Intimate Partner Violence: A Clinical Guide to Affirming, Trauma-Informed Support with Catrina Drinning-Davis, LPC-S, CCTP
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Episode Summary: In this episode of The Affirming Minds Podcast, host Shaina Siber is joined by EMDR-certified trauma therapist Catrina Drinning-Davis, LPC-S to explore clinical considerations when working with individuals impacted by intimate partner violence (IPV). This episode blends therapeutic insights with trauma-informed strategies to support clinicians in providing compassionate, affirming care to survivors of IPV.
Trigger Warning:
This episode includes discussions of domestic violence, strangulation, homicide risk, and structural oppression. Please listen with care.
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Topics Covered:
- How IPV may present in therapy
- Safety planning tools that support harm reduction—whether or not a client is ready to leave
- High-risk indicators such as strangulation, stalking, and firearm access
- Why clinicians shouldn’t wait for clients to label abuse before taking steps to enhance safety
- How systemic and structural forces like poverty, racism, patriarchy, and immigration status affect survivors’ access to support
- The importance of client autonomy and why some common interventions may unintentionally replicate control
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About Our Guest:
Catrina Drinning-Davis, LPC-S is a licensed professional counselor and supervisor based in Texas, with authorization to work with clients in Arizona, Florida, South Carolina, and Virginia. She is an EMDR-certified therapist specializing in supporting survivors of domestic and relationship abuse. Her work centers empowerment, autonomy, and reconnection with inner strength.
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Conflict of Interest Disclosure: The host, Shaina Siber-Sanderowitz, LCSW, is the Founder of Affirm Mental Health, an accredited CE provider. She receives financial compensation from Affirm Mental Health for the development and delivery of continuing education content. There are no other conflicts of interest to disclose.
Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for clinical training or treatment. If you or someone you know needs mental health support, please reach out to a licensed professional.
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