Episode Details
Back to EpisodesEpisode #102: I Didn’t Know It Was Abuse… |Therapist Explains Hidden Signs of Toxic Relationships
Description
What if the relationship you thought was “just difficult”… was actually harmful?
In this powerful episode of Surviving Toxic Relationships with The Matadoras, we sit down with licensed therapist and trauma specialist Zulma Williams, founder of Dragonfly Therapy Services, to unpack the hidden reality of emotional abuse, gaslighting, and toxic relationship cycles.
Zulma shares her personal story of surviving a narcissistic and abusive relationship—and why so many strong, intelligent women don’t recognize abuse until they are deeply affected.
We dive into:
• The subtle ways abuse begins (and why it’s easy to miss)
• Emotional, verbal, and sexual abuse that doesn’t leave visible scars
• Gaslighting and how it makes you question your reality
• Why women stay—and why it’s NOT what people think
• The cycle of abuse (and why it feels impossible to leave)
• How trauma, anxiety, and depression are connected to toxic relationships
• A powerful step-by-step exercise to challenge negative thoughts
Zulma also shares how she rebuilt her life after abuse, overcame breast cancer, and found healing, purpose, and peace—proving that it’s never too late to start over.
If you’ve ever felt:
• Like you’re “walking on eggshells”
• Confused, anxious, or emotionally drained
• Like you’re the problem
This conversation is for you.
You are not crazy.
You are not alone.
You are deeply loved.
Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with someone who may need this message.
Connect with Zulma: Links & Resources:
https://dragonflytherapyservices.net/
https://www.youtube.com/@theswearingtherapist
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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.