Welcome to UNBROKEN
A space for survivors of narcissistic abuse, seekers of clarity, and truth-tellers ready to reclaim their voice
Hello friends,
I’m Dr. Tina Paone—a licensed professional counselor, counselor educator, and survivor of more than four decades of narcissistic abuse. Even with all my professional training, I didn’t fully see how deeply narcissistic abuse had seeped into every corner of my life—shaping my relationships, decisions, and sense of self—and how it was impacting my children. It took doing my own deep, often painful work to recognize the patterns, confront the truth, and begin to heal. Now, I’m committed to helping others do the same: to name the abuse, break free from its grip, and reclaim the lives they deserve.
I created this Substack because I know how isolating narcissistic abuse can feel. The world often misunderstands it. Friends and family might not believe you. Even mental health professionals sometimes minimize it. Here, we will name it, unpack it, and dismantle the myths that keep survivors silent.
Over time, I’ll share:
Educational deep dives into the psychology of narcissism and trauma, explained in plain language.
Practical tools for recovery, boundary-setting, and rebuilding your life after abuse.
Reflections and resources for those still navigating toxic relationships or the aftermath of them.
Stories from my forthcoming memoir, UNBROKEN, to illustrate the realities of narcissistic abuse in childhood, marriage, and beyond.
If you’re here, it’s because you’re seeking something—validation, knowledge, hope, or simply a reminder that you are not alone. My promise is to meet you with truth, compassion, and the unwavering belief that healing is possible.
Thank you for joining me on this journey. Together, we will reclaim our voices, rewrite our stories, and rise unbroken.
With warmth,
Dr. Tina Paone
Survivor & Founder, Rise & Thrive Counseling