Episode 61: Reclaiming Your Power After A Toxic Relationship with Silvia Araya

Inspired to Thrive and Shine

Episode Overview:

In this deeply personal episode, I sit down with Silvia Araya, a therapist and advocate, to explore her journey through anxiety, narcissistic abuse, and the path to healing. Silvia’s story is one of resilience, self-compassion, and intentional recovery. Together, we dive into the complexities of mental health, the impact of toxic relationships, and Silvia’s advice for dating with anxiety. This episode is a heartfelt guide to understanding and reclaiming your peace, even in the face of life’s toughest challenges.

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding Anxiety's Roots: Silvia opens up about her early struggles with anxiety, tracing it back to childhood sensitivities, family mental health history, and medical trauma. Her journey led her to study psychology, driven by a desire to understand and manage her own experiences.

• The Reality of Narcissistic Abuse: Silvia courageously shares her experience in a toxic relationship marked by manipulation, isolation, and control. She discusses the gradual shift from warmth to coldness, financial exploitation, and the damaging effects of gaslighting. Her story sheds light on how to recognise and navigate abusive dynamics.

• Rebuilding Self-Trust After Trauma: Silvia details her recovery journey after the abusive relationship, focusing on self-compassion and rediscovering her passions. She emphasises the importance of intentional healing before opening up to new relationships and reconnecting with one’s sense of self-worth.

• Dating with Anxiety: Offering practical advice for those with anxiety navigating relationships, Silvia encourages listeners to honour their sensitivity, set clear boundaries, and communicate openly about their needs.

Topics Covered:

• Silvia’s Personal Journey Through Anxiety: Exploring her sensitive childhood, medical trauma, and family mental health history that led to an interest in psychology and self-discovery.

• Understanding Narcissistic Abuse: Insights into recognising the early signs of manipulation and control in toxic relationships.

• Steps to Intentional Recovery: Strategies Silvia used to rebuild her life after trauma, including practising self-compassion and reconnecting with passions.

• Guidance for Anxiety in Relationships: Effective tips for honouring personal needs, communicating boundaries, and dating mindfully with anxiety.

• Collaborative Opportunities for Growth: Silvia and Phoebe’s shared ideas for future connections and providing ongoing support.

Listen to Discover:

• Silvia’s transformative journey from anxiety and trauma to empowerment
• Signs of narcissistic abuse and how to begin the healing process
• Practical tips for dating with anxiety and honouring your needs

Recommended Resources:

• It’s Not You: Identifying and Healing from Narcissistic People Read it here
• Dr. Wayne W. Dyer - Explore his work here

Connect with Silvia Araya:

🌐 Website: silviaaraya.com

📸 Instagram: @silviaaraya_therapy

📘 Facebook: Silvia Araya Therapy

🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsxOAosGGwmlAaOCECKYqUw

🎞️ Tiktok: https://tiktok.com/@silviaaraya.com

🎧 Podcast: Spotify

📚 Book: Is This What I REALLY Want?: How to Go Beyond Trauma into the Relationship You Deserve

Let’s keep thriving and shining together! 🎧✨