Defining Attachment Trauma and Untangling Trauma Bonds with Dr. Laura Copley

Sherry and Carla start off with a Love Fix Question from a listener who has been cheated on in the past, and now they are dating someone who has cheated on their partner in the past, and they are concerned that they always pick cheaters. They then welcome Dr. Laura Copley, a highly respected trauma bond specialist, counselor, educator, and researcher who excels in unraveling the intricate dynamics of toxic relationships and facilitating healing from trauma bonds. As the founder and director of Aurora Counseling and Well Being, a trauma-informed group practice nestled in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley, she has dedicated herself to promoting mental well-being. In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Copley is the host of the podcast "Tough Love," where she shares invaluable insights on navigating relationship trauma. Her expertise has made her an internationally sought-after speaker on this subject, inspiring audiences worldwide. Dr. Copley's upcoming book, "Loving You Is Hurting Me," set to hit shelves in fall 2023.   Connect with Us! The Love Fix | @thelovefixpodcast Get 1:1 Dating & Relationship Coaching The Love Fix Relationship Quiz   Sherry Sign up for your FREE strategy call for life coaching/psychotherapy with Sherry Gaba, Psychotherapist, Life Coach & Author   Join Sherry’s Inner Circle for healing from Narcissistic Abuse, Codependency, and Love Addiction   Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts  "I love Sherry and Carla and The Love Fix!”-  If that sounds like you, please consider the rating and review our show! Scroll down to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast.    Carla Website | Instagram | Facebook | Contagious Love | Online Dating Bootcamp   Dr. Laura  Website | Facebook | Loving You is Hurting Me   Sign up to be in the TDR database: https://www.threedayrule.com/CarlaRomo   Today’s episode is sponsored by Carla’s book Contagious Love: Break Free from Codependency for Damn Good and Sherry’s book Love Smacked: How To Stop the Cycle of Relationship Addiction and Codependency To Find Everlasting Love    Thanks to Contagious Love and Love Smacked for sponsoring this episode.   What You’ll Hear In This Episode: What is attachment trauma?  What is Dr. Laura’s definition of a trauma bond, and how does that differ from love addiction and in what ways are they similar?  Dr. Laura shares a few examples of what trauma bonding would look like in non-abusive dynamics.  How can we recognize a trauma bond, and start to take the steps to recognize our patterns so we can unravel them?  A therapist can help you recognize that it’s not your fault, but it is your responsibility to recognize the patterns and do the work to heal.  What is Dr. Laura’s intergenerational work, and how can it help take the shame out of the situation?  What are some of the core ruptures that create attachment trauma?  Creating self-trust by getting through the hard things rather than never making a mistake.  How can a therapist help unravel trauma bonds throughout the healing process?  Check out Dr. Laura’s new podcast, along with how to work with Sherry and Carla on overcoming codependency, dating, break-ups, healing from toxic relationships, and gaining confidence.   Disclaimer: The Love Fix Podcast content has been made available for informational, entertainment, and educational purposes only. The Love Fix Podcast is distinctly different from coaching, counseling, psychotherapy, or psychoanalysis and does not deal with the diagnosis or treatment of emotional problems. The Love Fix podcast does not constitute medical consultation or treatment, health insurance does not apply.