Before You Say “Gaslighting”: From Innocent Therapy Speak to Weaponized Words - Dr. Isabelle Morley

Therapy language is everywhere—on social media, in conversations with friends, and inside our most intimate relationships. But what happens when words like “gaslighting,” “narcissist,” or “boundaries” are misunderstood—or worse, weaponized?

In this episode of The Gaslight Effect Podcast, host Dr. Robin Stern is joined by clinical psychologist and EFT-certified couples therapist Dr. Isabelle Morley, author of They’re Not Gaslighting You.

Together, they unpack the difference between well-intentioned misuse of therapy terms and deliberate manipulation, exploring how careless labeling can derail connection, fuel conflict, and obscure the reality of true gaslighting.

You’ll hear:

• How to tell the difference between misuse and weaponization of therapy speak

• Why labels can shut down vulnerability and repair in relationships

• A practical “response playbook” if therapy terms are being used against you

• How clinicians can reframe conversations and protect the integrity of therapy

• The role social media plays in spreading oversimplified—and often misleading—mental health content

Dr. Morley also shares insights from her new book, reminding us that intimacy requires risk, repair, and careful use of language.

Learn more at drisabellemorley.com

Follow Dr. Morley on Instagram: @drisabellemorley

To check out this and other episodes, head over to robinstern.com.

Don't forget to subscribe to The Gaslight Effect Podcast on your favorite podcast platform, and be sure to leave us a review to let us know what you think. Until next time, remember: healing is a journey, and you don't have to walk it alone.

Dr. Robin Stern's Social Media Links:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/drrobinstern/

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Twitter (X) - https://twitter.com/RobinSStern

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/robin-stern-220b403a

Dr. Robin Stern's Books:

The Gaslight Effect

The Gaslight Effect Recovery Guide

Emotional Intelligence for School Leaders

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