How to Spot Covert Abuse & Manipulation

This presentation was part of the 5th Annual MN Mobile Mental Health Crisis Response Summit.

Brief Description:

Covert abusers are skilled at controlling situations and victims in ways that frequently fly under the radar. Unfortunately, when covert abuse is missed, crisis interventions can be ineffective at best, and typically result in worsening behaviors as the abusers feel they can abuse without consequence. Learn the signs, behaviors, physical indicators, and language covert abusers will frequently use to manipulate their victims, situations, and helping professionals. By learning their playbook, professionals can more effectively intervene, provide validation to victims, and hold abusers accountable.

Three Learning Objectives:

1. Participants will be able to identify 3 physical markers common to covert narcissists
2. Participants will be able to identify 3-5 behaviors covert abusers use to control crisis situations
3. Participants will be able to identify 3 indicators that a person is being covertly abused or manipulated

Presenter Bios:

Heather Boorman-Morris, LICSW is the founding director of Boorman Counseling in Western Wisconsin. She specializes as a trauma therapist and is an internationally recognized provider, speaker, and advocate for neurodiverse children and adults. Heather is the author of A Thousand Paper Cuts: A Therapist, Her Narcissist, His Trap, and co-hosts the Starting Stronger podcast about narcissistic abuse recovery.

Antwan Morris lived the stereotypical lifestyle of a young black male growing up in the inner city. He currently speaks publicly to help today’s youth heal from their traumas and help others identify narcissists in their lives. Antwan co-hosts the Starting Stronger podcast.