The Healing Trauma Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Mother Hunger with Kelly McDaniel Mar 13, 2026

Show notes

In this replay conversation, psychotherapist Kelly McDaniel discusses her book 'Mother Hunger,' which explores the deep emotional needs for maternal love and the impact of unmet needs on women's lives. She explains the concept of mother hunger, the essential needs from a mother, and how these needs shape our relationships and emotional well-being. The discussion also delves into the effects of frightening mothers, the connection between food and love, and the importance of finding a compassionate witness for healing.

Kelly's Book: Mother Hunger: How Adult Daughters Can Understand and Heal from Lost Nurturance, Protection, and Guidance

https://amzn.to/40OFI1d

Website: https://kellymcdanieltherapy.com/

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.
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The Impact of Early Attachments on Relationships With Melissa Callahan Feb 27, 2026

Show notes

In this replay conversation, licensed marriage and family therapist Melissa Callahan discusses the profound impact of early attachment experiences on adult relationships. She explains attachment theory, the different attachment styles, and how early trauma can shape our perceptions of safety and trust in relationships. The discussion emphasizes the importance of creating emotional safety, understanding one's own patterns, and the journey of healing and resilience in fostering healthier relationships.

Attachment theory explains how early bonds affect adult relationships.

Attachment styles can be seen as threat mitigation systems.

Trust issues in adulthood often stem from childhood experiences.

Anxious and avoidant attachment styles often attract each other.

Understanding your attachment style can improve relationship dynamics.

Early trauma influences our ability to trust others.

Creating safety in relationships requires vulnerability and communication.

Repairing relationships after conflict is essential for security.

Healing from attachment wounds takes time and effort.

Resilience is often found through supportive relationships.

Books mentioned: Attached

https://amzn.to/4r6Pfvn

https://www.instagram.com/callahantherapy/

Parenting After Childhood Trauma With Cath Counihan Feb 13, 2026

Show notes

In this replay conversation, psychotherapist Cath Counihan and Monique delve into the complexities of parenting when one has experienced childhood trauma. They discuss the challenges of emotional regulation, the impact of trauma adaptations, and the importance of self-compassion in navigating parenthood. The conversation emphasizes the need for understanding one's own trauma history to better support children and highlights the messiness of parenting as a shared human experience.

Books Mentioned:

Burnout: The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle

https://amzn.to/4qGtrq1

Healing the Fragmented Selves of Trauma Survivors: Overcoming Internal Self-Alienation by Janina Fisher

https://amzn.to/4rRJkey

Transforming The Living Legacy of Trauma: A Workbook for Survivors and Therapists by Janina Fisher

https://amzn.to/3ZWmIxD

Cath's website & podcast : https://www.cathcounihan.com

/https://www.cathcounihan.com/grow-yourself-up

Trauma & Stress Responses With Rebekkah LaDyne Jan 31, 2026

Show notes

In this replay conversation, host Monique Koven interviews Rebekkah LaDyne, a somatic therapist and author about her book 'The Mind Body Stress Reset.' They discuss the importance of somatic practices in managing extreme stress and trauma, emphasizing the body-mind connection. Rebecca shares her personal journey and the development of self-administered somatic tools that can help individuals navigate their stress responses and build resilience. The conversation highlights the need for accessible mental health resources and the significance of understanding trauma's impact on stress responses.

takeaways

Somatic therapy focuses on the body-mind connection.
Extreme stress responses require different coping strategies.
Cognitive reframing is less effective for high-stress events.
Self-administered somatic tools can be highly effective.
Resilience pathways help individuals recover from stress.
Trauma can reset our baseline stress levels.
Building resilience pathways is essential for recovery.
Accessible mental health resources are crucial for everyone.
Mindfulness practices should be adapted to individual needs.
Understanding trauma helps in managing stress responses.

Book: The Mind-Body Stress Reset: Somatic Practices to Reduce Overwhelm and Increase Well-Being

https://amzn.to/4c4Ph2R

https://www.rebekkahladyne.com/

The Hidden Impact of Parentification With Dr. Alison Cook Jan 17, 2026

Show notes

*This new season of the HTP podcast will be a slowing down with an offering of older (replay) episodes from previous seasons.

In this conversation, Monique Koven and psychologist and author Allison Cook delve into the concept of parentification, where children take on adult responsibilities, leading to significant emotional and relational challenges in adulthood. They explore the effects of parentification on self-esteem, boundaries, and the ability to form healthy relationships. The discussion emphasizes the importance of recognizing these patterns, setting boundaries with parents, and navigating the complexities of caring for aging parents. They also touch on the healing process, dealing with guilt, and breaking the cycle of unhealthy family dynamics.

takeaways

Parentification involves a role reversal where children care for their parents.
This phenomenon can lead to long-term emotional and relational issues.
Children may feel overly responsible for their parents' needs.
Setting healthy boundaries with parents is crucial for emotional well-being.
Recognizing signs of guilt and manipulation from parents is important.
Healing from parentification involves reparenting oneself.
It's essential to negotiate responsibilities towards aging parents.
Creating safe spaces and support systems can aid in healing.
Understanding false guilt can help in breaking unhealthy cycles.
Open communication with children fosters healthier relationships.

Dr. Alison Cook's Books, Website & Podcast

I Shouldn't Feel This Way: Name What’s Hard, Tame Your Guilt, and Transform Self-Sabotage into Brave Actionhttps://amzn.to/4jLAeNz

Boundaries for Your Soul: How to Turn Your Overwhelming Thoughts and Feelings into Your Greatest Allies https://amzn.to/3ZeIY5g

The Best of You: Break Free from Painful Patterns, Mend Your Past, and Discover Your True Self in God https://amzn.to/4jNPLMH

https://www.dralisoncook.com/

https://www.dralisoncook.com/podcast

Healing After Betrayal Trauma With Tammy Gustafson Dec 31, 2025

Show notes

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.

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 Betrayal

https://amzn.to/4s5bZh0

website:https://tammygustafson.com/betrayal-healing/

https://www.instagram.com/tammylgustafson/

A Therapist's Journey Of Discovering Complex Trauma With Esther Schwarz Dec 17, 2025

Show notes

*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/

Honoring Your Story With Dr. Dan Allender Dec 05, 2025

Show notes

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/

Guest Host: Dr. Mark McNear

https://www.instagram.com/drmarkmcnear/

Understanding Developmental Trauma With Mily Gomez Nov 27, 2025

Show notes

*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/

Your Pain Has A Name: A Journey to Healing with Monica DiCristina Nov 15, 2025

Show notes

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