In this episode of Safe Space, we explore a vulnerable listener question: How do I let someone in again after having my heart broken?

Through the lens of emotional healing and self-trust, we unpack why heartbreak can leave us feeling guarded—and why that’s completely valid. From understanding the nervous system’s response to emotional pain, to the protective walls we unconsciously build, this conversation guides listeners through the often-overlooked process of softening back into intimacy after betrayal or loss.

We discuss why healing isn't about rushing into something new, but about creating safety within ourselves first. You'll learn how to spot self-protective patterns, rebuild inner trust, and take aligned emotional risks—all without abandoning yourself again.

Whether you’re navigating a breakup, hesitant to open your heart, or rebuilding your relationship with yourself, this episode offers both compassion and clarity on the path forward.

Timestamps:

00:00 – 00:18 Welcome to Safe Space

00:18 – 01:06 When Your Heart Feels Closed After Hurt

01:06 – 02:08 How We Protect Ourselves from Being Hurt Again

02:08 – 04:02 What It Really Means to Rebuild Trust in Yourself

04:02 – 05:00 Why Risk Is Necessary for Real Connection

05:00 – End – Final Reflections and an Invitation to Soften

Stay Connected: Got a question or story for the show? Submit it here: bit.ly/safespace-questions

Follow Laura on Instagram for daily reflections and behind-the-scenes: @lauracaruso.therapy

More episodes, resources, and therapy tools: www.lauracaruso.com

In this episode of Safe Space, we dive into a listener’s vulnerable question: Why was I okay with being treated poorly by my ex?
Through the lens of relational psychology and childhood conditioning, we explore why so many of us tolerate mistreatment in relationships—often without realizing it. From family dynamics and subconscious beliefs to misconceptions about love and passion, we uncover the hidden roots of these patterns.

Listeners will gain insight into how early family systems shape our expectations of love, why emotional neglect can be mistaken for passion, and how self-blame keeps us stuck. Most importantly, we discuss what it actually means to do "the work"—building self-awareness, reframing beliefs, and moving toward relationships rooted in respect and emotional safety.

Whether you're reflecting on a painful breakup or working to break toxic patterns, this episode offers clarity, compassion, and practical steps forward.

00:00 – 00:17 Welcome to Safe Space
00:17 – 00:32 Why Do We Tolerate Poor Treatment?
00:32 – 01:09 Understanding What Healthy Love Actually Looks Like
01:09 – 01:41 The Illusion of Love, Passion, and Chaos
01:41 – 03:22 How Family Systems Shape Relationship Expectations
03:22 – 04:06 The Trap of Self-Blame and Shame
04:06 – 05:27 Subconscious Beliefs That Keep Us Stuck
05:27 – 06:11 What Past Relationships Can Teach Us
06:11 – End Reframing, Healing, and Moving Forward

• You’ve ever excused poor behavior in the name of love

• You grew up in a family where emotional connection was inconsistent

• You're doing the inner work to create healthier relationships

• You're ready to stop repeating the same painful patterns

Stay Connected:
📩 Got a question or a story you'd like explored on the podcast? Submit it here: bit.ly/safespace-questions
📱 Follow Laura on Instagram for daily insights and behind-the-scenes content: @lauracaruso.therapy
🔗 More episodes, free resources, and therapy tools: www.lauracaruso.com

TimestampsThis episode is for you if...

In this episode of Safe Space, we unpack how self-esteem and relationship status often intertwine, especially for those with anxious or insecure attachment styles. Through the lens of attachment theory, we explore how early childhood experiences shape our relational patterns and why losing a relationship can feel like losing a part of ourselves.

Listeners will learn how anxious and insecure attachment styles shape self-esteem in relationships, why childhood experiences influence adult relational patterns, and the emotional impact of losing a relationship on identity and self-worth. We also discuss practical ways to maintain individuality and self-awareness within partnerships, and how to recognize and shift unhelpful attachment patterns for healthier connections.

Whether you're navigating a breakup, reflecting on your attachment style, or simply aiming to foster healthier relationships, this episode offers tools for understanding yourself more deeply and building resilience beyond your relationship status.

Timestamps:

00:00 – 00:13 Introduction: How Relationships Shape Self-Esteem

00:13 – 00:47 Understanding Anxious & Insecure Attachment Styles

00:47 – 01:58 How Childhood Experiences Influence Adult Attachment

01:58 – 02:55 The Impact of Relationships on Our Sense of Self

02:55 – 03:45 Why Maintaining Individuality Matters

03:45 – 05:00 A Personal Story: Navigating Attachment in Real Life

05:00 – 05:34 Recognizing and Shifting Unhealthy Patterns

05:34 – 06:10 Conclusion: Building Self-Awareness & Resilience

This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to untangle their self-worth from their relationship status and cultivate secure, self-affirming connections.

Stay Connected: Have a question or a topic you'd love explored? Submit it for a future episode. Follow us on Instagram for relationship insights and behind-the-scenes content: @lauracaruso.therapy