Just my opinion
Hi Admiral,
IMHO, it takes work to change our perspective on the world and ourselves, and that means examining our core beliefs about the world.
Does therapy help this process along? Yes, if the therapist is competent.
However, there are many paths that we can take.
Do the 12 steps help us with this process? Yes, if we are honest with ourselves, do the work, and have a competent sponsor.
Do self help book work? Yes, they do.
Something about what you read on the verbal abuse site, resonated with you at a deep level.
I would encourage you to keep exploring what was so significant about this opinion that it deeply affected you.