Many clients find themselves trapped in repetitive, unhealthy relational patterns that leave them feeling powerless, reactive, or overburdened by the emotional needs of others. The Karpman Drama Triangle provides a powerful framework for understanding these dysfunctional interactions, where individuals unconsciously cycle between the roles of Victim, Persecutor, and Rescuer. However, simply recognizing these roles is not enough—clients need guidance and tools to step out of the cycle and into healthier, more empowered ways of relating. This session will explore how to help clients recognize their patterns within the Drama Triangle, understand the emotional and psychological drivers behind these roles, and develop strategies for lasting change. We will introduce the Empowerment Dynamic (TED Model) as a solution-focused approach that supports clients in shifting from Victim to Creator, Persecutor to Challenger, and Rescuer to Coach. Through case examples, interactive discussions, and practical exercises, participants will gain tools to guide clients in reclaiming their power, setting healthy boundaries, and fostering relationships built on accountability and self-leadership.

Presentation Objectives: By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

• Explain the Karpman Drama Triangle - Define the Victim, Persecutor, and Rescuer roles, their underlying motivations, and how they contribute to relational dysfunction.
• Recognize How Clients Get Stuck - Identify the psychological and emotional barriers that keep clients trapped in the Drama Triangle and why these roles feel compelling.
• Introduce the Empowerment Dynamic (TED Model) - Provide a framework for shifting out of the Drama Triangle by moving from Victim to Creator, Persecutor to Challenger, and Rescuer to Coach.
• Implement Effective Interventions - Learn therapeutic and coaching techniques to help clients build self-awareness, take responsibility for their actions, and develop healthier relational strategies.
• Use Practical Tools for Client Growth - Gain hands-on strategies such as journaling prompts, role-play exercises, and cognitive reframing techniques to support clients in disengaging from the Drama Triangle and stepping into personal empowerment.
• Facilitate Lasting Change - Understand how to help clients integrate these concepts into their daily lives, leading to improved relationships, emotional regulation, and greater autonomy in their healing process.

This presentation is designed for therapists, coaches, and mental health professionals seeking to deepen their understanding of relational dynamics and provide clients with actionable strategies for healing and empowerment. Participants will leave with a clear framework, practical tools, and a renewed ability to guide clients toward self-leadership and healthier connections.

--

Alana Gordon is the co-owner and founder of Choose Recovery Services, where she supports couples, families, and individuals on their journey to heal from addiction, betrayal, and infidelity. With extensive experience as a marriage and family therapist and a betrayal trauma coach, Alana specializes in research-based treatments that empower clients with the skills necessary for lasting recovery. Through her work, Alana integrates modalities such as trauma-informed care, Brainspotting (BSP), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Internal Family Systems (IFS) and coaching to guide individuals toward recovery and relational healing. Alana also facilitates transformative full disclosures, retreats, and intensives for clients and therapists/coaches alike, to support deep healing.

Alana serves as President of the board of directors for the Association of Partners of Sex Addicts and Trauma Specialists (APSATS). Each week, she co-hosts the podcast Choose To Be, alongside Amie Woolsey, where they offer a blend of professional insights and personal experiences to help listeners navigate healing from betrayal trauma.