By Shenelle Ball-Host of It’s Been a Journey Podcast
Domestic violence doesn’t always leave visible bruises.
Sometimes, it shows up as silent isolation.
Sometimes, it sounds like “You’re too sensitive.”
And sometimes, it hides behind grand gestures, hollow apologies, and “I only do it because I love you.”
In this unforgettable episode of It’s Been a Journey, I sat down with LaTrece Jones, a domestic violence survivor, advocate, and living testimony that healing is possible—even after the deepest betrayal. Her story is not just one of survival, but of strength, rediscovery, and purpose.
Who Is LaTrece Jones?
LaTrece is more than a survivor—she is a fighter, a voice for the voiceless, and an advocate for change. After enduring years of abuse that wasn’t always physical, LaTrece found the courage to leave and rebuild a life rooted in truth and self-worth. Today, she uses her experience to educate, uplift, and empower others to break the cycle of abuse.
Click for Live Conversation: https://www.youtube.com/live/9zJ3ga1SZus?si=1gh9PwRnWzSEH0Ph
The Many Faces of Domestic Violence
Abuse isn’t always recognizable—and that’s what makes it so dangerous. Here are six forms of domestic violence discussed during our episode that everyone should be aware of:
- Physical Abuse – The most visible, including hitting, choking, or physical threats.
- Emotional/Psychological Abuse – Gaslighting, constant criticism, and emotional manipulation.
- Verbal Abuse – Name-calling, yelling, and degrading language meant to humiliate or control.
- Financial Abuse – Controlling money, sabotaging employment, or forcing dependency.
- Sexual Abuse – Coercion, assault, or violating consent, even in relationships.
- Digital Abuse – Monitoring, stalking, or harassing through technology or social media.
But there’s also unrecognizable abuse—the kind that creeps in quietly and masks itself as love:
- “You don’t need them. You have me.” (Isolation)
- “I pay for everything, so I get to decide.” (Financial control)
- “You’re lucky someone like me even wants you.” (Emotional abuse disguised as love)
- “That never happened.” (Gaslighting)
These are the scars you don’t see. And sadly, too many people carry them silently.
A Conversation That Matters
During our conversation, LaTrece opened up about:
- The moment she realized she was in an abusive relationship
- The internal war between fear, guilt, and self-worth
- What gave her the strength to leave
- How faith and community helped her rebuild
- Her message for others who feel trapped and alone
Her words were raw, unfiltered, and incredibly moving. She reminded us that leaving isn’t the end—it’s the beginning of a new, better chapter.
“The hardest part wasn’t leaving the house. It was leaving the belief that I wasn’t enough without him.” – LaTrece Jones
Where to Get Help
silence—but help is available.
📞 National Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-799-SAFE (7233)
📱 Text: START to 88788
🏠 Local Resources: Contact local women’s shelters or crisis centers for emergency housing and safety planning.
⚖️ Legal Aid: Many cities offer free or low-cost legal support for restraining orders and court proceedings.
Reflective Questions for Readers
Ask yourself or journal through these:
- Have I ever made excuses for someone’s hurtful behavior toward me?
- Do I feel afraid, confused, or silenced in my relationship more than I feel safe or supported?
- Have I isolated myself from loved ones because of my partner’s requests or reactions?
- Am I dependent on someone financially, emotionally, or mentally in a way that feels restricting?
- Do I feel like I’ve lost my identity or self-worth in the relationship?
To every woman, man, or child who has survived, is surviving, or is just beginning to question what love is supposed to feel like—I want you to know this:
You deserve to be safe. You deserve to be seen. You deserve to be loved without pain.
Thank you, LaTrece, for standing in the gap for so many and for reminding us all that healing is possible.
f this story touched you—or you believe it might help someone else—please share it.
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Let’s use our voices to break cycles and build hope. 💜