Domestic Abuse Therapists in 78746

Photo of Victoria Shackelford, Licensed Professional Counselor in 78746, TX
Victoria Shackelford
Licensed Professional Counselor, MFA, MA, LPC, NCC, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
If you or you adolescent child are struggling with the effects of life changing stressful and traumatic events, such as domestic violence, sexual assault, the death of a loved one, the breakup of a long term marriage or a once loving relationship and are seeking help to make your way through the chaos---consider archetypal psychotherapy to make meaning from the way we engage these traumatic difficulties and learn skills for transforming your approach to life. I provide Jungian Psychotherapy services for couples, adults and adolescents suffering, Trauma, Anxiety, PTSD, depression, grief, anger and loss of meaning in life.
If you or you adolescent child are struggling with the effects of life changing stressful and traumatic events, such as domestic violence, sexual assault, the death of a loved one, the breakup of a long term marriage or a once loving relationship and are seeking help to make your way through the chaos---consider archetypal psychotherapy to make meaning from the way we engage these traumatic difficulties and learn skills for transforming your approach to life. I provide Jungian Psychotherapy services for couples, adults and adolescents suffering, Trauma, Anxiety, PTSD, depression, grief, anger and loss of meaning in life.
(210) 468-7214 View (210) 468-7214
Photo of Robert M Seidel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 78746, TX
Robert M Seidel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
Relationship issues, communication, parent-child issues, anxiety & depression, divorce adjustment, best parenting practices in families with or without divorce, blended families, sexual/intimacy issues including abuse & trauma, loss, bullying, cyber-bullying, ADHD, school problems, workplace issues, addictions including drug and alcohol abuse, and career counseling.
I am an Honors graduate of The University of Texas at Austin with over 30 years experience helping people overcome anxiety & depression, resolve conflicts, deal with past hurts & traumas, improve communication and self esteem, and increase the quality of their relationships, as well as their work or school performance, in order that they may lead happier and more fulfilling lives. I also recently completed training to become a state-licensed, Clinical Social Work Supervisor for newly-graduated clinicians-in-training.
Relationship issues, communication, parent-child issues, anxiety & depression, divorce adjustment, best parenting practices in families with or without divorce, blended families, sexual/intimacy issues including abuse & trauma, loss, bullying, cyber-bullying, ADHD, school problems, workplace issues, addictions including drug and alcohol abuse, and career counseling.
I am an Honors graduate of The University of Texas at Austin with over 30 years experience helping people overcome anxiety & depression, resolve conflicts, deal with past hurts & traumas, improve communication and self esteem, and increase the quality of their relationships, as well as their work or school performance, in order that they may lead happier and more fulfilling lives. I also recently completed training to become a state-licensed, Clinical Social Work Supervisor for newly-graduated clinicians-in-training.
(512) 957-2693 View (512) 957-2693
Photo of Darla Dawn Absher, Licensed Professional Counselor in 78746, TX
Darla Dawn Absher
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC-S
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
Many of us have experienced loss, neglect, abuse or humiliation during our life's journey which undoubtedly affects our perceptions.
Dr. Darla Absher is a a Licensed Professional Counselor, Supervisor LPC-S #62089, located in Austin and Bastrop, Texas. Dr. Absher treats the full spectrum of disorders and life adjustments. I received my Master of Arts in Counseling from St. Edward's University, in Austin, Texas in August 2005. In 2003, I received my Master of Arts in Human Services from St. Edward's. In 2001 I graduated from St. Edward's University with a Bachelor of Arts with a concentration in Psychology. In December 2011, I graduated from Argosy University in Dallas, Texas with a Doctor of Clinical Psychology.
Many of us have experienced loss, neglect, abuse or humiliation during our life's journey which undoubtedly affects our perceptions.
Dr. Darla Absher is a a Licensed Professional Counselor, Supervisor LPC-S #62089, located in Austin and Bastrop, Texas. Dr. Absher treats the full spectrum of disorders and life adjustments. I received my Master of Arts in Counseling from St. Edward's University, in Austin, Texas in August 2005. In 2003, I received my Master of Arts in Human Services from St. Edward's. In 2001 I graduated from St. Edward's University with a Bachelor of Arts with a concentration in Psychology. In December 2011, I graduated from Argosy University in Dallas, Texas with a Doctor of Clinical Psychology.
(512) 900-2584 View (512) 900-2584
Photo of Leslie Larson, Licensed Professional Counselor in 78746, TX
Leslie Larson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
Though I have experience with most types of problems from job stress, substance abuse, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, and life transitions, my specialty is trauma work.
I believe therapy is a process helps people to fully participate in their lives. I use several therapeutic styles and a collaborative approach. Together, we identify "the problem," then explore obstacles that block the process. The goal is wholeness and healing and you, as the client, decide what that looks like. Building a safe, respectful and trusting relationship is essential for success ---- as the client defines "success." I also believe that even in the most dire of circumstances, we can find joy, hope and even laughter. I enjoy playing a part in that with my clients.
Though I have experience with most types of problems from job stress, substance abuse, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, and life transitions, my specialty is trauma work.
I believe therapy is a process helps people to fully participate in their lives. I use several therapeutic styles and a collaborative approach. Together, we identify "the problem," then explore obstacles that block the process. The goal is wholeness and healing and you, as the client, decide what that looks like. Building a safe, respectful and trusting relationship is essential for success ---- as the client defines "success." I also believe that even in the most dire of circumstances, we can find joy, hope and even laughter. I enjoy playing a part in that with my clients.
(512) 540-5595 View (512) 540-5595
Photo of Anne Marie Jennings, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 78746, TX
Anne Marie Jennings
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
I approach therapy as a partnership with my clients in which you are the ultimate decision maker and I work with you to clear away obstacles and identify opportunities. My clients have successfully overcome or managed depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, marital stress, parent-child difficulties, domestic violence, substance abuse, bipolar disorder, and anger issues.
I approach therapy as a partnership with my clients in which you are the ultimate decision maker and I work with you to clear away obstacles and identify opportunities. My clients have successfully overcome or managed depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, marital stress, parent-child difficulties, domestic violence, substance abuse, bipolar disorder, and anger issues.
(512) 430-4524 View (512) 430-4524
Photo of Ian Christopher Hammonds, Marriage & Family Therapist in 78746, TX
Ian Christopher Hammonds
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
If you are experiencing difficulty in communicating with those who matter most to you, you’ve come to the right place. I will provide you with a safe space and a non-judgmental environment. Regardless of how new or old these painful experiences are, I am here to help you and assure quality treatment so that your journey through life will be lighter and a more positive experience. I enjoy working with clients experiencing addiction, shame, grief, trauma, and familial abuse, families coping with new or existing illness, and clients in substance abuse recovery.
If you are experiencing difficulty in communicating with those who matter most to you, you’ve come to the right place. I will provide you with a safe space and a non-judgmental environment. Regardless of how new or old these painful experiences are, I am here to help you and assure quality treatment so that your journey through life will be lighter and a more positive experience. I enjoy working with clients experiencing addiction, shame, grief, trauma, and familial abuse, families coping with new or existing illness, and clients in substance abuse recovery.
(512) 661-0735 View (512) 661-0735
Photo of Jesus Valiente, Licensed Professional Counselor in 78746, TX
Jesus Valiente
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Jesus Valiente is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 8 years experience in the mental health field. Jesus works with adults and specializes in relationship issues, family conflicts, anger management, bipolar disorders, domestic violence, HIV / AIDS-related worries, men's issues, and much more.
Jesus Valiente is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 8 years experience in the mental health field. Jesus works with adults and specializes in relationship issues, family conflicts, anger management, bipolar disorders, domestic violence, HIV / AIDS-related worries, men's issues, and much more.
(512) 714-9608 View (512) 714-9608
Photo of Stacy Stewart, Psychologist in 78746, TX
Stacy Stewart
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
Many people begin seeing a therapist when they are feeling "stuck in a rut", overwhelmed with stress, have lost meaning in their lives, or are feeling disconnected from themselves or others. I am a licensed psychologist, specializing in helping people who are struggling with many different issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship problems, life stress, and healing from physical or sexual abuse. As a psychologist, my goal is to assist my clients gain a deeper understanding of the problems and issues that brought them into therapy and help them heal and grow in a meaningful way.
Many people begin seeing a therapist when they are feeling "stuck in a rut", overwhelmed with stress, have lost meaning in their lives, or are feeling disconnected from themselves or others. I am a licensed psychologist, specializing in helping people who are struggling with many different issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship problems, life stress, and healing from physical or sexual abuse. As a psychologist, my goal is to assist my clients gain a deeper understanding of the problems and issues that brought them into therapy and help them heal and grow in a meaningful way.
(512) 814-9520 View (512) 814-9520
Photo of Kristin Shanahan, Licensed Professional Counselor in 78746, TX
Kristin Shanahan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, CGP
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
If you struggle with loneliness, depression and anxiety. If you struggle in your relationships to feel fulfilled and nourished because of experiences in your childhood, we are a good fit! This can include parental neglect, alcoholism, abandonment, and abuse. You function well but often times feel that it is not enough and feel that you just aren't doing things the right way. I work in a direct but compassionate way to navigate through these painful experiences in order to get more of your needs met and to experience more fulfilling relationships. We work together to find what suits you and your needs.
If you struggle with loneliness, depression and anxiety. If you struggle in your relationships to feel fulfilled and nourished because of experiences in your childhood, we are a good fit! This can include parental neglect, alcoholism, abandonment, and abuse. You function well but often times feel that it is not enough and feel that you just aren't doing things the right way. I work in a direct but compassionate way to navigate through these painful experiences in order to get more of your needs met and to experience more fulfilling relationships. We work together to find what suits you and your needs.
(512) 337-4941 View (512) 337-4941
Photo of Kat Elrod, Licensed Professional Counselor in 78746, TX
Kat Elrod
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, EMDR
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
I work best with people like you who are struggling with painful childhoods, trauma, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, shameful/worthless feelings, depression, anxiety, and relationship stress.
Are you exhausted from carrying around memories of the past? Do you tend to not feel good enough and like you don't belong? Overwhelmed from all the changes in your life? I understand you're here because you're hurting and tired of the struggle. Your relationships with friends and loved ones are probably hurting too. I would love to help you make sense of everything that is going on and find new and compassionate ways of living.
I work best with people like you who are struggling with painful childhoods, trauma, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, shameful/worthless feelings, depression, anxiety, and relationship stress.
Are you exhausted from carrying around memories of the past? Do you tend to not feel good enough and like you don't belong? Overwhelmed from all the changes in your life? I understand you're here because you're hurting and tired of the struggle. Your relationships with friends and loved ones are probably hurting too. I would love to help you make sense of everything that is going on and find new and compassionate ways of living.
(512) 881-8920 View (512) 881-8920
Photo of Katelynn Kozbial, Licensed Professional Counselor in 78746, TX
Katelynn Kozbial
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
If you often feel misunderstood, like your emotions are too big or too much, and have a hard time holding boundaries with others, I can help. Many of my clients have experienced relational trauma in the form of dysfunctional families, chaotic childhoods, abusive relationships, or have loved ones who struggle with substance abuse. Folx who do their best to function but still struggle with anxiety, depression, stressful jobs, and maybe use alcohol themselves to cope. Whether you’re dealing with grief/loss, suicidal thoughts, past or present traumas – we'll figure it out together.
If you often feel misunderstood, like your emotions are too big or too much, and have a hard time holding boundaries with others, I can help. Many of my clients have experienced relational trauma in the form of dysfunctional families, chaotic childhoods, abusive relationships, or have loved ones who struggle with substance abuse. Folx who do their best to function but still struggle with anxiety, depression, stressful jobs, and maybe use alcohol themselves to cope. Whether you’re dealing with grief/loss, suicidal thoughts, past or present traumas – we'll figure it out together.
(512) 580-8506 View (512) 580-8506
Photo of Ana Maria Cabezas, Licensed Professional Counselor in 78746, TX
Ana Maria Cabezas
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, SEP, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
My work experience has prepared me to work with a wide range of issues including but not limited to shock and developmental trauma, parenting issues, domestic violence and sexual abuse and career exploration.
At Austin Bilingual Therapy, you will find a safe and trusting place to explore your concerns. Through nurturing, curiosity and playfulness, you will become aware of what keeps you from believing, feeling or doing what you want to reach in life. I see myself as a companion to you or to your family and children in this journey that is life. I feel honored that you are choosing me to be a witness to your growth as an individual, parent, child, sibling, and partner.
My work experience has prepared me to work with a wide range of issues including but not limited to shock and developmental trauma, parenting issues, domestic violence and sexual abuse and career exploration.
At Austin Bilingual Therapy, you will find a safe and trusting place to explore your concerns. Through nurturing, curiosity and playfulness, you will become aware of what keeps you from believing, feeling or doing what you want to reach in life. I see myself as a companion to you or to your family and children in this journey that is life. I feel honored that you are choosing me to be a witness to your growth as an individual, parent, child, sibling, and partner.
(512) 357-7414 View (512) 357-7414
Photo of Arielle Sokoll-Ward, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 78746, TX
Arielle Sokoll-Ward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Congratulations on taking the first step to a more authentic, self-compassionate, and healed YOU. I work with my clients in a warm, comfortable, inviting, and non-judgmental environment. I like to provide a space where clients feel comfortable processing difficult emotions so they can leave the session feeling a greater sense of resilience, confidence, and happiness. I primarily specialize in grief/loss/bereavement and trauma/PTSD. I also have extensive experience and training in eating disorders, LGBTQ+, domestic violence and sexual violence, depression, anxiety, relationship and interpersonal struggles, and life transitions.
Congratulations on taking the first step to a more authentic, self-compassionate, and healed YOU. I work with my clients in a warm, comfortable, inviting, and non-judgmental environment. I like to provide a space where clients feel comfortable processing difficult emotions so they can leave the session feeling a greater sense of resilience, confidence, and happiness. I primarily specialize in grief/loss/bereavement and trauma/PTSD. I also have extensive experience and training in eating disorders, LGBTQ+, domestic violence and sexual violence, depression, anxiety, relationship and interpersonal struggles, and life transitions.
(512) 515-9577 View (512) 515-9577
Photo of Errico Counseling Services, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in 78746, TX
Errico Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746  (Online Only)
I specialize in counseling for adult children of domineering or narcissistic parents, survivors of childhood abuse & counseling for women.
Are you or someone you know struggling with creating and maintaining healthy boundaries? Did you grow up in a controlling or shaming family? Do you hold a lot of internal resentment, struggle with people pleasing or high levels of anxiety and worry? If so, I'm so glad you found me! I am dedicated to helping you reach your goals so that you can travel through your life with resiliency, healthy boundaries and an ability to recognize and embrace nourishing relationships.
I specialize in counseling for adult children of domineering or narcissistic parents, survivors of childhood abuse & counseling for women.
Are you or someone you know struggling with creating and maintaining healthy boundaries? Did you grow up in a controlling or shaming family? Do you hold a lot of internal resentment, struggle with people pleasing or high levels of anxiety and worry? If so, I'm so glad you found me! I am dedicated to helping you reach your goals so that you can travel through your life with resiliency, healthy boundaries and an ability to recognize and embrace nourishing relationships.
(512) 961-6057 View (512) 961-6057
Photo of Laurie Gamble, LCSW, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 78746, TX
Laurie Gamble, LCSW, SEP
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746  (Online Only)
My training and background is primarily in addictions and working with individuals that suffer with both substance abuse and mental health issues (dual diagnosis) and the effects of that on their lives, and the lives of the people they care about most; the family, spouse, partner, girlfriend or boyfriend.
Thank you for your interest in my psychotherapy practice. Austin Family Wellness is dedicated to giving individuals affordable, effective, and compassionate care. Whether it is with a serious mental health issue such as, depression, anxiety, or bipolar, or difficulty letting go of an addiction, Austin Family Wellness is here to help you achieve positive personal growth.
My training and background is primarily in addictions and working with individuals that suffer with both substance abuse and mental health issues (dual diagnosis) and the effects of that on their lives, and the lives of the people they care about most; the family, spouse, partner, girlfriend or boyfriend.
Thank you for your interest in my psychotherapy practice. Austin Family Wellness is dedicated to giving individuals affordable, effective, and compassionate care. Whether it is with a serious mental health issue such as, depression, anxiety, or bipolar, or difficulty letting go of an addiction, Austin Family Wellness is here to help you achieve positive personal growth.
(512) 649-4034 View (512) 649-4034
Photo of Brianna 'bri' Hamlyn, Licensed Professional Counselor in 78746, TX
Brianna 'bri' Hamlyn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Rollingwood, TX 78746  (Online Only)
I have a lot of experience working with domestic violence/abuse (including emotional/narcissistic abuse), and the trauma of neuronormativity on folx with autism, ADHD, and OCD.
Things kind of suck right now, don't they? At the time of writing this, the word feels like it's a dumpster fire. If you're like me though, things have always felt rough internally and connection has never been easy. I hope to offer connection and unconditional positive regard for anyone whose ever felt like they're on the outside looking in. The vision I hold for all clients is to know they are worthy and valid exactly as they are in this moment, and my role is to hold that belief for you until you can hold it yourself. I practice from an anti-racist, relational cultural, fat-positive, and generally affirming lens.
I have a lot of experience working with domestic violence/abuse (including emotional/narcissistic abuse), and the trauma of neuronormativity on folx with autism, ADHD, and OCD.
Things kind of suck right now, don't they? At the time of writing this, the word feels like it's a dumpster fire. If you're like me though, things have always felt rough internally and connection has never been easy. I hope to offer connection and unconditional positive regard for anyone whose ever felt like they're on the outside looking in. The vision I hold for all clients is to know they are worthy and valid exactly as they are in this moment, and my role is to hold that belief for you until you can hold it yourself. I practice from an anti-racist, relational cultural, fat-positive, and generally affirming lens.
(512) 859-6502 View (512) 859-6502
Photo of Allison Micho, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in 78746, TX
Allison Micho
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
I have a background working with trauma, substance abuse, PTSD and addiction recovery.
It takes a great amount of courage to begin the process of improving your mental health. Whether you are in a rut, suffering from past trauma, recovering, or just seeking a change. I can help pave the path to wellness by supporting your ability to process both mental and emotion experiences. Together we can build a plan that will aid in personal development, encourage positive change, and broaden perspectives. I enjoy working with client from all cultures and backgrounds and will promote a safe atmosphere in which you know your voice is heard.
I have a background working with trauma, substance abuse, PTSD and addiction recovery.
It takes a great amount of courage to begin the process of improving your mental health. Whether you are in a rut, suffering from past trauma, recovering, or just seeking a change. I can help pave the path to wellness by supporting your ability to process both mental and emotion experiences. Together we can build a plan that will aid in personal development, encourage positive change, and broaden perspectives. I enjoy working with client from all cultures and backgrounds and will promote a safe atmosphere in which you know your voice is heard.
(512) 648-4296 View (512) 648-4296
Photo of Ciera B Reeves, Marriage & Family Therapist in 78746, TX
Ciera B Reeves
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746  (Online Only)
Accepting new Clients for virtual sessions! I specialize in working with individuals and couples surrounding life transitions, relationship issues, and in processing trauma and abuse. As human beings we often crave connection with others, but more than that, we seek meaningful and trusting relationships with those we care about. Many individuals seek therapy to better understand how the traumatic experiences in their lives continue to affect them both individually and in their relationships with others. Therapy can help you to better understand yourself and relationship while creating healthy ways of coping and communicating.
Accepting new Clients for virtual sessions! I specialize in working with individuals and couples surrounding life transitions, relationship issues, and in processing trauma and abuse. As human beings we often crave connection with others, but more than that, we seek meaningful and trusting relationships with those we care about. Many individuals seek therapy to better understand how the traumatic experiences in their lives continue to affect them both individually and in their relationships with others. Therapy can help you to better understand yourself and relationship while creating healthy ways of coping and communicating.
(409) 215-3406 View (409) 215-3406
Photo of Paige Bartholomew, Marriage & Family Therapist in 78746, TX
Paige Bartholomew
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746  (Online Only)
Individual Counseling and Couples. Have you spent years in 'talk therapy', without seeing much real change? It’s probably time to try something new. Psychologists are learning there is a more successful way to heal. Deeper wounds can't be reached through talk-therapy alone. We must heal in a multidimensional way. It's about taking a gentle, deep look at the sub-conscious imprints in the body, mind, heart and soul levels to find out exactly where the pain lies. You and I will gently pave the way to clear them. Sessions are 65 minutes long, with free text check-ins 24/7. Insurance is accepted!
Individual Counseling and Couples. Have you spent years in 'talk therapy', without seeing much real change? It’s probably time to try something new. Psychologists are learning there is a more successful way to heal. Deeper wounds can't be reached through talk-therapy alone. We must heal in a multidimensional way. It's about taking a gentle, deep look at the sub-conscious imprints in the body, mind, heart and soul levels to find out exactly where the pain lies. You and I will gently pave the way to clear them. Sessions are 65 minutes long, with free text check-ins 24/7. Insurance is accepted!
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Photo of Katherine Velasquez, Pre-Licensed Professional in 78746, TX
Katherine Velasquez
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
My ideal client seeks positive change and growth, grappling with challenges that hinder well-being. They yearn for effective coping mechanisms and greater self-awareness, aiming for a more fulfilling life. Their goals are rooted in achieving a harmonious balance, and they understand the transformative power of therapy. Motivated by a desire for purpose and understanding, they seek a safe, empathetic space to explore their unique journey. I aim to guide them towards lasting positive change, fostering resilience and a renewed sense of purpose in their lives.
My ideal client seeks positive change and growth, grappling with challenges that hinder well-being. They yearn for effective coping mechanisms and greater self-awareness, aiming for a more fulfilling life. Their goals are rooted in achieving a harmonious balance, and they understand the transformative power of therapy. Motivated by a desire for purpose and understanding, they seek a safe, empathetic space to explore their unique journey. I aim to guide them towards lasting positive change, fostering resilience and a renewed sense of purpose in their lives.
(512) 399-3453 View (512) 399-3453
Domestic Abuse Therapists

What are the most effective ways to recover from domestic abuse?

Leaving an abusive relationship requires tremendous courage, so survivors in treatment should recognize that they have already completed the most important step. Still, the trauma of physical or emotional abuse can be difficult to process and overcome. Therapy can help survivors process trauma, grief, and difficult emotions, treat relevant mental health symptoms, and create a new framework for boundaries and relationships in the future. For some, support groups can also be an invaluable outlet for healing.

When should an individual seek help for domestic abuse?

Victims of intimate partner violence should seek help immediately. It can take substantial time, planning, energy, and courage to leave an abusive relationship, but starting the process—by seeking therapy, calling the domestic violence hotline, or simply confiding in a loved one—will help them get there. Those who have left abusive relationships but haven’t sought treatment can also greatly benefit from therapy to process and heal from the experience.

What are the consequences of staying in an abusive relationship?

Remaining in an abusive relationship has serious repercussions. In addition to the ongoing threat of physical danger and emotional abuse, research shows that intimate partner violence is associated with a range of mental health disorders including depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and substance abuse. Therefore it’s important for individuals in an abusive relationship to seek help as soon as possible.

How can you get domestic abuse treatment for someone else?

It can be very complicated to identify and leave an abusive relationship; barriers include the threat of violence, financial instability, and family pressures. Those concerned about a loved one in an abusive relationship should talk to them about the situation, provide them with resources such as the domestic violence hotline, and introduce the idea of seeing a therapist due to their concern for the person’s safety and well-being.