Betrayal trauma is a deep and often invisible wound that occurs when an attachment figure (someone we depend on for safety, love, or support) violates our trust in a profound way. Unlike other forms of trauma, betrayal trauma is rooted in relationships, making it uniquely painful and complex. Whether it stems from infidelity, abuse, abandonment, or deception, the psychological impact can be lasting and far-reaching.

What Is Betrayal Trauma?

First introduced by psychologist Jennifer Freyd, betrayal trauma refers to the emotional and psychological distress that arises when a trusted person—such as a parent, partner, friend, or authority figure—betrays us. Because the betrayal comes from someone we rely on, the mind may suppress or minimize the experience as a survival mechanism, especially in cases involving childhood trauma or intimate relationships. Betrayal trauma occurs when an attachment figure violates trust in a way that significantly impacts a person’s ability to feel safe in their close relationships.

Common Examples of Betrayal Trauma

• Infidelity in romantic relationships
• Abuse or neglect by a caregiver
• Emotional manipulation or gaslighting
• Secrecy and deception in close relationships
• Institutional betrayal (e.g., schools, churches, or workplaces ignoring abuse)

Emotional and Psychological Effects of Betrayal Trauma

Betrayal trauma can lead to a wide range of emotional and psychological responses:

• Anxiety and hypervigilance
• Depression or emotional numbness
• Difficulty trusting others
• Low self-worth or shame
• Flashbacks or intrusive thoughts
• Attachment difficulties in future relationships

Why It Hurts So Deeply

What makes betrayal trauma particularly devastating is the loss of safety in a relationship that was supposed to be protective. When the person betraying you is someone you deeply love or rely on, it can disrupt your sense of reality, self-identity, and ability to form healthy connections in the future. The betrayal challenges the very foundation of trust, which is central to all human relationships.

Healing from Betrayal Trauma

While betrayal trauma is profound, healing is absolutely possible. Recovery involves:

1. Acknowledging the Betrayal – Allow yourself to recognize and validate the hurt.
2. Processing Emotions – Work through the pain, anger, sadness, and confusion with a therapist or trusted support system.
3. Rebuilding Trust – Gradually relearn how to trust yourself and others through safe and healthy relationships.
4. Setting Boundaries – Create clear emotional and relational boundaries to protect yourself from further harm.
5. Seeking Professional Help – Trauma-informed therapy, such as EMDR or somatic experiencing, can help reprocess traumatic memories and restore emotional balance.

Start Betrayal Trauma Therapy in American Fork, UT

If you’ve experienced betrayal trauma, know that your pain is valid. Healing is not linear, and it’s okay to take your time. By seeking support from a caring therapist and prioritizing your mental health, you can begin to reclaim your sense of safety, identity, and capacity for connection.

You are not alone, and your journey toward healing is a courageous act of self-love. You can start your therapy journey with The Family Therapy Clinic by following these simple steps:

1. Schedule a consultation.
2. Learn more about our team of caring therapists.
3. Start healing from trauma and rebuilding trust!

Other Services Offered with The Family Therapy Clinic

Support in overcoming trauma isn’t the only services offered at our American Fork, UT-based practice. The team at The Family Therapy Clinic can offer support with a variety of mental health issues including marriage counseling, adult anxiety, therapy for teens facing anxiety and depression, and OCD therapy, ensuring a holistic approach to mental wellness across different life stages. Visit our blog for more helpful info!