Domestic Abuse Counselling in Altona, VIC

Photo of Dimitri Hawa, MA, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Dimitri Hawa
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Altona, VIC 3018
Dimitri has significant experience providing psychotherapy with adults. Areas of expertise include relationship issues, grief, depression, anxiety, anger management, neurodiverse challenges (ADHD/ASD), and, facilitating the process of psychological recovery from trauma and complex trauma (i., e childhood/adult abuse issues, domestic violence, family dysfunction, childhood neglect). Dimitri has worked as a private practice over several years, school psychologist, Victims of Crime, Transport Accident Commission (TAC), NDIS disability work, along with previous experience in the provision of psychological support in prison settings.
Dimitri has significant experience providing psychotherapy with adults. Areas of expertise include relationship issues, grief, depression, anxiety, anger management, neurodiverse challenges (ADHD/ASD), and, facilitating the process of psychological recovery from trauma and complex trauma (i., e childhood/adult abuse issues, domestic violence, family dysfunction, childhood neglect). Dimitri has worked as a private practice over several years, school psychologist, Victims of Crime, Transport Accident Commission (TAC), NDIS disability work, along with previous experience in the provision of psychological support in prison settings.
(03) 9007 2339 View (03) 9007 2339
Photo of Liam Hiney - Liam Hiney - The Connection Concept, Counsellor
Liam Hiney - The Connection Concept
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Altona, VIC 3018
I am an integrative Psychotherapist and Counsellor who aims to help my clients through the integration of evidence-based therapies. With experience in relational issues, childhood sexual abuse, life transitions, anxiety, trauma, and many other areas, I aim to work collaboratively with my clients to not just listen or offer advice but to work together towards sustainable change with empathy and compassions of my clients experiences within the world.
I am an integrative Psychotherapist and Counsellor who aims to help my clients through the integration of evidence-based therapies. With experience in relational issues, childhood sexual abuse, life transitions, anxiety, trauma, and many other areas, I aim to work collaboratively with my clients to not just listen or offer advice but to work together towards sustainable change with empathy and compassions of my clients experiences within the world.
(03) 8658 2174 View (03) 8658 2174
Photo of Melis Topsahin, ACA-L1, Counsellor
Melis Topsahin
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Altona, VIC 3018  (Online Only)
I particularly assist clients that require therapy in the areas of anxiety, substance abuse (other addictions), depression and relationship issues. My focus is on working with the client towards personal development and goal setting. Each client is so very unique, hence, requires a personal counselling approach that is catered entirely for them. As a therapist, i work with various approaches such as: CBT, ACT, humanistic approach and TRTP (trauma therapy) amongst many other(s).
I particularly assist clients that require therapy in the areas of anxiety, substance abuse (other addictions), depression and relationship issues. My focus is on working with the client towards personal development and goal setting. Each client is so very unique, hence, requires a personal counselling approach that is catered entirely for them. As a therapist, i work with various approaches such as: CBT, ACT, humanistic approach and TRTP (trauma therapy) amongst many other(s).
(02) 4504 0146 View (02) 4504 0146
Photo of Geetha Chetty, ACA-L4, Counsellor
Geetha Chetty
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Altona, VIC 3018
Hi, I'm Geetha! I come from a South African- Indian background and have a deep passion to serve others by empowering them to live their best lives. My expertise is working with youth, adults, and families from different socio-economic and cultural backgrounds. I've worked in correctional services, and various community sectors namely, disadvantaged and marginalised youth, AOD, homelessness, unemployment, sexual assault and family violence. I work with a wide range of psychological challenges including, trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, sleep issues, anger and addictions.
Hi, I'm Geetha! I come from a South African- Indian background and have a deep passion to serve others by empowering them to live their best lives. My expertise is working with youth, adults, and families from different socio-economic and cultural backgrounds. I've worked in correctional services, and various community sectors namely, disadvantaged and marginalised youth, AOD, homelessness, unemployment, sexual assault and family violence. I work with a wide range of psychological challenges including, trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, sleep issues, anger and addictions.
(03) 7302 2085 View (03) 7302 2085
Photo of Sylvia Collinetti, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Sylvia Collinetti
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Altona, VIC 3018
I have 25 years’ experience in public mental health and private practice. It is well established that the most important ingredient for any successful therapy is the therapeutic relationship which develops over time and helps you feel safe. I work with you to make sense of your unique story and the reasons you’re engaging in therapy. I start by understanding your early life experiences which impact your thinking patterns, emotions and behaviours from an emphatic and non-judgmental position. Therapy is embedded with compassion, tailored to meet your goals, from a strengths based position to empower your recovery journey.
I have 25 years’ experience in public mental health and private practice. It is well established that the most important ingredient for any successful therapy is the therapeutic relationship which develops over time and helps you feel safe. I work with you to make sense of your unique story and the reasons you’re engaging in therapy. I start by understanding your early life experiences which impact your thinking patterns, emotions and behaviours from an emphatic and non-judgmental position. Therapy is embedded with compassion, tailored to meet your goals, from a strengths based position to empower your recovery journey.
(03) 7003 2284 View (03) 7003 2284
Photo of Jess Bernardi, PsychD, MACPA, Psychologist
Jess Bernardi
Psychologist, PsychD, MACPA
Verified Verified
Altona, VIC 3018
I'm a Clinical Psychologist with experience treating individuals in a wide range of mental health settings. I tailor my clinical skills to meet the unique needs of each individual, ensuring that they benefit as much as possible from the therapeutic experience and achieve richer, fuller and more meaningful lives.
I'm a Clinical Psychologist with experience treating individuals in a wide range of mental health settings. I tailor my clinical skills to meet the unique needs of each individual, ensuring that they benefit as much as possible from the therapeutic experience and achieve richer, fuller and more meaningful lives.
(03) 9034 8481 View (03) 9034 8481

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Karen Sri Thomas, MC, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Karen Sri Thomas
Psychotherapist, MC, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Yarra, VIC 3141
You might be experiencing anxiety, stress, low self-esteem, depression, or grieving a loss. Perhaps you feel pressured or stuck and unable to be your true self, impacting your relationships with your partner, colleagues, classmates, or family members. Sometimes memories of family violence or childhood abuse can further complicate your situation, making you feel isolated and disconnected from others. It's important to know that you don't have to be with these challenges alone. Support for your emotional or psychological wellbeing and healing is available. Please contact me to see how I can help.
You might be experiencing anxiety, stress, low self-esteem, depression, or grieving a loss. Perhaps you feel pressured or stuck and unable to be your true self, impacting your relationships with your partner, colleagues, classmates, or family members. Sometimes memories of family violence or childhood abuse can further complicate your situation, making you feel isolated and disconnected from others. It's important to know that you don't have to be with these challenges alone. Support for your emotional or psychological wellbeing and healing is available. Please contact me to see how I can help.
(03) 7500 5598 View (03) 7500 5598
Photo of Rishi Sharma - Indus Therapy Consulting, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rishi Sharma - Indus Therapy Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000
AASW accredited Social Worker with experience working in foster care, parent support, substance use, adoption, family violence, forensics and mental health.
Finding yourself doing head miles, feeling hopeless or overwhelmed by recent changes in life? Ever feel that you are carrying the burden of the world on your shoulders since COVID came around? Do you no longer find joy in the things you used to enjoy or are unable to remember what life used to be like before COVID came around?Have you tried therapy before and didn’t feel understood? If you are a person of colour and struggle to find therapists who understand your culture, I hope to provide you with better service. Give us a call or leave an enquiry on the website and we will walk you through your journey to a better life.
AASW accredited Social Worker with experience working in foster care, parent support, substance use, adoption, family violence, forensics and mental health.
Finding yourself doing head miles, feeling hopeless or overwhelmed by recent changes in life? Ever feel that you are carrying the burden of the world on your shoulders since COVID came around? Do you no longer find joy in the things you used to enjoy or are unable to remember what life used to be like before COVID came around?Have you tried therapy before and didn’t feel understood? If you are a person of colour and struggle to find therapists who understand your culture, I hope to provide you with better service. Give us a call or leave an enquiry on the website and we will walk you through your journey to a better life.
(03) 8373 4649 View (03) 8373 4649
Photo of Sanctuary Space Counselling, ACA-L1, Counsellor
Sanctuary Space Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Maribyrnong, VIC 3032
Pam is a qualified counsellor with wealth of experience in the areas of addictions,trauma,mental health , domestic family violence and sexual assault and supervision. Pam also provides coaching,mentoring, debriefing support to navigate challenging situations and enhance the emotional,mental and general psychological wellbeing of individuals and their loved ones.With over 13 years of experience under her belt working through a trauma informed lens with clients,Pam is passionate about bringing hope through acceptance,value and belonging .
Pam is a qualified counsellor with wealth of experience in the areas of addictions,trauma,mental health , domestic family violence and sexual assault and supervision. Pam also provides coaching,mentoring, debriefing support to navigate challenging situations and enhance the emotional,mental and general psychological wellbeing of individuals and their loved ones.With over 13 years of experience under her belt working through a trauma informed lens with clients,Pam is passionate about bringing hope through acceptance,value and belonging .
(03) 7303 3702 View (03) 7303 3702
Photo of Robert McInnes, MA, ACA-L4, Counsellor
Robert McInnes
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000
I am a clinical counsellor with 18 years experience and specializing in couples conflict and in anger management, particularly those facing criminal charges, domestic, violence or intervention orders, providing court approved certificates. I use the latest techniques in attachment theory to work through couples issues.
I am a clinical counsellor with 18 years experience and specializing in couples conflict and in anger management, particularly those facing criminal charges, domestic, violence or intervention orders, providing court approved certificates. I use the latest techniques in attachment theory to work through couples issues.
(03) 9068 5478 View (03) 9068 5478
Photo of Carly Dober, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Carly Dober
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melbourne, VIC 3000
I work with people of various cultures and socioeconomic backgrounds in both specialist health services (justice, family violence), schools (from Prep to Year 12) and specialist mental health services (adult residential services). I also facilitate group wellbeing programs for individuals & businesses, and have co-facilitated group workshops focused on teaching people practical skills to manage distress. I work best with people who are ready to take what we discuss in session, and implement this in their lives. I am a Director on the board with Australian Association of Psychologists Incorporated (AAPi).
I work with people of various cultures and socioeconomic backgrounds in both specialist health services (justice, family violence), schools (from Prep to Year 12) and specialist mental health services (adult residential services). I also facilitate group wellbeing programs for individuals & businesses, and have co-facilitated group workshops focused on teaching people practical skills to manage distress. I work best with people who are ready to take what we discuss in session, and implement this in their lives. I am a Director on the board with Australian Association of Psychologists Incorporated (AAPi).
1300 286 125 View 1300 286 125
Photo of Yasmini Kedem, MA
Yasmini Kedem
MA
Verified Verified
Caulfield North, VIC 3161
I am a relationship & family counsellor licensed in Australia also working as a crisis supporter, art therapist, & life coach. I have assisted clients with depression, anxiety, grief, relationships, parenting, PTSD, careers, self-esteem, ADHD & domestic abuse. I also help migrants. My counselling is heart centred, empathetic, strength and evidence-based, trauma informed, and tailored to your requirements applying CBT, Positive Psychology, Humanism & Mindfulness through understanding attachment styles. It takes courage to seek fulfillment, and I am here to help you in that process. Looking forwards, see you soon!
I am a relationship & family counsellor licensed in Australia also working as a crisis supporter, art therapist, & life coach. I have assisted clients with depression, anxiety, grief, relationships, parenting, PTSD, careers, self-esteem, ADHD & domestic abuse. I also help migrants. My counselling is heart centred, empathetic, strength and evidence-based, trauma informed, and tailored to your requirements applying CBT, Positive Psychology, Humanism & Mindfulness through understanding attachment styles. It takes courage to seek fulfillment, and I am here to help you in that process. Looking forwards, see you soon!
(07) 5241 2345 View (07) 5241 2345
Photo of Melissa Jane Moss, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Melissa Jane Moss
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Caulfield South, VIC 3162
The Bodhi Tree Psychology works with a range of presentations such as: Trauma, PTSD, Dissociation, Childhood sexual abuse, Social/ Emotional/Mental/Spiritual and/or Physical abuse, Emotion-dysregulation such as Depression and/or Anxiety, Relationship issues (with self and/or others), Loss, Grief, Bereavement and more.
The Bodhi Tree Psychology was founded by Melissa Moss. Mel is a registered psychologist (AHPRA), a registered counsellor (ACA) and a certified clinical trauma practitioner in sensorimotor psychotherapy (CCTP-II). Mel uses compassionate inquiry whilst integrating a variety of evidenced-based and trauma informed humanistic, somatic and mindfulness approaches. This approach works to inspire self-awareness, develop self-acceptance, encourage deep healing and sustain Wellness.
The Bodhi Tree Psychology works with a range of presentations such as: Trauma, PTSD, Dissociation, Childhood sexual abuse, Social/ Emotional/Mental/Spiritual and/or Physical abuse, Emotion-dysregulation such as Depression and/or Anxiety, Relationship issues (with self and/or others), Loss, Grief, Bereavement and more.
The Bodhi Tree Psychology was founded by Melissa Moss. Mel is a registered psychologist (AHPRA), a registered counsellor (ACA) and a certified clinical trauma practitioner in sensorimotor psychotherapy (CCTP-II). Mel uses compassionate inquiry whilst integrating a variety of evidenced-based and trauma informed humanistic, somatic and mindfulness approaches. This approach works to inspire self-awareness, develop self-acceptance, encourage deep healing and sustain Wellness.
(03) 7003 2037 View (03) 7003 2037
Photo of Esin Toprak Newspace Psychology, MA, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Esin Toprak Newspace Psychology
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Caulfield, VIC 3162
Esin is a registered psychologist with over 14 years of experience working with adults in Australia and England. She has worked in various clinical settings, including primary care psychology within the UK’s National Health Service (NHS), domestic violence services, services for adult survivors of childhood trauma, and rehabilitation services, catering to individuals from all walks of life. Esin earned her Master's Degree in Applied Psychology (Clinical Psychology) from Victoria University.
Esin is a registered psychologist with over 14 years of experience working with adults in Australia and England. She has worked in various clinical settings, including primary care psychology within the UK’s National Health Service (NHS), domestic violence services, services for adult survivors of childhood trauma, and rehabilitation services, catering to individuals from all walks of life. Esin earned her Master's Degree in Applied Psychology (Clinical Psychology) from Victoria University.
(03) 7500 5974 View (03) 7500 5974
Photo of Jane Parkinson - Kind Connections - Counselling & Play Therapy , PACFA, Counsellor
Kind Connections - Counselling & Play Therapy
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Saint Kilda, VIC 3182
Waitlist for new clients
I have extensive experience in the FV sector supporting victim-survivors, & am excited to have added EMDR to my list of services.
As a Registered Play Therapist (APTA), I provide play therapy support for children aged 3 - 10 with a wide range of social, emotional & behavioural challenges. I am also a Family Violence Counsellor (PACFA Reg. Clinical), & an EMDR practitioner with a passion for supporting adoptive, foster & kinship care families. I provide counselling to adults impacted by complex trauma, as well as parent/caregiver victim-survivors of FV (especially when consent cannot be obtained for a child victim-survivor to access therapy). I can provide my services to both Self-Managed & Plan-managed individuals through the NDIS.
I have extensive experience in the FV sector supporting victim-survivors, & am excited to have added EMDR to my list of services.
As a Registered Play Therapist (APTA), I provide play therapy support for children aged 3 - 10 with a wide range of social, emotional & behavioural challenges. I am also a Family Violence Counsellor (PACFA Reg. Clinical), & an EMDR practitioner with a passion for supporting adoptive, foster & kinship care families. I provide counselling to adults impacted by complex trauma, as well as parent/caregiver victim-survivors of FV (especially when consent cannot be obtained for a child victim-survivor to access therapy). I can provide my services to both Self-Managed & Plan-managed individuals through the NDIS.
(03) 7003 2207 View (03) 7003 2207
Photo of Samantha Duroska, MSc, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Samantha Duroska
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Brunswick, VIC 3056
Currently taking on new clients. / Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or struggling with the aftermath of trauma? You’re not alone, and I’m here to help. As a Clinical Psychologist, I guide clients through anxiety and trauma, including experiences like accidents, relational trauma, sexual assault, and childhood abuse. My focus also includes phobias, OCD, panic disorders, and anxiety. I am dedicated to working with adults who want to navigate challenging emotions, situations, or memories. Together, we can work towards finding a sense of self, inner peace, and greater life satisfaction.
Currently taking on new clients. / Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or struggling with the aftermath of trauma? You’re not alone, and I’m here to help. As a Clinical Psychologist, I guide clients through anxiety and trauma, including experiences like accidents, relational trauma, sexual assault, and childhood abuse. My focus also includes phobias, OCD, panic disorders, and anxiety. I am dedicated to working with adults who want to navigate challenging emotions, situations, or memories. Together, we can work towards finding a sense of self, inner peace, and greater life satisfaction.
(03) 8338 1208 View (03) 8338 1208
Photo of Cheyne R Bull, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Cheyne R Bull
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Carlton, VIC 3053
In this time my work has focused on developmental and complex trauma, family violence, adoptee experiences and men and women’s mental health.
I am a registered Psychologist who is passionate about creating safe and transformative therapeutic spaces where people will feel deeply heard and respected, and where together, we will work to facilitate healing, growth and purpose, always based on your individual needs, barriers, aspirations and experiences. My work is grounded in anti-oppressive principles, recognising that individual wellbeing is shaped by the society we live in, our own personal circumstances, and the intersecting identities with which we walk through the world.
In this time my work has focused on developmental and complex trauma, family violence, adoptee experiences and men and women’s mental health.
I am a registered Psychologist who is passionate about creating safe and transformative therapeutic spaces where people will feel deeply heard and respected, and where together, we will work to facilitate healing, growth and purpose, always based on your individual needs, barriers, aspirations and experiences. My work is grounded in anti-oppressive principles, recognising that individual wellbeing is shaped by the society we live in, our own personal circumstances, and the intersecting identities with which we walk through the world.
(03) 9118 9090 View (03) 9118 9090
Photo of Meg Kemp - Good Chemistry Sex and Relationship therapy, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Good Chemistry Sex and Relationship therapy
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Yarraville, VIC 3013
I work with low or mismatched desire, painful sex or vaginismus, difficulty achieving orgasm, sexual trauma or abuse, communication and consent, Sexual anxiety or performance anxiety, polyamory and non-monogamy relationships, sexual addiction or compulsivity, Masturbation/solo sex concerns, erotic intimacy and pleasure enhancement, sexuality and disability.
I specialise in working with individuals, couples, and polycules from all walks of life and identities who are looking to heal their attachment styles, work on communication, rebuild their relationship, and or heal from a break-up. If you want to explore sexual functioning concerns such as; erectile dysfunction, orgasm difficulties, painful penetration and/or enhance intimacy, or perhaps explore sexuality/sexual/gender identity we can work through this in a safe space. Deeply explore who you are and what you need to build strong and enduring connections and relationships that thrive!
I work with low or mismatched desire, painful sex or vaginismus, difficulty achieving orgasm, sexual trauma or abuse, communication and consent, Sexual anxiety or performance anxiety, polyamory and non-monogamy relationships, sexual addiction or compulsivity, Masturbation/solo sex concerns, erotic intimacy and pleasure enhancement, sexuality and disability.
I specialise in working with individuals, couples, and polycules from all walks of life and identities who are looking to heal their attachment styles, work on communication, rebuild their relationship, and or heal from a break-up. If you want to explore sexual functioning concerns such as; erectile dysfunction, orgasm difficulties, painful penetration and/or enhance intimacy, or perhaps explore sexuality/sexual/gender identity we can work through this in a safe space. Deeply explore who you are and what you need to build strong and enduring connections and relationships that thrive!
(03) 8104 9283 View (03) 8104 9283
Photo of Michael Diab, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Michael Diab
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Richmond, VIC 3121
I work with anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Family Violence, Personality Disorders, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Body image difficulties, Workplace injury.
My practice has a strong focus on increasing well-being and resilience through a positive psychology perspective. This strengths-based approach helps to empower clients to use their individual qualities to overcome life's challenges drawing on strengths to create meaningful long-term change. Clients who are experiencing difficult life transitions and adjustment challenges would be supported with energetic and empathetic responding. I have experience in group therapy, Forensic Risk Assessments, Men's Behaviour Change programs, Relationship difficulties and Anger management. I look to help you become the best version of yourself.
I work with anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Family Violence, Personality Disorders, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Body image difficulties, Workplace injury.
My practice has a strong focus on increasing well-being and resilience through a positive psychology perspective. This strengths-based approach helps to empower clients to use their individual qualities to overcome life's challenges drawing on strengths to create meaningful long-term change. Clients who are experiencing difficult life transitions and adjustment challenges would be supported with energetic and empathetic responding. I have experience in group therapy, Forensic Risk Assessments, Men's Behaviour Change programs, Relationship difficulties and Anger management. I look to help you become the best version of yourself.
(03) 7020 2795 View (03) 7020 2795
Photo of Desanka Desa Ogrizovic, PACFA, Counsellor
Desanka Desa Ogrizovic
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Albans, VIC 3021  (Online Only)
I have experience in: Trauma/DV; Bariatric (weight loss surgery) support pre-op and post-op counselling guidance and psychoeducation around mindset,etc; Generalist counselling; Narcissistic abuse; Early parenting issues; Relationship issues; Teenage life issues; Depression/anxiety; support letters; workshops on developing intuition and narcissistic abuse.
As women in today’s society we need to wear many hats, and be in many places, juggling work, with making time for your personal relationships and life in general. This can be exhausting, challenging, but also rewarding. In times of need we need to look after ourselves through love and self-care. We need guidance from time to time, and a safe space to unwind. I help women become empowered, validated and heard. I have personal life experience surrounding trauma, which has enabled me to support women from all walks of life, through a holistic lens.
I have experience in: Trauma/DV; Bariatric (weight loss surgery) support pre-op and post-op counselling guidance and psychoeducation around mindset,etc; Generalist counselling; Narcissistic abuse; Early parenting issues; Relationship issues; Teenage life issues; Depression/anxiety; support letters; workshops on developing intuition and narcissistic abuse.
As women in today’s society we need to wear many hats, and be in many places, juggling work, with making time for your personal relationships and life in general. This can be exhausting, challenging, but also rewarding. In times of need we need to look after ourselves through love and self-care. We need guidance from time to time, and a safe space to unwind. I help women become empowered, validated and heard. I have personal life experience surrounding trauma, which has enabled me to support women from all walks of life, through a holistic lens.
(03) 7303 3883 View (03) 7303 3883

See more therapy options for Altona

Domestic Abuse Counsellors

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

Leaving an abusive relationship requires tremendous courage, so survivors in treatment should recognise 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.