Photo of Deborah Fisher, Counselor in 47401, IN
Deborah Fisher
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IN 47401
We all need help at times. Asking for it is not always easy - it is a vulnerable, brave act that requires courage and self-knowledge. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, life changes (such as immigration, parenthood, loss of a loved one), career or university challenges, suicidal ideation, engaging in addictive, self-harming behaviors or feeling overwhelmed, directionless and lonely, my aim is to help you pay attention to your inner world, and to walk alongside you with kindness and respect to encourage clarity and healing so that you can live the life you desire.
We all need help at times. Asking for it is not always easy - it is a vulnerable, brave act that requires courage and self-knowledge. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, life changes (such as immigration, parenthood, loss of a loved one), career or university challenges, suicidal ideation, engaging in addictive, self-harming behaviors or feeling overwhelmed, directionless and lonely, my aim is to help you pay attention to your inner world, and to walk alongside you with kindness and respect to encourage clarity and healing so that you can live the life you desire.
(812) 203-5528 View (812) 203-5528
Photo of Jody May, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 47401, IN
Jody May
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IN 47401  (Online Only)
I especially enjoy working with young adults and older adults that are going through life changes.
I especially enjoy working with young adults and older adults that are going through life changes.
(812) 575-0992 View (812) 575-0992
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.