Leaving a toxic relationship is never as simple as it seems from the outside. In this episode of Her Time to Talk, producer Sydney—who is also a clinical intern at Her Time Therapy—shares her raw and deeply personal journey of navigating heartbreak, breaking free from harmful dynamics, and rebuilding her life.

She reflects on her seven-year relationship with a partner struggling with addiction, the emotional toll of trying to hold things together, and the painful process of walking away. Just when she thought she had escaped toxicity, she found herself in an even more dangerous relationship—one marked by manipulation, gaslighting, and escalating abuse. Through candid storytelling, Sydney describes the psychological traps that kept her stuck, the moment she realized she had to leave, and the support that helped her do it safely.

This episode explores:

• Why leaving a toxic relationship is so difficult, even when you know it’s unhealthy
• The emotional and social losses that make walking away feel impossible
• The insidious nature of gaslighting, control, and emotional abuse
• The power of therapy, community, and self-reflection in reclaiming your identity
• How healthy love can feel "boring" after years of chaos—and why that’s a good thing

Sydney’s story is not just about heartbreak—it’s about resilience, self-trust, and the radical act of choosing yourself. If you've ever questioned your worth in a relationship, struggled to leave, or wondered if healing is truly possible, this episode is for you.