Is This Really Love? Recognizing When You’re in a Coercive, Controlling, and Emotionally Abusive Relationship—and How to Break Free
A Powerful Book for Emotional Abuse Survivors
Why This Book is Essential for Overcoming Emotional Abuse
Is your relationship leaving you feeling confused, anxious, or drained?
Do you find yourself constantly questioning whether your partner’s behavior is normal—or whether you’re overreacting?
If so, you’re not alone.
Emotional abuse is one of the most insidious forms of abuse. Unlike physical abuse, which leaves visible scars, coercive control and emotional manipulation can be subtle, making it difficult to recognize until the damage is already done. Many people in emotionally abusive relationships don’t even realize they’re experiencing abuse until they feel completely trapped—psychologically, financially, or even physically.
That’s why I wrote Is This Really Love? As a licensed therapist and relationship coach specializing in attachment trauma and emotionally abusive relationships, I’ve worked with countless individuals who felt stuck in toxic, controlling dynamics. They often asked the same painful questions:
“Is this how love is supposed to feel?”
“Is this abusive?”
“Will they ever change?”
This book is designed to provide the clarity and validation you need. Whether you’re questioning your relationship, preparing to leave, or working to heal after emotional abuse, this book will be your non-judgmental companion to walk you through each stage with compassion and expert insight.
You deserve a love that feels safe, supportive, and empowering. If you’ve ever wondered, Is this really love?—this book will help you find the answer and, most importantly, the path to self-empowerment.
What You’ll Learn from this book about emotional abuse
Recognizing the Signs: Understand what makes a relationship healthy versus unhealthy and some of the red flags or signs that may indicate abuse.
Breaking Free: How to safely navigate leaving an emotionally abusive relationship.
Healing & Recovery: Support and proven therapeutic strategies for overcoming emotional abuse and rebuilding self-worth.
Who Should Read This Book on Overcoming Emotional Abuse?
Individuals questioning the healthy of their relationship.
Individuals feeling trapped in an emotionally or psychologically abusive relationship.
Survivors seeking guidance to rebuild confidence and trust after emotional abuse.
Therapists, coaches, and advocates looking for a trauma-informed resource on coercive control and emotional abuse.
Why Is This Really Love? Stands Out Among Books for Emotional Abuse Survivors
Therapist-Backed Expertise
Leah Aguirre, LCSW, combines professional insights with real-world experiences.
Actionable Steps & Exercises
Beyond just awareness, this book provides tools for self-healing and empowerment.
A Compassionate & Validating Approach
The author understands the complexity of emotionally abusive relationships and meets the reader exactly where they are.
Pre-Order Now-Your Guide to Overcoming Emotional Abuse
Is This Really Love? will be available in July 2025. Don’t miss this essential book for emotional abuse survivors—secure your copy today.
Get Support Beyond the Book
Beyond this book, I offer therapy, coaching, and media expertise for individuals and professionals seeking support in the areas of emotional abuse, trauma, and relationships.
Individual therapy for relationship issues: As a licensed therapist based in California, I provide individual therapy for those struggling with the effects of emotional abuse, trauma, and unhealthy relationship patterns. Using evidence-based approaches including EMDR, I help clients heal, rebuild their sense of self-worth, and develop healthier relationships. (Available to California residents only.)
Specialized coaching: For individuals outside of California, I offer relationship coaching focused on empowerment, boundary-setting, and breaking free from toxic dynamics. Coaching provides practical tools and guidance to help you navigate dating, relationships, and healing from emotional abuse.
Speaking & Media: As a writer and expert in relationships and mental health, I collaborate with media outlets, podcasts, and events to raise awareness about abusive relationships, trauma, and dating.
For inquiries, click the button below to contact me.
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