Uplifting Counseling & Wellness

Let’s Talk About The Polygamist.

After watching this series and talking with friends, colleagues, and clients, I realized I wasn’t the only one who felt emotionally triggered. So many women shared that parts of the show brought up painful memories, difficult emotions, and questions about their own past relationships.

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who primarily works with couples—including some in consensual polygamous relationships—I want to make one important distinction. In my professional opinion, this show was not an accurate representation of healthy polygamy. What I observed was a pattern of emotional abuse, manipulation, and narcissistic behaviors. Those are two very different things.

There are so many layers to unpack, but I want to share two reflections.

The first is personal.

Years ago, I was in a relationship with someone who displayed similar traits. As I watched the women in this series, I found myself wondering, If I had stayed, which one of these women would I have become?

I’d like to believe I would have been the one to leave. But healing has taught me that life isn’t always that simple. When children, finances, fear, trauma bonds, or years of emotional manipulation are involved, leaving can feel impossible. That’s why I choose compassion over judgment.

The second reflection is for every woman reading this.

It’s easy to ask, “Why didn’t she just leave?” But perhaps a better question is, “What happened that made leaving so difficult?”

Emotional abuse doesn’t usually begin with cruelty. It often starts with love, attention, promises, and hope. Slowly, over time, manipulation, gaslighting, control, and isolation begin to take hold. Before someone realizes it, they may be questioning their own reality, doubting their instincts, and losing pieces of themselves.

Gaslighting is emotionally exhausting.

Watching your children experience that same manipulation can be devastating.

If this series triggered something in you, please know that your feelings are valid. Triggers often point us toward wounds that still deserve healing—not because you’re weak, but because you’re human.

So today, I want to remind every woman:

✨ You have worth.
✨ You deserve love that is healthy and respectful.
✨ You deserve honesty and emotional safety.
✨ Your voice matters.
✨ Your children deserve to be seen, valued, and protected.

If this show brought up painful memories, don’t carry them alone. Talk to someone you trust—a friend, a family member, your faith leader, or a licensed therapist. Healing often begins when we feel safe enough to tell our story.

Had an amazing time yesterday at the Mental Health Fair in Port Charlotte, Fl. Had the opportunity to speak with the members of the Church of God of Adoration on mental health issues and met some great people.

We have a busy weekend ahead… As we close Mental Health Awareness Month join us at one or all of the following events this weekend…
Mid year Heal. Exhale. Release zoom check in for the ladies tomorrow evening from 6 PM-8PM. A health fair in Port Charlotte, Fl and and Mental health and wellness fair at Empower Culture Church in Riverview Fl.

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7678099188?omn=86199511316

A little fun with Chat GPT… As always, very accurate…

Good Morning and Happy Wellness Wednesday. Uplifting Counseling & Wellness will be participating in this amazing community wellness event on 5/31/2026. It is free and family friendly. Come by, say hi, get some great resources and have fun.

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY!!!

Being a mother is an honor, a blessing, and a privilege. It is also one of the greatest responsibilities a person can carry. Today, take a moment to appreciate the fact that you are someone’s safe place, greatest supporter, and whole world. That alone is powerful.

Also, give yourself grace. Celebrate the areas where you thrive as a mom, and be honest about the areas where you are still growing. Motherhood is not about perfection — it is about love, sacrifice, resilience, and progression.

You are doing more than you realize, and your impact matters every single day. ❤️

https://www.psychologytoday.com/profile/867766

Elizabeth Conward, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Ruskin, FL, 33570 | Psychology Today Elizabeth Conward, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Ruskin, FL, 33570, (941) 367-3448, Welcome! I am Elizabeth Conward, I am a licensed clinical social worker in both the states of Massachusetts and Florida. Life can be challenging, overwhelming, and at times unbearable. The great news is that if you...