We often talk on this podcast about identifying abusive relationships and offering ways to get out. But what comes next? Dr. Amelia Kelley, a trauma-informed therapist, joins me to discuss how to move forward after surviving abuse. She is the co-author of the recently released book, aptly titled, What I Wish I Knew: Surviving and Thriving After An Abusive Relationship. 

Dr. Kelley is also a trained Art therapist, HSP Therapist, EMDR-informed therapist, meditation teacher, as well as a Certified Yoga instructor.  She is a presenter and writer in the “science-help” field focusing on Highly Sensitive Persons (which we also discuss in this episode), trauma, motivation, healthy living, and adult ADHD.   This is a truly informative and resourceful interview.

Show Highlights

• What Dr. Kelley’s book is about and the unique way it was written from two perspectives: the victim and their therapist. (3:21)
• How Dr. Kelley works with victims of abuse in a therapeutic setting. (6:53)
• Friendship shifts in divorce or toxic relationships: Part of the mourning process to ending an abusive relationship includes ending other connected relationships as well. (14:23)
• What is a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP)? (15:43)
• How an over-active limbic system affects highly sensitive people. (16:00)
• Is there a connection between HSPs and abusive relationships? (20:01)
• Some examples of thriving after an abusive relationship. (26:15)
• How to recognize emotional abuse and the covert ways it can show up. (30:26)
• The effect emotional abuse has on the brain. (34:33)
• Identifying your non-negotiables for future relationships. (41:00)

Learn more about Dr. Kelley:

Dr. Amelia Kelley is a trauma-informed therapist who has conducted research on the effects of exercise on ADHD symptoms as well as the effects of resiliency on PTSD. She is a trained Hypno-therapist, Art therapist, HSP Therapist, EMDR-informed therapist and meditation and Yoga teacher. She is a presenter and writer in the “science-help” field focusing on relationships, Highly Sensitive Persons, trauma, motivation, healthy living, and adult ADHD. She is a guest podcast presenter focusing on women’s issues and coping with the trauma of unhealthy relationships, as well as a coach and trainer for SAS’s Work/Life Program in Cary, NC and a resident trainer for the NC Art Therapy Institute. Her practice is also currently part of the Traumatic Stress Research Consortium at the Kinsey Institute. www.Ameliakelley.com

Resources & Links:
Submit your questions to me about divorce or whether you should stay or go, here!
Amelia’s website
Amelia on Instagram
Amelia on Facebook
What I Wish I Knew Book on Facebook
HSPerson.com

TODAY’S EPISODE IS SPONSORED BY:
SHOULD I STAY OR SHOULD I GO?