Perfect Prey: A Coercive Control Podcast

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• The Hidden Impact of Trauma Across a Lifetime with Dr. Ann Burgess 05.06.2026 35min

  DescriptionIn this episode of Perfect Prey, I’m joined by Ann Burgess, pioneering forensic nurse, researcher, educator, and author of Expert Witness. Ann’s groundbreaking work transformed how professionals understand trauma, victimization, sexual violence, and offender behavior. Her research has influenced criminal investigations, forensic psychology, victim advocacy, and some of the most well-known criminal cases in modern history.Together, we explore the long-term impact of trauma, why victims are so often disbelieved, and how systems continue to fail those who come forward. Ann shares insights from decades of work studying victims, offenders, serial violence, child abuse, and the psychology of coercion and control. We also discuss institutional betrayal, trauma responses in children and adults, family court failures, pornography, grooming, and what it takes to create meaningful change within systems that were never designed to fully protect victims.What we coverAnn Burgess’s pioneering work in victimology and forensic nursingHow trauma impacts behavior across the lifespanWhy victims are often disbelieved by systems and institutionsInstitutional betrayal and systemic failuresCoercive control, fear, and psychological abuseTrauma responses in children and adolescentsChild sexual abuse and delayed disclosureFamily court, victim credibility, and expert testimonyThe role of pornography and grooming in abusive behaviorThe Menendez case and evolving understandings of traumaWhy trauma-informed education is critical for professionalsHow offender thinking patterns develop and escalateWhy listenIf you are a survivor, clinician, attorney, advocate, educator, or protective parent, this episode offers a rare opportunity to hear from one of the most influential voices in trauma and victim research.Ann Burgess’s work helped shape how we understand trauma today. Her insights illuminate why victims respond the way they do, why systems often misunderstand those responses, and why meaningful reform requires us to listen more closely to survivors’ experiences.Guest BioAnn Burgess, DNSc, APRN, FAAN is an internationally recognized forensic nurse, researcher, educator, and author. She is a professor at Boston College and has spent decades studying trauma, victimization, sexual violence, serial offenders, and forensic mental health.Ann's groundbreaking research on rape trauma syndrome helped transform the understanding of victim responses to sexual assault. She has consulted with the FBI's Behavioral Science Unit, contributed to offender profiling research, and served as an expert witness in numerous high-profile cases.She is the author of several books, including Expert Witness, which chronicles her work at the intersection of trauma, criminal behavior, and justice.Connect with Ann BurgessBook: Expert Witnesshttps://www.amazon.com/stores/Ann-W.-Burgess/author/B0H13DQXPP?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_3&qid=1780604748&sr=1-3&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=9489809f-1ae4-4998-b8db-a0cbcc536d23Boston College Faculty Profile: https://www.bc.eduConnect with Dr. ChristineProtective Parenting Program: https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting.com/services/for-parents/Dr. C’s Community: https://go.drcocchiola.com/innercirclecommunityOfficial site: https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DrCocchiola-coercivecontrol/videosTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.c_coercivecontrolInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.cocchiola_coercivecontrol/TEDxTalks: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gp2qByKOue4&t=24sBooks:https://url-shortener.me/c/FramedBookhttps://url-shortener.me/c/EveryMomentOfEveryDayIf this episode landed for you, please share it with someone who needs to hear it, subscribe for more trauma-informed conversations, and consider leaving a review — it helps other survivors find validation and safety.— Dr. Christine Cocchiola & Ann Burgess
• Why Traumatized Children Are Often Misunderstood 22.05.2026 25min

  In this solo episode of Perfect Prey, Dr. Christine Cocchiola explores the connection between coercive control, childhood trauma, attachment, and the growing number of children being diagnosed with ADHD and other behavioral disorders. Dr. Cocchiola challenges listeners to consider a critical question: what if many of the behaviors we label as “problematic” are actually trauma responses? What if children living within coercively controlling family systems are being misunderstood rather than truly seen?Drawing from the work of Dr. Bessel van der Kolk, Dr. Gabor Maté, Dr. Bruce Perry, and betrayal trauma theory, this episode examines how trauma can manifest as fight, flight, freeze, and fawn responses in children — and how coercive control fractures attachment, identity, safety, and regulation. Dr. Cocchiola also discusses how predatory parents weaponize children, how attachment is intentionally disrupted, and why protective parents play such a critical role in healing and rebuilding safety for their children.What we coverThis episode is essential listening for protective parents, clinicians, educators, advocates, and anyone trying to better understand trauma, child behavior, and coercive control.How trauma can mimic ADHD symptomsFight, flight, freeze, and fawn trauma responses in childrenCoercive control within family systemsHow predatory parents fracture attachment intentionallyWhy dysregulated children are often misunderstoodAttachment, authenticity, and child developmentTrauma, dissociation, and emotional regulationThe impact of coercive control on school performance and behaviorWhy children exposed to abuse may appear oppositional or disengagedProtective parenting and reigniting attachmentBroken attachment, broken safety, and “broken brain”How systems often pathologize traumatized children instead of protecting themWhy listenIf you are raising a child impacted by coercive control, navigating post-separation abuse, or working professionally with children and families, this episode offers a trauma-informed framework for understanding behavior through the lens of attachment and survival.Dr. Cocchiola invites listeners to shift away from asking “What’s wrong with this child?” and instead ask: “What happened to this child?” Connect with Dr. Christine:Protective Parenting Program: https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting.com/services/for-parents/Dr. C’s Community: https://go.drcocchiola.com/innercirclecommunityOfficial site: https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DrCocchiola-coercivecontrol/videosTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.c_coercivecontrolInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.cocchiola_coercivecontrol/TEDxTalks: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gp2qByKOue4&t=24sBooks:https://url-shortener.me/c/FramedBookhttps://url-shortener.me/c/EveryMomentOfEveryDayIf this episode resonated with you, please share it with someone who may need this conversation, subscribe to Perfect Prey, and leave a review — it helps other survivors and protective parents find support and validation.🩵— Dr. Christine Cocchiola
• Why Survivors Must Be Heard to Heal with Dr. Judith Lewis Herman 08.05.2026 47min

  In this episode of Perfect Prey, I’m honored to be joined by Judith Herman, one of the world’s foremost pioneers in trauma research and recovery.Dr. Herman is the author of the groundbreaking books Father-Daughter Incest, Trauma and Recovery, and Truth and Repair—works that fundamentally changed how we understand trauma, complex trauma, institutional betrayal, and survivor healing.Together, we discuss the origins of trauma theory, the women’s movement that brought survivor voices into public consciousness, the devastating lifelong impact of childhood abuse and coercive control, and why children living in unsafe family systems are so deeply affected—even when the abuse is not overtly physical.We also explore the ACEs study, attachment, institutional failures, protective parenting, intergenerational trauma, and the critical role of safe relationships in healing.This is an essential conversation for survivors, clinicians, advocates, educators, attorneys, judges, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of trauma and recovery.What we coverThe origins of trauma and complex trauma theoryHow the women’s movement changed the understanding of abuseDr. Herman’s groundbreaking work on incest and child sexual abuseThe lifelong mental and physical health impacts of childhood traumaThe ACEs study and adverse childhood experiencesCoercive control, family violence, and child developmentIsolation as a tactic of abuse and coercive controlWhy children exposed to family violence are profoundly harmedProtective factors that help children heal from traumaAttachment, belonging, and the importance of safe relationshipsInstitutional betrayal and why survivors must be heardProtective parenting and rebuilding connection with childrenWhy listenIf you are a survivor, protective parent, clinician, advocate, educator, researcher, or legal professional, this episode offers foundational insight into trauma, coercive control, attachment, and recovery.Dr. Herman’s work helped shape the modern understanding of trauma and continues to guide how we think about healing, institutional accountability, and the long-term impact of childhood abuse.Guest bio (short)Judith Herman, MD, is a psychiatrist, researcher, professor, and internationally recognized pioneer in the study of psychological trauma. She is the author of Father-Daughter Incest, Trauma and Recovery, and Truth and Repair, groundbreaking works that transformed the understanding of trauma, complex PTSD, and survivor recovery.About Dr. Judith Lewis HermanGuilford Press: https://www.guilford.com/author/Judith-Lewis-Herman?srsltid=AfmBOopF18dr2S7Z0VoukbbZiSSvNFY7XqwmoLAmoT2OykKgsoR2T4fYWikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Judith_Lewis_HermanPsychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/contributors/judith-l-herman-mdConnect with Dr. Christine:Protective Parenting Program: https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting.com/services/for-parents/Official site: https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DrCocchiola-coercivecontrol/videosTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.c_coercivecontrolInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.cocchiola_coercivecontrol/TEDxTalks: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gp2qByKOue4&t=24sBooks: https://url-shortener.me/c/FramedBookhttps://url-shortener.me/c/EveryMomentOfEveryDayIf this episode landed for you, please share it with someone who needs to hear it, subscribe for more trauma-informed conversations, and consider leaving a review — it helps other survivors find validation and safety.🩵— Dr. Christine Cocchiola & guest Dr. Judith Herman
• Greyson’s Choice: Ali Kessler’s Mission to Protect Children 24.04.2026 35min

  DescriptionIn this episode of Perfect Prey, I’m joined by Ali Kessler, founder of Greyson’s Choice, child safety advocate, and a powerful voice for prevention, awareness, and systemic change.Ali shares her deeply personal story of loss, resilience, and purpose—and how unimaginable grief became a mission to protect other children. Through Greyson’s Choice, Ali has transformed pain into advocacy, using her son Greyson’s legacy to create education, awareness, and meaningful change for families everywhere.This conversation is both heartbreaking and inspiring, highlighting what it means to carry love forward through action, courage, and protection.What we coverThe story behind Greyson’s ChoiceHonoring Greyson’s legacy through advocacyTurning grief into purpose and preventionWhy child safety awareness mattersSystemic gaps that leave children vulnerableSupporting families after trauma and lossCreating change through courage and communityWhy listenIf you are a parent, survivor, advocate, clinician, or someone navigating grief after trauma, this episode offers compassion, courage, and hope.Ali’s story is a reminder that even after devastating loss, love can still become action—and protection for others.Guest bio (short)Ali Kessler is the founder of Greyson’s Choice, a child safety advocacy organization created in honor of her son, Greyson. Through education, awareness, and reform efforts, she works to protect children, support families, and create lasting change in Greyson’s memory.Connect with Ali Kessler:Website: https://greysonschoice.orgInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/greysonschoice/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GreysonsChoiceLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/greysons-choice/posts/?feedView=allYouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjQd87p3UbsHmUWxVkxJlUwConnect with Dr. Christine Cocchiola:Protective Parenting Program: https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting.com/services/for-parents/Official site: https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DrCocchiola-coercivecontrol/videosTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.c_coercivecontrolInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.cocchiola_coercivecontrol/TEDxTalks: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gp2qByKOue4&t=24sBooks:https://url-shortener.me/c/FramedBookhttps://url-shortener.me/c/EveryMomentOfEveryDayIf this episode landed for you, please share it with someone who needs to hear it, subscribe for more trauma-informed conversations, and consider leaving a review — it helps other survivors find validation and safety.🩵— Dr. Christine Cocchiola & guest Ali Kessler
• Children Are Not Witnesses: The Truth About Coercive Control with Emma Katz 10.04.2026 43min

  DescriptionIn this episode of Perfect Prey, I’m joined by Emma Katz, criminologist and author of Coercive Control in Children’s and Mothers’ Lives. Emma is one of the leading researchers in the world examining how coercive control impacts children—not just as witnesses, but as direct victims navigating survival, attachment, and identity.Together, we explore how children experience coercive control in deeply complex ways, how abusers strategically target the mother-child bond, and why so many systems continue to misunderstand—or completely overlook—the perpetrator’s role.This conversation offers both profound validation and hope, highlighting the resilience of children and the critical role of protective parents in healing and recovery.What we coverWhy children are not “witnesses” but direct victims of coercive controlHow perpetrators strategically target and damage the mother-child relationshipThe three ways children experience abusive fathers: dangerous, “admirable,” and omnipresentHow manipulation, intermittent reinforcement, and fear shape children’s attachmentWhy children may align with the abusive parent—and why that is not a choiceThe psychological impact of coercive control on children’s identity, safety, and developmentThe resilience of children and the power of attachment with a protective parentWhat recovery can look like for families after coercive controlWhy listenIf you are a protective parent, survivor, clinician, or professional working with families, this episode offers essential insight into how coercive control shapes children’s experiences—and why traditional frameworks often get it wrong.Emma’s research brings clarity to what many families are living through, while also offering hope: children can heal, attachment can be rebuilt, and protective parenting matters more than anything.Guest bio (short)Emma Katz is a criminologist, researcher, and author specializing in coercive control and its impact on women and children. She is the author of Coercive Control in Children’s and Mothers’ Lives and writes extensively about domestic abuse, family dynamics, and systemic responses. Her work has been instrumental in shifting the understanding of children as active victims of coercive control rather than passive witnesses.Learn more about Dr. Emma KatzSubstack:https://substack.com/@dremmakatzOfficial Site:https://dremmakatz.com/Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/emmakatz_phdLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-emma-katz-5b911865/YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCx1f7_MhfCmVufMQS0ZPRjQX(twitter):https://x.com/DrEmmaKatzBook (Coercive Control in Children’s and Mothers’ Lives): https://www.amazon.com/Coercive-Control-Childrens-INTERPERSONAL-VIOLENCE/dp/0190922214/Connect with Dr. ChristineLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-christine-marie-cocchiola-443a58204/Protective Parenting Program:https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting.com/services/for-parents/Official site:https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting.com/YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@DrCocchiola-coercivecontrol/videosTikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.c_coercivecontrolInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/dr.cocchiola_coercivecontrol/TEDxTalk:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gp2qByKOue4&t=24sBooks:https://url-shortener.me/c/FramedBookhttps://url-shortener.me/c/EveryMomentOfEveryDayIf this episode landed for you, please share it with someone who needs to hear it, subscribe for more trauma-informed conversations, and consider leaving a review — it helps other survivors find validation and safety.🩵— Dr. Christine Cocchiola & guest Emma Katz
• Jane Doe No More: Story of Survival and Accountability with Donna Palomba 27.03.2026 36min

  DescriptionIn this episode of Perfect Prey, I’m joined by Donna Palomba, founder of Jane Doe No More and survivor of a violent home invasion and sexual assault that led to years of institutional betrayal.Donna shares her harrowing story—from surviving a brutal attack in her own home to being disbelieved, interrogated, and re-traumatized by the very system meant to protect her. What followed was a seven-year legal battle against law enforcement, uncovering systemic failures, bias, and the devastating impact of not believing victims.This conversation explores not only the trauma of the assault itself, but the profound harm caused by institutional betrayal—and the strength it takes to fight back, seek justice, and create change.What we coverDonna’s story of surviving a violent home invasion and sexual assaultThe immediate aftermath and failures in the investigative processInstitutional betrayal and being treated as a suspect instead of a victimThe long legal battle against law enforcement and systemic resistanceThe role of DNA evidence and delayed justiceHow perpetrators often live “double lives” and evade suspicionThe impact of statute of limitations laws on survivorsDonna’s advocacy work and the founding of Jane Doe No MorePrevention, education, and empowering communities to protect othersWhy listenIf you are a survivor, advocate, clinician, attorney, or protective parent, this episode offers a powerful and deeply emotional look at what happens when systems fail victims—and what it takes to hold those systems accountable. Donna’s story is both heartbreaking and hopeful, showing that even in the face of profound injustice, change is possible.Guest bio (short)Donna Palomba is the founder of Jane Doe No More, an organization dedicated to improving the way society responds to survivors of sexual crimes and advancing prevention education. After surviving a violent sexual assault and years of institutional betrayal, Donna became a leading advocate for victims’ rights, helping change laws and educate communities on safety, accountability, and survivor support.Learn more about Donna Palomba & Jane Doe No More:Website: ⁠https://janedoenomore.org/⁠Book (Jane Doe No More): ⁠https://www.amazon.com/Jane-Doe-No-More/dp/1642939709⁠Podcast (Jane Doe No More Podcast): ⁠https://janedoenomore.org/podcast/⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/janedoenomore/⁠Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/janedoenomore⁠LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/jane-doe-no-more/⁠Connect with Dr. ChristineProtective Parenting Program:⁠https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting.com/services/for-parents/⁠Official site:⁠https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting.com/⁠YouTube:⁠https://www.youtube.com/@DrCocchiola-coercivecontrol/videos⁠TikTok:⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.c_coercivecontrol⁠Instagram:⁠https://www.instagram.com/dr.cocchiola_coercivecontrol/⁠Books:⁠https://url-shortener.me/c/FramedBook⁠⁠https://url-shortener.me/c/EveryMomentOfEveryDay⁠If this episode landed for you, please share it with someone who needs to hear it, subscribe for more trauma-informed conversations, and consider leaving a review — it helps other survivors find validation and safety.— Dr. Christine Cocchiola & guest Donna Palomba
• Family Court Harm and Institutional Betrayal with Dr. Elizabeth Dalgarno 13.03.2026 42min

  DescriptionIn this episode of Perfect Prey, I’m joined by Dr. Elizabeth Dalgarno, founder and director of the SHERA Research Group and lecturer in public health at the University of Manchester. Dr. Dalgarno’s work focuses on the global harms caused by family court systems and the institutional abuse experienced by women and children navigating these legal processes.Through SHERA’s groundbreaking research, Dr. Dalgarno and her international team have documented how family court engagement can produce profound health consequences for protective parents and children. Their studies reveal a disturbing pattern: when abuse is reported, mothers are frequently accused of “parental alienation,” their credibility is questioned, and the legal system often becomes an extension of the abuse rather than a source of protection.Together, we explore how coercive control continues after separation, how courts can become tools of post-separation abuse, and why the health impacts of family court trauma are still largely ignored by institutions responsible for protecting families.What we coverThe mission and global research of the SHERA Research GroupHow family court systems create institutional betrayal for survivorsThe health consequences of family court trauma for women and childrenThe “blueprint” pattern many protective parents experience after reporting abuseWhy parental alienation frameworks often silence abuse disclosuresThe concept of malicious fracturing of attachmentHow coercive control continues through legal systems after separationWhy systemic reform is necessary to protect children and survivorsWhy listenIf you are a survivor, protective parent, clinician, researcher, attorney, or advocate, this episode offers crucial insight into how family court systems can perpetuate harm rather than stop it. Dr. Dalgarno’s research provides evidence-based documentation of what protective parents have been saying for decades—and highlights why systemic reform is urgently needed.Guest bio (short)Dr. Elizabeth Dalgarno is the founder and director of the SHERA Research Group, a global collective studying the health impacts of institutional abuse within family court systems. She is a lecturer in public health at the University of Manchester, where she teaches global women’s public health and health system challenges. Her research focuses on the intersection of coercive control, institutional harm, and the health consequences experienced by women and children navigating family courts worldwide.Learn more about SHERA ResearchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/sherafamily_Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/sherafamilyBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/sherafamilySubstack: Still Not Safe – Dr. DalgarnoConnect with Dr. ChristineProtective Parenting Program:https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting.com/services/for-parents/Official site:https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting.com/YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@DrCocchiola-coercivecontrol/videosTikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.c_coercivecontrolInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/dr.cocchiola_coercivecontrol/Books:https://url-shortener.me/c/FramedBookhttps://url-shortener.me/c/EveryMomentOfEveryDayIf this episode resonated with you, please share it with someone who needs to hear it, subscribe to Perfect Prey, and consider leaving a review. Your support helps other survivors and protective parents find validation and clarity.— Dr. Christine Cocchiola & guest Dr. Elizabeth Dalgarno
• The Weaponization of Children in Coercive Control 20.02.2026 26min

  DescriptionIn this solo episode of Perfect Prey, I explore one of the most heartbreaking dynamics of coercive control: the weaponization of children.Children rely on their parents for safety, stability, and unconditional love. But when a predatory parent is operating within the family system, attachment can become fractured. Instead of growing up with secure connection, children are often indoctrinated into false narratives, exposed to subtle undermining, and pulled into loyalty binds they cannot cognitively or emotionally process.I explain how coercive control is the underpinning of all forms of abuse — psychological, legal, financial, physical, and emotional — and how, when an abuser can no longer control their partner, they often shift to controlling through the child.We’ll talk about:How attachment is formed — and how it can be fracturedWhy children may come home dysregulated, angry, or oppositionalHow subtle undermining and false narratives are plantedThe difference between alienation rhetoric and attachment fractureWhy predatory parents rely on retaliation and loyalty conflictsHow protective parents can create “roadblocks” to manipulationWhat it means to respond instead of react — even when you are traumatizedThis episode is especially for protective parents navigating post-separation abuse and family court dynamics. The reality is painful: children are often placed in impossible positions, forced into emotional roles they should never have to carry.But there are ways to respond differently.If you are watching your child struggle, unravel, or lash out after time with the other parent, this episode will help you understand what may be happening beneath the surface — and how to stay grounded in your role as the secure base.Protective parents are doing some of the hardest work there is. You are not alone.Connect with Dr. ChristineProtective Parenting Program:https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting.com/services/for-parents/Official site:https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting.com/YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@DrCocchiola-coercivecontrol/videosTikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.c_coercivecontrolInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/dr.cocchiola_coercivecontrol/Books:https://url-shortener.me/c/FramedBookhttps://url-shortener.me/c/EveryMomentOfEveryDayIf this episode resonated, please share it with someone who needs this information, subscribe to Perfect Prey, and consider leaving a review. It helps other survivors and protective parents find validation and clarity.— Dr. Christine Cocchiola
• Coercive Control Is a War of Attrition with Laura Richards 06.02.2026 34min

  In this episode of Perfect Prey, I’m joined by Laura Richards, a criminal behavioral analyst, former New Scotland Yard specialist, and one of the leading global voices on coercive control. Laura has been instrumental in changing laws on stalking and coercive control in the UK and internationally, and her work has helped shape policy, legislation, and professional practice worldwide.We explore why coercive control is not about isolated incidents, but a patterned strategy of domination, entrapment, and power imbalance. Laura explains why coercive control is best understood as a war of attrition, how patriarchy and misogyny shape institutional responses, and why women and children are so often disbelieved—even when the evidence is present.This conversation examines how legal systems, family courts, and law enforcement frequently fail victims and survivors, particularly at the point of separation, when risk escalates most dramatically. We also discuss why coercive control must be criminalized, why gender matters in risk assessment, and how language itself can either obscure or reveal abuse.What we coverWhat coercive control really is and why it’s a patterned form of abuseWhy victims and survivors are often disbelieved by systems meant to protect themCoercive control as “murders and suicides in slow motion”The role of patriarchy, entitlement, and power imbalance in abuseWhy separation is the most dangerous time for women and childrenHow family courts can become a tool of post-separation abuseWhy protecting children requires protecting the non-abusive parentThe urgent need to criminalize coercive control globallyWhy listen If you are a survivor, protective parent, clinician, attorney, advocate, or policymaker, this episode offers critical insight into how coercive control operates beneath the surface of relationships and systems. Laura Richards brings clarity to why abuse is so often minimized, misunderstood, or reframed—and what must change to prevent further harm.Guest bio (short)Laura Richards is a criminal behavioral analyst, former New Scotland Yard specialist, and a leading international expert on coercive control, stalking, and violence against women. She helped create the DASH risk assessment model, founded the National Stalking Advocacy Service (Paladin), and played a central role in criminalizing coercive control in England and Wales. Laura is the author of Policing Domestic Violence and host of the Crime Analyst and Real Crime Profile podcasts.Connect with Dr. ChristineOfficial site: https://www.thelaurarichards.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crimeanalyst?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==X (twitter): https://x.com/thecrimeanalystTiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@crimeanalystpodYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCksfRSwfwFqUCjcxKYju6_QBooks: https://www.thelaurarichards.com/resources/booksConnect with Dr. ChristineProtective Parenting Program: https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting.com/services/for-parents/Official site: https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DrCocchiola-coercivecontrol/videosTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.c_coercivecontrolInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.cocchiola_coercivecontrol/TEDx Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gp2qByKOue4&t=24sBooks:https://url-shortener.me/c/FramedBookhttps://url-shortener.me/c/EveryMomentOfEveryDayIf this episode resonated, please share it with someone who needs this information, subscribe to Perfect Prey, and consider leaving a review to help other survivors find validation and clarity.— Dr. Christine Cocchiola & guest Laura Richards
• Child Sexual Abuse, Grooming, and the Systems That Fail Children with Andrew Carpenter 23.01.2026 41min

  In this episode of Perfect Prey, I’m joined by Andrew Carpenter, a solicitor and partner at Webster Lawyers in Australia, widely known for his work holding child sexual abuse perpetrators accountable and advocating for systemic reform.Andrew and I have a frank, uncomfortable, and deeply necessary conversation about child sexual abuse, grooming, coercive control, and the institutional failures that continue to endanger children. We explore how child predators use the same grooming tactics as coercive controllers, how technology and AI have dramatically increased access to abuse material, and why legal systems—including family courts—so often fail to protect children and the parents trying to keep them safe.This episode centers the reality that child sexual abuse is not rare, not accidental, and not a crime of opportunity—it is intentional, patterned, and enabled by silence, disbelief, and systemic blind spots.What we coverHow child sexual abuse perpetrators groom children, families, and institutionsWhy all child predators use coercive control and relational grooming tacticsThe disturbing accessibility of child abuse material onlineHow technology, AI, and social media are being weaponized against childrenWhy most abuse occurs within trusted relationships and family systemsThe failures of criminal courts and family courts to protect child victimsWhy lack of physical evidence does not mean abuse did not occurWarning signs, behavioral red flags, and changes parents should not ignoreHow shame, fear, and silence protect perpetrators—not childrenWhat meaningful prevention, accountability, and reform must addressWhy listenIf you are a survivor, protective parent, clinician, attorney, educator, or advocate, this episode provides critical insight into how child sexual abuse actually operates—and why so many children are disbelieved, retraumatized, or returned to unsafe environments. Andrew’s work exposes how deeply embedded these harms are within systems that claim to protect children, and why uncomfortable conversations are essential to change.Guest bio (short)Andrew Carpenter is a solicitor and partner at Webster Lawyers in Australia, specializing in child sexual abuse litigation and survivor advocacy. He is widely recognized for challenging institutional failures, advocating for legal reform, and amplifying survivor voices in cases where children have been silenced or ignored. His work focuses on accountability, deterrence, and systemic change to better protect children.Connect with Andrew CarpenterFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/andrewcarpentersolicitorWebsters Lawyers:https://websterslawyers.com.au/lawyers/andrew-carpenterInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/andrewcarpentersolicitor?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-carpenter-041456123/Connect with Dr. ChristineProtective Parenting Program:https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting.com/services/for-parents/Official site:https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting.com/YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@DrCocchiola-coercivecontrol/videosTikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.c_coercivecontrolIf this episode landed for you, please share it with someone who needs to hear it, subscribe for more trauma-informed conversations, and consider leaving a review- it helps other survivors and protective parents find validation and safety.-Dr. Christine Cocchiola & guest Andrew Carpenter
• When You See It: The Untold First Wife Story of Dirty John with Tonia Bales 09.01.2026 37min

  In this episode of Perfect Prey, I’m joined by Tonia Bales, author of When You See It: How I Outsmarted and Outlasted Dirty John. Tonia shares her story as the first wife of the man later known to the world as “Dirty John”—long before the podcast, Netflix series, or public recognition of who he really was.Tonia describes how coercive control, deception, and manipulation unfolded inside her marriage, how she began uncovering her husband’s double life, and how the legal and family court systems failed to protect her and her children. This conversation offers a powerful look at how predators hide in plain sight, how survivors are often DARVO’d when they speak up, and how children become collateral damage in abusive systems.What we coverLife with Dirty John before the world knew his nameHow predators identify and target “perfect prey”Early warning signs, red flags, and deception hidden in plain sightDARVO tactics and false accusations used to silence victimsSubstance abuse, professional abuse of power, and systemic failureFamily court, coercive control, and the weaponization of childrenProtective parenting, resilience, and healing after profound traumaWhy listen If you are a survivor, protective parent, clinician, attorney, or advocate, this episode offers critical insight into how coercive control operates long before abuse is publicly recognized. Tonia’s story underscores why survivors are not naïve or weak—and why systems must do better to protect those who speak up.Guest bio (short) Tonia Bales is a survivor of coercive control and the author of When You See It: How I Outsmarted and Outlasted Dirty John. Her story sheds light on the early patterns of abuse used by predators and the long-term impact of coercive control on victims and children. Through her writing and advocacy, Tonia works to educate the public and professionals about how abuse hides in plain sight—and why survivors must be believed.Book information When You See It: How I Outsmarted and Outlasted Dirty John Available for presale on Amazon and Barnes & Noble Release date: January 13Connect Tonia Bales:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/toniabales?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tonia.bales/Book Pre-order Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FCDDC6FL?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGnHUKUJZ66YW-ed61SGw-lrKgFG6dnBGrVNG3HKq8--EQOpUpk0p_RHBPIooU_aem_yzp5bcFQZ3qA-0ZB2cUsZQBook Pre-order Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/when-you-see-it-tonia-bales/1147557107?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGnsCgCEudPLDgxvCiAhmFYxcmlITQgdX8Kg9N5ItIrcW5Doxah2aRfQpDKwmU_aem_nHP_j-GiGb8xTQFMQqQo4gConnect with Dr. Christine:Protective Parenting Program: https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting.com/services/for-parents/Official site: https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting.com/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DrCocchiola-coercivecontrol/videosTiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.c_coercivecontrolIG: https://www.instagram.com/dr.cocchiola_coercivecontrol/TEDxTalks: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gp2qByKOue4&t=24sBooks: https://url-shortener.me/c/FramedBookhttps://url-shortener.me/c/EveryMomentOfEveryDayIf this episode landed for you, please share it with someone who needs to hear it, subscribe for more trauma-informed conversations, and consider leaving a review — it helps other survivors find validation and safety.— Dr. Christine Cocchiola & guest Tonia Bales
• The Unthinkable: A Child’s View of Coercive Control with David Challen 02.01.2026 39min

  In this episode of Perfect Prey, I’m joined by David Challen, author of The Unthinkable, who shares his experience growing up as a child inside a coercively controlling family system. David offers a rare and powerful perspective on coercive control through the eyes of a child—long before there was language to describe abuse, and long before systems were willing to see it.This conversation explores how coercive control creates an atmosphere of fear, vigilance, humiliation, and emotional captivity within families, even when there is no visible violence. David reflects on the early intuition that something was wrong, the “rot in the house” that others could not see, and how children normalize danger in order to survive. Together, we examine the intergenerational harm caused by coercive control and why children are not passive witnesses, but co-victims.What we coverWhat coercive control looks and feels like through the eyes of a childHow children sense danger, imbalance, and domination long before abuse is namedThe normalization of mockery, humiliation, fear, and emotional subservience within familiesWhy coercive control is not “hidden abuse,” but a trajectory of escalating harmHow long-term psychological domination strips autonomy, identity, and safety over timeThe concept of “systemic degradation” and how victims are worn down across years or decadesWhy victim retaliation is often misunderstood, mislabeled, and criminalizedThe long-term impact on adult child survivors and protective parentsWhy listen If you are a survivor, protective parent, adult child survivor, clinician, or legal professional, this episode offers critical insight into how coercive control operates inside families and why children are deeply affected—even when abuse is not outwardly visible. This conversation brings clarity to experiences that are often minimized, misunderstood, or dismissed, and highlights why coercive control must be recognized as the foundation of all abuse.Guest bio (short) David Challen is an author, speaker, and campaigner on domestic abuse and coercive control. He is the author of The Unthinkable, which tells the story of growing up in a coercively controlled household and the devastating impact of long-term psychological abuse on children and families. David is a prominent advocate for greater recognition of coercive control and has spoken widely about intergenerational harm, survivor justice, and systemic failure.Connect David Challen:Instagram: https://l1nq.com/davidinstagramTiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@davidchallen?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pcLearn more about David: https://www.eida.org.uk/davids-storyWebsite: https://l1nq.com/davidchallenwebsiteThe Unthinkable: https://www.hachette.co.uk/titles/david-challen/the-unthinkable/9781914240263/Connect with Dr. Christine:Protective Parenting Program: https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting.com/services/for-parents/Official site: https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting.com/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DrCocchiola-coercivecontrol/videosTiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.c_coercivecontrolIG: https://www.instagram.com/dr.cocchiola_coercivecontrol/TEDxTalks: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gp2qByKOue4&t=24sBooks: https://url-shortener.me/c/FramedBookhttps://url-shortener.me/c/EveryMomentOfEveryDayIf this episode landed for you, please share it with someone who needs to hear it, subscribe for more trauma-informed conversations, and consider leaving a review — it helps other survivors find validation and safety.— Dr. Christine Cocchiola & guest David Challen
• Coercive Control, Validation, and Power: How Aimee Says Supports Survivors with Anne Wintemute 19.12.2025 34min

  In this episode of Perfect Prey, I’m joined by Anne Wintemute, co-creator of Aimee Says, an innovative AI platform designed specifically to support victims and survivors of coercive control. Aimee Says helps survivors understand abusive communication patterns, validate their lived experiences, and assist with documentation—particularly in high-stakes situations such as custody and family court.We explore why victims and survivors are not harmed because of character flaws, but because abusers intentionally target people who are kind, empathic, agreeable, and giving. Anne explains how Aimee Says was built around expertise in coercive control, narcissistic abuse, domestic violence, and power-and-control dynamics—and why that specialization matters.What we coverWhat Aimee Says is and how it supports survivors of coercive controlWhy validation and being truly heard are foundational to healing and decision-makingHow Aimee helps identify gaslighting, financial abuse, intimidation, and coercive patternsUsing Aimee Says to support documentation, journaling, and preparation for legal processesKey differences between Aimee Says and general AI tools, including safety, trauma-informed guardrails, and survivor-centered designPrivacy, confidentiality, and safety considerations for survivors navigating digital toolsHow tools like Aimee Says can reduce isolation and help restore agency and clarityWhy listenIf you are a survivor, protective parent, clinician, attorney, or advocate, this episode offers a grounded, accessible explanation of how coercive control operates and why survivors so often feel confused, minimized, or silenced. You’ll also learn how thoughtfully designed tools can help survivors feel validated, supported, and better equipped to navigate complex systems.Guest bio (short)Anne Wintemute is the co-creator of Aimee Says, an AI-powered platform developed to support victims and survivors of coercive control through validation, pattern recognition, and trauma-informed guidance. Her work focuses on increasing access to expert-level support while prioritizing survivor safety, autonomy, and confidentiality.Learn more about Anne Wintemute and Aimee Says:Anne Wintemute on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anne-wintemute-897077106Canvas Rebel interview: https://canvasrebel.com/meet-anne-wintemute/Aimee Says – Our Story: https://www.aimeesays.com/storyConnect with Dr. Christine:Protective Parenting Program: https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting.com/services/for-parents/Official site: https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting.com/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DrCocchiola-coercivecontrol/videosTiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.c_coercivecontrolIG: https://www.instagram.com/dr.cocchiola_coercivecontrol/TEDxTalks: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gp2qByKOue4&t=24sBooks: https://url-shortener.me/c/FramedBookhttps://url-shortener.me/c/EveryMomentOfEveryDayIf this episode landed for you, please share it with someone who needs to hear it, subscribe for more trauma-informed conversations, and consider leaving a review — it helps other survivors find validation and safety.— Dr. Christine Cocchiola & guest Anne Wintemute
• Coercion, Cult dynamics & Survival with Sarma Melngailis 10.12.2025 48min

  In this episode of Perfect Prey, I speak with Sarma Melngailis, author of The Girl with the Duck Tattoo and the central figure in the documentary Bad Vegan. Sarma shares her lived experience of sustained psychological coercion, how it felt to be worn down and re-anchored in someone else’s reality, and what the recovery process looks like after a relationship that functioned much like a one-on-one cult.What we coverHow coercive control can operate like psychological warfare and the tactics that make it feel impossible to leave.Why intelligent, accomplished people can become victims: the slow wearing down, mirroring, and exploitation of hopes and vulnerabilities.The parallels between cult dynamics and one-on-one coercive relationships—why isolation and repeated micro-assaults change perception and decision-making.The aftermath: public shame, misrepresentation in media, and the ongoing work of reclaiming agency, safety, and reputation.Practical reflections for survivors and protective parents: how to notice red flags early, the power of sitting with your intuition, and how healing helps rebuild boundaries and clarity.Why listen Sarma’s story illustrates that coercive control is not about intelligence or credentials — it’s about a strategic, multifaceted assault on agency and reality. Whether you are a survivor, a caregiver, a clinician, or someone trying to understand how otherwise kind and competent people get trapped, this episode names the mechanisms, normalizes survivors’ reactions, and offers concrete ideas for protection and recovery.Guest bio (short) Sarma Melngailis is the author of The Girl with the Duck Tattoo and the subject of the documentary Bad Vegan. She writes and speaks about her experience of coercive control and its aftermath, helping others recognize the subtle, insidious tactics used by predatory partners.Connect with Sarma Melngailis:Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sarmamelngailisIG: https://www.instagram.com/sarmamelngailisLinktree: https://linktr.ee/sarmamelngailis?utm_source=linktree_profile_share&ltsid=5c0c0b7d-0fd4-4700-b1ff-86848db49061Books: https://l1nk.dev/Sarma-Melngailis-BooksConnect with Dr. Christine:Protective Parenting Program: https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting.com/services/for-parents/Official site: https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting.com/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DrCocchiola-coercivecontrol/videosTiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.c_coercivecontrolIG: https://www.instagram.com/dr.cocchiola_coercivecontrol/TEDxTalks: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gp2qByKOue4&t=24sBooks: https://url-shortener.me/c/FramedBookhttps://url-shortener.me/c/EveryMomentOfEveryDayIf this episode landed for you, please share it with someone who needs to hear it, subscribe for more trauma-informed conversations, and consider leaving a review — it helps other survivors find validation and safety.— Dr. Christine Cocchiola & guest Sarma Melngailis
• Coercive Control, Courts & “Perfect Prey” — with Dr. Ramani Durvasula 28.11.2025 40min

  In this episode of Perfect Prey I’m joined by my friend and colleague Dr. Ramani Durvasula, a clinical psychologist, author, professor, and internationally recognized expert on narcissistic abuse. We dig into why coercive control feels like imprisonment without bars, how systems (including family court) retraumatize survivors, and what survivors can do to protect themselves and their children. What we coverWhy coercive control is often invisible — and why the myth of “free will” makes it so hard for institutions to understand emotional abuse.How victim-blaming and the DARVO pattern (Deny, Attack, Reverse Victim & Offender) let abusers manipulate sympathy in court.The difference between milder narcissistic traits and the kind of malignant, coercive abuse that creates real danger and CPTSD-like responses.Practical, trauma-informed strategies for surviving family court: what to document, when to prioritize safety over “justice,” and how to protect your children while minimizing retraumatization.The “industrial divorce complex” — how systems and money can deepen harm, and what survivors can do strategically to preserve their safety and sense of self.Why listen If you’re a survivor, a clinician, a legal professional, or someone trying to understand a loved one’s experience, this conversation names the harms you may not see on the surface and gives clear, compassionate guidance for staying safe and getting validated. You’ll hear clinical insight paired with real-world, tactical advice about custody, court behavior, and how to build a safety-first plan.Guest bio (short) Dr. Ramani Durvasula, Ph.D., is a licensed clinical psychologist, author, and media expert who writes and speaks widely about narcissism, personality disorders, and relationship dynamics. She maintains a clinical practice and educational network focused on helping people heal from narcissistic relationships. Connect with Dr. Ramani:Official site: https://doctor-ramani.com/drn/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DoctorRamaniTiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@doctorramaniIG: https://www.instagram.com/doctorramani/Podcast: Navigating Narcissism with Dr. RamaniBooks: https://www.amazon.co.uk/stores/Ramani-Durvasula/author/B00C2C5U0O?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=trueConnect with Dr. Christine:Protective Parenting Program: https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting.com/services/for-parents/Official site: https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting.com/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DrCocchiola-coercivecontrol/videosTiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.c_coercivecontrolIG: https://www.instagram.com/dr.cocchiola_coercivecontrol/TEDxTalks: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gp2qByKOue4&t=24sBooks: https://url-shortener.me/c/FramedBookhttps://url-shortener.me/c/EveryMomentOfEveryDayIf this episode landed for you: share it with someone who needs to hear it, subscribe for more trauma-informed conversations, and leave a rating — it helps more survivors find validation and safety.— Dr. Christine Cocchiola & guest Dr. Ramani Durvasula
• Coercive Control and Narcissistic Abuse: How to Recognize Patterns and Reclaim Your Power with Dr. Jamie Zuckerman 21.10.2025 45min

  In this episode of Perfect Prey, I sit down with Dr. Jaime Zuckerman, a licensed clinical psychologist and national expert in narcissistic abuse, to uncover the hidden dynamics of coercive control and narcissistic relationships. Dr. Zuckerman shares her deep expertise from years of working with survivors, offering insight into the traits that make individuals vulnerable, the subtle and overt patterns of abuse, and the critical need for better clinician training to identify these behaviors.As the founder of The Z Group, host of the Next Up: Narcissism podcast, and author of two interactive workbooks—Find Your Calm and Find Good Habits—Dr. Zuckerman brings practical tools and real-world strategies for reclaiming your power, setting boundaries, and rebuilding your life. She also shares a sneak peek at her upcoming guided workbook designed to help survivors navigate narcissistic abuse in any type of relationship.Whether you’re a survivor, a clinician, or someone seeking to understand the insidious nature of coercive control, this episode provides clarity, guidance, and the support you need to recognize patterns and take back your power.Connect with Dr. Zuckerman:Workshops: https://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/workshopsIG: https://www.instagram.com/dr.z_psychologist/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DrJaimeZuckermanTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.z_psychologistNarcissistic Abuse Coaching: https://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/Therapy with The Z Group: https://www.zgrouptherapy.com/Podcast: Next Up: Narcissism https://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/podcastBooks: https://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/books
• Escaping the Narcissist: How to Identify, Survive, and Heal from Manipulative Abuse with Vanessa M. Reiser, LCSW, Therapist, Author, Narcissistic/Cult Abuse Expert 04.10.2025 34min

  In this episode of Perfect Prey, I sit down with Vanessa Reiser, LCSW, a renowned psychotherapist, speaker, and advocate who has dedicated her career to helping survivors of narcissistic abuse and coercive control reclaim their lives. Vanessa is the founder of Tell a Therapist, a nationwide telehealth platform, and the author of Narcissistic Abuse: A Therapist’s Guide, a groundbreaking resource that not only unpacks the devastating impact of narcissistic and cult abuse but also offers clinicians the training and tools they need to support survivors in the healing process.Together, we explore what coercive control looks like in real life. We talk about why certain people are more vulnerable to narcissistic abuse, the toll it takes on mental health, and how survivors can begin to recognize the patterns and break free.We also shine a light on the unique challenges survivors face in family court when narcissistic abuse is involved, and why therapist training in this area is so urgently needed. Vanessa’s book is an essential guide for professionals and survivors alike, offering not just insight but hope—that recovery is possible, and that healing from narcissistic abuse is about reclaiming your voice, your power, and your life.Connect with Vanessa:Narcissistic Abuse: A Therapist’s Guide: https://www.amazon.com/Narcissistic-Abuse-Therapists-Identifying-Manipulative/dp/0306833174Tell a Therapist: https://tellatherapist.net/Follow Vanessa on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vanessareiserlcsw/Resources Mentioned in this Podcast:🔸Follow Dr. Christine on IG: www.instagram.com/dr.cocchiola_coercivecontrol🔸Services for Professionals: https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting.com/services/for-professionals/🔸Private Coaching: https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting.com/private-coaching/🔸Free Guide: Clinical Implications for Children Who Are Coercively Controlled: https://drchristinemarie.kartra.com/page/childvictimofccgrowthguide
• Exposing the Reality of Family Courts with Dr. Bandy X Lee 20.09.2025 36min

  In this episode of Perfect Prey: A Podcast on Coercive Control, I am joined by Dr. Bandy X. Lee, a forensic psychiatrist and internationally recognized expert on violence. Together, we examine the alarming injustices occurring within family courts, where coercive control, child abuse, and even child trafficking are too often overlooked or minimized.Dr. Lee brings her extensive experience to highlight how judicial culture and systemic failures repeatedly fail to protect victims, leaving children and protective parents at risk. We also discuss the urgent need for reform and the strategies that could begin to shift these deeply entrenched systems.This is an important conversation for anyone concerned about child safety, coercive control, and the changes necessary to ensure our family courts serve the best interests of children.Tune in for insight, advocacy, and a call to action for systemic change.Connect with Dr. Bandy:Website: https://bandylee.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bandyxlee/?hl=enJoin Dr. Bandy on Substack: https://bandyxlee.substack.com/Resources Mentioned in this Podcast:🔸Follow Dr. Christine on IG: www.instagram.com/dr.cocchiola_coercivecontrol🔸Services for Parents: https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting.com/services/for-parents/🔸Services for Professionals: https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting.com/services/for-professionals/🔸Services for Victims of Abuse: https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting.com/services/for-individuals/🔸Private Coaching: https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting.com/private-coaching/🔸Free Guide: Clinical Implications for ChildrenWho Are Coercively Controlled: https://drchristinemarie.kartra.com/page/childvictimofccgrowthguide
• The Psychology of Coercive Control: Cognitive Dissonance and Trauma Bonds Explained 05.09.2025 32min

  In this episode of Perfect Prey: A Coercive Control Podcast, Dr. Christine Cocchiola sits down with Dr. Peter Salerno to take a deeper look at the hidden dynamics of coercive control and the psychological abuse that entraps partners and children in cycles of fear, confusion, and dependency.We explore the defining traits of coercive controllers, how they manipulate both adult and child victims, and why survivors often struggle with cognitive dissonance, a mental conflict that can keep them tethered to abusive relationships long after the harm is clear. Together, we discuss the traumatic impact of cognitive dissonance, how abusers condition children to adopt distorted beliefs, and what protective strategies parents can use to safeguard their children’s well-being.You’ll also hear about the crucial role of trauma-informed therapy, ways to respond intentionally to children’s conditioned behaviors, and how survivors can begin to break free from the psychological grip of coercive control.This conversation sheds light on the complex psychological dynamics of abuse and offers practical steps for supporting both adults and children who have been targeted by coercive controllers.If you’ve ever felt trapped in a relationship that left you doubting your own reality, or if you’re working to protect children from ongoing manipulation, this episode will give you clarity, tools, and hope for the path forward.Connect with Dr. Peter Salerno:Website: https://www.drpetersalerno.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drpetersalerno/Book a Consultation: https://www.drpetersalerno.com/new-page-1Book: https://www.drpetersalerno.com/new-pageResources Mentioned in this Podcast:🔸Follow Dr. Christine on IG: www.instagram.com/dr.cocchiola_coercivecontrol🔸Services for Parents: https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting.com/services/for-parents/🔸Services for Professionals: https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting.com/services/for-professionals/🔸Services for Victims of Abuse: https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting.com/services/for-individuals/🔸Private Coaching: https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting.com/private-coaching/🔸Free Guide: Clinical Implications for ChildrenWho Are Coercively Controlled: https://drchristinemarie.kartra.com/page/childvictimofccgrowthguide
• Unveiling Jennifer Dulos' Tragic Tale: Insights from Rich Cohen on Coercive Control 23.08.2025 56min

  In this episode of Perfect Prey Podcast, I sit down with journalist and author Rich Cohen to discuss his book, Murder in the Dollhouse, which explores the tragic case of Jennifer Dulos, a mother from New Canaan, Connecticut, murdered by her husband, Fotis Dulos. Together, we examine the role of coercive control in intimate partner violence, the systemic failures that too often leave victims unprotected, and the broader implications for Jennifers' Law in Connecticut.Rich Cohen is a bestselling author and award-winning journalist whose work has appeared in The New York Times, Vanity Fair, The Atlantic, and Rolling Stone. His keen ability to uncover the human story behind complex events has shaped his career as both a storyteller and social commentator, bringing clarity and depth to difficult conversations.Rich shares powerful insights into the patterns of abuse, the hidden nature of coercion, and why it is essential for all of us to recognize the warning signs. Connect with Rich:Buy the book: https://www.amazon.com/Murder-Dollhouse-Jennifer-Dulos-Story/dp/0374608067Follow Rich on Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/author.richcohen/?hl=enhttps://www.facebook.com/rich.cohen1https://www.linkedin.com/in/rich-cohen-4736816/https://x.com/richcohen2003?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5EauthorResources To Support this Podcast:🔸Follow Dr. Christine on IG: www.instagram.com/dr.cocchiola_coercivecontrol🔸Services for Parents: https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting.com/services/for-parents/🔸Services for Professionals: https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting.com/services/for-professionals/🔸Services for Victims of Abuse: https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting.com/services/for-individuals/🔸Private Coaching: https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting.com/private-coaching/🔸Free Guide: Clinical Implications for ChildrenWho Are Coercively Controlled: https://drchristinemarie.kartra.com/page/childvictimofccgrowthguide