Course 01A - Understanding Domestic Violence - Relationship Online Academy

About Course

Hello and welcome to Course 1a Understanding Domestic Violence. I created this self-paced online course for individuals who want to understand domestic and family violence, recognise unhealthy relationship patterns, rebuild their confidence, and make informed decisions about their future.

The course is educational, trauma-informed, practical, and empowering. It focuses on awareness, understanding, and recovery rather than judgment.

I was empowered by my own journey surviving horrific domestic violence to help others. It took me decades before I could even speak about my journey. This course is not about placing blame or judging, it is about empowering you with knowledge that you are worthy of living in a healthy relationship.

Please note this was a difficult course to create due to my knowledge that all individuals have a past, react differently, are emotional beings and what works for one family; may not work for all families. Your family is special to you, different from any other. My intention is that you take from the course the information and tools that work for you and please know there is no right or wrong answers.

Work through this course at your own time, in safety and at your own pace. There is no time limit to when you finish the course, this is totally up to you.

Before we begin, may I suggest prior to commencing each module you find a quiet place where you will not be interrupted? If you have children around maybe wait until they go to bed or are at school or at a friend/family’s place. This is very important for each module, so you can really concentrate with a clear uninterrupted mind. Read each question and answer honestly from your heart. It is most important to be raw and honest with yourself, for this process to work! Take your time. Unfortunately, depending on your situation some memories that arise, may be daunting. Allow yourself the time and emotional support to detach!

Remember we are all human and we all make mistakes, the way to correct a mistake is firstly acknowledge, then take the steps to correct. If you feel you need additional help, please do not hesitate to contact a counsellor or email me on mel@relationshiponlineacademy.com I will attempt to respond as soon as possible.

If you are in danger phone your local police immediately.

And if you have purchased the course to learn more for a friend, I am inspired by you, thank you so much for caring.

I believe we all deserve to live in healthy, happy relationships.

Mel

Course Content

Module 1 – Understanding Domestic Violence: It’s More Than Physical Abuse
"Domestic violence is not defined by bruises. It is defined by patterns of power, control, fear, and the gradual loss of freedom." - Mel Welcome to the first module of Understanding Domestic Violence. Whether you are completing this course for yourself, to support someone you love, or to gain a deeper understanding of domestic and family violence, I want to acknowledge your courage. For many people, domestic violence is still invisible. It hides behind closed doors, behind smiles, successful careers, family photographs and social media posts. It often begins with what appears to be love, attention and devotion before slowly evolving into manipulation, control and fear. As a survivor, I know that domestic violence is far more complex than physical violence. It affects confidence, identity, emotional wellbeing, finances, parenting, friendships and every aspect of a person's life. This course is designed to educate, empower and encourage healing through knowledge, reflection and practical strategies. Remember throughout this course: You are not defined by what happened or is happening to you. You are defined by the strength you show in showing up and wanting to learn more to move forward.

Module 1: Learning Outcomes
Module 1: Lesson 1 – What is Domestic Violence?
Module 1: Lesson 2 – Understanding Power and Control
Module 1: Lesson 3 – Domestic Violence Is More Than Physical Abuse
Module 1: Information on Psychological Abuse
Module 1: Information on Verbal Abuse
Module 1: Information on Physical Abuse
Module 1: Information on Social Abuse
Module 1: Information on Financial Abuse
Module 1: Information on Property Damage
Module 1: Information on Technological Abuse
Module 1: Information on Stalking
Module 1: Information on Sexual Abuse
Can you relate to any types of violence or abuse?
Module 1: Self Reflection -How are you feeling?
Module 1: Lesson 4 – The Cycle of Abuse
Module 1: Lesson 5 – Why Abuse Is Often Hidden
Module 1: Homework
Module 1 Activity 1 Relationship Reality Quiz
Module 1: Activity 2 Myth v Fact exercise – Did you know?
Module 1: Activity 3 – Personal Reflection exercise
Module 1: Activity 4 Warning Signs Checklist
Module 1: Activity 5 Weekly Challenges
Module 1: Understanding Abuse Workbook
Module 1 Summary
Important links
Disclaimer

Module 2 – Recognizing the Red Flags
"Abusive relationships rarely begin with fear. They often begin with attention, affection, promises and the illusion of perfect love. Learning to recognize the early warning signs can change the course of a person's life." Welcome to Module 2 One of the most common questions asked by survivors is: "Why didn't I see the signs?" The answer is simple. Most abusive relationships do not begin with obvious abuse. They begin with charm, excitement, intense affection and promises of a wonderful future. The unhealthy behaviours are introduced slowly, making them easier to excuse or misunderstand. This module will help you recognise early warning signs, understand coercive control and identify behaviours that create fear rather than connection. The goal is not to create fear of relationships but to build confidence in recognizing the difference between healthy love and unhealthy control.

Module 2: Learning Outcomes
Module 2: Lesson1 What are Red Flags?
Module 2: Lesson 2 – Love Bombing
Module 2: Lesson 3 – Isolation
Module 2: Lesson 4 – Jealousy Disguised as Love
Module 2: Lesson 5 – Manipulation
Module 2: Lesson 6 – Understanding Coercive Control
Module 2: Homework
Module 2: Activity 1 Red Flag Checklist
Module 2: Activity 2 Timeline of my Relationship
Module 2: Activity 3 Healthy vs Unhealthy Behaviour
Module 2: Activity 4 Reflection Journal
Module 2: Activity 5 Weekly Challenge
Forms of Abuse – Quiz (copy)
Module 2: Understanding Red Flags and Green Flags Workbook
Module 2: Summary
Important links
Disclaimer

Module 3 – The Hidden Forms of Abuse
"Not all abuse leaves bruises. Some wounds are invisible, created by words, fear, manipulation and control that slowly erode confidence, identity and hope." Welcome By now you have explored what domestic and family violence is and learned to recognise many of the early warning signs. This module goes deeper into the forms of abuse that are often hidden from family, friends and even the person experiencing them, maybe you. Many survivors say: "I knew something was wrong, but I couldn't explain it." That uncertainty is not uncommon. Abuse often develops gradually, becoming part of everyday life until behaviours that once felt shocking begin to feel normal. Understanding these hidden forms of abuse is one of the most empowering steps towards recognising unhealthy patterns, reclaiming your voice and rebuilding your confidence.

Module 3: Learning Outcomes
Module 3: The Hidden Forms of Abuse – Lesson 1 Emotional abuse
Module 3: The Hidden Forms of Abuse – Lesson 2 Gaslighting
Module 3: The Hidden Forms of Abuse Lesson 3 Financial Control
Module 3: The Hidden Forms of Abuse Lesson 4 Social Isolation
Module 3: The Hidden Forms of Abuse – Lesson 5 Technology Abuse
Module 3: The Hidden Forms of Abuse Lesson 6 – Understanding Coercive Control
Module 3: Homework
Module 3: Activity 1 Abuse Awareness Assessment
Module 3: Activity 2 Control Behaviour Tracker
Module 3: Activity 3 Self Reflection Journal
Module 3: Activity 4 Weekly Journal
Module 3: Coercive Control Workbook
Module 3: Summary
Important links
Disclaimer

Module 4 – Why People Stay, Understanding trauma bonds, fear, hope and survival
"One of the greatest misunderstandings about domestic violence is believing that leaving is simple. The reality is that people stay for complex emotional, practical, psychological and survival-based reasons." - Mel Welcome Many survivors carry deep shame about staying in unhealthy or abusive relationships. I know I did, I share a little more detail in “Course 1B From Surviving to Thriving” a more personal experience. Friends, family and even professionals may ask: "Why didn't you just leave?" The truth is that leaving is rarely a simple decision. Most people stay because they are navigating a complex combination of love, hope, fear, financial concerns, family responsibilities, trauma bonds and survival responses. This module is designed to replace self-blame with understanding. By exploring the psychology behind trauma bonds and the practical realities many people face, you will gain greater compassion for yourself and others. Remember: Survival is not weakness. It is a natural human response to difficult circumstances.

Module 4: Learning Outcomes
Module 4: Lesson 1 Understanding Trauma Bonds
Module 4: Lesson 2 Fear as a Survival Response
Module 4: Lesson 3 Children and Family Pressures
Module 4: Lesson 4 Financial Concerns
Module 4: Lesson 5 Shame and Guilt
Module 4: Lesson 6 Hope for Change
Module 4 : Homework
Module 4: Activity 1 My Reasons Exercise
Module 4: Activity 2 Personal Values Reflection
Module 4: Activity 3 Weekly Challenge
Module 4: Decision Reflection Workbook
WOW how do you feel?
Meditation – Shedding Unnecessary Baggage
Module 4: Key Takeaways
Module 4: Summary
Disclaimer

Module 5 – Rebuilding Self-Worth Rediscovering Your Confidence, Identity & Inner Strength
"Abuse doesn't just hurt your heart. It can slowly change the way you see yourself. Healing begins when you remember who you were before the criticism, the control and the self-doubt." - Mel Welcome One of the greatest losses many survivors experience is not the relationship itself. It is the loss of confidence, identity and self-belief. Over time, emotional abuse, criticism, gaslighting and coercive control can make a person question their worth, abilities and judgment. Many survivors describe feeling: • Lost • Confused • Broken • Not good enough • Unlovable • Invisible The truth is that abuse can damage self-esteem, but it cannot erase your value. This module is about reconnecting with who you are, rebuilding confidence and learning to treat yourself with the same compassion you would offer someone you love.

Module 5: Learning Outcomes
Module 5: Lesson 1 – How abuse impacts Self-worth
Module 5: Lesson 2 Understanding Self-Esteem
Module 5: Lesson 3 Challenging Negative Beliefs
Module 5: Lesson 4 Rediscovering Your Strengths
Module 5: Lesson 5 Identity After Abuse
Module 5: Lesson 6 Developing Self-Compassion
Module 5: Homework
Module 5: Activity 1 Strengths Inventory
Module 5: Activity 2 Self Belief Challenge
Module 5: Activity 3 Daily Affirmations
Module 5: Activity 4 Weekly Challenge
Module 5: Understanding Self-worth Workbook
Module 5: Key Takeaways
Module 5: Summary
Disclaimer

Module 6 -Boundaries and Healthy Relationships Protecting Your Peace, Respecting Yourself & Building Healthier Connections
Welcome Many people who have experienced unhealthy relationships struggle with boundaries. They may have been taught that setting limits is selfish, that saying "no" is rude, or that keeping others happy is more important than protecting themselves. The truth is that healthy boundaries are essential for healthy relationships. Boundaries help us: • Feel safe • Maintain self-respect • Communicate our needs • Protect our emotional wellbeing • Build mutual trust and respect Healthy relationships are not built on control, fear or obligation. They are built on communication, respect, equality and choice. In this module, you will learn how to identify your boundaries, communicate them confidently and recognise relationships that honour them. "Boundaries are not walls that keep people out. They are guidelines that teach others how to treat us while protecting our wellbeing." – Mel

Module 6: Learning Outcomes
Module 6: Lesson 1 What are Boundaries?
Module 6: Lesson 2 Physical Boundaries
Module 6: Lesson 3 Emotional Boundaries
Module 6: Lesson 4 Communication Boundaries
Module 6: Lesson 5 Mutual Respect
Module 6: Lesson 6 Assertive Communication
Module 6: Homework
Module 6: Activity 1 Boundary Mapping Exercise
Module 6: Activity 2 Boundary Scripts
Module 6: Activity 3 Weekly Challenge
Module 6: Healthy Boundaries Planner Workbook
Module 6: Key Takeaways
Module 6: Summary
Disclaimer

Module 7 – Safety, Support and Planning Creating Safety, Building Support and Preparing for the Future
Welcome One of the greatest impacts of domestic violence and coercive control is the loss of safety. Many survivors describe feeling constantly alert, anxious or uncertain about what might happen next. Safety is not only physical. It includes emotional safety, financial security, digital privacy and access to trusted support. Safety planning is not about making immediate decisions. It is about increasing awareness, preparing for different situations and creating options that support your wellbeing. This module will help you identify support networks, strengthen personal safety and develop a practical plan that reflects your individual circumstances. Remember: You do not need to have all the answers today. One small step towards safety is still progress.

Module 7: Learning Outcomes
Module 7: Lesson 1 Understanding Safety Planning
Module 7: Lesson 2 Emotional Safety
Module 7: Lesson 3 Financial Preparation
Module 7: Lesson 4 Digital Safety
Module 7: Lesson 5 Community Supports
Module 7: Homework
Module 7: Activity 1 Support Network Map
Module 7: Activity 2 Personal Safety Planning Template
Module 7: Activity 3 Weekly Challenge
Module 7: Safety Planning Workbook
Module 7: Key Takeways
Module 7: Summary
Disclaimer

Module 8 – Healing After Abuse Understanding Recovery, Rebuilding Resilience & Creating Hope
Welcome Healing after abuse is not a straight line. Some days may feel empowering and hopeful. Other days may feel overwhelming, emotional or confusing. This is a normal part of recovery. Many survivors experience grief, sadness, anger, relief, hope and uncertainty—sometimes all at the same time. Healing is not about becoming the person you were before the abuse. It is about becoming the person you choose to be moving forward. This module will help you understand the healing process, develop emotional resilience and reconnect with your future goals and dreams. Remember: Healing is not measured by how quickly you move forward, but by your willingness to keep taking small steps.

Module 8: Learning Outcomes
Module 8: Lesson 1 Understanding Grief and Loss
Module 8: Lesson 2 Understanding Recovery
Module 8: Lesson 3 Emotional Regulation
Module 8: Lesson 4 Building Resilience
Module 8: Lesson 5 Reconnecting With Hope
Module 8: Lesson 6 Creating New Goals
Module 8: Homework
Module 8: Activity 1 Healing Timeline
Module 8: Activity 2 Gratitude Practice
Module 8: Activity 3 Future Self Letter
Module 8: Activity 4 Weekly Challenge
Module 8: Healing Journal Workbook
Module 8: Key Takeaways
Module 8: Summary
Disclaimer

Module 9 – Creating Healthy Future Relationships Building Trust, Recognising Healthy Love & Dating With Confidence
Welcome After experiencing abuse, many survivors feel uncertain about future relationships. Some fear being hurt again. Others struggle to trust their instincts or question whether healthy relationships truly exist. These feelings are completely understandable. Healing often includes learning how to recognise healthy relationship qualities, rebuild trust in yourself and develop confidence in your ability to make healthy choices. The goal is not to rush into another relationship. The goal is to understand what healthy love looks like and feel empowered to choose relationships that align with your learned values, needs and wellbeing. Remember: The most important relationship you will ever have is the relationship you have with yourself. Healthy relationships begin there. - Mel

Module 9: Learning Outcomes
Module 9: Lesson 1 – What does Healthy Love look like?
Module 9: Lesson 2 – Recognising Green Flags
Module 9: Lesson 3 – Rebuilding Trust
Module 9: Lesson 4 – Healthy Communication
Module 9: Lesson 5 – Shared Values
Module 9: Lesson 6 – Dating With Confidence
Module 9: Homework
Module 9: Activity 1 Healthy Relationship Checklist
Module 9: Activity 2 Future Relationship Vision
Module 9: Activity 3 Weekly Challenge
Module 9: Healthy Love Blueprint Workbook
Module 9: Key Takeaways
Module 9 Summary
Disclaimer

Module 10 – From Survivor to Thriver Celebrating Your Growth, Embracing Your Strength & Creating Your Future
Welcome Congratulations. You have reached the final module of this course. Throughout this journey, you have explored the realities of domestic violence, recognised unhealthy relationship patterns, rebuilt your self-worth, strengthened boundaries, developed safety plans, embraced healing and begun creating a vision for healthier relationships and a brighter future. If you are someone, a family or friend or a support person who wanted to educate yourself to be able to help someone in need who maybe living in domestic violence. You have learned some tools to help. Being prepared for when you are needed is so important, understanding it isn’t your place to guide with patience and no judgement. Take a moment to acknowledge how far you have come. Healing is not measured by perfection. Healing is measured by awareness, growth, resilience and the willingness to continue moving forward. This final module is about celebrating your progress, consolidating your learning and creating a personal roadmap for the future. Remember: You may have started this course as a survivor, but your future is not defined by survival alone. It is defined by growth, purpose and possibility.

Module 10: Learning Outcomes
Module 10: Lesson 1 – Looking Back: Acknowledging Your Journey
Module 10: Lesson 2 – Maintaining Healthy Boundaries
Module 10: Lesson 3 – Continuing the Healing Journey
Module 10: Lesson 4 – Building a Meaningful Future
Module 10: Lesson 5 – Personal Empowerment
Module 10: Homework
Module 10: Activity 1 My Empowerment Statement
Module 10: Activity 2 Personal Growth Plan
Module 10: Activity 3 Celebration Reflection
Module 10: Activity 4 Weekly Challenge
Module 10: Activity 5 Final Reflection
Module 10: From Survivor to Thriver Workbook 10A “The Survivor to Thriver Blueprint”
Module 10: From Survivor to Thriver Workbook 10B “90-Day Personal Growth Planner”
Module 10: From Survivor to Thriver Workbook 10C “Annual Reflection Workbook”
Module 10: Key Takeaways
Course 1A – Understanding Domestic Violence Summary
Disclaimer

Congratulations on Completing Course 1A Understanding Domestic Violence
Congratulations on completing - Course 1A – Understanding Domestic Violence Graduation Message This achievement represents more than completing a course. It represents courage. It represents growth. It represents hope. Most importantly, it represents a commitment to yourself and your future. As a support person (by completing this course if you are not living in Domestic Violence, you have gained skills to understand someone who is and be able to be there for them). Remember: You are not broken. You are rebuilding. You are not powerless. You are becoming empowered. You are not defined by your past. You are creating your future. Congratulations on completing Course 1a: Understanding Domestic Violence 🌟 Course Completion Quote "Surviving was the beginning of your story. Thriving is the chapter you are writing now." – Mel 💜 Check out Course 1B - From Surviving to Thriving - a more personal experience.

About Course

What Will You Learn?

Course Content

Module 1: Learning Outcomes

Module 1: Lesson 1 – What is Domestic Violence?

Module 1: Lesson 2 – Understanding Power and Control

Module 1: Lesson 3 – Domestic Violence Is More Than Physical Abuse

Module 1: Information on Psychological Abuse

Module 1: Information on Verbal Abuse

Module 1: Information on Physical Abuse

Module 1: Information on Social Abuse

Module 1: Information on Financial Abuse

Module 1: Information on Property Damage

Module 1: Information on Technological Abuse

Module 1: Information on Stalking

Module 1: Information on Sexual Abuse

Can you relate to any types of violence or abuse?

Module 1: Self Reflection -How are you feeling?

Module 1: Lesson 4 – The Cycle of Abuse

Module 1: Lesson 5 – Why Abuse Is Often Hidden

Module 1: Homework

Module 1 Activity 1 Relationship Reality Quiz

Module 1: Activity 2 Myth v Fact exercise – Did you know?

Module 1: Activity 3 – Personal Reflection exercise

Module 1: Activity 4 Warning Signs Checklist

Module 1: Activity 5 Weekly Challenges

Module 1: Understanding Abuse Workbook

Module 1 Summary

Important links

Disclaimer

Module 2: Learning Outcomes

Module 2: Lesson1 What are Red Flags?

Module 2: Lesson 2 – Love Bombing

Module 2: Lesson 3 – Isolation

Module 2: Lesson 4 – Jealousy Disguised as Love

Module 2: Lesson 5 – Manipulation

Module 2: Lesson 6 – Understanding Coercive Control

Module 2: Homework

Module 2: Activity 1 Red Flag Checklist

Module 2: Activity 2 Timeline of my Relationship

Module 2: Activity 3 Healthy vs Unhealthy Behaviour

Module 2: Activity 4 Reflection Journal

Module 2: Activity 5 Weekly Challenge

Forms of Abuse – Quiz (copy)

Module 2: Understanding Red Flags and Green Flags Workbook

Module 2: Summary

Important links

Disclaimer

Module 3: Learning Outcomes

Module 3: The Hidden Forms of Abuse – Lesson 1 Emotional abuse

Module 3: The Hidden Forms of Abuse – Lesson 2 Gaslighting

Module 3: The Hidden Forms of Abuse Lesson 3 Financial Control

Module 3: The Hidden Forms of Abuse Lesson 4 Social Isolation

Module 3: The Hidden Forms of Abuse – Lesson 5 Technology Abuse

Module 3: The Hidden Forms of Abuse Lesson 6 – Understanding Coercive Control

Module 3: Homework

Module 3: Activity 1 Abuse Awareness Assessment

Module 3: Activity 2 Control Behaviour Tracker

Module 3: Activity 3 Self Reflection Journal

Module 3: Activity 4 Weekly Journal

Module 3: Coercive Control Workbook

Module 3: Summary

Important links

Disclaimer

Module 4: Learning Outcomes

Module 4: Lesson 1 Understanding Trauma Bonds

Module 4: Lesson 2 Fear as a Survival Response

Module 4: Lesson 3 Children and Family Pressures

Module 4: Lesson 4 Financial Concerns

Module 4: Lesson 5 Shame and Guilt

Module 4: Lesson 6 Hope for Change

Module 4 : Homework

Module 4: Activity 1 My Reasons Exercise

Module 4: Activity 2 Personal Values Reflection

Module 4: Activity 3 Weekly Challenge

Module 4: Decision Reflection Workbook

WOW how do you feel?

Meditation – Shedding Unnecessary Baggage

Module 4: Key Takeaways

Module 4: Summary