The Invisible Thread of Abuse: Understanding Coercive Control | Dr. Christine Cocchiola

The Invisible Thread of Abuse: Understanding Coercive Control with Dr. Christine Cocchiola You might not see it. You might not hear it. But coercive control is happening all around us—often in the relationships we least suspect. It’s the invisible thread that weaves through all forms of abuse, and when children are involved, its impact can last generations. Dr. Christine Cocchiola—clinician, coach, professor, survivor, and leading expert on coercive control—uncovers the truth about this insidious form of abuse. She joins Cathy O’Brien on Inside the Wellspace to break down how power and control dynamics take root, why victims stay, and how subtle boundary-shifting can erode autonomy and self-worth over time. Dr. Cocchiola shares her personal story, professional insights, and the practical tools she uses to help survivors recognize manipulation, document patterns of harm, and begin the process of healing. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone seeking to understand the unseen mechanisms of abuse—and how to support those trapped within them. Guest Resources: Dr. Christine Cocchiola — https://linktr.ee/dr.cocchiola_coerci... Website - https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting... Social - https://www.instagram.com/dr.cocchiol... Listen: Perfect Prey: A Coercive Control Podcast https://creators.spotify.com/pod/prof... TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Understanding Coercive Control 06:46 The Dynamics of Power and Control 13:54 Recognizing Red Flags in Relationships 21:04 The Impact of Coercive Control on Families 25:43 The Cult of Coercive Control 27:24 Financial Abuse and Its Impact 29:47 Navigating Family Court Challenges 31:20 The Trauma of Children in Abusive Environments 34:24 Malicious Fracturing of Attachment 38:03 The Cycle of Abuse and Grooming 40:32 Recognizing the Signs of Abuse 45:41 The Danger of Leaving an Abusive Relationship 47:55 Supporting Children Through Trauma SUBSCRIBE: YouTube:    / @insidethewellspacepodcast   Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2TQtov8... Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Visit The Well Space for Women: https://www.insidethewellspace.com/ Follow along on Instagram: @thewellspaceforwomen   / thewellspaceforwomen   If this episode moved you, please like, comment, and subscribe — and share your thoughts on how we can raise awareness about coercive control. Your voice could be the light that helps someone recognize they’re not alone. #coercivecontrol #emotionalabuse #relationshiphealing #DrChristineCocchiola #psychology #domesticviolenceawareness #survivorstories #traumarecovery #podcast #healingjourney #trendingvideo #virulvideo