Therapy in a Nutshell Connectability with Anna Runkle
Oct 14, 2025
Anna Runkle, the creator of Crappy Childhood Fairy and author of Connectability, shares her insights on healing from childhood trauma and complex PTSD. She discusses how disconnection can shape our relationships and the importance of recognizing covert avoidance behaviors. Anna offers practical skills for rebuilding connections, emphasizing small daily actions and the need to navigate boundaries. The podcast explores how relational healing is fundamental to trauma recovery, making clear that connectability is a skill that can be learned.
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Disconnection Is A Core Trauma Effect
- Childhood neglect and trauma can create a long-lasting sense of disconnection that normal social advice doesn't fix.
- Healing connection requires practical steps and work on present behaviors, not only insight about the past.
Ostracized In Moms' Groups
- Anna recounts being ostracized in moms' groups after divorce and demanding identity limits.
- She realized adopting a single-mom identity caused her to give up on important social efforts.
Trauma Can Reshape The Nervous System
- Neglect and abuse can alter brain and nervous system development, increasing sensitivity to social stress.
- That neurological injury explains disproportionate reactions and difficulty tolerating everyday relationship stress.
