Gaslighting is a form of psychological abuse where a person or group makes someone question their sanity, perception of reality, or memories.
People experiencing gaslighting often feel confused, anxious, and unable to trust themselves.
I decided to touch upon this topic because it’s an issue that has come up within our STRIVE community. I felt it was important to try and understand this issue from both sides, so I reached out to Julie Rivera (a former victim of gaslighting), and I provided my experience as a gaslighter.
Julie Rivera has always been motivated to understand what drives our thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. With an undergraduate degree in Psychology followed by a Master's Degree in Marriage, family, and Couple Counseling specializing in Trauma and Crisis, Julie found her true calling in Coaching focusing on Life and Mindset Transformation.
Julie has lived a life that was not hers for many years and it was not until she left a marriage of 18 years that she was finally able to see that life happened "For Her” and not "To Her”. With this shift in her life, Julie uncovered a peace and happiness she had never felt before. It sent her on a mission to serve others to uncover their own peace from within.
Julie also co-hosts a podcast with her 25-year-old daughter Kaity called "Our Chic Chat". They discuss all kinds of topics about life including mental health, and why change can be so hard.
