Resources

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Overcoming Abuse

Being in an abusive cycle often left me in state of uncertainty. How could the person I loved treat me so well one day and like trash the next? I thought that things would get better, but each time things seemed to get worse. Was I just imagining it? No, I wasn't and neither are you. The abuser's various manipulation tactics lead to confusion, dependence, and fear. To learn more about the abusive cycle and how to break free from it please refer to the listed resources below.

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Getting Through Divorce

Now on the other side of divorce I realize that so many people struggle with the same financial, emotional, and even spiritual ramifications that action has not only on oneself, but others. Divorce is the loss of more than just a marriage. It is also the loss of the future you imagined with your spouse. No one should struggle with divorce alone. Please see the resources below for further support.

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Understanding Codependency

My codependent tendencies began in childhood as survival mechanisms.  Unfortunately, as an adult codependency lead me into many dysfunctional relationships. In my quest to find love and acceptance I enabled other's unhealthy behaviors and allowed their opinions to define and control me.  Several of the resources listed below will help you better understand codependency and how to stop following it's destructive pattern.

Recovery from Abuse

Books

  • Why Does He Do That? by Lundy Bancroft
  • Your Brain on Love, Sex, and the Narcissist: The Biochemical Bonds that Create an Addiction to Our Abusers  by Shahida Arabi
  • Keeping the Faith: Guidance for Christian Women Facing Abuse by Marie M. Fortune
  • The Emotionally Destructive Marriage  by Leslie Vernick
  • Crazy Love by Leslie Morgan Steiner

Divorce Support

Books

  • It's Not Supposed to Be This Way by Lysa Terkeurst
  • Starting Over: A Step by Step Guide to Help You Rebuild Your Life After a Breakup by Randy Petersen and Tom Whiteman

Online

womansdivorce.com 

focusonthefamily.com 

 

Healthy Dependence

Books

  • Codependent No More by Melody Beattie
  • Boundaries by Dr. Henry Cloud & Dr. John Townsend
  • Changes That Heal by Dr. Henry Cloud
  • Boundaries After a Pathological Relationship by Adelyn Birch

 

Next Steps...

Seeking out professional help from mental health workers such as licensed therapists and counselors has been essential to my healing process. I encourage you to find a local professional who can help guide you through recovery. Some universities and colleges provide discounted therapy for people without insurance. Local charities and religious groups may also have free counseling available. Support groups are free and a great way to build a support system with others who share similar struggles. Finally, you may consider entering a twelve step program. I participate in Celebrate Recovery, which is a Christian 12 step program that helps people heal from hurts, habits, and hang ups. During difficult times I can feel alone and hopeless. Sometimes there are feelings and aspects of my life I do not want to share with family and friends. Interacting with a therapist and my support groups help me get through some of my most difficult times. I encourage you to reach out to local organizations for support.