How Can Clinicians Effectively Assess for Coercive Control and Domestic Violence in Their Practice?

How can clinicians effectively assess for coercive control and domestic violence in their practice?

As a clinician, assessing for coercive control and domestic violence may involve a nuanced approach that extends beyond formal assessments. Formal assessments may be useful if the goal is to determine the presence of abuse claims or assess the suitability for working with a particular client. However, it's essential to consider the limitations of formal assessments, particularly in cases where safety or truthfulness may be compromised. In such cases, clinicians can supplement formal assessments with targeted questions during intake or initial sessions, such as inquiring about decision-making dynamics, changes in relationships with friends and family, physical health changes, and confidence levels over time. Creating a safe and supportive environment for disclosure is crucial, as is respecting the client's autonomy throughout the therapeutic journey.

This Ask the Expert is an edited excerpt from the webinar, Decoding Coercive Control: Advanced Strategies for Proficient Domestic Violence Assessment, presented by Sybil Cummin, MA, LPC, ACS