The Mend Project: Unmasking Emotional Abuse in Relationships
Emotional abuse is the root foundation of domestic violence.
Have you ever opened up about the abuse in your marriage, only to be met with blank stares or dismissive comments? This episode of Mad.In.Love tackles that exact frustration. Dr. David Hawkins sits down with Annette Oltmans, the Founder and CEO of The Mend Project, to shed light on the often-overlooked issue of emotional abuse in relationships.
Annette shares her harrowing personal journey through long-term emotional abuse and the concept of Double Abuse®, where victims are not only hurt by their abusers but also by those who should be helping them—like counselors, pastors, and even friends who dismiss their experiences. This episode is a deep dive into the reality many face but rarely talk about openly.
Annette explains how her own painful experiences led her to create The Mend Project in 2016, a program now used by therapists, churches, and organizations across the U.S. to better support victims of emotional abuse. Dr. Hawkins and Annette discuss the importance of setting boundaries, understanding the mindset of the abuser, and why professional training is crucial for those who respond to these crises.
If you've ever felt unheard or invalidated when seeking help for emotional abuse, this conversation will resonate deeply. Annette's practical advice and Dr. Hawkins' empathetic approach offer a lifeline to anyone struggling in a toxic relationship. Tune in for an eye-opening discussion that aims to bring health and healing to relationships.