Heal, Not Deal exists because I’ve been where you are. I still struggle, and have often felt very alone.

I’m Jenny Liebel, founder of this site. Heal, Not Deal was created to support for people healing from emotionally manipulative and narcissistic relationships as they rebuild confidence, clarity, and self-trust.

Through my own experiences, I came to understand how confusing and destabilizing being in a relationship with someone toxic and the dynamics can be. Over time, I felt my voice, confidence, and sense of self quietly erode. Until one day, I didn’t recognize myself. Healing didn’t happen overnight, but with therapy, support, and intention, I found my way back to myself.

This site was created so others don’t have to navigate this process alone. The last thing anyone needs when they’re trying to contemplate leaving a toxic situation is to feel isolated, or judged. No one person has the perfect journey. It just takes how long it takes. Sometimes we know something is wrong, but just don’t have the courage yet to take action. The path isn’t always straight. We might feel like we are going up one minute, then down 10 steps the next. The trick is not to give up.

Our goal is to offer support no matter where you are on your journey. Heal, Not Deal offers insight, language, and resources to help you make sense of what you experienced, to help you trust your instincts again, and to help you move forward with the strength you need to keep going. Because it’s hard. It won’t be easy. Healing after emotional abuse is not just about leaving a relationship—it’s about reclaiming who you are and building something healthier in its place.

Often, we forget how to be strong, when we’ve had it beaten out of us (metaphorically or literally). We need reminders, and lots of encouragement to keep going. Our goal is simple: to shed light on unhealthy patterns so you can see them more clearly, remind you that your experience is valid, and show you that real healing is not only possible—but something you really do deserve. Yes, you.

Growth can be messy, but also deeply empowering. If something here helps you feel clearer, stronger, or less alone, then this space is doing what it was meant to do.

You don’t have to walk this path by yourself. We’re here with you. Every step.