Relational Abuse

You feel like you’re constantly walking on eggshells.

You replay conversations over and over, wondering if it really was your fault.

You’ve started questioning your memory, your reactions, or even who you are.

When something feels wrong—but you can’t always explain why

Many women minimize their experiences because “it wasn’t always bad” or “he never hit me.” Abuse is defined by impact, not by how extreme it appears from the outside.

You find yourself questioning your reality, doubting your worth, or feeling constantly on edge — even long after the relationship has ended.

If this feels familiar

You are Not Alone

You are Not Crazy

Relational Abuse can Show up Anywhere

Relational abuse can show up anywhere a relationship exists — not just romantic partnerships — and it often appears in subtle, hard‑to‑name ways. It includes patterns of emotional, verbal, financial, or physical control used to gain power over another person.

Family Systems

Professional

Relationships

• Bullying or intimidation

• Gaslighting or undermining competence

• Retaliation or threats

• Exploiting power differences

• Criticism

• Intimidation

• Withholding affection

• Using guilt and obligation to control behavior

Friendships

• Jealousy, or isolation from other relationships

• Manipulation, gossip, or social sabotage

• Using fear, guilt, or shame to maintain closeness

Religious Settings

• Coercion disguised as guidance

• Shame‑based control

• Isolation from outside support

• Exploiting trust

How Therapy Can Help