Conversations on Sex, Addiction, and Relationships

Healing From Sexual Betrayal with Dr. Barbara Steffens, PhD, BCC, CCPS, CPC

Today, we are thrilled to host Barbara Steffens, a trailblazer in betrayal trauma research. Barbara shares her groundbreaking PhD study, which revealed that nearly 70% of betrayed partners met the criteria for PTSD. Discover how her work has reshaped the understanding of betrayal trauma and the treatment of affected partners. Don't miss this insightful discussion with a true pioneer in the field.

Quick Conversations: How Is Trauma Recognized In Betrayed Partners with Dr. Barbara Steffens, PhD, BCC, CCPS, CPC

In this video, we explore the early days of recognizing trauma in betrayed partners, particularly focusing on the impact of infidelity. Dr. Barbara Steffens shares her journey, highlighting the anxiety and determination she felt while presenting their groundbreaking work around 2006-2008. Stay tuned for our upcoming full-length video soon.

Quick Conversations: What Happens To Partners Who Were Betrayed & Experience Trauma with Dr. Barbara Steffens, PhD, BCC, CCPS, CPC

In our latest episode, we speak on the groundbreaking PhD study that explores whether partners who were betrayed experienced trauma and to what degree. With a background in trauma and crisis intervention, we discuss with Dr. Barbara Steffens, PhD, BCC, CCPS, CPC, a researcher set out to understand this dynamic beyond the traditional labels of co-addiction and codependency. Stay tuned for our full episode.

Conversations: Betrayal Violence with Hope Raye

Welcome to Conversations on Sex, Addiction, and Relationships with Dan Drake and guests Wendy Conquest, Jeannie Vittone, and Tim Stein. Today, they delve into the challenging topic of betrayal violence with therapist and magazine creator Hope Ray. Hope introduces the concept, defining betrayal violence as a complex dynamic involving secrecy, repeated fidelity violations, and abusive behavior.

Quick Conversations: Men Support Groups

In this insightful conversation, Hope Ray discusses her work with men in a support group called Getting Dire Straight, where they delve into sensitive topics like male entitlement and misogyny.

Quick Conversations: What are the dynamics of relationships affected by addiction and betrayal?

In this episode, we speak with special guest Hope Ray on the dynamics of power and control in relationships affected by addiction and betrayal. We discuss how withholding essential information creates a power imbalance and restricts a partner's agency, ultimately leading to exploitation and harm. The conversation emphasizes the importance of transparency and informed consent in rebuilding trust and fostering healthy relationships post-recovery.

Conversations: Dating After A Break Up

In this episode of Conversations on Sex, Addiction, and Relationships, we discuss the topic of dating for partners after a relationship ends. We explore the challenges faced by partners when relationships don't work out, emphasizing the lack of conversation and support for those navigating life after a breakup or divorce.

Quick Conversations: Why Is It Important To Have A Support System In The Dating Scene?

In this discussion, we delve into offering guidance for betrayed partners re-entering the dating scene post-recovery. We emphasize the importance of building a supportive social network before diving into dating. Self-exploration and identity formation are key steps to feeling confident and secure before seeking new relationships. Instead of viewing trust and safety as binary, we encourage seeing them as degrees, allowing for gradual progress.

Quick Conversations: Betrayed Partners & Dating Scene Post-Recovery

In this discussion, we explore the challenges of readiness and intimacy for betrayed partners entering the dating scene post-recovery. We challenge the cultural pressure to rush into sexual encounters and advocate for a more deliberate approach to building emotional connections. By reframing the question to focus on compatibility and emotional safety, we highlight the importance of self-awareness and setting boundaries.

Quick Conversations: What happens when partners end a relationship with a partner with addiction?

In this heartfelt discussion, we delve into the challenges partners face when deciding to end a relationship affected by addiction and trauma. We explore the complex emotions of sadness, relief, fear, and excitement that accompany this decision, highlighting the importance of acknowledging and processing grief and loss. 

 

The conversation emphasizes the significance of trauma healing and self-discovery as essential steps towards embracing empowerment and vulnerability in new relationships.