S8E181 UNMASKED: Love Bombing and Trauma Bonds with Dr. Jennifer Gardella

Real Talk Real Women Breaking The Silence Around Abuse

UNMASKED: Love Bombing and Trauma Bonds with Dr. Jennifer Gardella

Dr. Jennifer Gardella once believed that domestic violence could never happen to her, yet she found herself ensnared in a web of subtle yet insidious abuse. In this deeply personal and enlightening episode of Real Talk, Real Women Breaking the Silence Around Abuse, she bravely shares her journey of recognizing the microaggressions, emotional manipulation, and financial control that slowly eroded her sense of self. We examine the sinister strategies abusers employ, such as love bombing and trauma bonding, to maintain their grip, making victims feel isolated and responsible for their own mistreatment.

Throughout our conversation, we explore the emotional and psychological scars left by abuse, the complexities of escaping such a relationship, and the critical importance of supportive networks. Jennifer's dual perspective as both a survivor and a domestic violence impactful public speaker provides invaluable insights into the barriers victims face, from financial dependency to custody issues.

We also cover essential steps for safety planning and the vital first steps toward freedom. Join us in raising awareness and offering hope and support to those battling the hidden horrors of domestic violence.

Dr. Jennifer Gardella's bio

Jennifer Gardella, Ph.D., is a survivor of domestic violence and a passionate advocate now raising awareness about this pervasive issue. In her debut book "Domestic Violence Awareness: Listen for the Whispers of Abuse" Jennifer shares the remarkable journey she took transforming from victim to advocate.

In the throes of the abusive relationship, Jennifer did not know that it was domestic violence nor that her abuser was slowly dismantling her well-being and life. It was only after her escape that she began to comprehend the intricate layers of abuse and manipulation she had endured.

With unwavering determination, Jennifer has now made it her mission to educate others, ensuring that victims and their friends, loved ones, family members, and colleagues understand that domestic violence extends far beyond physical harm. Her writing focuses on the tactics used by abusers, including emotional and psychological abuse. She emphasizes that we need to keep looking for abuse but also start listening to the stories of victims. Jennifer wants to empower individuals to recognize the signs, offer support, and ultimately help victims break the cycle of domestic violence.

In Jennifer’s personal life, she adores her three fabulous adulting children, her dog Henry, and a great guy who recently slipped an ice-skating rink on her finger. She loves spending time with her circle of trust, to whom she is eternally grateful, as they each played a critical part in her escape.

Jennifer completed her undergraduate work at Fordham University and earned a master's and Ph.D. in educational psychology and statistics from Rutgers University. In her professional life she is a digital marketing consultant with expertise in helping business owners reach ideal clients using blogging and social media.

Jennifer looks forward to connecting with readers and those who work in the domestic violence space. For more information, please visit her website at www.JenniferGardella.com

Do you care about getting featured and published on Real Talk Real Women Breaking The Silence Around Abuse? Or do you know someone who would be a great guest speaker?

Apply here: https://apply.realtalk-realwomen.com

Support the show with a monthly recurring subscription, so that we can continue our mission to break the silence around abuse, inspire victims hiding in plain sight to recognize signs of abuse, put words on it, and reclaim their identity, their freedom of choice, and their lives.

Sponsorship and subscriptions wanted: https://sponsors.realtalk-realwomen.com