapse, including steps to rebuild trust in themselves and their perceptions.Connect with Us:👉 Website: hoperay.com👉 Watermark Coaching👉 Follow us on Instagram: @WatermarkCoaching🌟 Thank you for listening! Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review The Betrayal Recovery Transformation Podcast. Your feedback helps us grow and ensures more people can find the hope and support they deserve.This podcast is sponsored by and produced with the support of Pure Life Alliance.

We’re excited to welcome Dr. Laura Sanger back to The Betrayal Recovery Transformation Podcast! Dr. Sanger’s first episode remains the top fan favorite, and we are thrilled to have her return with another timely and profound message—this time focusing on rest, just in time for the holiday season.Dr. Sanger is a clinical psychologist, author, and the founder of No Longer Enslaved (www.nolongerenslaved.com), where she equips individuals to live free in their God-given identity, authority, and purpose.In this episode, we explore: 🌟 What is the importance of entering into Sabbath Rest? Dr. Sanger shares how Sabbath rest is more than physical; it’s a spiritual posture of trust and renewal.🌟 What are the redemptive gifts of Romans 12? We dive into the unique ways God has wired us to bring His light into the world.🌟 What does it mean to walk in dominion authority? Learn what it looks like to walk confidently in the birthright authority Christ has given us.This discussion is packed with insight, encouragement, and practical applications for embracing rest, stepping into your gifts, and walking in victory.Why this episode matters: As we approach Christmas, the message of entering into God’s rest couldn’t be more relevant. Whether navigating life’s busyness, recovering from betrayal, or simply seeking a deeper relationship with God, this episode will inspire and equip you.Connect with Us:👉 No Longer Enslaved👉 Watermark Coaching👉 Follow us on Instagram: @WatermarkCoaching🌟 Thank you for listening! Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review The Betrayal Recovery Transformation Podcast. Your feedback helps us grow and ensures more people can find the hope and support they deserve.This podcast is proudly sponsored by and produced with the support of Pure Life Alliance.

We are thrilled to welcome Elizabeth Abbruzza, the Co-Founder and Clinical Director of the Bellevue Trauma Recovery Center, to the podcast. With a deep focus on relational trauma and betrayal, Elizabeth shares her expertise and details about the impactful Resilience Through Betrayal (RTB) intensives offered at her center. About Elizabeth Abbruzza: Elizabeth holds a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Gonzaga University and specializes in addressing relational trauma, sex addiction, and problematic sexual behaviors. As a primary therapist for the Resilience Through Betrayal intensives, she empowers individuals to navigate healing after betrayal, offering therapeutic expertise and compassionate care.Key Highlights:Origins of RTB Intensive: Elizabeth explains how the Resilience Through Betrayal program was developed to provide a focused and immersive approach for individuals dealing with betrayal trauma.Daily Structure: Learn what a typical day at RTB intensives entails, including how sessions are structured to balance therapeutic work with emotional well-being.Immediate Client Needs: Discover the importance of creating safety and validation for participants at the beginning of the intensive.Desired Outcomes: Elizabeth outlines the program's goals, which include fostering resilience, self-compassion, and emotional healing.Preventing Overload: Insights are shared on how participants are supported to avoid feeling overwhelmed while engaging in deep therapeutic work.Emotional Transformation Therapy (ETT): In the final section, Elizabeth introduces Emotional Transformation Therapy (ETT), a promising method that fosters healing by addressing deep emotional wounds. This engaging conversation offers hope and new possibilities for recovery.Connect with Us:Elizabeth Abbruzza: Bellevue Trauma Recovery CenterWatermark CoachHealing with the HowiesFollow us on Instagram: @WatermarkCoachingThank you for listening! Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review our podcast to stay updated on future episodes and help others find the help and support they deserve. 🌟This podcast is sponsored by and produced with the support of www.purelifealliance.com

In this episode, we welcome Diane Schnickels, founder of Living Waters of Hope and a dedicated advocate for survivors of domestic abuse. Diane brings her extensive experience and compassionate approach to discuss when sex addiction crosses the line into abuse. She has developed crucial resources like the Oasis Bible Study and the Hope Giver Essentials training program, empowering women to heal and reclaim their lives. Today, Diane shares her insights on recognizing the signs of abuse related to sex addiction and provides valuable guidance on supporting those affected.Key Highlights:Deceit and Betrayal: Repeated lying and secretive behavior that creates mistrust.Emotional Manipulation: Gaslighting and minimizing actions that distort reality.Neglect and Abandonment: The emotional neglect caused by prioritizing addiction over the relationship.Sexual Coercion or Pressure: The importance of consent and respecting boundaries.Financial Exploitation: Misuse of joint finances for addiction-related expenses.Exposure to STDs: Health risks posed by undisclosed risky sexual behaviors.Impact on Mental Health: Anxiety, depression, and PTSD as consequences of dealing with a partner's sex addiction.Connect with Us:Living Waters of HopeVisit our website: Watermark CoachFollow us on Instagram: @WatermarkCoachingThank you for listening! Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review our podcast to stay updated on future episodes and help others find the help and support they deserve. 🌟Produced and edited by Kris Rocha & Jeremy WaldridgeThis podcast is sponsored by and produced with the support of www.purelifealliance.com

Welcome to the 20th episode of The Betrayal Recovery Transformation Podcast! This is a significant milestone for us, and we're thrilled to celebrate it with a special guest, Debby Flanagan. Debby is a clinician with Pure Desire Ministries, where she serves as a Pastoral Sex Addiction Professional. She holds a Bachelor's degree from Corban University and has an Advanced Certification through the International Institute for Trauma and Addiction Professionals (IITAP). Debby is dedicated to helping individuals who are struggling with sexual and emotional issues, guiding them through their healing journey with compassion and expertise.Episode Description: In this milestone episode, we dive deep into the topic of trauma with Debby Flanagan. Debby shares her profound knowledge of trauma, how it affects our brain and body, and its impacts on our relationships. She also discusses common signs and symptoms of trauma, how to recognize it within ourselves, practical strategies for recovery, and ways to support someone who is dealing with trauma.Key Highlights:Understanding Trauma:Debby explains what trauma is and the different forms it can take. She provides insights into how trauma can stem from various sources and how it manifests in our lives.Effects on Brain and Body:Learn about the physiological and psychological impacts of trauma. Debby discusses how trauma affects brain function, the nervous system, and overall physical health.Impacts on Relationships:Discover how trauma can influence our interactions and relationships. Debby highlights the challenges and dynamics that trauma introduces into personal and interpersonal connections.Common Signs and Symptoms:Debby outlines the typical signs and symptoms of trauma, helping listeners to identify these in themselves or others. Understanding these indicators is crucial for initiating the healing process.Recognizing Trauma Within Ourselves:Debby shares strategies for self-awareness and self-reflection to recognize trauma within ourselves. She emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and validating our experiences.Practical Strategies for Recovery:Gain practical advice and tools for trauma recovery. Debby discusses therapeutic approaches, self-care practices, and coping mechanisms that can aid in the healing journey.Supporting Someone with Trauma:Learn how to support someone who is dealing with trauma effectively. Debby guides by offering empathy, creating a safe space, and encouraging professional help.Connect with Us:Visit our website: Watermark CoachFollow us on Instagram: @WatermarkCoachingThank you for listening! Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review our podcast to stay updated on future episodes. 🌟Produced by: Kris RochaEdited by: Jeremy WaldrigeThis podcast is produced with the support of: www.purelifealliance.com