Have you ever looked back at a relationship and thought, “Why didn’t I walk away sooner?” You’re not alone — and it’s not about weakness or denial. In this episode, Dr. Gemma Gladstone explores seven powerful psychological reasons we tend to ignore red flags in relationships — especially in the early stages.
Drawing on schema therapy, attachment theory, and decades of clinical experience, Gemma breaks down why patterns like schema chemistry, abandonment fears, self-doubt, and people-pleasing keep us stuck in emotionally harmful dynamics — even when we know something feels off.
Whether you’re dating, in a relationship, or reflecting on the past, this episode offers deep insight and gentle guidance to help you recognize what’s really going on beneath the surface.
You’ll learn:
- What schema chemistry is — and how it hijacks your attraction radar
- Why self-doubt and schemas like defectiveness or dependence make it hard to trust yourself
- The role of the abandonment schema in keeping you hooked
- How emotional deprivation creates low expectations in love
- Why people-pleasing, guilt, and over-responsibility make it hard to leave
- What it means to rewire your “love template”
- How to start showing up for yourself in new ways
Mentioned in this episode:
- Love Wisely Group Coaching — now closed for enrollment. Join the waitlist here for the next round starting September 2025
- The Red Flag Project Course — our online course to help you break toxic patterns and spot red flags early
✨ Reminder: If this episode resonates with you, follow the show and share it with someone who needs to hear it.
Let’s break the cycle — together.
✨ Connect with Me
📷 Instagram: @drgemmagladstone
📧 Email: hello@drgemmagladstone.com
🌐 Website: drgemmagladstone.com
🩷 Love Wisely
Doors are closed, but join the WAITLIST for the next cohort (Sept 2025): Join here
🚩 The Red Flag Project
Get instant access to the online course: Access now
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Love the show? Help us keep going with a monthly contribution: Support here
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