Domestic and Family Violence with Patricia Gallagher

In this week’s episode we’ll be discussing family violence and domestic abuse. These are important conversations, but they can also be distressing or triggering for some listeners. If this episode feels too difficult to listen to right now, please take care of yourself and consider coming back to it when you feel ready—or just skipping it altogether. And if you or someone you know is currently experiencing domestic abuse, please know that you're not alone and that support is available. We’ve included links and resources below if you need help or someone to talk to.

This week we’re speaking to Patricia Gallagher about domestic and family violence. Patricia is a neuro-affirming registered psychologist, EMDR Accredited Practitioner with EMDRAA, and a Board Approved Supervisor, with over 16 years of experience across diverse settings. She currently works with clients from her private practice based in Melbourne, Gallagher Psychology. Patricia’s niche is in working with women affected by domestic violence, family violence, and childhood trauma; supporting them to heal and rise above the ashes of shame and trauma. In addition to her clinical work, Patricia is a sought-after trainer, supervisor, and speaker in the fields of trauma and family violence.

In this episode we cover: What neurodivergence means to Patricia + her experience of being at the early stages of her exploration of her own neurodivergence. The definition of family and domestic violence and the different forms of abuse that come under this definition. What is ‘covert’ abuse. Understanding the cycle of abuse that commonly occurs, and factors that play into this. Common traits and emotional experiences of perpetrators. What is ‘coercive control’. The factors that increase the likelihood of disabled, neurodivergent, and / or previously traumatised folk being targeted for domestic and family abuse. Logistical and emotional barriers to leaving situations of domestic abuse. Patricia’s approach to supporting people’s recovery from domestic and family violence. The shark cage exercise for building boundaries. Tips and resources for anyone experiencing domestic or family violence.

Things we mentioned: Australian statistics on the prevalence of domestic and family violence. Study on the prevalence of intimate partner violence in Australia. Royal Commission into rates of family, domestic, and sexual violence of women and girls with disability. Australian Government Coercive Control Fact Sheet Ursula Benstead’s Shark Cage

Connect with Patricia through her Instagram @gallagherpsychology or @patriciagallagher, Facebook page, Gallagher Psychology, and her website, www.gallagherpsychology.com.au.

Looking for support with situations of domestic or family violence? Try these resources: Australia wide 1800RESPECT (Ph. 1800 737 732) - National sexual assault, domestic and family violence counselling service. Offers phone and online chat support 24/7. Relationships Australia (Ph. 1300 364 277) - Counselling and support for individuals and families experiencing relationship breakdown or violence. Women's Legal Services - Provide free legal advice and assistance on domestic and family violence, family law, child protection. QLife (Ph. 1800 184 527 - 3pm–midnight daily) - LGBTQIA+ peer support and referral. Are You Safe at Home? Ask Izzy - Search tool for nearby shelters, food, legal help, and more. Some state based services Safe Steps (Victoria) (Ph. 1800 015 188) - 24/7 family violence response line for women and children in Victoria. InTouch Multicultural Centre Against Family Violence (Victoria) (Ph. (03) 9413 6500 / 1800 755 988) - Culturally sensitive family violence support for migrant and refugee women in Victoria. DVConnect (Queensland) (Women's line: 1800 811 811; Mensline: 1800 600 636) - Crisis counselling and referrals for people experiencing domestic and family violence. Immigrant Women's Support Service (Queensland) (Ph. (07) 3846 3490)