Episode Details

Narcissistic abuse. Gaslighting. Coercive control. Legal abuse.
 In this episode of Surviving Toxic Relationships, we sit down with Skye Bellarmine, author of the Breaking Solace trilogy, to talk about surviving 20 years of narcissistic abuse, the moment she realized she wasn’t “crazy,” and the practical steps that helped her leave, heal, and rebuild.

Skye shares how narcissists weaponize reputation (“she’s too sensitive,” “she’s brain damaged”), how they use financial control, and why survivors often feel hypervigilant even after the relationship ends. We also unpack gray rock, the role of faith during separation and divorce, and Skye’s powerful tool: writing your “20 reasons why” so you don’t get pulled back into doubt and love-bombing.

You’ll hear:

• What a narcissistic rage looks like (and why it feels unreal)
• How gaslighting erodes self-trust—and how to protect yourself
• Why narcissists drag out divorces and use courts to punish (“legal abuse”)
• Why building a tribe matters (attorney, support, trusted friends)
• How trauma bonds and love-bombing keep people stuck
• Why telling your story (writing/podcasting/journaling) helps survivors come back to themselves

Guest: Skye Bellarmine — author of Breaking Solace & Escaping Solace

Skye's Website: https://www.skyebellarmine.com

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Disclaimer:  The views expressed by our guests are their own, and this show is for educational purposes only. It is not therapy, medical, or professional advice, and listening does not create a therapeutic relationship. If you need personalized support, please reach out to a licensed professional. If you’re in crisis or immediate danger, please call 911 for help.