Ethics isn’t just a set of rules. It’s a commitment to protecting those most at risk. Dear Colleague, When working with survivors of domestic violence, our ethical responsibilities extend far beyond informed consent and HIPAA compliance. We are safeguarding lives. The risk of harm for survivors is very real, especially when they are considering or […]
Survivor Safety Is Ethical Care Read More »
Sometimes, the bravest thing a survivor can say is no more. Dear Survivor, There was a moment in my own journey when I whispered two words that would change everything: no more. I didn’t shout them. There was no dramatic scene. Just a quiet declaration made in the middle of an ordinary day that felt
Survivor Wisdom: The Power of No More Read More »
Sometimes, the greatest act of strength is the choice not to respond. Dear Survivor, There was a time in my own healing when I believed I had to defend myself against every jab, every sideways comment, every accusation. The bait was so tempting — a pointed comment about my parenting, a snide remark about my
Survivor, Don’t Take the Bait: Reclaim Your Emotional Power Read More »
If you’ve experienced domestic violence or relationship abuse, it can be hard to make sense of what you’re going through. You might feel confused, overwhelmed, or question your own reality. These feelings are common—but they don’t change the fact that what’s happening (or has happened) to you is not your fault. Here are 3 simple
3 Simple Truths Every Survivor Deserves to Hear Read More »
I have been working in trauma-focused therapy for survivors of domestic violence and relationship abuse for many years. These are the 3 simple (but effective) pieces of advice I’d give anyone starting out (or who wants to get started): Advice #1: Understand that staying in an abusive relationship can be a safety decision. One of
Gaslighting is more than manipulation; it’s a calculated tool of control that leaves survivors doubting their own reality. Dear Colleague, When working with survivors of narcissistic abuse, we often encounter the devastating effects of gaslighting. This insidious form of emotional abuse strips individuals of their self-trust, leaving them in a haze of confusion and shame.
The Role of Gaslighting in Narcissistic Abuse: Identifying and Addressing Its Impact Read More »
Your courage to seek understanding and healing is the very heart of strength. Dear Survivor, We see your bravery. Whether you’ve quietly endured pain for days or years, or you’re supporting someone through their healing, your presence here speaks volumes. It’s a testament to the strength it takes to face life’s hardest battles. Today, we’re
Survivor’s Strength: Recognizing, Healing, and Rising Read More »
Sometimes, the hardest part of healing is realizing you deserve better. Dear Survivor, If you’ve been questioning your experiences or feeling like something isn’t right in your relationship, trust that inner voice. One survivor I worked with bravely shared how her partner’s words left her doubting her instincts and second-guessing her reality. Small remarks escalated
Survivor Stories: Recognizing the Signs, Reclaiming Your Strength Read More »
Working with clients who have experienced domestic violence (DV) and relationship abuse is both rewarding and deeply challenging. For many survivors, self-blame is a barrier that complicates the healing process. They may internalize the abuse, holding themselves accountable for the harm inflicted by others. For therapists, guiding someone through this emotional terrain requires patience, tools,
Supporting Clients Healing from Abuse and Self-Blame Read More »
Gaslighting isn’t just psychological manipulation; it’s a calculated effort to take control over someone’s reality. Dear Colleague, Gaslighting is one of the most harmful tactics used in narcissistic abuse. It warps a survivor’s self-perception, undermines their confidence, and leaves them feeling disoriented and doubtful of their own experiences. By identifying its types and understanding how
The Role of Gaslighting in Narcissistic Abuse: Identifying and Addressing Its Impact Read More »