Domestic Abuse Counselling in Greater Melbourne (Metropolitan), VIC

Photo of Karen Sri Thomas, MC, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Karen Sri Thomas
Psychotherapist, MC, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brighton, VIC 3186
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 Alex Sutherland, MSc, PACFA, Counsellor
Alex Sutherland
Counsellor, MSc, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brunswick, VIC 3056
I believe therapy is a collaborative process and am led by where the client is and what they might be seeking in terms of goals or support, if this is known. I am sex worker friendly, LGBTIQA+SB inclusive, kink and poly aware and gender affirming. My specialist areas are working in topics of sex and relationships, including sexual pain and dysfunctions. I am experienced with working with trauma and have worked with survivors of family violence and a variety of marginalised and diverse communities including different cultural backgrounds.
I believe therapy is a collaborative process and am led by where the client is and what they might be seeking in terms of goals or support, if this is known. I am sex worker friendly, LGBTIQA+SB inclusive, kink and poly aware and gender affirming. My specialist areas are working in topics of sex and relationships, including sexual pain and dysfunctions. I am experienced with working with trauma and have worked with survivors of family violence and a variety of marginalised and diverse communities including different cultural backgrounds.
(03) 9111 5334 View (03) 9111 5334
Photo of Nidhi Khanna, PACFA, Counsellor
Nidhi Khanna
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burwood, VIC 3125
Hi! I am a certified practising English and Hindi-speaking Counsellor with experience in working with various presentations, including but not limited to stress, anxiety, depression, perinatal depression, trauma and grief. I speak English and Hindi and also understand Urdu, Punjabi, Marathi and Gujarati. I have extensive experience in supporting family violence victims/ survivors, immigrants, refugees, asylum seekers, and carers. I also facilitate Groups for people with a shared lived experience. My services are available in Burwood, Victoria and Online.
Hi! I am a certified practising English and Hindi-speaking Counsellor with experience in working with various presentations, including but not limited to stress, anxiety, depression, perinatal depression, trauma and grief. I speak English and Hindi and also understand Urdu, Punjabi, Marathi and Gujarati. I have extensive experience in supporting family violence victims/ survivors, immigrants, refugees, asylum seekers, and carers. I also facilitate Groups for people with a shared lived experience. My services are available in Burwood, Victoria and Online.
(03) 8771 5140 View (03) 8771 5140
Photo of Ruku Srivastava, Psychologist
Ruku Srivastava
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Doncaster, VIC 3108
Ruku’s areas of interest: Anxiety and anxiety-related issues, Trauma and PTSD, Intergenerational trauma, Cultural issues, Depression, ADHD support, Stress management and burnout, Self-Esteem/Self-confidence and Family/Domestic Violence.
Ruku is passionate about working with clients from a diverse range of cultural, social and economic backgrounds. Her practice is empathetic, culturally responsive and trauma informed. She has extensive experience in community and welfare settings and is able to provide psychological assessment and treatment for a wide range of issues. Ruku uses Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Solution-focused therapy and Mindfulness-based interventions to assist individuals to achieve their goals and increase overall wellbeing. Ruku can provide therapy in English and Hindi.
Ruku’s areas of interest: Anxiety and anxiety-related issues, Trauma and PTSD, Intergenerational trauma, Cultural issues, Depression, ADHD support, Stress management and burnout, Self-Esteem/Self-confidence and Family/Domestic Violence.
Ruku is passionate about working with clients from a diverse range of cultural, social and economic backgrounds. Her practice is empathetic, culturally responsive and trauma informed. She has extensive experience in community and welfare settings and is able to provide psychological assessment and treatment for a wide range of issues. Ruku uses Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Solution-focused therapy and Mindfulness-based interventions to assist individuals to achieve their goals and increase overall wellbeing. Ruku can provide therapy in English and Hindi.
(03) 8771 4030 View (03) 8771 4030
Photo of Rishi Sharma - Indus Therapy Consulting, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rishi Sharma - Indus Therapy Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
Balwyn, VIC 3103
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) 4159 4409 View (03) 4159 4409
Photo of Rachel O'meara, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Rachel O'meara
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Rachel is a compassionate Psychologist dedicated to providing support to individuals across the lifespan, from children to adolescents and adults, who are navigating a variety of challenges. With experience in Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Trauma and Stressor Related Disorders, family violence and physical disabilities, Rachel brings a comprehensive approach to her practice. She believes in the power of strengths-based intervention plans tailored to each person’s unique needs, fostering a sense of empowerment and agency.
Rachel is a compassionate Psychologist dedicated to providing support to individuals across the lifespan, from children to adolescents and adults, who are navigating a variety of challenges. With experience in Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Trauma and Stressor Related Disorders, family violence and physical disabilities, Rachel brings a comprehensive approach to her practice. She believes in the power of strengths-based intervention plans tailored to each person’s unique needs, fostering a sense of empowerment and agency.
(03) 7003 2714 View (03) 7003 2714
Photo of Luke Bamford, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Luke Bamford
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Brunswick, VIC 3056
I like the therapy room to be warm and welcoming. I enjoy working with teens and adults struggling with a range of issues, no matter how complex or longstanding. I am also culturally sensitive and LGBTIQA+ inclusive. I have experience working with issues like depression, anxiety, stress, anger, PTSD and trauma, grief and loss, domestic violence, interpersonal/relationship issues, chronic pain/illness and neurodiverse people (ADHD/ASD).
I like the therapy room to be warm and welcoming. I enjoy working with teens and adults struggling with a range of issues, no matter how complex or longstanding. I am also culturally sensitive and LGBTIQA+ inclusive. I have experience working with issues like depression, anxiety, stress, anger, PTSD and trauma, grief and loss, domestic violence, interpersonal/relationship issues, chronic pain/illness and neurodiverse people (ADHD/ASD).
(03) 7003 2227 View (03) 7003 2227
Photo of Dajana Sprajcer-Simeunovic, ACA-L3, Counsellor
Dajana Sprajcer-Simeunovic
Counsellor, ACA-L3
Verified Verified
Moorabbin, VIC 3189
I am a fully qualified and registered counsellor with over 15 years of experience in the field of trauma, crisis counselling and supporting victims of crime. I have worked with individuals and families impacted by family violence, childhood trauma, addiction, grief and loss and relationship difficulties. If you feel stressed, anxious, sad or experience difficulties in coping with life challenges, supportive psychotherapy can be helpful. It may assist in gaining better understanding of yourself and how past experiences may affect your current behaviour, emotions, physical and mental health, and relationships.
I am a fully qualified and registered counsellor with over 15 years of experience in the field of trauma, crisis counselling and supporting victims of crime. I have worked with individuals and families impacted by family violence, childhood trauma, addiction, grief and loss and relationship difficulties. If you feel stressed, anxious, sad or experience difficulties in coping with life challenges, supportive psychotherapy can be helpful. It may assist in gaining better understanding of yourself and how past experiences may affect your current behaviour, emotions, physical and mental health, and relationships.
(03) 7500 5862 View (03) 7500 5862
Photo of Dimitri Hawa, MA, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Dimitri Hawa
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Spotswood, VIC 3015
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 Meg Kemp - Good Chemistry Sex and Relationship therapy, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Good Chemistry Sex and Relationship therapy
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Reservoir, VIC 3073  (Online Only)
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 Esin Toprak Newspace Psychology, MA, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Esin Toprak Newspace Psychology
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Bentleigh, VIC 3204
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 Pat Favorito - Reconnect Healing, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Reconnect Healing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Ivanhoe, VIC 3079
People seek Pat's counselling and therapeutic healing services for a variety of reasons incl: • negative experiences intruding upon life • difficulties coping panic or anxiety • feeling low or depression • sadness and grief • difficulties in relationships including break-ups • experiences of violence or abuse • Trauma e.g. car accident, a significant injury, illness, or event • low self-esteem • phobias and fears • chronic pain or fatigue • negative patterns of behaviour • medical traumas • complex trauma & PTSD • LGBTIQ+ transitioning / coming out • job loss • midlife stresses • retirement • feeling dissatisfied with life.
People seek Pat's counselling and therapeutic healing services for a variety of reasons incl: • negative experiences intruding upon life • difficulties coping panic or anxiety • feeling low or depression • sadness and grief • difficulties in relationships including break-ups • experiences of violence or abuse • Trauma e.g. car accident, a significant injury, illness, or event • low self-esteem • phobias and fears • chronic pain or fatigue • negative patterns of behaviour • medical traumas • complex trauma & PTSD • LGBTIQ+ transitioning / coming out • job loss • midlife stresses • retirement • feeling dissatisfied with life.
(03) 8338 1743 View (03) 8338 1743
Photo of Claudia G, AThR, Psychotherapist
Claudia G
Psychotherapist, AThR
Verified Verified
Fairfield, VIC 3078
Claudia works as an art therapist supporting victim/survivors of family violence.
Claudia facilitates group, individual and dyadic art therapy sessions with families, children, infants and adults. Claudia focuses on person - centered, strength based, and trauma informed perspectives. She integrates elements from a range of theory into her practice. Her interests include trauma research, neuroscience, holistic, and psychodynamic therapies such as gestalt therapy and Internal Family Systems Therapy. Claudia has most experience working with individuals experiencing trauma/ (symptoms), family violence, eating disorders, cPTSD/PTSD, sexual assault, with children, and Neurodivergent individuals.
Claudia works as an art therapist supporting victim/survivors of family violence.
Claudia facilitates group, individual and dyadic art therapy sessions with families, children, infants and adults. Claudia focuses on person - centered, strength based, and trauma informed perspectives. She integrates elements from a range of theory into her practice. Her interests include trauma research, neuroscience, holistic, and psychodynamic therapies such as gestalt therapy and Internal Family Systems Therapy. Claudia has most experience working with individuals experiencing trauma/ (symptoms), family violence, eating disorders, cPTSD/PTSD, sexual assault, with children, and Neurodivergent individuals.
(03) 7003 2134 View (03) 7003 2134
Photo of Liam Hiney - Liam Hiney - The Connection Concept, Counsellor
Liam Hiney - The Connection Concept
Counsellor
Verified Verified
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 Jaz Forrester - Core Trauma Therapy, PACFA, Counsellor
Core Trauma Therapy
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Brunswick East, VIC 3057  (Online Only)
I invite adults of all gender and cultural diversities living in Australia to reach out for support. My areas of focus include substance use, mental health, complex trauma, victims of crime, sexual assault, domestic violence, grief & loss, compassion fatigue, burnout, sexuality, and gender. In your therapy sessions my goal is to help you lead a life aligned with your values by integrating clinical evidence-based practices with practical knowledge. I take a personable approach, tailoring each session to your individual strengths and unique goals.
I invite adults of all gender and cultural diversities living in Australia to reach out for support. My areas of focus include substance use, mental health, complex trauma, victims of crime, sexual assault, domestic violence, grief & loss, compassion fatigue, burnout, sexuality, and gender. In your therapy sessions my goal is to help you lead a life aligned with your values by integrating clinical evidence-based practices with practical knowledge. I take a personable approach, tailoring each session to your individual strengths and unique goals.
(03) 7003 2361 View (03) 7003 2361
Photo of Ash Ruskin, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ash Ruskin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brunswick, VIC 3056
With a background in individual and group counselling, family therapy, working with victim/survivors and perpetrators of family violence, suicide crisis support, and disability work, Ash is passionate about empowering individual to work towards their goals and embrace their authentic selves.
Ash (she/her) is an accredited social worker and therapist who works with young people and adults from diverse backgrounds and identities, practicing on unceded Wurundjeri country. She specialises in supporting people impacted by various life challenges and often works with people who have experienced anxiety, depression, childhood trauma, family violence, alcohol and drug issues, low self-esteem, suicidal ideation, relationship breakdowns and more. She also supports people navigating life transitions and people within the queer community.
With a background in individual and group counselling, family therapy, working with victim/survivors and perpetrators of family violence, suicide crisis support, and disability work, Ash is passionate about empowering individual to work towards their goals and embrace their authentic selves.
Ash (she/her) is an accredited social worker and therapist who works with young people and adults from diverse backgrounds and identities, practicing on unceded Wurundjeri country. She specialises in supporting people impacted by various life challenges and often works with people who have experienced anxiety, depression, childhood trauma, family violence, alcohol and drug issues, low self-esteem, suicidal ideation, relationship breakdowns and more. She also supports people navigating life transitions and people within the queer community.
(03) 8338 1602 View (03) 8338 1602
Christina Pitter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AASW
Verified Verified
Coburg, VIC 3058
Christina has 20 years experience as a mental health social worker and psychotherapist. She works with people whose lives have been affected by childhood & adult trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family violence, and the impact of identity, family, ethnic and cultural issues on mental health. She has a special interest in supporting clients with chronic and physical health and disability issues. Christina hopes that through therapy, people can develop a greater awareness of their emotions, thoughts, strengths and goals and an overall improvement in their wellbeing and relationships with others.
Christina has 20 years experience as a mental health social worker and psychotherapist. She works with people whose lives have been affected by childhood & adult trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family violence, and the impact of identity, family, ethnic and cultural issues on mental health. She has a special interest in supporting clients with chronic and physical health and disability issues. Christina hopes that through therapy, people can develop a greater awareness of their emotions, thoughts, strengths and goals and an overall improvement in their wellbeing and relationships with others.
(02) 4504 0245 View (02) 4504 0245
Photo of Paula-Jane Buckland, PACFA, Counsellor
Paula-Jane Buckland
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Paula-Jane specializes in complex trauma, working with adults who are victim/survivors of childhood sexual assault, and sex and intimacy education for NDIS participants.
Paula-Jane is an accredited mental health counsellor and sex therapist working with individuals and intimate couples; providing care for a diverse range of issues and concerns. The greatest joy of her role is seeing people leaving her care feeling content, lighter and calm within themselves and hope for their future. Paula-Jane is committed to holding a space that is calm accepting trusting safe and welcoming, allowing you to feel at ease and move at a pace comfortable to you. Welcoming all people from different communities, lifestyles and abilities.
Paula-Jane specializes in complex trauma, working with adults who are victim/survivors of childhood sexual assault, and sex and intimacy education for NDIS participants.
Paula-Jane is an accredited mental health counsellor and sex therapist working with individuals and intimate couples; providing care for a diverse range of issues and concerns. The greatest joy of her role is seeing people leaving her care feeling content, lighter and calm within themselves and hope for their future. Paula-Jane is committed to holding a space that is calm accepting trusting safe and welcoming, allowing you to feel at ease and move at a pace comfortable to you. Welcoming all people from different communities, lifestyles and abilities.
(03) 8338 4767 View (03) 8338 4767
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
Photo of Robert McInnes, MA, ACA-L4, Counsellor
Robert McInnes
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Glen Waverley, VIC 3150
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
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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.