what is betrayal trauma?
Betrayal trauma occurs when someone you deeply trust—usually a partner—violates that trust in a way that causes significant emotional and psychological harm.
This often involves infidelity, secret sexual behavior, pornography addiction, or other forms of relational deception. Because the betrayal comes from someone you rely on for emotional safety and connection, the impact can feel disorienting, overwhelming, and even traumatic.
how do you treat betrayal trauma?
The APSATS Multi-dimensional Partner Trauma Model (MPTM)
The APSATS Multidimensional Partner Trauma Model (MPTM) is a specialized, trauma-informed approach to supporting partners of individuals struggling with sex or pornography addiction. Unlike traditional models that often pathologize the partner’s reactions (e.g., labeling them as codependent), the MPTM recognizes that the betrayed partner is experiencing genuine trauma—not dysfunction.
Together, we will address the core phases of recovery: safety and stabilization, processing the trauma, and reconnecting/future-oriented growth.
For more information, visit www.apsats.org.
Symptoms of Betrayal Trauma
Shock and disbelief
“I can’t believe this happened” or feeling like your world has been turned upside down.Intrusive thoughts or images
Unwanted mental images, obsessing over details, or constantly replaying what happened.Hypervigilance
Feeling on edge, scanning for signs of further betrayal, or unable to relax.Anxiety or panic attacks
Physical symptoms like racing heart, tight chest, difficulty breathing, or restlessness.Difficulty sleeping
Trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing nightmares.Mood swings or emotional numbing
Feeling emotionally raw one moment, and completely shut down the next.Grief and sadness
Mourning the loss of trust, safety, or the relationship you thought you had.Shame and self-doubt
Questioning your worth, blaming yourself, or feeling “not enough.”Difficulty concentrating
Trouble focusing at work, at home, or in daily tasks.Physical symptoms
Headaches, stomach issues, fatigue, or other stress-related health issues.Loss of trust
Not only in your partner, but in yourself, others, or even your faith/spiritual beliefs.Isolation
Withdrawing from friends or family due to shame or not knowing who to talk to.Betrayal trauma isn’t just emotional pain—it affects the nervous system and can mirror symptoms of PTSD. You’re not overreacting or being "too sensitive"—your brain and body are responding to a real threat to your emotional safety.
Healing is possible.
Reach out today.