What is Domestic Violence and Abuse?

Domestic violence and abuse refers to patterns of controlling, coercive, threatening, or abusive behaviour within a relationship or family setting. It can happen in intimate relationships, between family members, or after a relationship has ended.

Abuse is not always physical. It can also include emotional, psychological, sexual, financial, or coercive abuse, and often involves patterns of control that can leave someone feeling frightened, isolated, confused, or unsafe.

Examples of domestic abuse can include:

• Physical violence or intimidation
• Emotional abuse, criticism, or humiliation
• Controlling behaviour or coercion
• Gaslighting or manipulation
• Threats or intimidation
• Financial control
• Isolation from friends, family, or support networks
• Sexual pressure or sexual violence
• Monitoring, harassment, or stalking

Experiencing domestic abuse can have a significant impact on emotional wellbeing, self-esteem, relationships, and a person’s sense of safety. People who have experienced abuse may struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma symptoms, shame, self-doubt, emotional overwhelm, or difficulties trusting others.

Abusive relationships can also be complex, and many people find themselves feeling conflicted, attached to, or emotionally dependent on the person harming them. This can make it difficult to recognise abuse or to leave safely.

Online therapy can provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgemental space to process these experiences, rebuild confidence and self-worth, understand relationship patterns, and begin to feel safer and more empowered.