
In this episode of Experts Explain Trauma, Lisa sits down with trauma expert Dr. Nadine Macaluso to unpack a question so many survivors silently ask:
“Why do I stay with someone who hurts me over and over again?”
Dr. Nadine breaks down:
- What a trauma bond is (and how it keeps you stuck)
- Why intermittent reinforcement creates powerful emotional confusion
- The real cost of holding on to “hope”
- How to dissolve cognitive dissonance and start seeing the truth
- Steps to safely prepare for leaving a toxic relationship
- Why wearing a “mask” and planning in secret might save your life
If you’ve ever felt caught between “they’re not all bad” and “why can’t I leave?”—this episode is for you.
About the Expert:
Dr. Nadine Macaluso is a licensed marriage and family therapist who specializes in healing from trauma bonds and narcissistic abuse. Drawing from both professional expertise and lived experience, she helps clients reclaim their lives after toxic relationships.
Connect with Dr. Nadine Macaluso
Website: https://drnae.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drnaelmft
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealdrnadine/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TheRealDrNadine
Contact Info: nmacaluso1@me.com / (310) 612-1113
Book: Run Like Hell: A Therapist’s Guide to Recognizing, Escaping & Healing from
Trauma Bonds
FREE GIFT FOR LISTENERS: Download the First Chapter of Dr. Nae’s new book, Run Like Hell: A Therapist’s Guide to Recognizing, Escaping, and Healing from Trauma Bonds https://drnae.com/giveaway-book
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#traumabond #emotionalabuse #toxicrelationships #traumahealing #narcissisticabuse #cognitivedissonance #healingjourney #expertsseries #mentalhealthawareness