Toxic relationships are often misunderstood. Especially when it comes to men being on the receiving end of emotional abuse. On the latest episode of the Men’s Therapy Podcast, host Marc Azoulay speaks with returning guest Bre Wolta. She is a relationship clarity coach and speaks about how toxic love manifests. She highlights why men struggle to recognize emotional abuse and shares insights on how to break free from unhealthy relationship patterns.
As Bre explains, toxic relationships often stem from deep-rooted emotional wounds. “Narcissists are seeking control and validation from relationships rather than love and connection,” she says. This manipulation can take many forms. These include gaslighting, love bombing, and emotional withdrawal. All create cycles of codependency.
But toxic relationships aren’t always easy to identify—especially for men. “We don’t talk enough about men being in toxic relationships as the victims,” Marc points out. “The narrative often assumes that men are the abusers, but the reality is far more complex.”
When we think of narcissistic relationships, the focus is often on men as the perpetrators. But, Bre sheds light on the reality that covert narcissists—who use guilt, manipulation, and control—can just as easily be women. “Narcissists don’t engage in relationships to build a connection,” Bre explains. “They engage to extract something—validation, power, or control.” Common tactics include:
Gaslighting in relationships: Making their partner question their reality.
Love bombing then pulling away: Creating an emotional high before withdrawing affection.
Covert narcissist creates codependency in relationships. They keep their partner reliant on them for validation and self-worth.
Men who identify as “nice guys” are especially vulnerable. As Marc explains, “A lot of men overcorrect from toxic masculinity and end up in relationships where they never set boundaries. They always prioritize their partner’s needs, and ultimately lose themselves.”
If you’re unsure whether your relationship is healthy, consider these red flags:
According to Bre, one of the biggest obstacles men face in leaving a toxic relationship is the belief that they can “fix” their partner. “We can’t change another person who refuses to take accountability,” she says. “We can only work on ourselves.”
If you recognize these signs in your relationship, it’s time to take action. Set firm boundaries in dating. “Boundaries are about self-respect, not control,” Bre emphasizes. Seek support. Whether through therapy or trusted friends, having a support system is crucial. Stop making excuses for your partner. “We have to accept reality, not live in ‘potential land,” Bre warns.
Focus on healing from relationship trauma. This may involve rebuilding self-esteem and redefining what love should look like. Marc sums it up well: “A healthy relationship should be the icing on the cake—you have to build your foundation first.”
The conversation explores how men experience emotional abuse. It highlights relationships with narcissistic partners. Bre discusses gender biases in how narcissism is perceived. She highlights the psychological impact of toxic dynamics. She sheds light on the importance of self-awareness and personal growth in breaking unhealthy cycles. The episode also explores societal expectations and emotional regulation. It focuses on the role of therapy in fostering healthier relationships.
Bre Wolta is a relationship clarity coach. She is dedicated to helping individuals break free from toxic relationships. Bre helps them develop healthier emotional connections. She has years of experience working with clients who have experienced emotional abuse and gaslighting. Bre provides practical guidance and compassionate support. She helps those who are seeking to reclaim their self-worth. Bre empowers people to rebuild their lives with confidence and clarity. She does so through her coaching programs and insightful podcast, Heartbreak to Wholeness.
Besides her one-on-one coaching, Bre is a sought-after speaker. She is an educator on topics such as dating boundaries and emotional intelligence in relationships. She highlights the impact of narcissistic abuse. Her work has helped countless individuals recognize toxic patterns. She helps them set firm boundaries, and cultivate self-awareness in their relationships. She shares her experiences and expertise to inspire change. Her insights help others break free from destructive cycles. She guides them toward healthier, more fulfilling connections.
Bre Wolta’s podcast Heartbreak to Wholeness
Is Your Relationship Toxic? (Previous podcast episode with Bre)
Men’s Therapy Online is a revolutionary platform. It is devoted to addressing the particular mental health issues encountered by men. It is hosted by Marc Azoulay, a certified men’s mental health coach. The podcast addresses a wide range of critical topics. These include grief, career transitions, emotional resilience, and personal growth. Every episode will offer insightful conversations and useful coping mechanisms to guide you through life. Join the community and start your journey towards becoming a better man!
https://menstherapy.online/mens-therapy-podcast/
Listen to all our episodes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mens-therapy-podcast/id1559292153
https://www.youtube.com/@menstherapyonline
Sameera Sullivan, a matchmaker, joins Marc Azoulay to unpack why dating feels so hard for men right now. Learn what it takes to find and keep a real relationship. Drawing on her experience vetting and coaching clients, Sameera explains how app fatigue, endless options, and approach anxiety leave many good men stuck. They discuss how attachment styles, love languages, and personality types shape compatibility,
Listen Now
Unpack what a modern midlife crisis actually looks like. Learn why the old stereotypes get it wrong. Discover how it can become an initiation instead of a collapse.
Listen NowGet expert insights, podcast drops, blog highlights, and upcoming events straight to your inbox,
built for men who want to grow, lead, and live with purpose.
Address: PO Box 142, Evergreen, CO 80439
Phone: (301) 442-9119
MTO connects men with licensed practitioners who provide guidance and support for navigating the challenges of modern life. These coaching services are not a substitute for mental health treatment, emergency services, or crisis support.
