Emotional Abuse Counseling—Therapists and Counselors in Colorado Springs
“Emotional violence is another kind of abuse … it’s not about words because an emotionally abusive person doesn’t always resort to using the verbal club, but rather the verbal untraceable poison.” ~ Augusten Burroughs
Untraceable poison. The effects are noticeable, maybe even blatantly obvious, but the source is not. Emotional abuse, also known as mental or psychological abuse, aims to belittle, control, and isolate a person into subordination and helplessness. The abuser may frame it as being helpful, stating they are guiding, advising, or teaching the victim something. The approach is very passive, subtle, and very silent. The tricky thing about emotional abuse is that it can easily blend into the background, so subtle that it it is easily overlooked. However, there is a sense of something not being quite right. There may not be physical marks but there are deep wounds that drastically impact the quality of the victims’ lives.
There are various types of Emotional Abuse:
- control and domination
- isolation and neglect
- bullying and humiliation
Identifiers of Emotional Abuse—Typical behaviors of a psychological abuser:
- Controls your money and your spending
- Treats you as inferior, consistently pointing out your shortcomings and faults
- May control where you go, who you see, and/or what you do
- May use the silent treatment to punish you
- May belittle your successes
- May accuse you of things you never did
- May regularly make jokes at your expense
- You may be afraid or intimidated to voice an opinion
The effects of long-term abuse
People who endure long-term emotional abuse generally have low self-esteem. They may have personality changes and withdraw from others. The largest impact of continual emotional abuse though are anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts and behaviors.
There is hope! Our Colorado Springs therapists and counselors are here to help you. Call us today to find out how we can facilitate you towards a healthier life.
