In this article (based on PBSE episode306), we explore the painful confusion many betrayed partners face when asking, “Is my partner a narcissist, or just acting like one?”  While addiction in denial often mimics narcissism—through defensiveness, gaslighting, and emotional withdrawal—true narcissism involves a total absence of empathy and self-awareness. The label matters less than the direction: whether the relationship moves toward honesty, accountability, and healing, or r

In this PBSE episode (based on Episode 305), we confront one of the most disturbing betrayals a partner can face—when a porn-addicted spouse uses photos of family, friends, or acquaintances to fantasize and masturbate. We explore the deep confusion and trauma this causes, explaining how addiction hijacks the brain’s logic and morality, driving behaviors that defy love and conscience. Partners are urged to stop trying to fix their addict and instead focus on trauma support, ac

In this article (based on PBSE Episode 304), Mark and Steve respond to a betrayed partner whose marriage began in deception and has been riddled with years of pornography use, lies, and shattered trust. They validate her trauma as real and severe—physically, emotionally, and spiritually—and emphasize that healing begins with reclaiming her sense of self, setting firm boundaries, and refusing to carry roles like “policewoman” or “confessor.” True recovery for her husband requi

In this article (based on PBSE Episode 303), Mark and Steve respond to a betrayed partner's questions about what real accountability looks like for a recovering porn/sex addict. Real accountability for a porn and sex addict goes far beyond apologies or promises — it’s a daily commitment to honesty, transparency, empathy, and consistent action. It starts with brutal self-honesty, taking full ownership of one’s choices without shifting blame or dumping shame onto a betrayed par