High-conflict divorce is often misunderstood—and misnamed. In this episode of Not That Girl Anymore, trauma therapist and Embrace Your Brave founder Dawn Bouillon sits down with author and trauma recovery practitioner Susie Miller Wendel (creator of Nurturing After Narcissism) to unpack what’s really happening beneath “high conflict”: coercive control that continues after separation.

Together, they explore why abuse frequently escalates post-separation, how the family court system can inadvertently reward abusive dynamics, and why traditional “co-parenting” often isn’t possible with a narcissistic or coercively controlling ex. Susie shares practical frameworks—including parallel parenting, Grey Rock/Yellow Rock communication, and how to protect your peace so you can be the safe, stable parent your children need.

If you’re navigating a custody battle, post-separation abuse, or the fallout of narcissistic family systems, this conversation offers language, validation, and grounded next steps—plus a reminder: you have more power than you think.

narcissistic abuse, narcissism, trauma therapy, trauma recovery, healing journey, women’s healing, nervous system regulation, boundaries, self-worth, empowerment