In this powerful two-part episode, we take a step back from the events themselves to examine the why behind the lies. Joining me is a seasoned trauma therapist and longtime friend—appearing anonymously—who brings years of clinical insight into this complex case of emotional manipulation, deception, and betrayal.

While she has never met Rachel, the subject at the heart of this story, her professional expertise helps us better understand the psychology of the behavior we've been exploring throughout this series. We go beyond surface-level labels like “narcissism” to unpack deeper patterns, including malignant narcissism, antisocial traits, and the dangers of manipulation through tools like fabricated illness and threats of suicide.

She also explores how cultural background, emotional loyalty, and geographic distance may have made me more vulnerable to Rachel’s tactics—insights that may resonate with anyone who’s found themselves entangled in a relationship built on deception.

We also discuss the emotional toll this experience took on me, how trauma can manifest in subtle ways, and why seeking support—like EMDR therapy—can be critical for healing.

This is not about diagnosing Rachel as an individual, but about offering a clinical framework that could help others recognize similar patterns in their own lives.

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