What is Financial Abuse
Financial abuse, often referred to as economic abuse, constitutes a variant of domestic and family violence. It frequently entails an individual employing financial resources in manners that can inflict harm and exert dominance over you. Financial abuse may manifest in various forms, such as obstructing your ability to secure employment or coercing you into obtaining loans that are not in your best interest. It may entail behaviours by loved ones, partners, family members, persons of trust, carers or online abusers.
Therapy approach
- Clearly identify the pattern by specifying the occurrences, frequency, and effects observed.
- Reestablish safety and autonomy.
- Establish parameters and outline subsequent actions tailored to your spefic circumstances.
- Facilitate informed decision-making during times of heightened fear, guilt, or confusion.
Session formats
- Trauma‑informed counselling sessions in person or via telehealth.
- Paced work focused on safety, clarity, and practical steps.
FAQs
Does financial abuse require physical violence?
No not necessarily but it may. Financial control may manifest independently or in conjunction with other abusive behaviours. The primary aspect involves coercive control over financial resources, assets, and decision-making processes.
What are common signs?
Extreme oversight of your expenses, limiting access to your own accounts, imposing debt on you, withholding essential resources from you, undermining your professional responsibilities, or making financial assistance contingent upon adherence to certain guidelines.
What can therapy do here?
Therapy helps you clarify what’s happening, rebuild agency, and make safer decisions with support, including boundaries, scripts, and practical planning.