Slowly losing control in your relationship—but can’t quite put your finger on what’s happening?
This week, Dr. Christine Cocchiola breaks down coercive control as the invisible foundation beneath all abuse. She explains why the savviest abusers never leave visible marks, how your world shrinks so gradually you don’t notice until you’re trapped, and why even trained professionals (like both Dr. C and Dr. Kerry) can miss coercive control in their own relationships. Learn how abusers weaponize connection itself, why “just leave” completely misunderstands the trap, and what it really means when someone can regulate their emotions perfectly—except with you.
Podcast Extra Exclusive Segment
Find the exclusive second segment and weekly newsletter here: https://substack.com/@breakingfreenarcabuse
🔹 Think you might be losing yourself, but not sure how to tell?
Dr. C provides the “identity assessment” you need—tracking what you’ve quietly given up, why over-giving is a symptom not a strength, and how to spot the difference between healthy anger and weaponized emotion. Plus, the critical first step that saved her life.
👉 Get immediate access to this extended interview: https://substack.com/@breakingfreenarcabuse
More About Dr. Christine Cocchiola
- Website: https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting.com or https://www.iknowyourheart.com
- Podcast: Perfect Prey
- Social Media: @cocchiola or search “Coercive Control” on Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook
DR. CHRISTINE COCCHIOLA is a leading expert on coercive control, protective parenting, and family court abuse. After surviving 27 years and 11 months with an abuser despite being a trained professional who taught about domestic violence, she now dedicates her work to helping others recognize the invisible tactics that strip autonomy. Dr. C specializes in supporting protective parents navigating family court and teaches that coercive control is not a separate form of abuse—it’s the underpinning of all abuse.
Submit Your Question
If you’d like your question addressed on air, send it here: 👉 https://kerrymcavoyphd.fillout.com/fan-mail
Resources
- ReclaimYou: Dr. Kerry’s AI-powered coaching app
- The Complete Recovery Collection: Narcissistic abuse resources
- First Steps to Leaving: Online self-paced digital course
- Toxic-Free Relationship Club: Live coaching & community support
Follow Dr. Kerry!
Kerry Kerr McAvoy, Ph.D, a retired psychologist & author, is an expert on cultivating healthy relationships and deconstructing narcissism.
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This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number.
