Relationship Abuse Isn’t Just Physical: The Truth About Emotional Abuse and Coercive Control

Have you ever questioned your reality in a relationship?

In this powerful solo episode, host Cathy O’Brien opens up about an issue that affects 1 in 4 reported women: emotional and psychological abuse in relationships.

This isn’t about physical violence—it’s about the coercive, manipulative behaviors that chip away at a person’s identity, self-worth, and sense of reality. With recent high-profile abuse cases in the media, Cathy feels called to speak up and share what she’s learned through years of personal and professional work.

This episode brings language, clarity, and validation to the experiences so many women silently endure. Cathy breaks down critical concepts like gaslighting, coercive control, and emotional abuse, helping women understand the signs, reclaim their power, and know they’re not alone.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 Introduction to Relationship Abuse

03:11 Understanding Coercive Control

06:04 The Impact of Emotional and Psychological Abuse

09:06 Recognizing Signs of Abuse

11:59 The Cycle of Abuse and Its Effects

14:46 The Role of Economic Abuse

18:10 Creating a Safety Plan

20:54 Long-term Effects of Coercive Control

23:45 Support Systems and Resources

27:05 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

SUBSCRIBE: YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@UC13tfnPU0OHsNxmMXSs6saw Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2TQtov8ByjgieslPS5B1IM Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-wellspace-women-wellbeing-wisdom-with/id1812799800Visit The Well Space for Women: https://www.insidethewellspace.com/Follow along on Instagram: @thewellspaceforwomen https://www.instagram.com/thewellspaceforwomen/