In this episode of The Counselling Armchair, Liz and Melissa sit down with intern psychologist Joshua Boardman for a thoughtful conversation about coercive control—a form of emotional and psychological abuse that can occur in many types of relationships. Together, we discuss how it can appear, why it may be difficult to recognise, and what safe steps people can take if they have concerns.
Content note: This episode contains discussion of emotional abuse. Please listen with care, and remember that support is available through the services listed below.
Understanding what coercive control is
Common behaviours such as love bombing, gaslighting, and guilt-tripping
Misconceptions and vulnerability factors
Green flags in healthy relationships
Where to find support and how to plan safely
1800RESPECT – 1800 737 732
Lifeline – 13 11 14
RMIT Student Support – 1300 305 737 / Text: 0488 884 162
The Shark Cage® – Ursula Benstead: Educational metaphor for understanding boundaries and safety
Victoria Police & Crime Stoppers Victoria Podcast: Coercive control and family violence
NSW Government – Coercive Control Resources: Easy-read guides, translations, and support info
eSafety Commissioner – Coercive Control Info Sheet: Focus on technology-based coercion among young people
Attorney-General’s Department – National Principles on Coercive Control: Fact sheets, videos, and community resources
Compass – Coercive Control Resource Hub: Central access point for education and services
AIHW – Coercive Control Insights: Data and information on impacts in families
Safer Families Centre – Toolkit: Examples and tools for professionals
ACT Government Resources: Multilingual guides and local supports
Financial Independence Hub – Good Shepherd | 📞 1300 050 150
Leaving Violence Program – DSS | 📞 1800 253 283
Anglicare Victoria – Family Violence Financial Counselling
Women’s Legal Service Victoria | 📞 1800 133 302
1800RESPECT – Financial Abuse Toolkit | 📞 1800 737 732
👉 This episode is for educational purposes only. If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, please reach out to one of the support services above.
Key TopicsSupport ServicesFurther Resources (Educational)Financial & Legal Supports