Olivia on Finding Freedom After Abuse

Listen to this episode from Therapy Works on Spotify. In this episode of the Therapy Works podcast, Olivia shares the harrowing experience of her husband being arrested in 2014 for downloading and sharing paedophilic images of children. She discusses the subsequent impact on her life and her four children, detailing the years of coercive control, emotional abuse, and manipulation she endured during her marriage. Olivia reflects on the therapy and support she received that helped her come to terms with the situation, reclaim her sense of self, and start to rebuild her life. Despite the trauma, Olivia speaks of her path to freedom, the crucial role of her support system, and how she managed to rebuild a life filled with joy and self-discovery. 00:12 The Day Everything Changed 01:22 Living Under Coercive Control 05:10 Realisations Through Therapy 10:19 The Arrest and Its Aftermath 14:14 Struggles with Shame and Guilt 31:30 Support Systems and Healing 37:46 Reflections and Moving Forward Support Links & Further Resources Understanding the Vagus Nerve – Learn more via the Polyvagal Institute Carolyn Spring – Resources on trauma and recovery: carolynspring.com Women’s Aid – Support for those affected by domestic abuse: womensaid.org.uk Support for Families & Friends of Perpetrators – Guidance via the Survivors’ Network: Read here Dr. Gwen Adshead: Reith Lecture – Listen on the BBC: Episode link Please subscribe and leave a review—it truly makes all the difference! Follow Julia at @juliasamuelmbe for more insights, tips, and conversations on life's challenges and how to improve your mental well-being. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices