Emotional abuse can be confusing as it can often be small bits here and there. This makes it hard to navigate relationship dynamics. It's manipulative in nature, in that using emotional abuse can isolate, control and make one fearful.
Registered Psychotherapist, Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology 1994
It is important to understand what emotional abuse is and how it impacts our lives. Often this is subtle subjective experience. One of the most important things to remember is having the ability to be aware, notice the injury. That's the first step.
Emotional abuse is far too common and has devastating effects. One must work on gaining self-esteem looking at the past to see what occurred to cause them to be in this situation now to heal past wounds and to gain the tools to deal with their current situation.
Registered Psychotherapist, HBEd, MA (Hons.), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Providing psychoeducation on what Emotional Abuse is, is the first step. Emotional abuse can include:
constant yelling; name calling, demeaning remarks or threats; physically or socially isolating an individual; withholding affection; bullying or public humiliation; exposure to family violence; denying something an individual knows is true (gaslighting); destroying an individual’s belongings, hurting their pets, or threatening to do so amongst other things.
One of the hardest things a person has to do is stop being in denial when someone you love is mistreating you. Through DBT I will teach you assertiveness training, distress tolerance, self-acceptance and cognitive reframing so that you can reclaim your self worth.
All our therapists are trauma-informed and can support you through the struggles of emotional abuse. Contact our Intake Worker to help determine who will be the best fit for you.
Have you been involved in a toxic relationship or have you been raised in emotional abuse?
Sometimes the messaging and the experiences stick: you may have been silenced and the abuser's voice may have been internalized - you find yourself with an active internal critic - you take a step forward only to be set back again.
CareWay offers several psychotherapy modalities which could help you overcome the effects of emotional abuse and find your true voice.
Healing from emotional abuse is a courageous journey. I offer a warm and empathetic space where you can feel safe to explore your experiences and work towards recovery. With extensive experience in this area, I provide the support and tools needed to rebuild self-esteem, resilience, and a sense of safety.