94: Healing from a marriage to a toxic or narcissistic person with Rachael Dunkel
It’s been a long time since I’ve had a guest on the show and this is a guest I will be inviting back for sure. Join me for this conversation with Rachael Dunkel - Therapist turned Trauma informed Divorce Coach.
Today we talk about the healing journey when divorcing someone with a personality disorder.
People often attach labels to their exes describing them as toxic, narcissistic etc. And while of course there are some that this is appropriate for, these terms are being overused. And the danger is that we fall victim to the term and the narrative that goes with divorcing someone like that.
Ultimately our goal is healing and in order to do this in an effective way, we are better off focusing on the behaviours that we need to heal from. For example gaslighting and infidelity and other forms of betrayal. The label itself helps explain behaviour, but it is the behaviour we need to heal from.
Some of the questions I asked Rachael in the show today:
- Difference between coach and therapist and how they can both be instrumental in the healing journey.
- Understanding the difference between focusing on the labels of high conflict and narcissistic exes versus the behaviour we need to heal from.
LINKS MENTIONED AND MORE:
⭐️ Join our 2025 retreat in Costa Rica, Feb. 22 - March 1, 2025 https://www.theseparationclub.com/costa-rica-retreat
⭐️ Our first retreat at Oodles Resort in Spain promises to be oodles of fun - sorry - couldn’t resist. But all that to say that this is one incredible beautiful place that I can’t wait to visit with.. You? And other Rising Moon Sisters. Link to book and learn more: https://www.theseparationclub.com/spain2025
⭐️ Kickstart your healing with the brand new JOY JOURNAL: https://www.theseparationclub.com/the-joy-journal
⭐️ I would love to work with you towards your healing, self-discovery and in creating your new life. Working with a coach is a great way to discover your purpose, your path forward while gaining clarity on your beliefs and core values. I have openings in my calendar for some new clients. https://www.theseparationclub.com/coaching
⭐️ You can also set up a discovery call with me. It's free and an opportunity for us to get to know each other. Here is a link to my Calendar so you can book something that is convenient for you: https://calendly.com/elisabethparsons/discovery-call
⭐️ Also make sure to download the Free Separation Checklist: https://theseparationclub.com/separation-checklist
⭐️ Join the private and free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/theseparationclub/
⭐️ You can also find me on Instagram @elisabethjoy444 where I share daily inspirations and tips as you navigate your divorce. And the brand new Instagram account for The Joy Journal: @thejoyjournal444
