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When Betrayal Becomes Trauma: How Affairs Can Cause PTSD-Like Symptoms in the Betrayed Partner
Discovered a partner's affair? The shock, intrusive thoughts & hypervigilance you feel are recognised trauma responses.

Deborah Gillard
Feb 25


Trauma Bonding: Why Leaving Feels So Impossible
Explore the neurobiology and relational science of trauma-bonding in intimate partner abuse. As a trauma-informed couples therapist, I explain why leaving can feel impossible, how attachment, intermittent abuse and fear regulation interact, and evidence-based pathways toward healing.

Deborah Gillard
Nov 19, 2025


Coercive Control: Understanding and Recognising Invisible Chains in Relationships
Discover what coercive control really means in intimate partner relationships, how it differs from conflict or situational violence, and the evidence-based signs to watch for. Written by a trauma-informed couples therapist, this post empowers survivors and allies to recognise patterns of domination, isolation, and manipulation and take the first steps toward safety and healing.

Deborah Gillard
Oct 27, 2025


Healing Relational Trauma: Why the Therapeutic Relationship Matters
Discover how trauma therapy heals relational wounds through the therapeutic relationship itself. Explore person-centred, psychodynamic, and somatic approaches, and how they help rebuild trust, safety, and connection. Learn how therapy supports individuals and couples in recovering from relational trauma.

Deborah Gillard
Sep 3, 2025


Understanding Trauma and Memory: Why You May Forget or Remember Too Much
Learn how trauma can profoundly affect memory—whether through flashbacks, memory loss, or emotional imprinting—and why some memories remain vivid while others disappear entirely. This in-depth, easy-to-understand guide explores the neuroscience behind traumatic memory, fragmentation theory, and therapy options including CBT, EMDR, and person-centred therapy. Includes UK-based support resources for trauma and PTSD survivors.

Deborah Gillard
May 10, 2025


Am I in an Abusive Relationship?
If you’re questioning your relationship, this guide can help you learn the signs of emotional, psychological, sexual, financial and physical abuse. If you're questioning your relationship, find expert advice and UK support resources here.

Deborah Gillard
Jan 22, 2025


How Do Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) Shape Our Lives?
Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are traumatic events that occur before age 18.

Deborah Gillard
Nov 20, 2024
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