Thawing Toxic Relationships

Break the cycle of drama. Reclaim the love, connection, and clarity you deserve.

If you grew up in a dysfunctional, emotionally unavailable, or chaotic family, you may find yourself repeating painful relationship patterns-conflict, confusion, codependency, or feeling trapped in cycles of guilt, blame, and withdrawal. Thawing Toxic Relationships offers a compassionate and practical roadmap to break free from these frozen dynamics and co-create healthy, emotionally mature connections.

Written by Don Carter, MSW, LCSW-author of the bestselling Thawing the Iceberg Series-this book builds on the foundational emotional recovery process from Thaw - Freedom from Frozen Feelings, focusing specifically on relational trauma and the skills required for healing and intimacy.

You'll learn how to:

• Recognize dysfunctional dynamics like the Drama Triangle, Distance/Pursuit pattern, and Punishment Cycle

• Understand the hidden emotional wounds that drive conflict and codependency

• Identify toxic "relationship games" people play-and how to stop playing them

• Set healthy boundaries and assert your needs with clarity and confidence

• Build intimacy without losing yourself

Includes guided journal prompts and workbook-style exercises to help you explore:

• Core wounds and relationship styles shaped in early life

• The impact of developmental stages on adult intimacy

• The emotional chemistry behind drama and abandonment

• Mind games, mixed messages, and psychological payoffs

• How to shift from reactive patterns to intentional, connected living

Whether you're navigating romantic conflict, family dysfunction, or recovering from a painful breakup, Thawing Toxic Relationships gives you the tools to heal from the inside out-and relate from your True Self instead of your wounds.