Understanding Abuse and Intimate Partner Violence in Relationships

Building Your Therapy Toolkit
Understanding Abuse and Intimate Partner Violence in Relationships
📅 Wednesday, December 2 | 7:00 PM

Zoom Link Emailed After Course Is Purchased

Abuse within intimate partner relationships can take many forms, and recognizing unhealthy relationship dynamics is an essential skill for therapists supporting individuals who have experienced or are currently experiencing abuse. This interactive training session is designed for social work and psychotherapy students, as well as new therapy graduates, looking to expand their clinical toolkit with practical strategies for identifying abusive relationship patterns, supporting client safety, and navigating the complexities of intimate partner violence.

Participants will explore different forms of abuse, including emotional, psychological, verbal, and controlling behaviours, while developing a deeper understanding of how power and control can influence relationship dynamics. Through the Power and Control Wheel, we'll examine common patterns of manipulation, intimidation, coercion, and control, helping therapists recognize behaviours that may not always be immediately identifiable as abuse.

The session will also explore narcissistic traits and emotionally abusive relationship dynamics, including manipulation, gaslighting, and the impact these experiences can have on a person's self-esteem, emotional well-being, and sense of safety. Participants will be introduced to strategies such as grey rocking, while discussing the importance of assessing whether specific approaches are appropriate and safe within different relationship circumstances.

Additionally, participants will learn practical approaches to supporting clients experiencing intimate partner violence, including collaborative safety planning, understanding individual rights, establishing boundaries, and identifying available supports and resources. Emphasis will be placed on trauma-informed, client-centred approaches that prioritize safety, autonomy, and empowerment without placing responsibility for the abuse on the individual experiencing it.

Participants will leave with practical assessment tools, psychoeducational resources, and therapeutic strategies they can begin incorporating into their clinical work to better recognize abusive relationship dynamics, support clients in understanding their experiences, and promote safety and informed decision-making.

Handouts and practical resources are included.