S2 Ep 2 - Client experiences and challenges when dealing with family violence, Rebecca's lived experiences as a victim survivor and as an Applicant.

In this powerful episode of You Do Not Have to Put Up With It, Miss Carmella from DFVLawyers speaks with “Rebecca,” a family violence survivor who shares her lived experience of coercive control, emotional abuse, financial dependence, isolation and rebuilding life after separation.

Rebecca describes how she went from being independent, confident and professionally capable to feeling isolated, anxious and trapped inside a relationship where her movements, money, friendships and choices were increasingly controlled. Although there was no physical violence, she explains how the emotional and psychological abuse left deep scars, especially when threats involving her children were used as leverage.

The conversation explores the often-invisible nature of domestic and family violence, including financial control, intimidation, silent treatment, withdrawal of affection, monitoring, social isolation and the way survivors can doubt their own reality when the abuse is not physical.

Rebecca also speaks about navigating police, court, and support systems; the fear of seeking help; the challenge of starting again, financially and emotionally; and the importance of finding the right support. Her story is a reminder that family violence is not defined only by bruises or physical assault. Coercive control can be just as damaging, and recognising the warning signs early can be life-changing.

For anyone who feels trapped, isolated, afraid or unsure whether what they are experiencing “counts” as family violence, Rebecca’s message is clear: trust your instincts, speak to someone outside the situation, and know that you do not have to put up with it.