This very special episode covers an important and serious topic: coercive control, a form of domestic abuse. Our Coffee Date today is with advocates Larissa Crane, MSW, LICSW, MRT and Hilary Purtell. We will explore what coercive control is, how to recognize it, and what to do if you or someone you love is in a relationship with a coercive controller. Even if you have not experienced coercive control, this is a must-listen to know how to recognize it, either for your future self, or to know what to look for as you support friends and family going through a challenging relationship.

Main Points

• Today’s Quote: “The truth is, it takes a village to get through the tough stuff in life. It doesn’t have to be a big village, but we all need people to help hold us up when life, loss, and grief knock us down.” -Michelle Deville

  
  



• Defining coercive control

  
  



• What to do and not to do

  
  



• Navigating court with a coercive controller

  
  



• Shared Story: Forgiveness and Letting Go

  
  

Coffee Date Info

Coffee Date Guest: Larissa Crane, MSW, LICSW, MRT

Coffee Date Bio: Larissa Crane is a psychotherapist and yoga teacher based in the Boston area who specializes in helping people overcome anxiety, depression, and eating disorders using a trauma-informed approach.  Her practice is dedicated to supporting "high conflict" litigants who are navigating the Massachusetts probate and family court. Larissa is highly skilled in conducting GAL (Guardian ad Litem) reports, parenting coordination services, and counseling for those who have experienced coercive control or narcissistic abuse. 

Coffee Date Guest: Hilary Purtell

Coffee Date Bio: Hilary Purtell is a professional actor, voice talent and on-camera host, and is co-director of the Jane Does Well Education and Advocacy Committee. Hilary holds a master's degree in Counseling Psychology, and writes articles about family law best practices and divorce in Massachusetts.

Coffee Date Links and Resources:

Article on janedoeswell.com:

National Domestic Violence Hotline: (800) 799-7233

National Resource Center on Domestic Violence: https://www.nrcdv.org/ 
Casa Myrna (Massachusetts): https://casamyrna.org/

Massachusetts Coercive Control Bill Information: malegislature.gov/bills/193/s1097