Sometimes the systems we create for safety end up reinforcing control. Dear Colleague, We are taught to protect survivors, but protection can look a lot like power. When we take over a survivor’s safety plan, we may unintentionally mirror the dynamics they are trying to escape. Safety built on control, even benevolent control, can feel […]
What If Everything We Know About Survivor Safety Is Wrong Read More »
Sometimes even our most encouraging words can leave survivors of abusive relationship feeling unseen. Dear Colleague, Empowerment language can become a burden when survivors are not ready to carry it. Phrases like “you’re so strong” or “you’ve got this” are meant to uplift, but they can land as expectations. Survivors may feel they have to
When Empowered Starts to Feel Like Pressure Read More »
Some days, helping survivors will confront parts of you that you have not healed yet. Dear Colleague, Working with survivors often surfaces your own unprocessed wounds. Even the most seasoned provider can feel caught off guard by an emotional reaction. These reactions may come from past personal trauma, grief, or even early professional burnout. No
The Thing Nobody Tells You About Helping Survivors Read More »
Some of the most dangerous moments in a survivor’s life happen right after they decide to leave. Dear Colleague, Leaving is often the most life threatening decision a survivor can make. Studies show that women are 70 times more likely to be killed in the weeks after leaving than at any other time in the
Survivors Are Dying to Leave. Literally. Read More »
Leaving an abusive relationship isn’t just hard — it can be life-threatening. Dear Colleague, To truly support survivors, we must understand the staggering risks they face when attempting to leave an abusive partner. Leaving isn’t just an emotional decision — it’s a complex, often life-threatening transition that demands our deep respect, validation, and strategic support.
Why Leaving an Abusive Partner Is So Complex — And So Dangerous Read More »
For survivors, trust isn’t just given — it’s rebuilt piece by piece. Dear Colleague, Helping survivors rebuild trust after abuse is one of the most delicate parts of relationship recovery. When we prioritize emotional safety and empowerment, survivors can learn that healthy connection is possible — and they are worthy of it. 👉 Resource to
Trust After Abuse: Helping Survivors Rebuild Safely Read More »
Understanding manipulation tactics is key to helping survivors stay empowered and safe. Dear Colleague, Two concepts every survivor — and provider — needs to understand are gray rocking and bread crumbing. When survivors know what to expect, they can protect their energy, set stronger boundaries, and move forward more confidently. 👉 Resource to Support Your
Gray Rocking and Bread Crumbing: Tools Survivors Need to Know Read More »
The true goal isn’t just surviving abuse — it’s building a life beyond it. Dear Colleague, When we support survivors, we aren’t just helping them leave an abusive relationship — we are helping them break the cycle for good. By focusing on empowerment over rescue, we help survivors create lasting change rooted in their own
Breaking the Cycle: Empowering Survivors Toward Freedom Read More »
Healing from narcissistic abuse requires more than time — it demands deep, intentional work. Dear Colleague, Guiding survivors through the effects of narcissistic abuse means understanding the unique ways this trauma lingers. Every survivor deserves to heal at their own pace — and with informed support, lasting recovery is possible. 👉 Resource to Support Your
Navigating the Healing Journey After Narcissistic Abuse Read More »
Not all abuse leaves bruises — some of the most damaging wounds are invisible. Dear Colleague, Recognizing the signs of emotional abuse is critical when working with survivors of domestic violence and relationship abuse. By identifying emotional abuse early, we help survivors name their experiences and begin the path to recovery. 👉 Resource to Support
Signs of Emotional Abuse Providers Must Recognize Read More »