Gaslighting in Relationships | Therapy Near Me in Pittsburgh

Gaslighting is a subtle yet powerful form of emotional abuse where one partner manipulates the other into doubting their own perceptions, memories, or even sanity. It often begins slowly — with small dismissals or denials — and escalates into a pattern of control that can leave the person feeling confused, isolated, and powerless.

If you’re in the Pittsburgh area and are experiencing these kinds of manipulative dynamics, know that help is available. At Cristina Panaccione and Associates Counseling, our licensed therapists specialize in helping individuals recognize emotional abuse and rebuild confidence through compassionate, empowering therapy.

Common Signs of Gaslighting

• You’re Constantly Second-Guessing Yourself – You used to be confident in your decisions — now, you question everything, even small daily choices.
• They Deny Things You Know Happened – When you recall a conversation or event, your partner flat-out denies it ever occurred. Over time, you start to doubt your memory.
• You Feel Like You’re “Too Sensitive” or “Crazy” – They say you’re overreacting or being too emotional — even when your feelings are valid. You begin to wonder if you’re the problem.
• You Apologize Constantly – Even when you’re not at fault, you find yourself apologizing just to avoid conflict.
• You Feel Isolated and Dependent – Your partner has slowly eroded your confidence and support system, making you feel like you can’t trust others — or yourself.

Why Therapy for Gaslighting Helps

Gaslighting causes deep emotional harm and erodes your sense of self. Therapy provides a safe space to:
– Rebuild trust in your intuition
– Validate your lived experiences
– Set healthy boundaries
– Learn how to recognize and respond to emotional abuse
– Create a path forward — whether that means staying, separating, or regaining balance

Meet Nicole Jacobs, LPC

While many of our therapists support clients experiencing emotional abuse, Nicole Jacobs specializes in working with adult women navigating toxic relationships, trauma, and stress. Nicole uses compassionate, empowering approaches — including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Brief Counseling, and Reality Therapy — to help clients regain control and self-worth.

Gaslighting Therapy Near Me in Pittsburgh

Cristina Panaccione and Associates Counseling offers in-person sessions in South Hills and Robinson Township, as well as virtual therapy across Pennsylvania. Whether you’re just beginning to question a relationship or already in the process of healing, our licensed therapists are here to support you.

Ready to Break Free from Gaslighting?

You deserve to feel safe, respected, and heard. Schedule a confidential therapy session today to begin your journey back to emotional clarity and strength.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is gaslighting in relationships?

Gaslighting is emotional manipulation that causes you to doubt your memories, reality, or feelings. It’s a tactic often used by emotionally abusive partners to gain control.

2. How do I know if I’m being gaslit?

Signs include constant second-guessing, frequent apologies, denial of your reality, and feeling confused or crazy.

3. Can therapy help with gaslighting?

Absolutely. Therapy helps validate your experience, rebuild confidence, and guide you through healthy decision-making.

4. Where can I find gaslighting therapy near me in Pittsburgh?

CPA Counseling has offices in South Hills and Robinson Township and offers virtual therapy for clients across Pennsylvania.