PODCAST · health
Escape the Paradox
by Helena Hickman
Covering: Coercive Control | Domestic Violence | Childhood Trauma | Childhood Abuse | Healing after Abuse | Healing after Trauma | PTSD | C-PTSD | Trauma Recovery | Emotional and Psychological AbuseWelcome to Escape the Paradox, where I expose the hidden reality of coercive control and domestic violence including psychological, emotional and physical abuse. I’m Helena, a survivor of childhood abuse. I'm a mental health nursing student and advocate, here to support you in breaking free from the confusion, fear, and isolation that abuse creates. Home should be the safest place, but for many, it becomes the most dangerous. In each episode, I share my personal story and dive into my own experiences, as well as survivor experiences, trauma-informed insights, and expert research to help you understand the mechanisms of abuse and begin your healing journey.We’ll explore tactics such as gaslight
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Borderline Personality Disorder - Diagnosis, Women, and Trauma
Send a textCoercive Control | Domestic Violence | Childhood Trauma | Childhood Abuse | Healing after Abuse | Healing after TraumaI think you are worth the effort of healing. In this (long) episode, I examine the diagnostic criteria of Borderline Personality Disorder, focusing on how the diagnosis is disproportionately applied to women and deeply intertwined with histories of trauma. It explores how trauma responses are often pathologized, the gendered assumptions embedded in diagnostic practices, and the consequences of mislabeling and stigmatizing distress.ReferencesStructural Violence and the Effects of the Patriarchal Structure on the Diagnosis of Borderline Personality Disorder (BDP): A Critical Study Using Tools on BPD Symptoms and Social Violence https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/22/2/196 Borderline Personality Disorder and Childhood Trauma: Exploring the Affected Biological Systems and Mechanisms. https://bmcpsychiatry.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12888-017-1383-2 Childhood Trauma and Axis I Disorders In Borderline Personality Disorder: A Correlational Study. https://mecp.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s43045-025-00511-3 DSM-5 Made Easy. Dsm-5-Tr-Made-Easy-Clinicians-DiagnosisNew Professional Practice Guideline for Adults with Complex Trauma Histories https://www.ctipp.org/post/new-professional-practice-guideline-for-adults-with-complex-trauma-histories Welcome to Escape the Paradox, a podcast dedicated to exposing and exploring the truth about coercive control, emotional abuse, and the long-term trauma caused by abusive relationships. Whether it's childhood abuse from a parent, intimate partner violence, or domestic abuse in any form, this podcast dives into the patterns, dynamics, and the psychological impact. My name is Helena, and I am your host! I share my own lived experience as a survivor of childhood abuse, while also creating space for survivor stories, expert insight, and compassionate support. Healing is non-linear, and a complex and difficult process. If you're looking for support, please visit escapetheparadox.com to learn more about my services in abuse consulting and advocacy and 1:1 sessions. Don't forget to subscribe (follow) wherever you get your podcasts! Remember: It's not your fault, and your story matters!
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Bonus! Poem by Helena Hickman - "Restoration"
Send a textCoercive Control | Domestic Violence | Childhood Trauma | Childhood Abuse | Healing after Abuse | Healing after TraumaThis bonus episode shares a poem I wrote on self-worth, confronting reality, and the work of restoring the mind from broken parts. Welcome to Escape the Paradox, a podcast dedicated to exposing and exploring the truth about coercive control, emotional abuse, and the long-term trauma caused by abusive relationships. Whether it's childhood abuse from a parent, intimate partner violence, or domestic abuse in any form, this podcast dives into the patterns, dynamics, and the psychological impact. My name is Helena, and I am your host! I share my own lived experience as a survivor of childhood abuse, while also creating space for survivor stories, expert insight, and compassionate support. Healing is non-linear, and a complex and difficult process. If you're looking for support, please visit escapetheparadox.com to learn more about my services in abuse consulting and advocacy and 1:1 sessions. Don't forget to subscribe (follow) wherever you get your podcasts! Remember: It's not your fault, and your story matters!
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Challenge Negative Thoughts about your Worth | During and After Coercive Control, Abuse, Domestic Violence, Childhood Trauma
Send a textCoercive Control | Domestic Violence | Childhood Trauma | Childhood Abuse | Healing after Abuse | Healing after TraumaI think you are worth the effort of healing. Worthlessness speaks in absolutes, but that doesn’t make it true. In this episode, I explore what happens when you stop taking the voice at face value and begin challenging the thoughts that try to define you. This episode isn’t about strategies to overcome negative thoughts. It’s about acknowledging that these thoughts are unhealthy and hold back healing. Acceptance of this as a truth is the first step before any deeper work on changing them can begin. References:The Bobo Doll ExperimentLearn about DBTWelcome to Escape the Paradox, a podcast dedicated to exposing and exploring the truth about coercive control, emotional abuse, and the long-term trauma caused by abusive relationships. Whether it's childhood abuse from a parent, intimate partner violence, or domestic abuse in any form, this podcast dives into the patterns, dynamics, and the psychological impact. My name is Helena, and I am your host! I share my own lived experience as a survivor of childhood abuse, while also creating space for survivor stories, expert insight, and compassionate support. Healing is non-linear, and a complex and difficult process. If you're looking for support, please visit escapetheparadox.com to learn more about my services in abuse consulting and advocacy and 1:1 sessions. Don't forget to subscribe (follow) wherever you get your podcasts! Remember: It's not your fault, and your story matters!
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Choosing a Therapist or Counsellor | During and After Coercive Control, Abuse, Domestic Violence, Childhood Trauma
Send a textCoercive Control | Domestic Violence | Childhood Trauma | Childhood Abuse | Healing after Abuse | Healing after TraumaFinding the right therapist or counsellor can feel overwhelming, especially after experiencing abuse or trauma (or maybe while you're still experiencing it). In this episode, I share practical tips for choosing a professional who truly understands coercive control and can support your healing journey. Welcome to Escape the Paradox, a podcast dedicated to exposing and exploring the truth about coercive control, emotional abuse, and the long-term trauma caused by abusive relationships. Whether it's childhood abuse from a parent, intimate partner violence, or domestic abuse in any form, this podcast dives into the patterns, dynamics, and the psychological impact. My name is Helena, and I am your host! I share my own lived experience as a survivor of childhood abuse, while also creating space for survivor stories, expert insight, and compassionate support. Healing is non-linear, and a complex and difficult process. If you're looking for support, please visit escapetheparadox.com to learn more about my services in abuse consulting and advocacy and 1:1 sessions. Don't forget to subscribe (follow) wherever you get your podcasts! Remember: It's not your fault, and your story matters!
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Smear Campaigns | What They Are, How to Spot Them, and How to Cope
Send a textCoercive Control | Domestic Violence | Childhood Trauma | Childhood Abuse | Healing after Abuse | Healing after TraumaWhen you leave an abusive relationship, especially one marked by coercive control, it’s not uncommon for the abuser to launch a smear campaign. This is a deliberate attempt to discredit you, isolate you, and control the narrative after you’ve left. In this episode, I break down what a smear campaign is, the red flags to watch for, and how you can protect your peace without exhausting yourself trying to prove your side. Together, we will also explore why people often believe the abuser, and how to respond when they do.Whether you're navigating family fallout, social betrayal, or character assassination, this episode offers clarity, validation, and useful tips to help see this through.Welcome to Escape the Paradox, a podcast dedicated to exposing and exploring the truth about coercive control, emotional abuse, and the long-term trauma caused by abusive relationships. Whether it's childhood abuse from a parent, intimate partner violence, or domestic abuse in any form, this podcast dives into the patterns, dynamics, and the psychological impact. My name is Helena, and I am your host! I share my own lived experience as a survivor of childhood abuse, while also creating space for survivor stories, expert insight, and compassionate support. Healing is non-linear, and a complex and difficult process. If you're looking for support, please visit escapetheparadox.com to learn more about my services in abuse consulting and advocacy and 1:1 sessions. Don't forget to subscribe (follow) wherever you get your podcasts! Remember: It's not your fault, and your story matters!
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Feelings of Guilt After Leaving Abusive, Coercive Relationships
Send a textCoercive Control | Domestic Violence | Childhood Trauma | Childhood Abuse | Healing after Abuse | Healing after Trauma"I feel guilty" If you’ve escaped coercive control or domestic violence, you’re probably no stranger to guilt. Feeling responsible for the pain your abuser claims to suffer after you leave is common. In this episode, I explore what guilt is, why it's not always trustworthy, and how guilt can also be used by abusers to manipulate. Your safety and healing come first. You’re not alone, and that guilt doesn’t mean you made the wrong choice. ReferencesThe psychophysiology of guilt in healthy adults - This study explored the neurobiology behind the feeling of guilt, and I mention it in the episode.Welcome to Escape the Paradox, a podcast dedicated to exposing and exploring the truth about coercive control, emotional abuse, and the long-term trauma caused by abusive relationships. Whether it's childhood abuse from a parent, intimate partner violence, or domestic abuse in any form, this podcast dives into the patterns, dynamics, and the psychological impact. My name is Helena, and I am your host! I share my own lived experience as a survivor of childhood abuse, while also creating space for survivor stories, expert insight, and compassionate support. Healing is non-linear, and a complex and difficult process. If you're looking for support, please visit escapetheparadox.com to learn more about my services in abuse consulting and advocacy and 1:1 sessions. Don't forget to subscribe (follow) wherever you get your podcasts! Remember: It's not your fault, and your story matters!
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Using Children as Tools of Control in Relationships & Guest Kalesha Shares her Story
Send a textIn this episode, I am joined by Kalesha, who bravely shares her personal story of surviving domestic abuse, and the current healing journey she is on. Together, we explore how children are often used as tools of manipulation and control in abusive relationships, which is a heartbreaking but critical aspect of coercive control that’s not discussed often enough. The interview is an open and honest conversation, and we hope you enjoy listening in! Kalesha's Threads handle is: @the_corporate_cutieVisit escapetheparadox.com to learn more about me, and the support that I offer.Welcome to Escape the Paradox, a podcast dedicated to exposing and exploring the truth about coercive control, emotional abuse, and the long-term trauma caused by abusive relationships. Whether it's childhood abuse from a parent, intimate partner violence, or domestic abuse in any form, this podcast dives into the patterns, dynamics, and the psychological impact. My name is Helena, and I am your host! I share my own lived experience as a survivor of childhood abuse, while also creating space for survivor stories, expert insight, and compassionate support. Healing is non-linear, and a complex and difficult process. If you're looking for support, please visit escapetheparadox.com to learn more about my services in abuse consulting and advocacy and 1:1 sessions. Don't forget to subscribe (follow) wherever you get your podcasts! Remember: It's not your fault, and your story matters!
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Male Privilege and Entitlement within Coercive Control, Domestic Violence, Abuse, and Relationships
Send a textCoercive Control | Domestic Violence | Childhood Trauma | Childhood Abuse | Healing after Abuse | Healing after TraumaIn this episode, I’m talking about how male privilege is used as a tool for control in abusive relationships. This isn’t just about physical violence. I focus on the subtle, everyday ways power and entitlement show up and are reflected hugely in overrepresentation of males in society, as well as the difficulties in approaching these institutions that are supposed to protect women, as a result. ReferencesLundy Bancroft's book "Why Does He Do That?": Click HereStatistics shared regarding Canadian women in leadership roles: Click HereStudy shared regarding male dominant attitudes within the police force: Click HereWelcome to Escape the Paradox, a podcast dedicated to exposing and exploring the truth about coercive control, emotional abuse, and the long-term trauma caused by abusive relationships. Whether it's childhood abuse from a parent, intimate partner violence, or domestic abuse in any form, this podcast dives into the patterns, dynamics, and the psychological impact. My name is Helena, and I am your host! I share my own lived experience as a survivor of childhood abuse, while also creating space for survivor stories, expert insight, and compassionate support. Healing is non-linear, and a complex and difficult process. If you're looking for support, please visit escapetheparadox.com to learn more about my services in abuse consulting and advocacy and 1:1 sessions. Don't forget to subscribe (follow) wherever you get your podcasts! Remember: It's not your fault, and your story matters!
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Gaslighting (Minimizing, Denying, Blaming) in Coercive Control, Domestic Violence, Abuse, and Relationships – Part 2: Continuing My Exploration of Manipulation in my Father’s Correspondence
Send a textCoercive Control | Domestic Violence | Childhood Trauma | Childhood Abuse | Healing after Abuse | Healing after TraumaIn this episode, I continue analyzing past correspondence between myself and the abuser, focusing on the tactics of minimizing, denying, and blaming. I break down how these strategies are used to distort reality, shift responsibility, and keep targets trapped in cycles of self-doubt and confusion. By examining these patterns, I aim to bring clarity to the emotional and psychological impact of coercive control within abusive relationships.Welcome to Escape the Paradox, a podcast dedicated to exposing and exploring the truth about coercive control, emotional abuse, and the long-term trauma caused by abusive relationships. Whether it's childhood abuse from a parent, intimate partner violence, or domestic abuse in any form, this podcast dives into the patterns, dynamics, and the psychological impact. My name is Helena, and I am your host! I share my own lived experience as a survivor of childhood abuse, while also creating space for survivor stories, expert insight, and compassionate support. Healing is non-linear, and a complex and difficult process. If you're looking for support, please visit escapetheparadox.com to learn more about my services in abuse consulting and advocacy and 1:1 sessions. Don't forget to subscribe (follow) wherever you get your podcasts! Remember: It's not your fault, and your story matters!
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Gaslighting (Minimizing, Denying, Blaming) in Coercive Control, Domestic Violence, Abuse, and Relationships – Part 1: My Exploration of Manipulation in my Father’s Correspondence
Send a textCoercive Control | Domestic Violence | Childhood Trauma | Childhood Abuse | Healing after Abuse | Healing after TraumaIn this episode, I explore a message I wrote to my father in 2023, and take you through his response with me. It’s a raw and honest conversation that highlights the tactics of minimizing, denying, and blaming, which are patterns that are reflected in the power and control wheel. These dynamics are deeply familiar to many who have lived through coercive control or emotional abuse and domestic violence in any form, and my hope is that by sharing my experience, you’ll feel seen, understood, and less alone. I want my story to create space for yours, because you deserve to feel validated in what you’ve lived through. Welcome to Escape the Paradox, a podcast dedicated to exposing and exploring the truth about coercive control, emotional abuse, and the long-term trauma caused by abusive relationships. Whether it's childhood abuse from a parent, intimate partner violence, or domestic abuse in any form, this podcast dives into the patterns, dynamics, and the psychological impact. My name is Helena, and I am your host! I share my own lived experience as a survivor of childhood abuse, while also creating space for survivor stories, expert insight, and compassionate support. Healing is non-linear, and a complex and difficult process. If you're looking for support, please visit escapetheparadox.com to learn more about my services in abuse consulting and advocacy and 1:1 sessions. Don't forget to subscribe (follow) wherever you get your podcasts! Remember: It's not your fault, and your story matters!
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Isolation in Relationships: Understanding Abuse, Domestic Violence, and Coercive Control
Send a textCoercive Control | Domestic Violence | Childhood Trauma | Childhood Abuse | Healing after Abuse | Healing after TraumaIsolation is one of the most powerful tools of coercive control, and it goes far beyond just cutting someone off from friends and family. In this episode, we explore how abusers use suspicion, false accusations, and emotional manipulation to make their targets feel trapped and alone—even in everyday interactions. Through Maxine’s story, we see how isolation operates in layers, chipping away at independence, self-trust, and access to support. Recognizing these tactics is the first step in breaking free. A huge thanks to @maxxspressions (Threads) https://www.threads.net/@maxxpressions Knight, S. (2025, January 7). Isolation tactics abusers use to control. Shadows of Control. https://shadowsofcontrol.com/articles/isolation-tactics-abusers-use-to-control/ Welcome to Escape the Paradox, a podcast dedicated to exposing and exploring the truth about coercive control, emotional abuse, and the long-term trauma caused by abusive relationships. Whether it's childhood abuse from a parent, intimate partner violence, or domestic abuse in any form, this podcast dives into the patterns, dynamics, and the psychological impact. My name is Helena, and I am your host! I share my own lived experience as a survivor of childhood abuse, while also creating space for survivor stories, expert insight, and compassionate support. Healing is non-linear, and a complex and difficult process. If you're looking for support, please visit escapetheparadox.com to learn more about my services in abuse consulting and advocacy and 1:1 sessions. Don't forget to subscribe (follow) wherever you get your podcasts! Remember: It's not your fault, and your story matters!
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Emotional and Psychological Abuse – Part 2: Impact of Emotional and Psychological Abuse on the Target within Relationships
Send a textCoercive Control | Domestic Violence | Childhood Trauma | Childhood Abuse | Healing after Abuse | Healing after Trauma Emotional abuse doesn’t just wound in the moment—it rewires the way we see ourselves. Over time, the insults, gaslighting, and manipulation become our own inner voice, eroding self-trust and self-worth. In Part 2, let's dive into how abuse shapes our internal narrative and what it takes to reclaim our sense of self. Most importantly, I want to remind you that the beliefs an abuser ingrains in you are not the truth. Healing is possible, and it starts with challenging their narrative.Sources:Gavin, H. (2011). Sticks and stones may break my bones: An examination of the effects of emotional abuse. Journal of Aggression, Maltreatment & Trauma, 20(5), pp.503–529. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/254356919_Sticks_and_Stones_May_Break_My_Bones_The_Effects_of_Emotional_Abuse Welcome to Escape the Paradox, a podcast dedicated to exposing and exploring the truth about coercive control, emotional abuse, and the long-term trauma caused by abusive relationships. Whether it's childhood abuse from a parent, intimate partner violence, or domestic abuse in any form, this podcast dives into the patterns, dynamics, and the psychological impact. My name is Helena, and I am your host! I share my own lived experience as a survivor of childhood abuse, while also creating space for survivor stories, expert insight, and compassionate support. Healing is non-linear, and a complex and difficult process. If you're looking for support, please visit escapetheparadox.com to learn more about my services in abuse consulting and advocacy and 1:1 sessions. Don't forget to subscribe (follow) wherever you get your podcasts! Remember: It's not your fault, and your story matters!
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Emotional and Psychological Abuse – Part 1: Understanding Coercive Control and Domestic Violence in Relationships
Send a textCoercive Control | Domestic Violence | Childhood Trauma | Childhood Abuse | Healing after Abuse | Healing after Trauma Emotional abuse leaves no visible scars, but its impact runs deep. In this episode of Escape the Paradox, I talk about how emotional abuse erodes self-worth, distorts reality, and keeps targets trapped in cycles of self-doubt. I’ll share how it manifests in both subtle and overt ways, why it’s so difficult to recognize, and how the words and tactics used against me shaped my identity long after the abuse ended. Most importantly, I want to remind you that the beliefs an abuser ingrains in you are not the truth. Healing is possible, and it starts with challenging their narrative.Sources:Gama, C. M. F., Portugal, L. C. L., Gonçalves, R. M., de Souza Junior, S., Vilete, L. M. P., Mendlowicz, M. V., Figueira, I., Volchan, E., David, I. A., de Oliveira, L., & Pereira, M. G. (2021). The invisible scars of emotional abuse: a common and highly harmful form of childhood maltreatment. BMC Psychiatry, 21 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12888-021-03134-0 Gavin, H. (2011). Sticks and stones may break my bones: An examination of the effects of emotional abuse. Journal of Aggression, Maltreatment & Trauma, 20(5), pp.503–529. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/254356919_Sticks_and_Stones_May_Break_My_Bones_The_Effects_of_Emotional_Abuse National Domestic Violence Hotline. (n.d.). Understand relationship abuse. The Hotline. https://www.thehotline.org/identify-abuse/understand-relationship-abuse/ National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC). (n.d.). Emotional abuse. NSPCC. https://www.nspcc.org.uk/what-is-child-abuse/types-of-abuse/emotional-abuse/ Newton, C., & Gavin, H. (2016). Studying the long-term psychological effects of emotional abuse experienced in childhood. International Academic Conference on Social Sciences, pp. 41–49. The International Institute for Academic Development. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/314206294_Studying_The_Long-term_Psychological_Effects_of_Emotional_Abuse_Experienced_in_Childhood Welcome to Escape the Paradox, a podcast dedicated to exposing and exploring the truth about coercive control, emotional abuse, and the long-term trauma caused by abusive relationships. Whether it's childhood abuse from a parent, intimate partner violence, or domestic abuse in any form, this podcast dives into the patterns, dynamics, and the psychological impact. My name is Helena, and I am your host! I share my own lived experience as a survivor of childhood abuse, while also creating space for survivor stories, expert insight, and compassionate support. Healing is non-linear, and a complex and difficult process. If you're looking for support, please visit escapetheparadox.com to learn more about my services in abuse consulting and advocacy and 1:1 sessions. Don't forget to subscribe (follow) wherever you get your podcasts! Remember: It's not your fault, and your story matters!
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Intimidation in Relationships: Understanding Abuse, Domestic Violence, and Coercive Control
Send a textCoercive Control | Domestic Violence | Childhood Trauma | Childhood Abuse | Healing after Abuse | Healing after Trauma In this episode, I delve into the element of intimidation in abusive relationships and how it oppresses the target, making escape incredibly challenging. I also share my personal experience with the very real tactics abusers use to discredit their targets, adding even more layers of difficulty to leaving.Sources Please see this study regarding PTSD, and the associations between experiencing trauma and threats, as in DV/IPV/Child Abuse: Kredlow, A., Fenster, R. J., Laurent, E. S., et al. (2022). Prefrontal cortex, amygdala, and threat processing: Implications for PTSD. Neuropsychopharmacology, 47(1), pp.247–259. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41386-021-01155-7 Please see the study which I drew on to show the similarities between threats and intimidation. This article was used more in Episode 2. Wood, K., Giesbrecht, C. J., Brooks, C., & Arisman, K. (2024). "I couldn't leave the farm: Rural women's experiences of intimate partner violence and coercive control." Violence Against Women. https://doi.org/10.1177/10778012241279117 Welcome to Escape the Paradox, a podcast dedicated to exposing and exploring the truth about coercive control, emotional abuse, and the long-term trauma caused by abusive relationships. Whether it's childhood abuse from a parent, intimate partner violence, or domestic abuse in any form, this podcast dives into the patterns, dynamics, and the psychological impact. My name is Helena, and I am your host! I share my own lived experience as a survivor of childhood abuse, while also creating space for survivor stories, expert insight, and compassionate support. Healing is non-linear, and a complex and difficult process. If you're looking for support, please visit escapetheparadox.com to learn more about my services in abuse consulting and advocacy and 1:1 sessions. Don't forget to subscribe (follow) wherever you get your podcasts! Remember: It's not your fault, and your story matters!
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Coercion and Threats in Relationships: Understanding Abuse, Domestic Violence, and Coercive Control
Send a textCoercive Control | Domestic Violence | Childhood Trauma | Childhood Abuse | Healing after Abuse | Healing after Trauma In this episode of Escape the Paradox, let's delve into the "Coercion and Threats" section of the Power and Control Wheel. Learn how abusers use coercive tactics to instill fear and maintain control over their targets. Learn to recognize these behaviors, and understand their impact. Whether you're seeking clarity or supporting someone you care about, this episode sheds light on the covert, and difficult to verbalize, dynamics of coercive control.SourcesI reference the Power and Control Wheel, which was developed by the Domestic Abuse Intervention Programs in Duluth, Minnesota. For more information, visit this on their website: https://www.theduluthmodel.org/wheels/Please see the study conducted by Wood, K., Giesbrecht, C. J., Brooks, C., & Arisman, K. in 2024: "I couldn't leave the farm: Rural women's experiences of intimate partner violence and coercive control” found at https://doi.org/10.1177/10778012241279117 which I drew on during my podcast. Welcome to Escape the Paradox, a podcast dedicated to exposing and exploring the truth about coercive control, emotional abuse, and the long-term trauma caused by abusive relationships. Whether it's childhood abuse from a parent, intimate partner violence, or domestic abuse in any form, this podcast dives into the patterns, dynamics, and the psychological impact. My name is Helena, and I am your host! I share my own lived experience as a survivor of childhood abuse, while also creating space for survivor stories, expert insight, and compassionate support. Healing is non-linear, and a complex and difficult process. If you're looking for support, please visit escapetheparadox.com to learn more about my services in abuse consulting and advocacy and 1:1 sessions. Don't forget to subscribe (follow) wherever you get your podcasts! Remember: It's not your fault, and your story matters!
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Abuse is Abuse: Why Labels Don't Help (even if they are a psychopath or narcissist)
Send a textCoercive Control | Domestic Violence | Childhood Trauma | Childhood Abuse | Healing after Abuse | Healing after Trauma In this very first episode of Escape the Paradox, I explore a common misconception: the idea that labeling an abuser—whether as a narcissist, psychopath, or anything else—somehow explains, or excuses, their behavior.Abuse isn’t about a diagnosis; it’s about actions.We dive into why focusing on labels can shift the conversation away from what really matters: the harm caused and the patterns of control, intimidation, and manipulation that define abuse. Join me as we uncover the truths about abuse, discuss why labels often fall short, and refocus our attention on moving forward.SourcesDiagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.) – American Psychiatric Association (2013).Link: https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.books.9780890425596 For more information and access to Hare’s checklist used extensively in forensic psychology to evaluate personality traits and behaviors associated with psychopathy, visit here: https://arc.psych.wisc.edu/self-report/psychopathy-checklist-revised-pclr/ and download the checklist. Welcome to Escape the Paradox, a podcast dedicated to exposing and exploring the truth about coercive control, emotional abuse, and the long-term trauma caused by abusive relationships. Whether it's childhood abuse from a parent, intimate partner violence, or domestic abuse in any form, this podcast dives into the patterns, dynamics, and the psychological impact. My name is Helena, and I am your host! I share my own lived experience as a survivor of childhood abuse, while also creating space for survivor stories, expert insight, and compassionate support. Healing is non-linear, and a complex and difficult process. If you're looking for support, please visit escapetheparadox.com to learn more about my services in abuse consulting and advocacy and 1:1 sessions. Don't forget to subscribe (follow) wherever you get your podcasts! Remember: It's not your fault, and your story matters!
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Introduction: Breaking My Paradox
Send a textCoercive Control | Domestic Violence | Childhood Trauma | Childhood Abuse | Healing after Abuse | Healing after Trauma This podcast discusses sensitive topics, including coercive control and the emotional impact of abuse. In this introduction, I share why I believe it’s so important to learn how to verbalize the impact coercive control has. By sharing my truth, I hope to help others do the same. I’m claiming my narrative, and healing alongside you. By sharing my own story, I hope to show others that it’s not only possible to break the silence, but it’s also an essential step in the healing process.Welcome to Escape the Paradox, a podcast dedicated to exposing and exploring the truth about coercive control, emotional abuse, and the long-term trauma caused by abusive relationships. Whether it's childhood abuse from a parent, intimate partner violence, or domestic abuse in any form, this podcast dives into the patterns, dynamics, and the psychological impact. My name is Helena, and I am your host! I share my own lived experience as a survivor of childhood abuse, while also creating space for survivor stories, expert insight, and compassionate support. Healing is non-linear, and a complex and difficult process. If you're looking for support, please visit escapetheparadox.com to learn more about my services in abuse consulting and advocacy and 1:1 sessions. Don't forget to subscribe (follow) wherever you get your podcasts! Remember: It's not your fault, and your story matters!
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Covering: Coercive Control | Domestic Violence | Childhood Trauma | Childhood Abuse | Healing after Abuse | Healing after Trauma | PTSD | C-PTSD | Trauma Recovery | Emotional and Psychological AbuseWelcome to Escape the Paradox, where I expose the hidden reality of coercive control and domestic violence including psychological, emotional and physical abuse. I’m Helena, a survivor of childhood abuse. I'm a mental health nursing student and advocate, here to support you in breaking free from the confusion, fear, and isolation that abuse creates. Home should be the safest place, but for many, it becomes the most dangerous. In each episode, I share my personal story and dive into my own experiences, as well as survivor experiences, trauma-informed insights, and expert research to help you understand the mechanisms of abuse and begin your healing journey.We’ll explore tactics such as gaslight
HOSTED BY
Helena Hickman
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