Why She Stayed Ep. 66: You Won't Get Closure From The Same Person Who Hurt you | Laura Richards
Aug 12, 2025
This conversation features Laura Richards, an abuse recovery coach and host of the That's Where I'm At podcast. She shares her insights on trauma bonds and gaslighting. Laura highlights why survivors often minimize their experiences and the psychological traps that keep them in abusive relationships. They dive into red flags of covert narcissism and examine the confusion created by contradicting behaviors. Laura emphasizes that true closure comes from within, not from the abuser, and offers encouragement for healing and self-love.
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Abuse Without Bruises Is Still Abuse
- Many survivors say "he never hit me" and feel stuck without a clear sign to leave.
- Laura Richards explains coercive control is invisible and waiting for physical violence is dangerous.
The Boiling Frog Of Coercive Control
- Laura describes the 'boiling frog' effect where abuse accumulates slowly.
- She only recognized the abuse after leaving and finding language to explain it.
Red Flags Served On A Silver Platter
- Laura recalls red flags day one, like him admitting he's a "flirty guy" and throwing keys near her.
- She accepted apologies early and kept forgiving until patterns hardened.