Therapists in Santa Barbara, CA

Photo of Susie Adams, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Susie Adams
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
I have specific experience working with substance abuse at Casa Serena and domestic violence at Domestic Violence Solutions.
Whether you are coming to therapy because you are battling addiction, have relationship issues, unresolved trauma, or are striving for more balance in your life, I am here to help. Making an appointment with a therapist takes courage and is the first step toward personal growth and change. Some people come to therapy to improve their communication skills while others come to explore their unresolved pain that may show up in various symptoms such as, depression, anxiety, or substance abuse. If the underlying pain is not dealt with, life can seem difficult and maybe even unbearable. There is no need to suffer. There is hope.
I have specific experience working with substance abuse at Casa Serena and domestic violence at Domestic Violence Solutions.
Whether you are coming to therapy because you are battling addiction, have relationship issues, unresolved trauma, or are striving for more balance in your life, I am here to help. Making an appointment with a therapist takes courage and is the first step toward personal growth and change. Some people come to therapy to improve their communication skills while others come to explore their unresolved pain that may show up in various symptoms such as, depression, anxiety, or substance abuse. If the underlying pain is not dealt with, life can seem difficult and maybe even unbearable. There is no need to suffer. There is hope.
(805) 519-7149 View (805) 519-7149
Photo of Kristine Schwarz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Kristine Schwarz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
My clinical experience includes: Domestic Violence Solutions, Goleta School District, Full Spectrum Recovery, Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital and private practice for 17 years.
I enjoy working with clients struggling with the challenges of interpersonal relationships and the daily and often overwhelming realities of every day life. I typically provide the best support for clients who want to have a collaborative relationship with their therapist. I specialize in working with clients who struggle with emotional regulation, anxiety, anger, relational abuse, substance use, and life, relationship and career transitions. I provide a safe space for clients to heal and support them as needed through recognized therapeutic interventions and appropriate community and/or professional referrals.
My clinical experience includes: Domestic Violence Solutions, Goleta School District, Full Spectrum Recovery, Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital and private practice for 17 years.
I enjoy working with clients struggling with the challenges of interpersonal relationships and the daily and often overwhelming realities of every day life. I typically provide the best support for clients who want to have a collaborative relationship with their therapist. I specialize in working with clients who struggle with emotional regulation, anxiety, anger, relational abuse, substance use, and life, relationship and career transitions. I provide a safe space for clients to heal and support them as needed through recognized therapeutic interventions and appropriate community and/or professional referrals.
(805) 301-5113 x452 View (805) 301-5113 x452
Photo of Megan Frazier, PsyD, CEDS, Psychologist in Santa Barbara, CA
Megan Frazier, PsyD, CEDS
Psychologist, PsyD, CEDS
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93108
Have you experienced trauma, anxiety, depression, or negative self-worth? Have you become stuck in negative patterns of poor self-care, disordered eating, or interpersonal relationships that are draining or even abusive? I have dedicated my practice to helping others heal and break free from negative cycles of abuse - both within and outside oneself.
Have you experienced trauma, anxiety, depression, or negative self-worth? Have you become stuck in negative patterns of poor self-care, disordered eating, or interpersonal relationships that are draining or even abusive? I have dedicated my practice to helping others heal and break free from negative cycles of abuse - both within and outside oneself.
(720) 706-9213 View (720) 706-9213
Photo of Linda S Wells, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Linda S Wells
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEDS
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Linda Wells - Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Eating Disorders Specialist, LCSW, CEDS. I specialize in the clinical treatment of eating disorders, with 25 years of experience in the field. I work closely with a team of providers in Santa Barbara County, and inpatient programs, to assist in obtaining the best care for you or your family member. In addition to eating disorders, my practice focuses on the clinical treatment of child abuse, depression, and anxiety. I offer individual counseling & family counseling.
Linda Wells - Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Eating Disorders Specialist, LCSW, CEDS. I specialize in the clinical treatment of eating disorders, with 25 years of experience in the field. I work closely with a team of providers in Santa Barbara County, and inpatient programs, to assist in obtaining the best care for you or your family member. In addition to eating disorders, my practice focuses on the clinical treatment of child abuse, depression, and anxiety. I offer individual counseling & family counseling.
(805) 918-4815 View (805) 918-4815
Photo of Ana M Perez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Ana M Perez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93103
Would you like more joy in living, to feel calm, centered and connected to others? Allow me to support you in taking that first step. I specialize in overcoming complex trauma: phobias, PTSD, anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation and reactivity. I have expertise working with survivors of crimes and abuse. I can help you cope with stress, burdens, grief & loss and life transitions in individual, couples or family therapy. I am compassionate and believe that you have all the resources within to achieve a brighter future.
Would you like more joy in living, to feel calm, centered and connected to others? Allow me to support you in taking that first step. I specialize in overcoming complex trauma: phobias, PTSD, anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation and reactivity. I have expertise working with survivors of crimes and abuse. I can help you cope with stress, burdens, grief & loss and life transitions in individual, couples or family therapy. I am compassionate and believe that you have all the resources within to achieve a brighter future.
(805) 380-3798 View (805) 380-3798
Photo of Nancy R Belknap, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Santa Barbara, CA
Nancy R Belknap
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CAS-CAD, CCAPP, ACRPS
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
She works with families and couples in the recovery process and with seniors who struggle with prescription medication use/abuse, and all the incumbent challenges of aging, loss, loneliness, grief and anger.
Nancy's counseling work focuses on adults, seniors, families and couples who struggle with addictive disorders, anxiety, trauma, grief or depression. Nancy's 25 years of practice and experience provide you the opportunity to develop and bring into focus your very best self. Her proficiency and specialties are in providing tools and skills to support recovery from addictions, grief & loss, trauma, and the relational challenges that so often accompany these life challenges, with the intent and hope to facilitate the recognition of your own strengths and your ability to participate, fully, in your own life and those of your loved ones.
She works with families and couples in the recovery process and with seniors who struggle with prescription medication use/abuse, and all the incumbent challenges of aging, loss, loneliness, grief and anger.
Nancy's counseling work focuses on adults, seniors, families and couples who struggle with addictive disorders, anxiety, trauma, grief or depression. Nancy's 25 years of practice and experience provide you the opportunity to develop and bring into focus your very best self. Her proficiency and specialties are in providing tools and skills to support recovery from addictions, grief & loss, trauma, and the relational challenges that so often accompany these life challenges, with the intent and hope to facilitate the recognition of your own strengths and your ability to participate, fully, in your own life and those of your loved ones.
(805) 434-6217 View (805) 434-6217
Photo of Ashleigh Virginie Johnston-barton, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Ashleigh Virginie Johnston-barton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Have you ever had a SUD, DUI, Possession or Domestic Violence charge? Trauma is often the underlying cause of many behaviors & challenges.
Together we will identify and utilize methods to unlock the natural, innate ability and desire to heal. My clinical work is Somatic and Psychodynamic (supporting thorough resolution of body, mind and relational distress). You will learn how to orient, explore and engage what you wish to address. I work with the you as an individual and explore your experiences recognizing that many behaviors are symptoms not character. Life events addressed but not limited to trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD. co-occurring disorders, substance use disorders (SUD), bereavement/grief, identity and sexuality, insomnia, perfectionism and life purpose.
Have you ever had a SUD, DUI, Possession or Domestic Violence charge? Trauma is often the underlying cause of many behaviors & challenges.
Together we will identify and utilize methods to unlock the natural, innate ability and desire to heal. My clinical work is Somatic and Psychodynamic (supporting thorough resolution of body, mind and relational distress). You will learn how to orient, explore and engage what you wish to address. I work with the you as an individual and explore your experiences recognizing that many behaviors are symptoms not character. Life events addressed but not limited to trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD. co-occurring disorders, substance use disorders (SUD), bereavement/grief, identity and sexuality, insomnia, perfectionism and life purpose.
(805) 590-7028 View (805) 590-7028
Photo of Sara Firestone, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Sara Firestone
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
I also have experience supporting clients after sexual assault or abuse.
Sometimes the most challenging moments in our lives can lead to the most growth and healing. My goal as a therapist is to support you through those difficult times. Together we can work to improve your relationship with yourself, strengthen your relationships with others, and learn strategies to help you cope more effectively with life’s challenges. My approach is warm, compassionate and non-judgmental, and I enjoy working collaboratively with my clients to help them reach their goals.
I also have experience supporting clients after sexual assault or abuse.
Sometimes the most challenging moments in our lives can lead to the most growth and healing. My goal as a therapist is to support you through those difficult times. Together we can work to improve your relationship with yourself, strengthen your relationships with others, and learn strategies to help you cope more effectively with life’s challenges. My approach is warm, compassionate and non-judgmental, and I enjoy working collaboratively with my clients to help them reach their goals.
(805) 883-6166 View (805) 883-6166
Photo of Robbie Culp, Psychologist in Santa Barbara, CA
Robbie Culp
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
I work with depression, anxiety, and adjustment concerns, and individuals recovering from various types of trauma and abuse.
I want to create a relationship with my clients based on trust, mutual respect, and unconditional regard. I feel that if I can create this environment I can more deeply connect with others and hope to see things from their perspective. I believe that people have the inner capacity for change, and I want to help them be more able to readily access this. This can look different based on each person, helping people move forward in a way they feel will be most productive. I also value multicultural differences and in an effort to more fully understand a person's frame of reference. I also can provide ADHD screening and assessment.
I work with depression, anxiety, and adjustment concerns, and individuals recovering from various types of trauma and abuse.
I want to create a relationship with my clients based on trust, mutual respect, and unconditional regard. I feel that if I can create this environment I can more deeply connect with others and hope to see things from their perspective. I believe that people have the inner capacity for change, and I want to help them be more able to readily access this. This can look different based on each person, helping people move forward in a way they feel will be most productive. I also value multicultural differences and in an effort to more fully understand a person's frame of reference. I also can provide ADHD screening and assessment.
(818) 423-4037 View (818) 423-4037
Photo of Sandra Alaniz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Sandra Alaniz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101  (Online Only)
I specialize in trauma recovery, supporting survivors of childhood abuse, and people experiencing first-generation relational and systemic issues.
My approach to therapy is similar to my approach to life: adaptable and authentic. I think it is important to meet people where they are and to acknowledge the systemic issues that have brought challenges into their lives. I work from a multicultural and relational perspective (in other words, our families and our cultural influence who we are and it is important to bring that into therapy). NOTE: I do not have any current openings.
I specialize in trauma recovery, supporting survivors of childhood abuse, and people experiencing first-generation relational and systemic issues.
My approach to therapy is similar to my approach to life: adaptable and authentic. I think it is important to meet people where they are and to acknowledge the systemic issues that have brought challenges into their lives. I work from a multicultural and relational perspective (in other words, our families and our cultural influence who we are and it is important to bring that into therapy). NOTE: I do not have any current openings.
(805) 301-1598 View (805) 301-1598
Photo of Kristine Freck, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Kristine Freck
Marriage & Family Therapist, Freck Kristine, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93111
Waitlist for new clients
i SPECIALIZE IN PTSD and TRAUMA having worked with the Santa Barbara County District Attorney's Victim Witness Program for over 35 years.
I have over 35 years of experience as a therapist and educator in the Santa Barbara area. I work with: individuals, couples and families, teens - elderly. My clients are struggling with ADDICTION (alcoholism, drugs, {pre and post-inpatient addiction assistance}, weight, sex et.al), MENTAL HEALTH (depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, identity, sexual orientation, couples and family issues et.al), and/or SPIRITUAL JOURNEY challenges in their current lives.
i SPECIALIZE IN PTSD and TRAUMA having worked with the Santa Barbara County District Attorney's Victim Witness Program for over 35 years.
I have over 35 years of experience as a therapist and educator in the Santa Barbara area. I work with: individuals, couples and families, teens - elderly. My clients are struggling with ADDICTION (alcoholism, drugs, {pre and post-inpatient addiction assistance}, weight, sex et.al), MENTAL HEALTH (depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, identity, sexual orientation, couples and family issues et.al), and/or SPIRITUAL JOURNEY challenges in their current lives.
(805) 919-8631 View (805) 919-8631
Photo of Jacquelyn Meissner, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Jacquelyn Meissner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
My areas of specialty include dealing with interpersonal conflict, loss, divorce, trust issues, chronic illness, depression, trauma, anxiety, substance abuse, domestic violence and other life stressors that can be overwhelming.
Life can get very complicated and challenging sometimes. My commitment to you is to provide a supportive place for us to collaboratively explore the challenges you are experiencing and the areas of your life you wish to change. If you are struggling to come to terms with your past or feel as if something is preventing you from living the life you want I invite you to explore this from a place of curiosity without judgment. As a bilingual and multicultural therapist I strive to support individuals and couples who are experiencing difficult life events.
My areas of specialty include dealing with interpersonal conflict, loss, divorce, trust issues, chronic illness, depression, trauma, anxiety, substance abuse, domestic violence and other life stressors that can be overwhelming.
Life can get very complicated and challenging sometimes. My commitment to you is to provide a supportive place for us to collaboratively explore the challenges you are experiencing and the areas of your life you wish to change. If you are struggling to come to terms with your past or feel as if something is preventing you from living the life you want I invite you to explore this from a place of curiosity without judgment. As a bilingual and multicultural therapist I strive to support individuals and couples who are experiencing difficult life events.
(805) 719-7308 View (805) 719-7308
Photo of Kathryn LePage, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Kathryn LePage
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
I offer healing to individuals and couples whose relationships are effected by abuse from bullying, physical intimidation, and emotional manipulation.
If you are facing a difficult transition in your relationship, depression, addiction, trauma, or simply wanting to increase your life's potential, contact me with questions concerning psychotherapy. Addressing the presenting problem, we will identify past memories, present behavior and emotions, and their impact on living a creative life. By engaging your imagination, we gain access to your hidden potential, hindered by negative belief patterns. Together we will transform your life's most difficult challenges and develop the courage to create opportunities to live more passionately.
I offer healing to individuals and couples whose relationships are effected by abuse from bullying, physical intimidation, and emotional manipulation.
If you are facing a difficult transition in your relationship, depression, addiction, trauma, or simply wanting to increase your life's potential, contact me with questions concerning psychotherapy. Addressing the presenting problem, we will identify past memories, present behavior and emotions, and their impact on living a creative life. By engaging your imagination, we gain access to your hidden potential, hindered by negative belief patterns. Together we will transform your life's most difficult challenges and develop the courage to create opportunities to live more passionately.
(805) 409-8549 View (805) 409-8549
Photo of Allycia Souza, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Allycia Souza
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
My counseling style is compassionate, reflective, and rooted in radical self acceptance. My focus is on helping you accept the parts of yourself that are hard to tolerate and be at peace with. I have been a psychotherapist for 13 years and I am licensed in the state of California. I have worked with people from various backgrounds that grapple with differing issues, such as, depression, anxiety, PTSD, chronic pain/illness, childhood abuse and trauma, relationship issues, parenting problems, grief, domestic violence and life transitions.
My counseling style is compassionate, reflective, and rooted in radical self acceptance. My focus is on helping you accept the parts of yourself that are hard to tolerate and be at peace with. I have been a psychotherapist for 13 years and I am licensed in the state of California. I have worked with people from various backgrounds that grapple with differing issues, such as, depression, anxiety, PTSD, chronic pain/illness, childhood abuse and trauma, relationship issues, parenting problems, grief, domestic violence and life transitions.
(510) 674-1117 View (510) 674-1117
Photo of Rachel B Aarons, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Rachel B Aarons
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
I specialize in helping people move out of stuck places, heal past trauma, and change destructive behavior patterns. I am a certified EMDR therapist and use the Early Trauma Protocol for early abuse, neglect and adoption. I work with the unconscious mind to bring about deep lasting change using one of the fastest processing methods available today. We will work on the level of both the conscious AND the unconscious mind so that the changes you make will be solid and long-lasting. Together we can make your life what you want it to be.
I specialize in helping people move out of stuck places, heal past trauma, and change destructive behavior patterns. I am a certified EMDR therapist and use the Early Trauma Protocol for early abuse, neglect and adoption. I work with the unconscious mind to bring about deep lasting change using one of the fastest processing methods available today. We will work on the level of both the conscious AND the unconscious mind so that the changes you make will be solid and long-lasting. Together we can make your life what you want it to be.
(805) 667-0783 View (805) 667-0783
Photo of Haley Meskunas, Psychologist in Santa Barbara, CA
Haley Meskunas
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Hi! I am a licensed clinical psychologist and specialize in the treatment of clients experiencing symptoms of trauma and interpersonal violence. My therapeutic approach is warm and nonjudgmental, and it stems from an attachment perspective. I believe mental health and general well-being is equally rooted in relationships as it is in individual processes. In my view, the goal of therapy is to collaboratively explore ways to be mentally and emotionally flexible, adaptable, and stable.
Hi! I am a licensed clinical psychologist and specialize in the treatment of clients experiencing symptoms of trauma and interpersonal violence. My therapeutic approach is warm and nonjudgmental, and it stems from an attachment perspective. I believe mental health and general well-being is equally rooted in relationships as it is in individual processes. In my view, the goal of therapy is to collaboratively explore ways to be mentally and emotionally flexible, adaptable, and stable.
(805) 515-4142 View (805) 515-4142
New Beginnings Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93103
We offer confidential psychological counseling and assessment services to individuals, couples and families in the greater Santa Barbara area. Experienced counselors are here to help clients explore life transitions, relationship issues and a variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, abuse, compulsive behaviors, substance use, job loss and stress, aging, isolation and anger management. Many clients experience a 15% reduction in overall distress after only eight sessions. Counselors are ready and able to serve you. We will match your needs with the education and experience of our clinicians to find the best person to assist you.
We offer confidential psychological counseling and assessment services to individuals, couples and families in the greater Santa Barbara area. Experienced counselors are here to help clients explore life transitions, relationship issues and a variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, abuse, compulsive behaviors, substance use, job loss and stress, aging, isolation and anger management. Many clients experience a 15% reduction in overall distress after only eight sessions. Counselors are ready and able to serve you. We will match your needs with the education and experience of our clinicians to find the best person to assist you.
(805) 669-9352 x206 View (805) 669-9352 x206
Photo of Jenna Lane Marsala, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Jenna Lane Marsala
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93108
I have experience in pre-martial counseling, marriage counseling, divorce, domestic violence, challenges as an adolescent or parenting an adolescent, communication, relaxation techniques, goal setting and achieving, crisis management and passages through lives challenges.
Do you ever ask yourself, "Why do I keep doing the same things but expect different outcomes?" Or "Do I look at the world differently than all my family and friends?" Life can feel stressful, overwhelming, and out of control at times. I try to help life feel a little bit more manageable and work through issues at your own pace. Psychotherapy is about an exploration of self and the world around you. As a psychotherapist, I am here to provide guidance through this exploration in a safe place and to improve interaction with those you love.
I have experience in pre-martial counseling, marriage counseling, divorce, domestic violence, challenges as an adolescent or parenting an adolescent, communication, relaxation techniques, goal setting and achieving, crisis management and passages through lives challenges.
Do you ever ask yourself, "Why do I keep doing the same things but expect different outcomes?" Or "Do I look at the world differently than all my family and friends?" Life can feel stressful, overwhelming, and out of control at times. I try to help life feel a little bit more manageable and work through issues at your own pace. Psychotherapy is about an exploration of self and the world around you. As a psychotherapist, I am here to provide guidance through this exploration in a safe place and to improve interaction with those you love.
(925) 261-7827 View (925) 261-7827
Photo of Dr Holli Stewart & Associates in Counseling , Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Barbara, CA
Dr Holli Stewart & Associates in Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS , MA, LMFT, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93106
Dr. Holli Stewart has multiple specialties in Psychology with two Masters, PHD & 30 years of experience. w/children as young as 2 years, teens, adults & couples. Her specialties include: Play Therapy, PTSD, ADHD, Anxiety w/ Panic, Family conflict (such as past or current abuse, domestic violence, & reunification), Depression, Chronic Pain, & OCD. In general self esteem, life transition skills & identifying patterns that contribute to current stressors are incorporated into care. Dr Stewart also treats anger substance & co-dependency. She’s written a psychological advice column for 24 years,taught classes and many news & radio shows.
Dr. Holli Stewart has multiple specialties in Psychology with two Masters, PHD & 30 years of experience. w/children as young as 2 years, teens, adults & couples. Her specialties include: Play Therapy, PTSD, ADHD, Anxiety w/ Panic, Family conflict (such as past or current abuse, domestic violence, & reunification), Depression, Chronic Pain, & OCD. In general self esteem, life transition skills & identifying patterns that contribute to current stressors are incorporated into care. Dr Stewart also treats anger substance & co-dependency. She’s written a psychological advice column for 24 years,taught classes and many news & radio shows.
(805) 876-9092 View (805) 876-9092
Photo of Aiyana Cazabat, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Santa Barbara, CA
Aiyana Cazabat
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93110
Waitlist for new clients
Individuals who have faced interpersonal abuse and other traumatic events often experience feelings of anxiety, depression, and shame. They seek a safe and supportive space to heal and process these challenges. I aim to empower my clients, making them feel heard, valued, and encouraged while working together to develop a treatment plan tailored to their unique needs and goals. My therapeutic approach is grounded in person-centered and humanistic principles, as well as trauma-informed and multiculturally aware techniques.
Individuals who have faced interpersonal abuse and other traumatic events often experience feelings of anxiety, depression, and shame. They seek a safe and supportive space to heal and process these challenges. I aim to empower my clients, making them feel heard, valued, and encouraged while working together to develop a treatment plan tailored to their unique needs and goals. My therapeutic approach is grounded in person-centered and humanistic principles, as well as trauma-informed and multiculturally aware techniques.
(805) 876-9627 View (805) 876-9627

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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.