Episode
In this episode, Drs. Jessica Tyler and Simona Niculaes explore the complex emotional journey of individuals recovering from partner betrayal, especially in the context of sexual addiction. Drawing from clinical experience and key findings of a qualitative study, this episode examines common emotional and psychological challenges faced by partner survivors and the factors that facilitate post-traumatic growth and resilience. Listeners will gain insights into practical strategies that counselors can use to support and guide betrayed partners toward healing and growth.
Guest
Dr. Simona Niculaes received her doctoral degree in counselor education and supervision from Auburn University and a master’s degree in clinical counseling with a concentration in couples and family therapy from the University of Montevallo. She is a Licensed Counselor (LPC), a Licensed Counselor Supervisor (LPC-S), a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), a Nationally-Board Certified Counselor (NCC), and a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT). Prior to working in private practice, Dr. Niculaes served in various settings, including residential, partial hospitalization, and outpatient treatment facilities. Her specialty areas include couples therapy, addicted families, life transitions, eating disorders, and spiritual concerns. She also enjoys counseling individuals working through such issues as identity development, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, grief, and trauma. At her practice, Dr. Niculaes also works with families affected by sexual addiction and compulsivity. Having been born and raised in a communist Eastern Europe, her life story and passion for therapy are testaments of her belief that a future and hope are birthrights waiting to be embraced. She recently completed a qualitative study on the post-traumatic growth experiences of partner survivors of sexual addiction.
Resources
Healing Through the Vagus Nerve: Improve Your Body's Response to Anxiety, Depression, Stress, and Trauma Through Nervous System Regulation by Amanda Armstrong
The Betrayal Bind: How to Heal When the Person You Love the Most Hurts You the Worst by Michelle Mays LPC CSAT-S
Facing the Shadow [3rd Edition]: Starting Sexual and Relationship Recovery by Patrick Carnes
The Betrayal Bond: Breaking Free of Exploitive Relationships by Patrick Carnes
Untangling Betrayal: Understanding Infidelity and Its Impact on Relationships by Dr. Timothy Sowards
When the Dust Settles: Stories of Love, Loss and Hope from an Expert in Disaster by Lucy Easthope
International Institute for Trauma and Addiction Professionals https://iitap.com/
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration https://www.samhsa.gov/
Transcript
Citation
Tyler, J. (Producer). (2024, July 26). Hope & Healing: Growth After Partner Betrayal (No. 278) [Audio Podcast]. The Thoughtful Counselor. Retrieved from https://concept.paloaltou.edu/resources/the-thoughtful-counselor-podcast/hope-healing-growth-after-partner-betrayal
Photo by Teo D on Unsplash
