Sarah M. Fitzsimmons, LCPC, NCC
Coercive Control and Abuse Dynamics
Bringing specialized knowledge, informed perspectives and a clearer understanding of the dynamics and impact of coercive control.
Sarah Fitzsimmons, LCPC, NCC
I have over 25 years of experience working with children, families and couples. Through many years of clinical practice, I developed a focused interest in coercive control and the complex patterns that characterize these relationships. My work now includes helping individuals and professionals recognize these dynamics, understand their psychological impact, and make sense of behavior that can otherwise be difficult to identify or explain.
01 How I Can Help
Understanding Coercive Control
Clarifying Complex Dynamics
Providing Informed Consultation
Coercive control is often difficult to recognize because it is not defined by a single incident. It is a pattern of behavior used to establish power, control and psychological domination over another person.
My work focuses on helping professionals and others understand these patterns and ways they can affect individuals and families.
Through consultation, education, case analysis and expert witness services, I provide and informed perspective on coercive control and psychological abuse.
I provide consultation regarding the dynamics of coercive control and abuse, including identification and understanding of patterns that may not be immediately apparent.
Consultation may assist professionals in:
- Understanding coercive control and the patterns rather than a series of isolated incidents
- Identifying behavioral patterns associated with domination, intimidation and control
- Understanding the impact of coercive control on an individual's behavior, decision making and functioning
- Placing individual incidents within the context of a larger pattern
- Considering how coercive control dynamics may present differently across cases.
Record Review
A comprehensive understanding of coercive control often requires looking beyond a single allegation.
I review relevant records and collateral information to assist with understanding patterns of behavior and family dynamics using available information.
Coercive Control Consultation
Education and consultation regarding the nature, presentation and potential impact of coercive control, including post-separation dynamics. Consultation may include consideration of the history and the pattern of behavior and the ways in which coercive dynamics may affect relationships and family functioning.
Expert Witness Services
Specialized consultation, written opinions, and testimony when appropriate and within the scope of my professional qualifications and expertise.
Professional Education
Training and consultation for attorneys and other professionals seeking to better understand domestics violence and coercive control. Topics may include:
- Understanding coercive control and patterns of domination
- Post-separation coercive control
- Distinguishing coercive control from high-conflict relationships
- The impact of domestic violence and coercive control on children
- Psychological and behavioral dynamics with abusive relationships
- Understanding patterns that may be overlooked when incidents are considered individually
** I do not provide psychotherapy or treatment to parties involved in a legal matter as part of my consulting or expert witness role.
My work is focused on professional consultation, education, and the objective application of my knowledge and experience. **