Coercive control is increasingly recognised as the most harmful and complex dynamic of abuse within intimate relationships. Unlike incidents of physical violence, coercive control involves an ongoing pattern of intimidation, exploitation, manipulation, and domination over the relationship that gradually erodes a person’s autonomy and sense of self. Commonly, these patterns can be subtle, cumulative, and difficult to identify, both for the victim-survivor and for the professionals supporting them.
In the past 10 years, coercive control has rightfully received growing legal attention. In Australia, both NSW and Queensland have recently introduced laws criminalising coercive control as part of broader efforts to address domestic and family violence. For psychologists, understanding these dynamics is essential to recognising abuse that may not leave visible injuries but can have profound psychological and emotional impacts.
In this webinar, you will learn:
- The definition and dynamics of coercive control, including common patterns and key indicators
- How coercive control relates to domestic and family violence
- How coercive control may present in the daily lives of your clients
- The growing recognition that the abuse doesn’t end when the relationship does
- The recent criminalisation of coercive control and its application so far
- Practical considerations for identifying and responding to coercive control in therapy
- Suggestions for further resources to deepen your understanding of this issue
About our presenter: Krasi Kirova
Krasi Kirova is a psychologist with clinical endorsement and a special interest in complex trauma, Intimate Partner Violence, and Coercive Control. She has worked across a range of mental health settings, including private practice, university counselling services, and psychiatric inpatient care, where she co-facilitated trauma recovery groups.
Krasi regularly facilitates workshops for women navigating emotional abuse in relationships and is a current member of the Community of Practice Group for Safe & Equal (Victoria’s peak body for DFV services). She is a regular guest on The Divorce Course Podcast, discussing issues of post-separation abuse, navigating abuse dynamics and moving towards recovery after DV.
You can view the videos of Krasi’s previous webinars here:
Webinar timing: 7:00 – 8:00 pm AEST
Access to the recording of this webinar: A recording of this webinar will be available through the CPD Webinar Library, but for the best experience and the opportunity to ask your questions, join us live. Everyone who registers will be advised via email as soon as the recording is available. Members have unlimited access to the recording, and non-members will have access for 6 months.