Marriage Rehab: Exposing Narcissistic & Emotional Abuse

In this episode of Mad.In.Love, Dr. David Hawkins is joined by Dr. John Hudson and Ernest Hart to explore the Marriage Intensive Programs offered at the Marriage Recovery Center. These intensive sessions provide high-conflict couples with focused, in-person work over the course of three transformative days. The conversation highlights the importance of setting realistic expectations, reviewing the Couple’s Readiness Document, and preparing for a productive experience. The team also addresses the common misconception that all relationship issues can be resolved in a single weekend, while explaining what clients can expect during and beyond an Intensive. Tune in to learn more about this powerful approach to healing relationships!

Founded by Dr. David Hawkins, the Marriage Recovery Center is the leading authority on the treatment of narcissistic and emotional abuse. To schedule your in-person or video session, call our team at (206) 219-0145 or email [email protected]

***Please note that Mad.In.Love welcomes guests with diverse viewpoints. Their beliefs do not necessarily reflect our mission at the Marriage Recovery Center and the Emotional Abuse Institute, but we value open dialogue and exploration.***

In this episode of Mad.In.Love, Dr. David Hawkins welcomes Karla Downing, award-winning author, speaker, and founder of ChangeMyRelationship.com. Karla shares powerful insights from her book 10 Lifesaving Principles for Women in Difficult Marriages, offering practical tools and wisdom for women navigating challenging relationships. Together, they explore transformative principles such as "changing yourself, not them," "detaching with love," and "speaking your truth in love." Karla also addresses the complexities of setting healthy boundaries and debunks common scriptural misconceptions that can hinder personal growth and relational health. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking hope and guidance in the midst of marital challenges.

Founded by Dr. David Hawkins, the Marriage Recovery Center is the leading authority on the treatment of narcissistic and emotional abuse. To schedule your in-person or video session, call our team at (206) 219-0145 or email [email protected]

***Please note that Mad.In.Love welcomes guests with diverse viewpoints. Their beliefs do not necessarily reflect our mission at the Marriage Recovery Center and the Emotional Abuse Institute, but we value open dialogue and exploration.***

In this episode of Mad.In.Love, Dr. David Hawkins sits down with special guest Dr. Stephanie Holmes, a psychologist and counselor specializing in neurodiverse relationships. Together, they explore the intersection of autism, neurodivergence, and emotionally abusive traits within intimate relationships.

Dr. Holmes shares insights into common patterns and challenges neurodivergent couples face, often misunderstood as emotionally abusive behaviors. She highlights therapeutic strategies, the role of empathy in bridging gaps between neurotypical and neurodivergent partners, and practical advice for fostering healthier, more understanding relationships. Whether you're navigating a neurodiverse relationship or looking to better understand these dynamics, this episode offers encouragement and tools for growth.

Founded by Dr. David Hawkins, the Marriage Recovery Center is the leading authority on the treatment of narcissistic and emotional abuse. To schedule your in-person or video session, call our team at (206) 219-0145 or email [email protected]

***Please note that Mad.In.Love welcomes guests with diverse viewpoints. Their beliefs do not necessarily reflect our mission at the Marriage Recovery Center and the Emotional Abuse Institute, but we value open dialogue and exploration.***

What is the long-term impact of divorce and narcissistic abuse on children once they grow into adults? In this episode, Dr. David Hawkins speaks with Kent Darcie, founder of Adult Children of Divorce Ministries and author of Choose a Better Path: Overcoming the Impact of Your Parents’ Divorce.

Together they explore:

• How unresolved family trauma shapes adult relationships and parenting
• The connection between divorce, narcissistic abuse, and emotional wounds
• Practical strategies for breaking generational cycles of dysfunction
• Finding hope, resilience, and healing after family breakdown

This episode offers encouragement and tools for anyone recovering from childhood trauma, divorce, or abuse.

👉 Learn more about narcissistic abuse recovery and counseling at https://www.marriagerecoverycenter.com  

Founded by Dr. David Hawkins, the Marriage Recovery Center is the leading authority on the treatment of narcissistic and emotional abuse. To schedule your in-person or video session, call our team at (206) 219-0145 or email [email protected]

***Please note that Mad.In.Love welcomes guests with diverse viewpoints. Their beliefs do not necessarily reflect our mission at the Marriage Recovery Center and the Emotional Abuse Institute, but we value open dialogue and exploration.***

In this episode of Dr. Hawkins' Reacts, Dr. David Hawkins and Jonathan Glover join Katie Buckley as she reads real-life relationship stories found online. These accounts detail complex situations, and Dr. Hawkins and Jonathan weigh in to determine if there are signs of emotional abuse. With their expert analysis and compassionate approach, they break down the behaviors, offer insights into what emotional abuse looks like, and provide guidance for anyone facing similar challenges. This episode is an eye-opening and thought-provoking exploration of how toxic dynamics can manifest in relationships—and how to recognize them. Tune in for valuable advice and practical takeaways!

Founded by Dr. David Hawkins, the Marriage Recovery Center is the leading authority on the treatment of narcissistic and emotional abuse. To schedule your in-person or video session, call our team at (206) 219-0145 or email [email protected]

***Please note that Mad.In.Love welcomes guests with diverse viewpoints. Their beliefs do not necessarily reflect our mission at the Marriage Recovery Center and the Emotional Abuse Institute, but we value open dialogue and exploration.***

In this episode, Dr. David Hawkins is joined by Dr. Gregory Jantz, a renowned expert in mental health, to discuss the powerful intersections of anxiety, trauma, and social media. Together, they unpack how social media shapes perceptions of emotional abuse, often distorting reality and amplifying feelings of insecurity and fear. Dr. Jantz and Dr. Hawkins explore the ways anxiety and unresolved trauma can influence how individuals experience and respond to emotional abuse, as well as how the digital age complicates these dynamics. With practical insights and actionable advice, this episode sheds light on navigating these challenges in a hyperconnected world. Don't miss this timely and insightful conversation!

Founded by Dr. David Hawkins, the Marriage Recovery Center is the leading authority on the treatment of narcissistic and emotional abuse. To schedule your in-person or video session, call our team at (206) 219-0145 or email [email protected]

***Please note that Mad.In.Love welcomes guests with diverse viewpoints. Their beliefs do not necessarily reflect our mission at the Marriage Recovery Center and the Emotional Abuse Institute, but we value open dialogue and exploration.***

In this episode of Dr. Hawkins' Reacts, Dr. David Hawkins and Jonathan Glover tackle a heartfelt and thought-provoking email sent in by one of our listeners. Katie Buckley reads the email aloud, sharing the listener's personal story and struggles, prompting Dr. Hawkins and Jonathan to provide their expert insights and practical advice. Together, they unpack the emotional dynamics at play, addressing key questions about narcissism, emotional abuse, and steps toward healing. With their compassionate and informed responses, this episode offers listeners valuable tools for navigating high-conflict relationships. Don’t miss this candid and impactful discussion!

Founded by Dr. David Hawkins, the Marriage Recovery Center is the leading authority on the treatment of narcissistic and emotional abuse. To schedule your in-person or video session, call our team at (206) 219-0145 or email [email protected]

***Please note that Mad.In.Love welcomes guests with diverse viewpoints. Their beliefs do not necessarily reflect our mission at the Marriage Recovery Center and the Emotional Abuse Institute, but we value open dialogue and exploration.***

In this insightful follow-up episode, Dr. David Hawkins is joined once again by Lucas Forstmeyer to explore a high-conflict case through the lens of Internal Family Systems (IFS). Together, they dive into the complexities of navigating toxic relationship dynamics, breaking down how IFS can help uncover the internal parts at play in both partners. Dr. Hawkins and Lucas provide a detailed and compassionate analysis, highlighting how self-awareness and accountability are key to breaking the cycle of emotional conflict. Whether you’re new to IFS or looking for fresh insights on high-conflict relationships, this episode is packed with practical tools and profound takeaways. Don’t miss it!

Founded by Dr. David Hawkins, the Marriage Recovery Center is the leading authority on the treatment of narcissistic and emotional abuse. To schedule your in-person or video session, call our team at (206) 219-0145 or email [email protected]

***Please note that Mad.In.Love welcomes guests with diverse viewpoints. Their beliefs do not necessarily reflect our mission at the Marriage Recovery Center and the Emotional Abuse Institute, but we value open dialogue and exploration.***

In this episode of Dr. Hawkins' Reacts, Dr. David Hawkins and Jonathan Glover dive into a fascinating discussion as Katie Buckley presents fictional character personality traits for their analysis. Together, they explore whether these characters exhibit narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) traits or simply display toxic or emotionally abusive behaviors. Through their expert insights, Dr. Hawkins and Jonathan break down the complexities of narcissistic tendencies versus full-blown NPD, providing listeners with valuable tools for identifying and understanding these patterns in real life. Packed with humor, expertise, and practical takeaways, this episode offers a unique and enlightening perspective on the challenges of recognizing unhealthy traits in relationships. Tune in for an informative and entertaining conversation!

Founded by Dr. David Hawkins, the Marriage Recovery Center is the leading authority on the treatment of narcissistic and emotional abuse. To schedule your in-person or video session, call our team at (206) 219-0145 or email [email protected]

***Please note that Mad.In.Love welcomes guests with diverse viewpoints. Their beliefs do not necessarily reflect our mission at the Marriage Recovery Center and the Emotional Abuse Institute, but we value open dialogue and exploration.***

In this episode of the Mad.In.Love podcast, Dr. David Hawkins is joined by Lucas Forstmeyer, a renowned practitioner and course creator specializing in Internal Family Systems (IFS). Together, they explore the complex dynamics of narcissism, emotional abuse, and how specific patterns of behavior impact relationships.

Lucas and Dr. Hawkins dive into the nuances of the term "narcissism," discussing when it's helpful to label behaviors and when it might be more effective to focus on specific patterns instead. They explore the concept of "Protective Parts" within IFS, which are often responsible for seemingly negative behaviors as a means of shielding vulnerabilities or exiled parts of ourselves. Lucas emphasizes the importance of approaching these protective mechanisms with compassion while maintaining healthy boundaries.

The episode further unpacks the distinctions between the "Self," individual parts, and the "Healthy Adult"—a state that combines the Self with developed skills and mature aspects of one's personality. Lucas and Dr. Hawkins share practical examples and strategies on how this understanding can lead to better emotional regulation and healthier relationship dynamics.

Lastly, they address the role of inherent temperament, such as being naturally agreeable or disagreeable, and how these temperamental differences influence our perceptions of behaviors often associated with narcissism. Lucas offers insights on balancing respect for inherent traits while addressing problematic behavior patterns.

Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how IFS can be used to navigate complex relationship challenges, and learn strategies for fostering compassion towards yourself and others.

Founded by Dr. David Hawkins, the Marriage Recovery Center is the leading authority on the treatment of narcissistic and emotional abuse. To schedule your in-person or video session, call our team at (206) 219-0145 or email [email protected]

***Please note that Mad.In.Love welcomes guests with diverse viewpoints. Their beliefs do not necessarily reflect our mission at the Marriage Recovery Center and the Emotional Abuse Institute, but we value open dialogue and exploration.***