Episode 154: Surviving and Thriving After Abuse with Dr. Amelia Kelley

We often talk on this podcast about identifying abusive relationships and offering ways to get out. But what comes next? Dr. Amelia Kelley, a trauma-informed therapist, joins me to discuss how to move forward after surviving abuse. She is the co-author of the recently released book, aptly titled, What I Wish I Knew: Surviving and Thriving After An Abusive Relationship.  Dr. Kelley is also a trained Art therapist, HSP Therapist, EMDR-informed therapist, meditation teacher, as well as a Certified Yoga instructor. She is a presenter and writer in the “science-help” field focusing on Highly Sensitive Persons (which we also discuss in this episode), trauma, motivation, healthy living, and adult ADHD. This is a truly informative and resourceful interview. Show Highlights What Dr. Kelley’s book is about and the unique way it was written from two perspectives: the victim and their therapist. (3:21) How Dr. Kelley works with victims of abuse in a therapeutic setting. (6:53) Friendship shifts in divorce or toxic relationships: Part of the mourning process to ending an abusive relationship includes ending other connected relationships as well. (14:23) What is a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP)? (15:43) How an over-active limbic system affects highly sensitive people. (16:00) Is there a connection between HSPs and abusive relationships? (20:01) Some examples of thriving after an abusive relationship. (26:15) How to recognize emotional abuse and the covert ways it can show up. (30:26) The effect emotional abuse has on the brain. (34:33) Identifying your non-negotiables for future relationships. (41:00) Learn more about Dr. Kelley: Dr. Amelia Kelley is a trauma-informed therapist who has conducted research on the effects of exercise on ADHD symptoms as well as the effects of resiliency on PTSD. She is a trained Hypno-therapist, Art therapist, HSP Therapist, EMDR-informed therapist and meditation and Yoga teacher. She is a presenter and writer in the “science-help” field focusing on relationships, Highly Sensitive Persons, trauma, motivation, healthy living, and adult ADHD. She is a guest podcast presenter focusing on women’s issues and coping with the trauma of unhealthy relationships, as well as a coach and trainer for SAS's Work/Life Program in Cary, NC and a resident trainer for the NC Art Therapy Institute. Her practice is also currently part of the Traumatic Stress Research Consortium at the Kinsey Institute. www.Ameliakelley.com Resources & Links:For resources and links, you may also visit the show notes page here: https://kateanthony.com/podcast/surviving-and-thriving-after-abuse-with-dr-amelia-kelley Submit your questions to me about divorce or whether you should stay or go, here!Amelia's website Amelia on Instagram Amelia on Facebook What I Wish I Knew Book on Facebook HSPerson.com TODAY’S EPISODE IS SPONSORED BY: SHOULD I STAY OR SHOULD I GO? An online coaching program designed to help you make the right decision about your marriage...once and for all. In this groundbreaking online coaching program, you’ll unlock the support, education and deep transformational work you need to finally answer to your most burning question: should I stay or should I go? JOIN THE SHOULD I STAY OR SHOULD I GO FACEBOOK GROUP