In this episode, we dive into the challenging realities of navigating narcissistic abuse, coercive control and domestic violence, particularly within the family court system, and how important it is that survivors of these situations find a like-minded community to heal within. Our guest, Sybil Cummin, MA, LPC, ACS, shares her journey into this field, explaining how her work as a play therapist with children revealed systemic issues that fail to protect families. We discuss the impact of coercive control on mental health, the misperceptions surrounding abuse like how abuse doesn't discriminate whether you have a good education and wealth, and the devastating effects on protective parents—predominantly mothers—who are often dismissed or vilified.

The conversation highlights the importance of understanding abuse in all the ways it shows up (it's not just overt) beyond physical violence, addressing the role of community in healing, and offering support to survivors as they navigate the complexities of safety, trauma recovery, and rebuilding their lives. Most importantly, we explore strategies to help survivors develop trust, autonomy, and resilience in systems that frequently fall short of providing protection or justice.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• The pervasive myths about domestic violence and the reality of coercive control.

• How systemic biases in family court harm protective parents and children.

• The importance of community and connection in the healing process.

• Strategies for survivors to rebuild their trust and sense of self.

• The delicate balance of sharing one’s story without shame or comparison.

Resources Mentioned:
https://www.risingbeyondpc.com
https:// instagram.com/risingbeyondpc
https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/podcasts
Sybil's Canned Responses Freebie: https://mailchi.mp/risingbeyondpc/freebie