Braving Therapy & Breaking the People-Pleasing Cycle – with Linda Feig Knipe

In this heart-opening episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Sana (filling in for Avik) sits down with author and retired school counselor Linda Feig Knipe to unpack the deep-rooted cultural and emotional patterns of people-pleasing—especially among women. Drawing from Linda’s memoir Braving Therapy, the conversation explores the hidden costs of being the “good girl,” perfectionism, internalized shame, and the long journey to reclaiming authenticity through therapy. Linda shares her personal trauma story, how she buried pain to maintain appearances, and how real healing began only when she learned to speak her truth.

About the Guest

Linda Feig Knipe is the author of Braving Therapy: Rape, Buried Trauma, and the Triumphant Journey Over PTSD. With over 20 years of experience as a professional school counselor, Linda now advocates for mental health awareness, especially around trauma and cultural expectations placed on women. A survivor herself, she shares her journey to empower others to break free from silence and perfectionism.

Key Takeaways

• People-pleasing often stems from childhood praise for "good behavior" and suppressing one's own needs.

• Burying trauma to stay “perfect” leads to anxiety, self-criticism, and strained relationships.

• Healing starts with honesty—first with yourself, then with others.

• Therapy, especially with unconditional positive regard, is a safe space to rediscover your true self.

• Real strength lies in vulnerability and choosing healing over hiding.

Connect with Linda Feig Knipe

• Website: https://lfknipe.com

• Facebook: facebook.com/l.f.knipe

• Book: Braving Therapy available on Amazon and major bookstores.

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