Episode 016 — Overcoming a Toxic Family with Carolina Bracco

What happens when the people meant to love and protect you are the ones who cause the deepest wounds?

In this episode of Overcoming Anything, host Anne Vryonides sits down with Carolina Bracco, a licensed mental health therapist who helps adult children of dysfunctional families heal from childhood trauma. Carolina shares her story of growing up in a toxic household—the pain of emotional neglect and control—and how she learned to reclaim her power, peace, and identity through boundaries, inner-child work, and therapy.

Carolina is a Colorado-based therapist specializing in helping adult children of dysfunctional families set healthy boundaries, overcome guilt, and address the lasting effects of narcissistic parenting. Through online therapy, EMDR, inner-child work, and workshops, she empowers adults to break generational patterns and live authentically.

Episode Breakdown

00:00 – Welcome & introduction
04:30 – What defines a dysfunctional family
10:10 – The emotional cost of gaslighting & scapegoating
16:40 – Breaking free and finding independence
22:00 – The healing power of spirituality & therapy
30:00 – Inner-child work and re-parenting yourself
37:15 – Setting boundaries with toxic family members
44:00 – How to rebuild trust and find healthy community
50:00 – Carolina’s advice for those still in toxic family systems

Key Takeaways

1. You’re not powerless anymore: healing begins when you recognize your strength as an adult.
2. Boundaries are an act of love: protecting your peace isn’t punishment; it’s self-respect.
3. You can re-parent yourself: give yourself the love, validation, and safety you never received.

Books & Resources

• Homecoming: Reclaiming and Championing Your Inner Child by John Bradshaw — https://a.co/d/1SoM7zT
• Get Carolina’s free workbook Toxic Family Detox

If you or someone you know is in crisis:

• Call or text 988 (U.S.)
• Text the Crisis Line by: texting HOME to 741741
• If immediate danger is present, call 911 or your local emergency number

Connect with Carolina Bracco
Website | Instagram | YouTube

⚠️ Disclaimer
The content in this episode is for informational and inspirational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional therapy, diagnosis, or medical care. Always seek the advice of a licensed professional for your unique situation.

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❤️ Anne