Choose To Be with Choose Recovery Services; Betrayal Trauma Healing - podcast cover

Choose To Be with Choose Recovery Services; Betrayal Trauma Healing

Choose Recovery Services - Alana Gordon and Amie Woolseywww.chooserecoveryservices.com
Choose To Be is focused on women healing from infidelity, and betrayal trauma. We are committed to helping women heal. Be a part of the conversation as we interview experts and others who have gone through this journey and gain tools to help you move forward. Alana and Amie bring their own experiences to the conversation, and their individual expertise makes for a unique and valuable resource. Alana Gordon-LMFT, CCPS, CSAT candidate, Betrayal Coach Amie Woolsey-Betrayal Coach, CPC, ELI-MP, APSATS trainee For more information: ChooseRecoveryServices.com | info@chooserecoveryservices.com
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Episodes

Why Are We Afraid to See Abuse?

Is your relationship leaving you feeling confused and hurt? This week, Alana explores subtle and overt forms of abuse, emotional turmoil, and the challenges of recognizing harmful patterns. Listen to learn: How to recognize different forms of abuse Why it's hard to accept abuse Practical steps for beginning the process of healing from abuse Register Now! Revive and Thrive Women’s Intensive - Join us for a transformative four-day somatic healing intensive for women carrying trauma and tension in ...

Jul 08, 202521 min

Finding Strength After Betrayal - with Isy Williams

This week Amie welcomes Isy Williams to the podcast! Isy is a coach with Choose Recovery Services. She has a background in sociology and counseling and has personal experience with betrayal trauma and recovery. Isy shares her journey from the devastating early stages of discovery to finding new strength and resilience on the other side of trauma. She offers hope to those wondering what life after betrayal can look like showing that it’s possible to find new strength, rediscover lost parts of you...

Jul 01, 202545 min

Can My Partner Help Me Heal Or Am I On My Own?

Are you confused about whether your partner can help you in your healing journey or if you need to do it alone? This powerful episode breaks down the myth that it's an either/or situation. Alana and her guest Luke Gordon (Executive Director of Choose Recovery Services and host of the Beyond the Facade podcast) dive deep into the three essential ways partners can support healing—emotional availability, accountability, and co-regulation—while exploring why ultimate responsibility for healing must ...

Jun 24, 202532 min

Is Your Patience Being Honored or Exploited?

Are you struggling with patience in your recovery journey? This week Amie and Alana delve into the nuanced concept of patience, its role in healing from betrayal, and how to cultivate it healthily. Learn to balance patience with reality, recognize unhealthy patterns, and empower yourself to know when your patience is being honored and when it’s not. Register Now! Should I Stay Or Go? Struggling with whether to stay in your relationship or leave? Amie’s self-paced, step-by-step course helps you w...

Jun 17, 202532 min

Grieving Together: The Missing Step in Relationship Healing After Betrayal

How do couples navigate shared grief and rebuild their relationship after betrayal? This week Amie and Alana explore the phases of healing, particularly focusing on shared grief in Phase Two. Listen in as Alana shares a personal example of shared grief in her life, and learn how grieving together can create greater empathy, emotional stability, and a stronger partnership. Register Now! Believing in You - In this program Amie teaches you how to work WITH your brain instead of against it. Learn to...

Jun 10, 202529 min

Grief, Betrayal, and the Hard Work of Acceptance

Are you struggling with acceptance in your grief journey? This week Amie and Alana delve into the often-overlooked, cyclical nature of acceptance when it comes to betrayal trauma. Listen in as they share personal stories and practical advice on learning to face reality, validate your experiences, and ultimately, return to a place of self-trust. Mentioned in the episode: On Grief and Grieving by Elisabeth Kübler-Ross and David Kessler Coming up! Help Her Heal Men’s Intensive - This immersive inte...

Jun 03, 202525 min

Fear of Grief Overwhelm

Are you struggling with the overwhelming emotions of grief? In this episode, Amie and Alana dive deep into the complexities of grief and explore practical strategies to manage its intensity. They discuss the importance of grounding techniques, pacing oneself, and the dual awareness concept to navigate through grief in a healthy and balanced way. Listen in for insightful advice on moving forward without drowning in your emotions. Coming up! Help Her Heal Men’s Intensive - This immersive intensive...

May 27, 202536 min

The Hidden Faces of Grief After Betrayal

Have you ever felt like grief is more complicated than it seems? This week Amie and Alana delve into the hidden aspects of grief, especially when it comes from betrayal. From mourning the future you envisioned to grieving the loss of self and delayed grief, we explore the intricacies of each. Learn how to recognize these overlooked pieces and find validation on your healing journey. Referenced in this episode: Reality Collapse and Reality Fragmentation - past podcast episode Coming up! Heal the ...

May 20, 202531 min

Going Beyond Traditional Therapy - with Akary Busto

Have you ever wondered if true healing is possible after trauma? This week, join us as Akary (Emotional Biohacker and founder of Uhkare Mind Body Soul ) shares her transformative journey from corporate stress to understanding the interconnectedness of mind, body, and soul. Learn about the significance of nervous system regulation, the power of breathwork, and how to rebuild your foundation after betrayal. Dive into a holistic approach to healing that offers hope and deep internal bliss. Connect ...

May 13, 202540 min

How to Handle Ruminating Thoughts

Are you stuck replaying painful memories and wondering how to find peace? In this episode, Amie uncovers why rumination happens and how it serves as a protective mechanism for the mind. Discover practical tools to break free from its grip, validate your emotions, and reclaim your present. Book a session with Amie to learn how Brainspotting can support you on your healing journey. Coming up! ⁠Unmasked: Paths to Authentic Masculinity for Men⁠⁠ - This is a four-day in-person intensive designed to h...

May 06, 202512 min

Being With Your Anger - with Bronwyn Schweigerdt

This week we are pleased to welcome Bronwyn Schweigerdt, a psychotherapist and anger expert, who explores the intricate relationship between anger and shame. Through personal stories and practical exercises, discover the health impacts of suppressed anger and how to develop a healthier relationship with your emotions. Connect with Bronwyn through her website , podcast ( Angry at the Right Things ), or YouTube channel. Coming up! ⁠Unmasked: Paths to Authentic Masculinity for Men⁠⁠ - This is a fou...

Apr 29, 202545 min

Not All Therapy is Created Equal: Betrayal Needs a Different Approach

Are you unsure about the type of therapy you need after betrayal? Join Amie and Alana this week as they discuss the critical differences between traditional marriage therapy and affair recovery support. Discover why it’s essential to have a therapist who is trained in betrayal trauma and learn how to find the right therapeutic path for healing. Coming up! ⁠Unmasked: Paths to Authentic Masculinity for Men⁠⁠ - This is a four-day in-person intensive designed to help men delve deep into understandin...

Apr 22, 202533 min

The Pitfalls of Making Your Partner's Reality Your Truth

(Keep listening at 18:04 to hear about our NEW scholarship program. Email us at info@chooserecoveryservices.com to learn more!) Are you struggling to trust your own reality in a relationship? In this powerful episode, Alana explores how we sometimes abandon our truth to align with our partner’s version of reality, when dealing with betrayal trauma. Understand why this happens and learn practical strategies to reclaim your inner knowing. If you’ve ever felt foggy, confused, or crazy after convers...

Apr 15, 202540 min

When the Healer is Hurting: Balancing Your Healing While Holding Space for Others

Are you a therapist or coach balancing your own pain while also tending to your clients' needs? In this special bonus episode Alana explores the complexities of healing while helping others. Tune in and learn how to maintain boundaries, avoid burnout, and embrace your humanity in this challenging dual role. Also, learn more about our upcoming intensive that is just for YOU! Join us June 12th-15th in Mapleton, UT for our exclusive Heal the Healer retreat . This isn't another workshop demanding yo...

Apr 10, 202530 min

Partner, Not Parent: Healthy Ways to Support a Betraying Spouse

Do you struggle with balancing support versus enabling your partner in your relationship? This week, Amie and Alana clarify how betrayed partners can differentiate between supporting their partner's recovery and over-functioning to their own detriment. They offer insights on how to establish healthy boundaries, seek individual support, and foster genuine healing for both partners. Discover practical advice for maintaining your autonomy while truly supporting your loved one. Register Now! Courage...

Apr 08, 202530 min

Stuck is Not Your Story: How to Keep Moving Forward in Healing From Betrayal and Infidelity

Feeling stuck in your healing journey? This week, Alana dives into how to recognize stagnation and regain momentum. Learn the five signs that indicate you might be stuck and discover actionable steps to reassess and realign your support systems. Embark on a path of empowered action and somatic healing to continue moving forward in your recovery. Register Now! Courage to Thrive Intensive - This in-person intensive is designed specifically for women who have experienced the deep pain of betrayal a...

Apr 01, 202525 min

Using Healing Tools Against Yourself; Believe Your Body

Ever feel like your body is working against you after experiencing betrayal? This week Amie discusses the importance of listening to your body's signals and believing its wisdom. Discover how to stop using therapeutic tools to bypass your feelings and start truly honoring your body's messages for genuine healing and empowerment. Learn how to turn your body from a perceived enemy into a trusted guide on your path to recovery. Register Now! The Body Awakened: A Brainspotting Journey to Healing - J...

Mar 25, 202533 min

Untangling Your Worth: Reclaiming Your Value After Betrayal

Have you ever felt lost or questioned your value after experiencing a betrayal? Join Amie and Alana as they unpack the profound impact of betrayal on self-worth and identity, sharing personal stories and providing insights to reclaim your sense of self. Learn how to navigate the complex layers of trauma, heal from within, and build a stronger foundation of intrinsic worth and value. Register Now! The Body Awakened: A Brainspotting Journey to Healing - Join Amie for a three-day, in-person intensi...

Mar 18, 202536 min

Red Flags in Betrayal

Are you navigating the painful journey of betrayal and struggling to identify red flags in your relationship? Join us as we discuss common warning signs that a betrayed partner should watch for and how to understand them. Learn the importance of earned trust, emotional accountability, and why your healing journey matters. Plus, discover our upcoming events aimed at helping you reclaim your power and move towards transformation. Referenced in this episode: Deconstructing Gaslighting with Sarah Mo...

Mar 11, 202527 min

Unlock Deep Healing with Parts Work

Have you ever felt like a part of you is holding you back? This week Luke Gordon (coach and co-founder of Choose Recovery Services and host of the Beyond the Facade podcast) joins Alana, and together they explore the transformative journey of parts work and the power of self-acceptance in healing. Luke courageously shares his own story of how understanding his protective parts led to breakthrough moments in his recovery. Discover powerful insights on acknowledging and understanding the different...

Mar 07, 202525 min

Full Disclosure - A Step to Healing, Not a Shortcut to Trust

Why is a full disclosure one of the most feared yet vital steps in recovery? This episode dives into the misconceptions about full disclosure, its importance in rebuilding trust, and why it’s just the beginning of deeper healing and connection. Learn how full transparency lays the foundation for trust and allows both partners to move forward authentically. Want to learn more about full disclosures? Listen to our seven-part series: Part 1 , Part 2 , Part 3 , Part 4, Part 5 , Part 6 , Part 7 . Get...

Mar 04, 202516 min

Breaking Through Denial

This week Alana joins Luke Gordon on his podcast, Beyond the Facade , as they explore the crucial first step in overcoming compulsive behavior: breaking through denial. Learn about the importance of accepting feedback, taking responsibility, and facing discomfort to become your true self and transform your relationships. Intensive for Couples: Rebuilding Us: A Path to Deeper Connection - Register by 2/28/25 and use the promo code rebuildus500 for $500 off! This four-day intensive is for couples ...

Feb 25, 202539 min

Breaking Free from Hypervigilance - How to Let Go After Betrayal (Without Losing Yourself)

Are you trapped in a cycle of anxiety and hypervigilance due to betrayal trauma? Join Amie as she dives into understanding hypervigilance and its deep-rooted impacts on your mental and physical health. Learn practical strategies to let go, build self-trust, and find peace within yourself. Explore how to shift from control to curiosity and soothe your nervous system in the path towards healing. Register Now! Believing in You - Amie teaches you how to work WITH your brain instead of against it. Le...

Feb 18, 202530 min

Healing the Whole Body Through Brainspotting

Did you know Choose Recovery offers free monthly webinars ? This week we are replaying the January webinar which explores the powerful world of somatic healing and Brainspotting. Discover how these therapeutic techniques can transform your recovery journey, manage intrusive thoughts, and enhance your emotional well-being. This episode will enlighten you on the importance of getting into your body and trusting the healing process. The monthly webinar is hosted by Hali Roderick (Choose Recovery Se...

Feb 11, 20251 hr 1 min

BONUS: Rebuilding Us - Navigating Couples Work After Betrayal

When it comes to healing from betrayal, doing the right thing at the wrong time can backfire. Join us for a special podcast bonus episode as Alana and Hali Roderick (Choose Recovery Services coach and co-host of the podcast Choosing to Stay ) discuss the intricacies of couples work post-betrayal. They emphasize the importance of early recovery steps, highlighting the need for safety and stability before diving into deeper relational repair. Listen in to learn about emotional and psychological sa...

Feb 05, 202543 min

Abuse in the Church - Changing the Culture Starts With All of Us

Abuse can happen anywhere - including places that are meant to provide safety. This week Alana welcomes Lisa Compton ( Instagram ) and Taylor Patterson to the podcast. Lisa and Taylor are the authors of the book Skills for Safeguarding . Together they discuss the urgent need for safeguarding in church communities. Learn how faith-based organizations can better prevent abuse and support trauma survivors, challenging common misconceptions about forgiveness, repentance, and healing within religious...

Feb 04, 202551 min

Navigating ADHD and Demand Avoidance in Relationships

This week Luke Gordon joins Alana as he opens up about living with ADHD and demand avoidance. Luke and Alana explore how these dynamics impact their interactions and the steps they take to maintain a balanced and empathetic relationship. This episode offers a real-time glimpse into their ongoing journey individually and relationally of self-awareness, accountability, and mutual support. Luke Gordon is a certified addiction recovery and betrayal trauma coach and co-founder of Choose Recovery Serv...

Jan 28, 202528 min

From Triggered to Grounded: Tools for Managing Betrayal Trauma Triggers

Sometimes it can feel like triggers are overwhelming and impossible to handle. Listen in as Amie and Alana explore triggers - what causes them, why they persist, and most importantly, how to manage them in a healthy way. Together they share their personal experiences with triggers and outline several exercises and tools for emotional regulation that you can implement immediately in your healing journey. Referenced in this episode: Trauma on the Brain and Body - With Jody VanDrimmelen Register No...

Jan 21, 202545 min

Finding Freedom in Boundaries - With Laura Fisher

Do you feel like you’re not doing boundaries “right,” or you worry that your boundaries aren’t working? Join Alana and special guest Laura Fisher (fellow coach at Choose Recovery Services) as they discuss the critical importance of boundaries in recovering from betrayal trauma. Learn about differentiating requests from boundaries, the importance of understanding your personal values, and the empowering effect boundaries can have for both partners. Laura provides insightful analogies and strategi...

Jan 14, 202542 min

The Healing Your Body Holds

What happens in your body when you hear difficult conversations about narcissism, betrayal trauma, and abuse? Join Amie and Alana this week as they address emotionally charged topics and how those topics can trigger strong reactions in both your body and mind. Listen in as they share insights about the importance of paying attention to your body’s responses and as they explain how these natural reactions can actually guide you on your healing journey. Coming Up! Brainspotting Intensive - Join Am...

Jan 07, 202525 min
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