JE: Chuck - what help can you offer someone who is in extreme situation with domestic violence?  Let's say a woman who is culturally-bound and married to a partner who is physically abusive and emotionally abusive too. How can that woman empower herself ?

Chuck: Healing will empower everyone involved. It will empower the woman and also the the man who is frightened inside, frightened of the pain, and is taking control and angry rather than feel it. And also the children. And the family. There are lots of healing tools available. 

JE: But what about taking herself out of harm's way?

Chuck: Yes of course. Because if she doesn't then the guilt will increase for both of them. 

JE: Yes, and guilt will make the pattern repeat itself and express itself in violence. But what about physically taking herself out of harm's way? Women's refuge? 

Chuck: Yes, of course! Or stay with relative or a friend. Of course. It's the ol' tried-and-true method. Taking yourself out of harm's way. Of course. You wouldn't put your child in harm's way would you? So why would you put yourself ? Taking yourself away from the situation and giving yourself luxury of time to address the healing. It's the healing which will empower. You'll have time to receive support from friends. Refuge and safety. It's vital to take yourself out of harm's way. Of course. So that you can heal and empower yourself. 

JE: The empowerment is in the healing.

Thank you Chuck. Next time let's talk about the family / cultural pressures.