With Maureen Curtis, Vice President of Criminal Justice & Court Programs at Safe Horizon - America’s largest domestic violence agency

In this episode, Jaél sits down with Maureen Curtis - who helped train the NYPD on responding to domestic violence calls - to unravel the subtle dynamics of psychological and covert abuse, including gaslighting, manipulation, and coercive control. Together, they explore why naming these patterns is a powerful first step in helping survivors regain clarity, agency, and a sense of truth.

Jaél also reflects on her own experience of being wrongfully arrested when she called for help, shedding light on how gaps in training, awareness, and trauma-informed response can retraumatize victims. Through their conversation, they highlight the urgent need for survivor-centered approaches and systemic change.

This episode offers clear insight into the often unseen dynamics of psychological abuse, and the quiet strength that comes from naming them.