PKI Addresses Codependency and Domestic Violence Among Immigrant Women

PKI continued its webinar series on mental health issues with therapist Alla Fonberstein, who hosted a session focused on Codependency and Violence in relationships. More than 100 women registered, underscoring the urgent need to address these often-taboo topics among new immigrants. Many immigrant women carry internalized beliefs from their countries of origin that help is unavailable, and lack access to terminology and frameworks that could aid them in identifying harmful dynamics, potentially leaving them in unsafe relationships for years.

During the webinar, Alla Fonberstein addressed how to recognize codependency, narcissistic abuse, and gaslighting, explained the cycle of abuse and common myths about responsibility for violence, and highlighted the risks these dynamics pose to women and children. She also shared information about local support centers and NGOs working with survivors of violence and responded to anonymous questions from participants. The session was met with deep engagement and gratitude, reflecting its importance as both an educational and empowering resource.