The Mind After The Storm

"Is Anybody Out There?” is a powerful and heartfelt podcast co-hosted by Patti Collins and Andrea Langefeld, empowered by Women Helping Women. Dedicated to raising awareness about domestic violence, the show creates a safe and supportive space where survivors, advocates, and allies can speak, be heard, and find connection. Each episode shines a light on the many forms of abuse—emotional, physical, financial, and psychological—through unfiltered survivor stories, expert perspectives, and practical resources for healing and empowerment. Through survivor stories, expert conversations, musical guests, and open listener call-ins, each episode builds a community of hope, strength, and understanding. Whether you’re surviving, healing, or supporting someone who is, this podcast reminds you: you are not alone. Join Patti Collins and her guests as they break the silence, end the stigma, and empower women everywhere. In this insightful and deeply grounding episode of Is Anybody Out There?, hosts Patti Collins and Andrea sit down with renowned trauma-informed counselor Dr. La Guardia to explore one of the least understood — but most life-changing — aspects of domestic violence: what it does to the mind. Domestic violence is not only physical. It rewires the brain. It impacts identity. It reshapes how survivors see themselves, trust themselves, and connect with others long after the abuse ends. Dr. La Guardia walks us through the emotional and psychological effects of trauma — from confusion and numbness, to shame, self-blame, and the loss of identity many survivors silently carry. She breaks down the science of trauma, the emotional fallout of coercive control, and the healing that becomes possible when survivors finally have compassion-centered, collaborative care. If you’ve ever asked yourself: “Why didn’t I leave sooner?” “Why do I still feel broken?” “Why can’t I trust myself?” “What’s wrong with me?” This episode gives you answers — and more importantly, a path forward. We also talk about what communities, counselors, churches, and loved ones must do differently to support survivors’ emotional recovery. Not with judgment. Not with pressure. But with understanding, patience, and trauma-informed love. If you’re carrying invisible wounds… if you’re trying to reclaim the parts of yourself that were dimmed or distorted by abuse… this episode offers language, validation, and hope. You deserve peace. You deserve healing. You deserve yourself again. Music Guest: Juls Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julsmariemusic/ Facebook: http://facebook.com/juls.lawrence If you are a survivor, a supporter, or someone who believes in the power of purpose-driven art — this episode is your reminder that healing can come from unexpected places… and that you are never alone.