Paul Gilmartin
Paul Gilmartin
#783 Reconciling Good Memories Of Abusers - Jennifer Westcott #4
#783 Reconciling Good Memories Of Abusers - Jennifer Westcott #4
#783 Reconciling Good Memories Of Abusers - Jennifer Westcott #4
Friday 16th January 2026
Join Jennifer Westcott and Paul Gilmartin as they discuss reconciling good memories with abusive ones, and the challenges of going no-contact with family.
Explicit
98 minutes
Inspiring
Honest
Healing
Supportive
Raw
About this podcast
Author:
Paul Gilmartin
Overview:
Categories:
Body & Mind
Sobriety Toolkit
Healing from Sexual Trauma
Healing Relationships
Financial Health in Recovery
Links:
Visit site
Episodes:
683 (View all)
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Get the buttons here!Reconciling Memories: A Journey Through Pain and Healing
Episode Overview
- Reconciling good memories with abusive ones is a complex process.
- Going no-contact with family can be painful but necessary for healing.
- Engaging socially without alcohol can ease anxiety and boost self-esteem.
- Healing from trauma involves conflicting emotions and isn't linear.
- Listening to others' recovery stories can offer empathy and support.
"I miss what used to be... the way she cooked, and I miss things about how it feels to be with the one and only person who is your mother."
Experience the emotional and inspiring tales of recovery as therapist Jennifer Westcott returns to the Mental Illness Happy Hour for a fourth time. She and host Paul Gilmartin tackle the intricate process of reconciling good memories with abusive ones, particularly when it involves family members. Jennifer shares her personal journey of choosing to go no-contact with certain family members, exploring the complexities and pain of such decisions.
This episode doesn't shy away from the raw realities of dealing with abusers who were once loved ones. Jennifer's candid discussion on the challenges of maintaining boundaries while acknowledging the fond memories of her abuser makes for a compelling listen. Paul adds depth to the conversation by addressing listener questions about social anxiety and sobriety, offering practical advice on how to engage socially without relying on alcohol.
He shares his own experiences, highlighting how taking an interest in others can ease social anxiety and boost self-esteem. The episode is peppered with listener stories, adding layers of relatability and empathy. Jennifer and Paul’s dialogue is not just about survival but finding a way to thrive amidst past trauma. They remind us that healing is a messy, non-linear journey filled with conflicting emotions. So, what does it mean to hold onto good memories while letting go of toxic relationships?
Tune in to find out how these conversations can illuminate your own path to recovery.