AwakenHer with Corissa Stepp

In this special “Ask Me Anything” episode of AwakenHer, I dive into listener-submitted questions about relationships, boundaries, and self-trust. I share insights on how to navigate narcissistic personalities, heal from emotional harm, and rebuild trust in yourself. If you’re struggling with toxic relationships or wondering how to strengthen your boundaries, this episode is full of practical advice and empowering strategies to help you take back control of your life.

Join Corissa’s email list to stay updated on future “Ask Me Anything” episodes: https://corissastepp.com/contact

Got a question for Corissa? Submit it via the podcast website or reach out through Instagram.

If you're looking for support in recovering from a narcissistic relationship, then come join us in StrongHER - a Narcissistic Trauma Recovery Group.   DM me "SIMRPodcast" to join us at a very special rate! 

Send us a Text Message to let us know what you thought of this episode!

________________________

Corissa is a Holistic Trauma-Informed Coach & Narcissistic Abuse Specialist™ who empowers women after they’ve endured narcissist trauma to rediscover who they are, reclaim their power, and find the clarity and courage to move forward and live a life they love.   Corissa is also a recovering people-pleaser and codependent who has endured way too many narcissistic relationships to count!  She coaches not only from her knowledge and training but also from the wisdom she has gained from her own healing journey.

Book a FREE 30-min Clarity Call HERE.

Ways to connect with Corissa:

Podcast Website
Website: www.corissastepp.com
Book: The Savvy Girl's Guide to Thriving Beyond Narcissistic Abuse
Instagram: @corissastepp
Facebook:  Corissa Stepp
Free Quiz: Is My Partner a Narcissist?

We'd love to hear what you think so message us on IG. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, review, or share it so we can reac...

This episode delves into recognizing critical red flags in relationships, such as lack of genuine apologies, breaches of trust, absence of affection, power imbalances, and any form of abuse. It emphasizes the importance of acknowledging these issues and considering whether to stay in a relationship. The script also provides insight into how one's physical and emotional responses to their partner can indicate underlying problems. For those uncertain about their relationship status, the speaker offers a complimentary clarity call to help determine the next steps.

01:01 Communication and Conflict Resolution

01:56 Identifying Red Flags in Relationships

02:20 The Importance of Trust

03:28 Affection and Intimacy Issues

04:11 Power Imbalance in Relationships

04:54 Recognizing Abuse and Seeking Help

06:27 Evaluating Your Relationship

06:52 Trusting Your Body's Signals

08:28 Energy Levels and Relationship Health

09:09 Seeking Professional Support

Send us a Text Message to let us know what you thought of this episode!

________________________

Corissa is a Holistic Trauma-Informed Coach & Narcissistic Abuse Specialist™ who empowers women after they’ve endured narcissist trauma to rediscover who they are, reclaim their power, and find the clarity and courage to move forward and live a life they love.   Corissa is also a recovering people-pleaser and codependent who has endured way too many narcissistic relationships to count!  She coaches not only from her knowledge and training but also from the wisdom she has gained from her own healing journey.

Book a FREE 30-min Clarity Call HERE.

Ways to connect with Corissa:

Podcast Website
Website: www.corissastepp.com
Book: The Savvy Girl's Guide to Thriving Beyond Narcissistic Abuse
Instagram: @corissastepp
Facebook:  Corissa Stepp
Free Quiz: Is My Partner a Narcissist?

We'd love to hear what you think so message us on IG. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, review, or share it so we can reac...

This moment episode discusses the vital role of processing emotions, particularly grief and anger, for mental health. Corissa and Aypril highlight how holding in emotions like anger can negatively impact the nervous system, likening it to trying to hold a beach ball underwater. They emphasize the significance of creating safe spaces, whether with a coach or therapist, for individuals to fully express and process their feelings. The conversation also delves into how societal discomfort with emotions can lead to repression and the importance of allowing oneself the time and space to work through grief without judgment or pressure. The episode concludes by advising against comparing one's capacity to handle stress with others, stressing that everyone's 'swimming pool' of emotional capacity is different.

01:26 The Role of Coaches and Therapists

01:50 Dealing with Emotional Shutdown

03:34 Creating a Safe Space for Emotional Expression

04:39 The Importance of Processing Anger

05:52 Empowerment and Reclaiming Control

06:59 The Fear of Unleashing Emotions

07:47 The Beach Ball Analogy for Stress

08:28 Avoiding Comparisons in Emotional Processing

Send us a Text Message to let us know what you thought of this episode!

________________________

Corissa is a Holistic Trauma-Informed Coach & Narcissistic Abuse Specialist™ who empowers women after they’ve endured narcissist trauma to rediscover who they are, reclaim their power, and find the clarity and courage to move forward and live a life they love.   Corissa is also a recovering people-pleaser and codependent who has endured way too many narcissistic relationships to count!  She coaches not only from her knowledge and training but also from the wisdom she has gained from her own healing journey.

Book a FREE 30-min Clarity Call HERE.

Ways to connect with Corissa:

Podcast Website
Website: www.corissastepp.com
Book: The Savvy Girl's Guide to Thriving Beyond Narcissistic Abuse
Instagram: @corissastepp
Facebook:  Corissa Stepp
Free Quiz: Is My Partner a Narcissist?

We'd love to hear what you think so message us on IG. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, review, or share it so we can reac...

This moment episode explores the nuances of empathy, emphasizing the importance of self-compassion as a foundation for extending genuine empathy towards others. It discusses Daniel Goleman's three levels of empathy: cognitive, emotional, and empathic concern. The conversation also highlights the risks of empathic imbalance, particularly for individuals with past traumas, and underscores the necessity of testing emotional safety and timing in relationships. Key strategies for fostering healthy, reciprocal empathy in relationships are examined to ensure emotional well-being for all parties involved.

00:00 Introduction to Self-Empathy and Compassion

02:00 Understanding Empathy: Cognitive, Emotional, and Empathic Concern

04:10 Navigating Trauma and Empathy in Relationships

05:24 Building Trust and Testing Vulnerability

07:24 Balancing Self and Partner's Emotions

11:49 Conclusion: Timing and Capacity in Empathy

Send us a Text Message to let us know what you thought of this episode!

________________________

Corissa is a Holistic Trauma-Informed Coach & Narcissistic Abuse Specialist™ who empowers women after they’ve endured narcissist trauma to rediscover who they are, reclaim their power, and find the clarity and courage to move forward and live a life they love.   Corissa is also a recovering people-pleaser and codependent who has endured way too many narcissistic relationships to count!  She coaches not only from her knowledge and training but also from the wisdom she has gained from her own healing journey.

Book a FREE 30-min Clarity Call HERE.

Ways to connect with Corissa:

Podcast Website
Website: www.corissastepp.com
Book: The Savvy Girl's Guide to Thriving Beyond Narcissistic Abuse
Instagram: @corissastepp
Facebook:  Corissa Stepp
Free Quiz: Is My Partner a Narcissist?

We'd love to hear what you think so message us on IG. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, review, or share it so we can reac...

In this Moment episode of 'Awaken Her,' I dive deeper into how childhood experiences with critical and emotionally neglectful parents can lead to patterns of seeking validation and love through narcissistic relationships in adulthood. It explains the concept of trauma bonds, the cycle of abuse, and how familiar abusive dynamics can be mistakenly perceived as love. The discussion clarifies how these patterns are deeply ingrained from childhood, resulting in adults who perpetuate these unhealthy relationships, constantly seeking approval and safety.

00:00 Understanding Childhood Emotional Neglect

01:47 The Familiarity of Narcissistic Relationships

03:14 The Cycle of Abuse and Trauma Bonds

05:05 Distorted Perceptions of Love

05:49 The Impact of Childhood Experiences on Adult Relationships

08:38 Reenacting Childhood Patterns in Adulthood

Send us a Text Message to let us know what you thought of this episode!

________________________

Corissa is a Holistic Trauma-Informed Coach & Narcissistic Abuse Specialist™ who empowers women after they’ve endured narcissist trauma to rediscover who they are, reclaim their power, and find the clarity and courage to move forward and live a life they love.   Corissa is also a recovering people-pleaser and codependent who has endured way too many narcissistic relationships to count!  She coaches not only from her knowledge and training but also from the wisdom she has gained from her own healing journey.

Book a FREE 30-min Clarity Call HERE.

Ways to connect with Corissa:

Podcast Website
Website: www.corissastepp.com
Book: The Savvy Girl's Guide to Thriving Beyond Narcissistic Abuse
Instagram: @corissastepp
Facebook:  Corissa Stepp
Free Quiz: Is My Partner a Narcissist?

We'd love to hear what you think so message us on IG. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, review, or share it so we can reac...

In this Moment episode of 'Awaken Her,' I dive deeper into a profound conversation I had with Veronika Archer about the intricacies of co-parenting, the significant impact of internal energies on children, and emotional navigation post-separation. Veronika shares practical tools for transforming feelings of guilt and resentment into acceptance and positive influence. This episode is a valuable resource for those seeking to enhance their co-parenting dynamics and personal emotional well-being.

00:00 Introduction to Awaken Her

00:46 The Harm of Putting Kids in the Middle

02:09 Shifting Your Energy for Better Co-Parenting

03:27 Real-Life Examples and Human Design

07:27 Tools for Shifting Your Energy

10:08 Navigating Court Battles and Toxic Exes

12:26 Conclusion and Final Tips

If you're looking for support in recovering from a narcissistic relationship, then come join us in StrongHER - a Narcissistic Trauma Recovery Group.   DM me "SIMRPodcast" to join us at a very special rate! 

Send us a Text Message to let us know what you thought of this episode!

________________________

Corissa is a Holistic Trauma-Informed Coach & Narcissistic Abuse Specialist™ who empowers women after they’ve endured narcissist trauma to rediscover who they are, reclaim their power, and find the clarity and courage to move forward and live a life they love.   Corissa is also a recovering people-pleaser and codependent who has endured way too many narcissistic relationships to count!  She coaches not only from her knowledge and training but also from the wisdom she has gained from her own healing journey.

Book a FREE 30-min Clarity Call HERE.

Ways to connect with Corissa:

Podcast Website
Website: www.corissastepp.com
Book: The Savvy Girl's Guide to Thriving Beyond Narcissistic Abuse
Instagram: @corissastepp
Facebook:  Corissa Stepp
Free Quiz: Is My Partner a Narcissist?

We'd love to hear what you think so message us on IG. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, review, or share it so we can reac...

In this episode of AwakenHer, I sit down with Dr. Christina Wise, a licensed psychologist specializing in trauma and family dynamics. We explore practical strategies for empowering children when co-parenting with a narcissist. The discussion covers the importance of understanding different perspectives, fostering healthy narratives, and setting boundaries through open communication. Dr. Wise emphasizes the value of a supportive environment and shares insights from her work with Parenting While Committed. The episode offers valuable advice for maintaining healthy family relationships despite high-conflict parenting dynamics.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

00:54 Understanding Child Empowerment in Co-Parenting

02:14 The Impact of Parental Narratives on Children

06:38 Connecting with Your Child During Stressful Events

09:35 Navigating Co-Parenting Challenges

11:19 Modeling Healthy Boundaries and Empathy

21:48 Empathy with Boundaries: Preparing Children for Healthy Relationships

25:43 Understanding Emotional Reactions

26:24 Explaining Stress to Children

28:03 Balancing Negative and Positive Experiences

28:53 Addressing Unhealthy Behaviors in Children

32:04 The Importance of Real-Time Discussions

32:30 Implementing the 'Redo' Technique

37:27 Forgiveness and Setting Boundaries

40:50 Communicating During Separation

43:59 Final Thoughts and Resources

Connect with Dr. Christina Wise:

Parenting While Committed: https://www.parentingwhilecommitted.com/ 

If you're looking for support in recovering from a narcissistic relationship, then come join us in StrongHER - a Narcissistic Trauma Recovery Group.   DM me "SIMRPodcast" to join us at a very special rate! 

Send us a Text Message to let us know what you thought of this episode!

________________________

Corissa is a Holistic Trauma-Informed Coach & Narcissistic Abuse Specialist™ who empowers women after they’ve endured narcissist trauma to rediscover who they are, reclaim their power, and find the clarity and courage to move forward and live a life they love.   Corissa is also a recovering people-pleaser and codependent who has endured way too many narcissistic relationships to count!  She coaches not only from her knowledge and training but also from the wisdom she has gained from her own healing journey.

Book a FREE 30-min Clarity Call HERE.

Ways to connect with Corissa:

Podcast Website
Website: www.corissastepp.com
Book: The Savvy Girl's Guide to Thriving Beyond Narcissistic Abuse
Instagram: @corissastepp
Facebook:  Corissa Stepp
Free Quiz: Is My Partner a Narcissist?

We'd love to hear what you think so message us on IG. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, review, or share it so we can reac...

In this episode of 'Awaken Her,' host Corissa Stepp interviews Dr. Jolene Arasz, a practicing psychologist specializing in anxiety management and author of the book 'Why on Earth Do I Feel This Way? Understanding Anxiety and Mental Health Through Control Theory.' The discussion delves into the connection between trauma and anxiety, the mechanisms behind anxiety responses, and practical strategies for managing anxiety and promoting emotional regulation. Dr. Arasz explains how trauma can be rooted in a lack of perceived control and emphasizes the importance of safe, supportive environments for emotional healing. The episode also touches on how anxiety and trauma manifest in both children and adults, and the significance of addressing mental health holistically.

Find Dr. Jolene and her book here: https://jolenearasz.com/

00:00 Introduction to Trauma and Anxiety

00:41 Meet Dr. Jolene Arasz

01:48 Defining Trauma and Anxiety

03:15 The Root of Anxiety: Lack of Control

07:54 Understanding Defense Mechanisms

11:00 The Role of the Nervous System

12:40 Control Theory and Anxiety Management

23:09 Bilateral Stimulation and EMDR

25:39 Narcissism and Control

29:07 Managing Anxiety: Accepting What You Can't Control

29:29 The All-or-Nothing Mindset in Personality Disorders

30:07 Narcissism and Accountability Issues

30:42 The Role of Childhood Trauma in Narcissism

31:06 Understanding Vulnerability and Shame in Narcissists

31:23 The Importance of Self-Awareness and Boundaries

32:23 Emotional Regulation and Attachment in Early Childhood

36:08 Teaching Accountability to Children

38:49 The Impact of Anxiety on Children's Behavior

44:45 Creating Safe Learning Environments in Schools

53:05 The Connection Between Anxiety and Depression

55:08 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

If you're looking for support in recovering from a narcissistic relationship, then come join us in StrongHER - a Narcissistic Trauma Recovery Group.   DM me "SIMRPodcast" to join us at a very special rate! 

Send us a Text Message to let us know what you thought of this episode!

________________________

Corissa is a Holistic Trauma-Informed Coach & Narcissistic Abuse Specialist™ who empowers women after they’ve endured narcissist trauma to rediscover who they are, reclaim their power, and find the clarity and courage to move forward and live a life they love.   Corissa is also a recovering people-pleaser and codependent who has endured way too many narcissistic relationships to count!  She coaches not only from her knowledge and training but also from the wisdom she has gained from her own healing journey.

Book a FREE 30-min Clarity Call HERE.

Ways to connect with Corissa:

Podcast Website
Website: www.corissastepp.com
Book: The Savvy Girl's Guide to Thriving Beyond Narcissistic Abuse
Instagram: @corissastepp
Facebook:  Corissa Stepp
Free Quiz: Is My Partner a Narcissist?

We'd love to hear what you think so message us on IG. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, review, or share it so we can reac...

In this episode of AwakenHer, host Corissa Stepp speaks with Jennifer, who shares her deeply personal experience navigating and ultimately breaking away from a narcissistic friendship. Corissa and Jennifer discuss the patterns of narcissistic abuse, such as manipulation, lack of empathy, and the pretending of genuine concern to maintain control. 

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• The importance of setting boundaries. 
• How to recognize unhealthy relationships.
• How to foster and identify authentic and supportive friendships. 

If you're looking for support in recovering from a narcissistic relationship, then come join us in StrongHER - a Narcissistic Trauma Recovery Group.   DM me "SIMRPodcast" to join us at a very special rate!

Send us a Text Message to let us know what you thought of this episode!

________________________

Corissa is a Holistic Trauma-Informed Coach & Narcissistic Abuse Specialist™ who empowers women after they’ve endured narcissist trauma to rediscover who they are, reclaim their power, and find the clarity and courage to move forward and live a life they love.   Corissa is also a recovering people-pleaser and codependent who has endured way too many narcissistic relationships to count!  She coaches not only from her knowledge and training but also from the wisdom she has gained from her own healing journey.

Book a FREE 30-min Clarity Call HERE.

Ways to connect with Corissa:

Podcast Website
Website: www.corissastepp.com
Book: The Savvy Girl's Guide to Thriving Beyond Narcissistic Abuse
Instagram: @corissastepp
Facebook:  Corissa Stepp
Free Quiz: Is My Partner a Narcissist?

We'd love to hear what you think so message us on IG. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, review, or share it so we can reac...

Welcome to a transformative episode where we delve deep into the aftermath of abusive relationships and uncover the tools and strategies for healing and empowerment. Join me as I speak with Jennifer Parker, an experienced therapist and author, who sheds light on the crucial steps toward recovery, co-parenting post-abuse, and fostering resilience for a stronger future.

In this episode, you’ll: 

1. Learn about heart and brain coherence, gratitude practices, and journaling as means of navigating the emotional landscape post-separation.
2. Discover the importance of building a support network and utilizing nature and storytelling as healing modalities.
3. Understand the process of noticing red flags and how to assertively uphold personal boundaries.

Resources Mentioned:

• Jennifer's Book: "Coercive Relationships: Find the Answers You Seek" - Available below
• HeartMath: A resource for tools on heart and brain coherence.
• Books by Bill Eddy and Caitlin Gillis: For understanding and managing post-separation abuse.

Connect with Jennifer Parker: 

Jennifer’s Book: https://www.blackrosewriting.com/nonfiction/coerciverelationships

Read Jennifer’s Blog: https://madisonmentalhealthcounselor.com/blog

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifercparkermssw/

Instagram: ​​https://www.instagram.com/jenniferc.parker/

Send us a Text Message to let us know what you thought of this episode!

________________________

Corissa is a Holistic Trauma-Informed Coach & Narcissistic Abuse Specialist™ who empowers women after they’ve endured narcissist trauma to rediscover who they are, reclaim their power, and find the clarity and courage to move forward and live a life they love.   Corissa is also a recovering people-pleaser and codependent who has endured way too many narcissistic relationships to count!  She coaches not only from her knowledge and training but also from the wisdom she has gained from her own healing journey.

Book a FREE 30-min Clarity Call HERE.

Ways to connect with Corissa:

Podcast Website
Website: www.corissastepp.com
Book: The Savvy Girl's Guide to Thriving Beyond Narcissistic Abuse
Instagram: @corissastepp
Facebook:  Corissa Stepp
Free Quiz: Is My Partner a Narcissist?

We'd love to hear what you think so message us on IG. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, review, or share it so we can reac...