(((((((((((((DontSayIt))))))))))))))))

Does he have a therapist or another professional to talk to? It's common to not have boundaries and not really be confident or assertive because of abuse sometimes. I wish I knew what to say to help, but all I can say is I'm very glad that he has such a wonderful partner because you're trying to be supportive, and sometimes that's all we can really do.

Welcome to PC.

Edit: Whoops. I didn't see about the part about being unable to afford therapy right now (sorry!) Just so you know, there are usually low-cost options available for counselling, either through schools (people going for their certification) or for people with lower-incomes (sliding scale fees). If not that... there are a lot of books in a bookstore on healing from childhood abuse, as well as how to be assertive and to take back your life. I'll try to get back to you with some titles as ideas.