The Compass Recovery Model
Clinically grounded. Non-denominational. Built on Jennifer Freyd's Betrayal Trauma Theory and the prodependence framework.
For survivors, for clinicians, for anyone ready to move from crisis to clarity.
The curriculum is built on Jennifer J. Freyd's Betrayal Trauma Theory (1994, 1996) — the foundational clinical framework explaining why betrayal by an attachment figure produces a qualitatively distinct form of trauma. It operates through a prodependence lens (Weiss, 2018; Steffens & Means, 2009), treating the betrayed partner's response as a legitimate trauma response rather than codependency. It integrates attachment (Johnson), infidelity recovery (Snyder & Gordon), partner trauma (Carnes; Mays), relational repair (Gottman Institute), somatic approaches (van der Kolk; Levine), and polyvagal theory (Porges).
Free foundations (Weeks 1–4) · Community-tier stage work (Weeks 5–15) · Clinical certification (Week 16)
Foundations of betrayal trauma, Freyd's theory, the Compass Recovery Model, and the assessment. Open to anyone.
Deep work through each of the five Compass stages. Live monthly expert calls, member community, all downloadable workbooks.
Small-group cohort led by Megan. Personalized progression, weekly live sessions, peer accountability.
Licensed clinicians only. Facilitator guides, case formulation, certification exam. Compass Recovery Model Practitioner designation.
Each module includes learning objectives, assigned readings, teaching content, peer-reviewed citations, applied exercises, and a self-check. Click to begin.
Megan Burton, LMHC
Licensed Mental Health Counselor (NY)
MA, Columbia University
National DV Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741