You Are Not Crazy

When Betrayal Breaks Your Sense of Self

Jessica Knight Episode 178

I share the story of a client—“Amanda”—who experienced a devastating betrayal that shattered not only her relationship but her trust in herself. What began as a hopeful, grounded connection turned into a traumatic discovery of infidelity and deception. Jessica walks through the emotional aftermath: the gaslighting, the physical symptoms of grief, the shame survivors often carry, and the slow, painful realization that you're not just grieving a person—you’re grieving the version of yourself who believed you were safe.

This episode is for anyone who has asked:
How did I not see it?
Why do I still miss them?
What happened to the future I thought I was building?

Topics covered:

  • How betrayal impacts your nervous system
  • The grief of losing not just a partner, but your reality
  • What trauma bonding really feels like
  • The shame cycle survivors fall into
  • How to begin rebuilding your trust in yourself

Support the show

Website: Emotional Abuse Coach and high-conflictdivorcecoaching.com
Instagram: @emotionalabusecoach
Email: jessica@jessicaknightcoaching.com

{Substack} Blog About Recovering from Abuse


{E-Book} How to Break Up with a Narcissist
{Course} Identify Signs of Abuse and Begin to Heal
{Free Resource} Canned Responses for Engaging with an Abusive Partner

People on this episode