Marion Trent

During the breakup of her marriage, Ms. Trent was told by a therapist that she was suffering from PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) and that she had been married to a sociopath. It didn't quite sink in at the moment she heard the diagnosis, but she immediately researched the term on the internet when she got home. As shocking as the information was, her life started to make perfect sense.

She began to research the healing process. How does one recover from a relationship that was an illusion to begin with? There was no such information available online. She set out to direct a documentary to educate others. Then, she contacted John McCormick for an interview, which offered even more insight for victims. Ironically, a writer called her just prior to her interview with John. He wanted to write an article about Ms. Trent's next project, if there was one on the horizon.

Without skipping a beat, Marion replied: "My next project is a documentary about sociopaths!" The article on the project appeared as an insert in The Dallas Morning News and raised the question: Do you know a Psychopath? (The same meaning as Sociopath) It listed the traits and a contact number. Her cell phone virtually rang non-stop for six consecutive weeks. The people who called were from all walks of life. Some of their stories were heart-breaking and immensely cruel. After meeting with the victims one-on-one, Marion decided to have all the people meet in a group. John McCormick, being a therapist was invited and brought a lot of helpful information to the table. Group validation took place and the highly successful meeting went on to become the first support group for victims of psychopathic relationships.

Monthly meetings, an online bulletin board, an email list and telephone support offered the victims who were suffering world-wide a safe healing environment.

The project grew into seminars and this website.

In Marion's own words:

Having been attracted to and repelled by sociopaths all my life due to my family structure, it occurred to me one day that I, too, played a role in attracting this type of relationship into my life.

Working with John and the groups has empowered me in seeing how the sociopathic dynamic works and how I can recognize it before it gets the best of me.

The Power Triangle and The Language of Integrity have played a major role in my recovery process and I know it will be very helpful to those suffering from the after-affects of this dysfunctional relationship style. It is helpful in recognizing the style in ourselves and the commitment level of those who are empowered by it.

Marion Trent is a writer/producer living in Los Angeles. For further information, please email Marion Trent.

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