Are you tired of feeling trapped by the weight of your C-PTSD? Do you long for a way to heal and move forward with your life? It's time to unlock the secret to healing and take control of your journey.

The most empowering thing I ever did to reclaim my life and accelerate my recovery was to lean on people who truly loved and respected me.

That way, even though my family was unable to give me the love I needed, I could find it in my "Close 3". BUT I was only able to get there by opening up and trusting them... Which I know is super difficult for anyone with C-PTSD...

That's why I've developed the "Close 3 Conversation" Guide. It's a powerful tool to help you start building those healthy relationships which will help you navigate the complexities of recovery.

So, what is the "Close 3 Conversation", and how can it help you on your healing journey? Let's break it down...

Step 1: Understand Why You Need Your Close 3

You're going to sit them down and talk to them about how they can support you on your healing journey. Yep, that means your condition, your symptoms, your triggers, and how you might hurt them. I know that sounds terrifying and the goal is not to justify your “toxic” behavior. It's to allow them to point out when you’re acting up, to understand you so they can be compassionate if you hurt them, and to take the pressure off you because they know things won’t be easy. All of these will form a strong foundation for your healing journey. Essentially, they're helping you heal!

Step 2: Identify Your Close 3

Before you go ANY further I encourage you to read Toxic Traits to Steer Clear of When Choosing Your Inner Circle because those people can NOT be part of your close 3. Your Close 3 are the people in your life who have earned your trust and support. These are the people who are there for you through thick and thin, who listen without judgment, and who offer a shoulder to cry on when you need it. Your Close 3 might include friends, family members, or even a therapist. Take some time to identify who these people are in your life.

Step 3: Start the Conversation

Once you've identified your Close 3, it's time to start the conversation. This will feel daunting at first, but remember that your Close 3 are there to support you. Begin by sharing your story and explaining how C-PTSD has affected your life. Be honest and vulnerable - this is a safe space for you to share your thoughts and feelings. The more they understand you, the more they can support you. That means the braver you are here, the more you will benefit from the relationships moving forward. Be brave.

Step 4: Set Boundaries and Expectations

As you open up to your Close 3, it's important to set boundaries and expectations. Let them know what kind of support you need and how they can best help you on your healing journey. Be clear about what you're comfortable with and what you're not, and don't be afraid to ask for what you need. Equally, this is an opportunity for them to speak. Listen to their boundaries and allow them time to process the information if this is the first they've heard of it. This recovery journey is long and it will only be successful if those who are going to help you feel heard and respected!

So... what do you think?

I know most of you will be TERRIFIED by the thought of what I just said. And, trust me, I was too. That is how our abusers could continue to abuse us because we were conditioned to believe we didn't deserve help.

Break that cycle now. This is your recovery journey. This is your opportunity to connect with those you love. This is your chance to accept your story, manage your feelings, build healthy relationships, and navigate recovery. You don't have to face it alone - your close 3 (and us!) are here to help you.

"Healing may not be so much about getting better, as about letting go of everything that isn't you - all of the expectations, all of the beliefs - and becoming who you are." - Rachel Naomi

You are strong, brave, and worthy of love and support. Keep reaching out and seeking help, and know that healing is possible.

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