What are boundaries—really? And why do they feel so hard to get right after betrayal?

In this episode, Rise hostess MaryAnn Michaelis, LCSW, CSAT, CPTT sits down with Kristin Kristiano, LCSW, CSAT to unpack the confusion around boundaries—what they are, what they’re not, and why so many attempts at “setting boundaries” actually create more disconnection.

We explore the critical shift from trying to control someone else to creating safety within yourself, how to identify your bottom lines, and what it looks like to hold boundaries when you’re triggered.

This conversation brings clarity, validation, and a grounded path forward for anyone navigating betrayal trauma.

• What boundaries actually are (and what they’re not)
• The difference between requests vs. boundaries
• Boundaries and child development
• Differences between prescriptive vs. adaptive boundaries
• Why control leads to resistance in relationships
• How to shift from controlling behaviors → self-protection
• Understanding bottom lines and non-negotiables
• When a relationship may no longer feel safe to continue
• The difference between being triggered vs. something being wrong
• How to regulate before responding
• Rebuilding self-trust by listening to your body

Boundaries are not about changing someone else—they are about creating safety for yourself and learning to trust your own voice again.

If this episode resonated with you, please share it with someone who may need support in their healing journey.

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Follow Rise: Hope & Healing After Sexual Betrayal for more conversations that help you rebuild trust, reclaim your voice, and find healing after betrayal.

Remember: Self-trust is rebuilt by listening inward, not controlling outward