Using power to control another person’s choices, or emotions is abusive. Ellen Pence and Michael Paymar developed the Duluth Model or Domestic Abuse Intervention Project to reduce domestic violence against women. The Domestic Abuse Intervention Project, was developed in Duluth Minnesota. The power wheel identifies some ways used to control others. Behaviors in the wheel are abusive, harmful, & oppressive. If you have been on the receiving end of any of these behaviors, you have been abused. Having experiences like these can harm us and have a lasting impact, if not treated. Safety is the first priority.
It is crucial to find a highly trained, experienced, licensed, certified, trauma-informed counselor to empower and free people to overcome abusive power and control. Dr. Louis A Giordano, LCMHC, NCC, BCPCC has both personal experience, professional training and 25 years experience conducting clinical research and providing trauma-informed counseling. Remember that you are not to blame, or responsible for how or if someone abused you. It was not your fault. In additional to professional, trauma informed counseling, resources are available to help you in tangible, meaningful ways.