Welcome to The Mindful Haven, brought to you by Impireum Psychiatric Group. In today’s deeply moving episode, host Layla and co-host Shanti Hubbard, a licensed therapist, sit down with Nicole Beverly — a clinical social worker, advocate, mother, and survivor of harrowing domestic abuse and stalking. Nicole bravely shares her journey from outspoken, empowered young woman to someone broken down by abuse, dispelling myths about who is at risk and what domestic violence looks like beneath the surface.

Nicole details the subtle red flags she missed, the strategic psychological tactics used by her abuser, and her terrifying yet courageous path to leaving. Together, the conversation dives into safety planning, the challenges of navigating the legal system, and the crucial role of trauma-informed therapy. Nicole also reflects on her advocacy work and her hope that, through sharing her story — and now, its adaptation in the feature film Finding Nicole — she can reach those suffering in silence and spark much-needed change.

This episode is a raw, honest exploration of the complexities of domestic violence, the healing journey, and the power of turning pain into purpose. Whether you're a survivor, supporter, or someone seeking greater understanding, this conversation is a vital listen — and a reminder that no one has to walk this path alone.

Timestamps:

00:00 Unexpected Path to Empowerment

03:28 "Recognizing Abuse's Subtle Onset"

07:25 Navigating the Process of Leaving Abusers

10:04 Escaping Domestic Threats

13:16 Navigating Abuse and Custody Challenges

18:47 Strategies for Combating Overthinking

22:39 Self-Love Shields Against Abuse

25:56 Recognizing Relationship Red and Green Flags

29:12 Confronting Domestic Violence in Education

32:24 Outdated Legislation Hurts Victims

34:44 Surviving Stalking: Exposing System Failures

39:31 Documenting Abuse: Essential Steps

40:23 Guide for Legal and Emotional Resilience

44:19 Nicole's Inspiring Courage and Education

Finding Nicole - On Amazon Prime Video

Finding Nicole Book - On Amazon

The Mindful Haven - Show Website - https://themindfulhavenshow.com/

Impireum Psychiatric Group - https://impireum.com/

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Nadia McFarlane MD, Chief Medical Officer at Impireum - https://impireum.com/nadia-mcfarlane/

TopHealth - https://tophealth.care/