The Mother Wound: How It Destroys Self-Worth & Attracts Toxic Relationships

In this powerful reunion, Ross Rosenberg sits down once again with life coach and author Rick Belden to revisit the profound topic of the mother wound. Their last discussion on this subject reached over 400,000 views, and for good reason — it's a topic that resonates deeply with so many. This time, they go even deeper, exploring how early relational injuries with a mother — whether due to neglect, enmeshment, or emotional absence — can lead to lifelong patterns of self-neglect, codependency, and a fractured sense of self. Rick shares his unique perspective working primarily with men, while Ross draws connections to his own Self-Love Deficit Disorder (SLDD) model and Human Magnet Syndrome, offering a broader lens on developmental trauma.

Together, they unpack the subtle yet devastating effects of being unseen, unsupported, or used to fulfill a parent's unmet needs — and how that trauma often leads adults into self-sacrificing roles and painful relationship cycles. From grief and body-based healing to reparenting one's younger self, this conversation is rich with insight, compassion, and hope for transformation. Whether you're struggling to understand your own past or working to support someone else, this episode offers the validation, tools, and language needed to take the next step toward healing.

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ABOUT ROSS ROSENBERG
Ross Rosenberg, M.Ed., LCPC, CADC, is a psychotherapist, educator, expert witness, and celebrated author. He is also a global thought leader and clinical expert in codependency, trauma, pathological narcissism, narcissistic abuse, and addictions.

Ross's pioneering contributions to codependency have provided sweeping theoretical and practical updates and developed a treatment program that permanently resolves the issue. Ross has been featured on national TV and radio and is a regular radio and podcast guest.

In addition, he has traveled the world, giving his one-of-a-kind keynote presentations and educational workshops. His global impact is best illustrated by his YouTube channel, with 30 million views and 297,000 subscribers, and the sale of 190,000 Human Magnet Syndrome books published in 12 languages. In 2013, Ross created The Self-Love Recovery Institute, a hub for his personal development, workshops, professional training, retreats, other programs, and services.

Learn more at www.SelfLoveRecovery.com.

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