I met Susan Broussard at probably the lowest point of my life. I was overweight when I had never had an issue with my weight previously. I was drinking alcohol in excess. I was taking multiple anti-depressant medications. I had severe case of insomnia. I could not, and would not, go to work. And, I had a feeling of hopelessness that ultimately led me to suicidal ideation. Even with all of the previously listed issues, I wanted to live for the sake of my sons. So, I searched high and low to find a counselor who would understand me..., and that was Ms. Broussard. 

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Susan is the real deal. One of the first things she ever said to me is, "My goal is to get you well - not keep you as a patient forever. And, as long as you are willing to do the work so will I." So, I did the work. On some of the days that I saw her, I walked away feeling the same because there was a lot to unpack in my life. But, I kept showing up, and so did Susan. She took notes, gave me copies, recommended books, and assigned homework. Sometimes I felt like I was in school. I did not want to always do the homework. But, I did it anyway. And, then there was this 1 day that I turned a corner - after reading her book. I had the hardest epiphany of my life - the recognition that my now ex-husband was a narcissist, as well as my parents; and, there was absolutely no way to fix them. That day was also the beginning of my transformation from feeling helpless to feeling hopeful. 

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I will not lie. The process of gaining my life back was hard. I left my husband within 2 weeks of determining he would never change. And, I have distanced myself from my parents, permanently. However, I would do it again 10 more times to be where I am now. I am off all medications. I no longer drink. I have lost all my weight. I sleep like a baby. My sons are proud of me. And, I am happier than I have ever been. 

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I learned how to create boundaries. I learned to recognize being gaslighted. I learned there is no magic pill that can fix a narcissist. And most importantly, I learned that I was deserving of being loved without being tortured - even by people whose titles I have been told I should respect no matter what. 

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No words will ever be enough to show my appreciation for all Susan has done for me.