Be patient with him, he is trying you know it and best yet you are beginning to believe it. Remember he can only follow your lead, continue to vocalize to him, but don't 'expect' a certain response, he IMHO is in this right beside you I would even go as far to say he is as afraid of hurting as you are.
You are a special person that is taking the time to grow, continue to recognize the pitfalls and triggers and keep it on the level of communication that you have found to work
Your path of self awareness is taking both of you on a journey to a better place...
