Domestic violence can be financial, sexual, physical, spiritual, or emotional (including verbal and psychological assaults). Any type of abuse leaves scars and bruises all over the soul, crushing — but not destroying — the spirit.
Recognizing Domestic Abuse
- Name-calling, insults and constant criticism
- Extreme jealousy
- Threats to kill or harm one’s partner or children
- Force vaccination, sterilization or abortion
- Sexual coercion
- Abusive anger
- Blaming another for his actions
- Crazy-making and gaslighting
- Undermining and belittling
- Ordering and overbearing control
- Isolation
- Denial
- Constant excuses to minimize behavior
- A Dr. Jekyll / Mr. Hyde personality
- Physical violence and destruction of property, including smashing things
The consistent, continual pattern of domestic abuse is dizzying and confusing, especially since an abuser shows a “Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde” personality — he can be charming and sweet, and during those times the victim will feel overwhelming relief and gratitude, thereby creating a trauma bond to her abuser. Then he becomes “Mr. Hyde” again, exploding in abusive rage or covert criticism, employing manipulative tactics that are often more dangerous in their subtly.
Trauma-Informed Coaching
Hope & Healing
As a trauma-informed Catholic life coach, I’m experienced in working closely with survivors as they navigate their journey toward wholeness and healing. Please contact me if you’d like more information or to schedule a free initial session.
If you’re experiencing domestic abuse in your intimate relationship, there is help, hope and healing available.
Quicklinks
Available Help
For immediate professional help:
Call, chat or text the National Domestic Violence Hotline.
To search for resources in your area:
Visit Domestic Shelters
To learn what the Catholic Church teaches about domestic abuse:
Visit my webpage at Create Soul Space: Catholic Resources
To learn about the process of Catholic annulment:
Visit my webpage Create Soul Space: All About Catholic Annulment
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