What Abuse Actually Looks Like with Ashley Rumschlag Reckoning

In this episode of Reckoning, Kathryn Kosmides speaks with Ashley Rumschlag. Ashley Rumschlag is the CEO of DomesticShelters.org, the first and largest free online directory of domestic violence programs and shelters in the U.S. and Canada. DomesticShelters.org, which is a service of Theresa’s fund, makes it faster and easier for victims of domestic violence, as well as program and shelter providers, to quickly find services and information best suited to their location, language, and needs.

Since joining DomesticShelters.org in 2017, Ashley has introduced numerous significant website enhancements, created the DomesticShelters.org Facebook group, and helped launch the Purple Ribbons Awards, which is a webinar series for domestic violence professionals.

In this episode Ashley discusses:


How DomesticShelters.org was created and how it became a part of Theresa’s fund
The ways in which domestic violence victims can use DomesticShelters.org to connect with an advocate who can point them to the right resources
How the media sensationalizes and glamorizes domestic violence
The subtleties of abuse and how victims often minimize their own experiences
DARVO and the abuser playbook of common tactics used to maintain power and control
The Amber Heard vs. Johnny Depp case and what is reflects about society’s views on domestic violence and why survivors are hesitant to report abuse
How to best support DV victims with appropriate language and actions
Some early warning signs of abuse including isolation from support systems and how offenders speak to victims in a disrespectful manner