Violence in a relationship
A pattern of behaviour by which one person establishes power and control over another — physically, psychologically, sexually or economically.
What matters to know
Violence isn’t conflict and isn’t a subject for negotiation. Couples therapy in the presence of active violence isn’t appropriate and can be dangerous, because it exposes the person at risk.
Where to get help
The Slovenian SOS helpline, 080 11 55 (24 hours). Police 113, emergency services 112. If you are in this situation, the first step isn’t a conversation with your partner but a safety plan with support from people who know how to act.
See also
Relational family therapy
A Slovenian model connecting the systemic view with bodily experience and with the affect transmitted between family members.
Therapeutic goal
A jointly agreed shift by which we both know whether anything is happening.
Shame
The feeling that something is wrong with you — as distinct from guilt, which says something is wrong with what you did.
