Finding Safety Without Shutting Down

What do you do when you’re not the one who lashes out… but the one who shuts down?

When your partner’s emotions take over—and your voice disappears?

This episode is for the partners who hold it all together.

The ones who manage, soothe, edit, and shrink—just to keep the peace.

If you’ve ever felt like the only way to stay in your relationship is to go quiet, you’re not alone.

Inside the episode, I’ll walk you through:

• Why your partner’s reactivity may be rooted in fear—not cruelty
• What happens when you become the emotional shock absorber
• The subtle but devastating toll of long-term self-silencing
• What freeze, fawn, or shut down responses actually mean in your body
• Five grounded, practical tools to protect your nervous system without disconnecting

You’ll also hear a personal story from my own relationship—because yes, even therapists get caught in this pattern—and how we found our way back to connection through vulnerability.

If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re “too sensitive” for wanting peace and closeness…

Let me assure you: you’re not.

You don’t have to disappear to stay.

You don’t have to walk on eggshells to be safe.

You are allowed to ask for more—without feeling like a burden.

Want to work together?

Learn more about coaching and current offers at www.drrachelorleck.com