Narcissistic Abuse

From Victim to Survivor: My Journey Through Narcissistic Abuse, Trauma, and Healing

Emma Davey

Nine years ago, I was living in complete despair. Nothing made sense anymore. I felt trapped, isolated, and broken inside. The person who was supposed to love me had become my greatest source of pain. I was living through the nightmare of narcissistic abuse and coercive control, and I didn’t even fully understand what was happening to me.

The emotional and psychological toll was devastating — addiction, trauma bonds, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and even suicidal thoughts became part of my daily reality. I felt like I had lost myself completely. There were days I didn’t recognise the person in the mirror.

But deep down, a small voice kept whispering that there had to be more to life than this.

Leaving to Live Again

Reaching breaking point, I made one of the hardest yet bravest decisions of my life — I left the UK and everything familiar behind. I flew to Australia in search of healing, safety, and understanding. It was there that my journey of self-discovery and recovery truly began.

I enrolled in counselling studies and immersed myself in learning about narcissistic abuse, domestic abuse, and the psychology of trauma. I wanted to understand not only what had happened to me, but how to help others who were still living in silence and pain.

During my time in Australia, I attended and completed Narcissistic Abuse and Domestic Abuse specialist courses and became a qualified Counsellor and Narcissistic Abuse Specialist. It wasn’t just an academic journey — it was a personal transformation. I began to rebuild myself, one small piece at a time.

Turning Pain into Purpose

The road to healing wasn’t easy. Trauma recovery never is. But I made a promise to myself: that my pain would not be wasted. I wanted to use my experience to empower others — to be the person I once needed.

Today, I am proud to say that I am a multi-award-winning professional in the field of narcissistic abuse recovery. My work is dedicated to supporting survivors who are struggling with the same darkness I once lived through. I know the loneliness, the confusion, and the fear. I know what it’s like to doubt your own reality — and I know the courage it takes to break free.

Finding Justice and Empowerment

In 2022, after years of persistence, I finally received justice. My abuser was sentenced to 19 months in prison for coercive control — a moment that brought both closure and validation after years of pain and disbelief.

The court process was one of the most challenging experiences of my life. Standing up to a narcissist in a legal setting can feel overwhelming and retraumatising, which is why I always urge others in similar situations to seek legal advice and professional support. You do not have to face it alone.

Hope After the Hurt

If you are reading this and you’re trapped in a cycle of abuse, trauma, or self-doubt — please know this: healing is possible. You can rebuild your life, your confidence, and your sense of self. The pain you feel today does not define you — it can, in time, become your greatest strength.

Recovery from narcissistic abuse and trauma takes time, compassion, and guidance. But I am living proof that you can move from surviving to thriving.

If you recognise yourself in my story, please reach out for help. Talk to someone you trust, contact a professional, or connect with a support community. You deserve peace, freedom, and a life that feels like your own again.

MyNARA: The Narcissistic Abuse Recovery App That Puts Your Safety First

MyNARA is a powerful recovery app created by experienced mental health professionals and survivors of narcissistic abuse. It’s designed specifically for those trapped in or recovering from a romantic relationship with a narcissist — offering the tools, structure, and emotional support needed to begin healing and reclaim your life.

Inside the app, you’ll find practical guidance, coping strategies, and recovery tools that help you understand the abuse, set boundaries, and rebuild your confidence.

Safety is always our top priority. The MyNARA app is completely discreet — its icon is cloaked on your phone to appear as a simple utility, so your abuser won’t recognise it. Access is protected by a PIN code, ensuring your privacy and security at all times.

If you’re ready to take your first step toward freedom and healing, download MyNARA today — your safe space for recovery is just one tap away.

ttps://www.mytraumatherapy.co.uk/

Apple App Store (iOS): https://apps.apple.com/us/app/mynara/id6450932913

Google Play Store (Android): https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=dev.bigspark.mynara