Ambushed by Betrayal
The Survival Guide for Betrayed Partners on Their Heroes’ Journey to Healthy Intimacy
A practical guide for healing betrayal trauma after infidelity, deception, and gaslighting
When Infidelity Shatters Your Reality
Infidelity, gaslighting, and deception do not just break trust. They fracture the foundation of your emotional world.
In an instant, what once felt stable becomes rubble. The person you trusted most becomes the source of confusion and pain. Your memory, intuition, and sense of safety feel unreliable.
This is betrayal trauma.
For many betrayed partners, the aftermath includes anxiety, hypervigilance, emotional flooding, numbness, and a profound loss of self-trust. It is not weakness. It is trauma.
Ambushed by Betrayal offers a structured, self-guided process for healing that honors both the depth of the injury and the strength required to recover.
A Heroes’ Journey Through Betrayal Trauma
Drawing from over two decades of clinical experience working with betrayed partners, Michele F. Saffier and Allan J. Katz present a framework for recovery rooted in psychological insight, compassion, and personal empowerment.
This book is not about rushing forgiveness.
It is not about saving the relationship at all costs.
It is about restoring you.
Through the lens of a heroes’ journey, you will:
Face the depth of your pain with guidance and structure
Understand the impact of betrayal trauma on your nervous system and identity
Reclaim clarity, dignity, and emotional balance
Develop the strength to make difficult decisions with a steady mind
You may feel broken.
But you are not beyond repair.
What You Will Gain from This Book
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A Clear Understanding of Betrayal Trauma
Learn why your emotional responses are intense and why confusion and self-doubt are common after relational betrayal.
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Tools for Emotional Regulation and Stability
Engage in structured exercises designed to calm overwhelm and restore internal balance.
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Rebuilding Self-Trust
Reconnect with your intuition and regain confidence in your ability to make decisions aligned with your values.
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Boundary Development
Learn how to establish and communicate boundaries that protect your dignity and emotional safety.
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A Framework for Healthy Intimacy
Explore what authentic connection looks like and how healing prepares you for healthier relational dynamics moving forward.
What Readers Are Saying
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“This book teaches you to thrive, not just survive.”
Emily T. Nashville, TN
“This is one of the best self-help books I have ever read. It helped me not only in my marriage but in many of my relationships. I learned to trust myself, set healthy boundaries, and respect myself in a deeper way. As I worked through the exercises, I could feel the trauma lifting.”
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“A wonderful resource.”
Arlene R. Philadelphia, PA
“An essential resource for people struggling with betrayal trauma. I have successfully used this book with my clients. The authors combine clinical expertise with compassion, guiding readers toward clarity and healing.”
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“A great tool for healing.”
Ken Ovitz, LCSW, CSAT
“I intend to incorporate much of this book into my work with betrayed partners. It is a powerful resource.”
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“The best book I’ve read on this topic.”
“It helped me understand my husband’s addiction and provided writing exercises that gave me insight and clarity. I highly recommend it to anyone who has been betrayed.”
Designed for Individuals and Clinicians
This book is for:
Betrayed partners navigating infidelity or sexual addiction
Individuals struggling with gaslighting and deception
Therapists seeking a structured resource for clients experiencing betrayal trauma
Anyone wanting a clinically informed, compassionate guide through relational trauma
It can be used independently or integrated into therapeutic work.
Purchase the Workbook
Begin your heroes’ journey toward healing, clarity, and restored dignity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is betrayal trauma?
Betrayal trauma is the psychological and emotional injury that occurs when trust is broken in a primary relationship, often through infidelity or deception.
Is this book faith-based?
No. The framework is grounded in psychological and relational theory and is accessible to individuals of all belief systems.
Can therapists use this book with clients?
Yes. Many clinicians incorporate this book into their work with betrayed partners as a structured healing resource.
Is this only for partners of sex addicts?
No. While highly relevant for partners of individuals with sexual addiction, the book applies broadly to betrayal trauma resulting from infidelity and deception.