Domestic Abuse Counselling in Hawthorn East, VIC

Kylie Dickers
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Hawthorn East, VIC 3123
Kylie has experience working with first responders, veterans and, people experiencing family violence. She has also previously worked in a private psychiatric hospital developing and delivering group therapy programs to adults with a wide range of clinical needs. Areas of psychological counselling expertise and experience include grief and loss, stress, work-related problems, Depression, Anxiety, self-esteem issues, sleep difficulties, anger management, trauma, deliberate self-harm and suicidality as well as providing counselling and support to individuals experiencing, at risk of, or recovering from domestic or family violence.
Kylie has experience working with first responders, veterans and, people experiencing family violence. She has also previously worked in a private psychiatric hospital developing and delivering group therapy programs to adults with a wide range of clinical needs. Areas of psychological counselling expertise and experience include grief and loss, stress, work-related problems, Depression, Anxiety, self-esteem issues, sleep difficulties, anger management, trauma, deliberate self-harm and suicidality as well as providing counselling and support to individuals experiencing, at risk of, or recovering from domestic or family violence.
(03) 8657 4165 View (03) 8657 4165
Photo of Michael Diab, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Michael Diab
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Hawthorn East, VIC 3123
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 Dawn Vincent, AMHSW, Counsellor
Dawn Vincent
Counsellor, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Hawthorn East, VIC 3123
Are you experiencing low mood, finding it hard to stop worrying and feeling dissatisfied with the quality of your relationships or unhappy with your personal or working life? With the busyness of our lives and the pressures and demands we all face daily, our emotional wellbeing is an area which can be neglected. However, there comes a time when we know that it is time to stop and take some action to turn our life around. Counselling with me can help you with the skills and strategies you need to make changes and choices which will allow you to find the satisfaction you seek in the key areas of your life.
Are you experiencing low mood, finding it hard to stop worrying and feeling dissatisfied with the quality of your relationships or unhappy with your personal or working life? With the busyness of our lives and the pressures and demands we all face daily, our emotional wellbeing is an area which can be neglected. However, there comes a time when we know that it is time to stop and take some action to turn our life around. Counselling with me can help you with the skills and strategies you need to make changes and choices which will allow you to find the satisfaction you seek in the key areas of your life.
(03) 9068 5948 View (03) 9068 5948
Photo of Jessica Elberg, MA, AMHSW, Counsellor
Jessica Elberg
Counsellor, MA, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Hawthorn East, VIC 3123
Feeling overwhelmed by life? I am a warm, skilled and experienced counsellor, who will support you through life's challenges, I can help you deal with a broad range of concerns, supporting you to examine your core beliefs and understanding of issues affecting you. Adjusting thoughts, feelings and behaviours through evidence-based counselling techniques creates opportunities for authentic growth and long-lasting change. I will support you in adopting and maintaining effective approaches to any difficulties that your'e experiencing, creating a renewed sense of optimism and well-being.
Feeling overwhelmed by life? I am a warm, skilled and experienced counsellor, who will support you through life's challenges, I can help you deal with a broad range of concerns, supporting you to examine your core beliefs and understanding of issues affecting you. Adjusting thoughts, feelings and behaviours through evidence-based counselling techniques creates opportunities for authentic growth and long-lasting change. I will support you in adopting and maintaining effective approaches to any difficulties that your'e experiencing, creating a renewed sense of optimism and well-being.
(03) 7003 2920 View (03) 7003 2920
Photo of Chris Franck, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Chris Franck
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Hawthorn East, VIC 3123  (Online Only)
I am passionate in helping people of all genders and standing in life, with a focus on men in need of direction in life, recover from traumatic events and adjustment to life challenges and changes, struggling with high prevalence disorders and AOD / changes related to addictions. Being a Veteran myself, I strongly align practices for people in active or former services.
I am passionate in helping people of all genders and standing in life, with a focus on men in need of direction in life, recover from traumatic events and adjustment to life challenges and changes, struggling with high prevalence disorders and AOD / changes related to addictions. Being a Veteran myself, I strongly align practices for people in active or former services.
(07) 5451 4034 View (07) 5451 4034

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Karen Sri Thomas, MC, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Karen Sri Thomas
Psychotherapist, MC, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Malvern, VIC 3144
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 Elisha Ebdon, AMHSW, Psychotherapist
Elisha Ebdon
Psychotherapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Camberwell, VIC 3124
I regularly receive referrals relating to family violence, sexual assault, victims of crime as well as military, health professional and emergency service related occupations.
My name is Elisha Ebdon and I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker and Psychotherapist. I offer counseling and psychotherapy to people who are experiencing emotional, relational and mental health related difficulties. I have a particular interest in working with people who are experiencing difficulties as a result of past or recent experiences of trauma, as well as anxiety and depression symptoms.
I regularly receive referrals relating to family violence, sexual assault, victims of crime as well as military, health professional and emergency service related occupations.
My name is Elisha Ebdon and I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker and Psychotherapist. I offer counseling and psychotherapy to people who are experiencing emotional, relational and mental health related difficulties. I have a particular interest in working with people who are experiencing difficulties as a result of past or recent experiences of trauma, as well as anxiety and depression symptoms.
(03) 9068 5077 View (03) 9068 5077
Photo of Jenny Zhang, ACA-L2, Psychotherapist
Jenny Zhang
Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Richmond, VIC 3121
Hi, my name is Jenny, I am a bilingual (English and 国语) counsellor specialising in Domestic Abuse and Addiction with a court-approved qualification. I have extensive experience in supporting both women and men in family violence situations, and my passion particularly lies in working with people from Asian cultural backgrounds. With my knowledge and a good understanding of Asian culture, I offer valuable service to my clients and empower both women and men in need to improve the quality of their lives and fulfil their potential.
Hi, my name is Jenny, I am a bilingual (English and 国语) counsellor specialising in Domestic Abuse and Addiction with a court-approved qualification. I have extensive experience in supporting both women and men in family violence situations, and my passion particularly lies in working with people from Asian cultural backgrounds. With my knowledge and a good understanding of Asian culture, I offer valuable service to my clients and empower both women and men in need to improve the quality of their lives and fulfil their potential.
(03) 7003 2491 View (03) 7003 2491
Photo of Emma Gyeonghyang Song, ACA-L4, Counsellor
Emma Gyeonghyang Song
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Surrey Hills, VIC 3127
Melbourne Counsellor in English and Korean (멜번한국심리상담사), multi-cultural couples 부부, 관계, anger, anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, EAP: Employment Assisstance Program:직장인심리상담, , VOCAT: Victim of Crime 피해자보상, 가정폭력. I am an engaging and client-centred counsellor and specialise in providing effective therapeutic support to multicultural background Asian migrants. I tailor sessions to meet the uniquely personal needs and circumstances of each client . I help my clients to focus on what they would like to be different in their lives. Hoped-for outcomes are explored, and immediate steps taken to change or manage any issues and concerns.
Melbourne Counsellor in English and Korean (멜번한국심리상담사), multi-cultural couples 부부, 관계, anger, anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, EAP: Employment Assisstance Program:직장인심리상담, , VOCAT: Victim of Crime 피해자보상, 가정폭력. I am an engaging and client-centred counsellor and specialise in providing effective therapeutic support to multicultural background Asian migrants. I tailor sessions to meet the uniquely personal needs and circumstances of each client . I help my clients to focus on what they would like to be different in their lives. Hoped-for outcomes are explored, and immediate steps taken to change or manage any issues and concerns.
(03) 9069 9451 View (03) 9069 9451
Photo of Nicki Paull, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Nicki Paull
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toorak, VIC 3142
Hello. If you’re searching for a new and effective way of coping with stress, burnout, anxiety or complex trauma recovery, third-wave psychology might be the secret ingredient you’re looking for (mindfulness combined with traditional talk therapy). Maybe you’re suffering the horrible confusion and pain of narcissistic abuse or bullying. I can help. I have lived experience and in-depth understanding of what you’re going through. I’ve published a book, a podcast, blog and recently a short article in Australian Counselling Journal.
Hello. If you’re searching for a new and effective way of coping with stress, burnout, anxiety or complex trauma recovery, third-wave psychology might be the secret ingredient you’re looking for (mindfulness combined with traditional talk therapy). Maybe you’re suffering the horrible confusion and pain of narcissistic abuse or bullying. I can help. I have lived experience and in-depth understanding of what you’re going through. I’ve published a book, a podcast, blog and recently a short article in Australian Counselling Journal.
(03) 4320 5004 View (03) 4320 5004
Photo of Rishi Sharma - Indus Therapy Consulting, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rishi Sharma - Indus Therapy Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
Camberwell, VIC 3124
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
Malvern, VIC 3144
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 Claudia G, AThR, Psychotherapist
Claudia G
Psychotherapist, AThR
Verified Verified
Malvern, VIC 3144
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 Jane Lumley - People Psychology, PsyBA - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Jane Lumley - People Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Toorak, VIC 3142
Jane has experience counselling clients and can help you with: Emotional Dysregulation Counselling for Trauma Anxiety Depression Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) Divorce Domestic Abuse Domestic Violence Emotional Disturbance Parenting Peer Relationships Self-Esteem Self-Harming Sexual Abuse Sexual Assault Sleep or Insomnia Stress Trauma and PTSD (Post.
Jane is an AHPRA registered psychologist who provides psychological counselling and support for children (12 years or older), teenagers/adolescents and adults. Jane offers a warm, friendly, and respectful client- centred approach. She offers evidenced based treatment that is tailored to each client to assist with a wide range of presenting issues including depression, stress, anxiety, adjustment difficulties, trauma, grief and loss. Jane has experience in: Child Community Health settings Sexual Assault Counselling Psychiatric Inpatient care Counselling for general psychological problems Jane can provide psychologist reports.
Jane has experience counselling clients and can help you with: Emotional Dysregulation Counselling for Trauma Anxiety Depression Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) Divorce Domestic Abuse Domestic Violence Emotional Disturbance Parenting Peer Relationships Self-Esteem Self-Harming Sexual Abuse Sexual Assault Sleep or Insomnia Stress Trauma and PTSD (Post.
Jane is an AHPRA registered psychologist who provides psychological counselling and support for children (12 years or older), teenagers/adolescents and adults. Jane offers a warm, friendly, and respectful client- centred approach. She offers evidenced based treatment that is tailored to each client to assist with a wide range of presenting issues including depression, stress, anxiety, adjustment difficulties, trauma, grief and loss. Jane has experience in: Child Community Health settings Sexual Assault Counselling Psychiatric Inpatient care Counselling for general psychological problems Jane can provide psychologist reports.
(03) 7003 2782 View (03) 7003 2782
Photo of Suzanne Klotz - People Psychology, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Suzanne Klotz - People Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Toorak, VIC 3142
Get help by seeing Suzanne, who has extensive experience with: Anxiety, Panic Attacks & Anxiety Stress, Phobias (Fear of specific things / situations), Depression, Grief & Loss, Bereavement, Relationship Issues, Couples Counselling, Marriage Counselling, Premarital Counselling, Workplace Stress, Alcohol Abuse & Dependency, PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), Trauma, Adjustment Disorder, ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) & ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder), Adoption Issues, Anger Management, Bipolar Disorder (BD), Career Guidance, Chronic Pain, Codependency Disorder & Divorce Counselling
Get help by seeing Suzanne, who has extensive experience with: Anxiety, Panic Attacks & Anxiety Stress, Phobias (Fear of specific things / situations), Depression, Grief & Loss, Bereavement, Relationship Issues, Couples Counselling, Marriage Counselling, Premarital Counselling, Workplace Stress, Alcohol Abuse & Dependency, PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), Trauma, Adjustment Disorder, ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) & ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder), Adoption Issues, Anger Management, Bipolar Disorder (BD), Career Guidance, Chronic Pain, Codependency Disorder & Divorce Counselling
(03) 7003 2585 View (03) 7003 2585
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 Lital Fee, MA, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Lital Fee
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Malvern, VIC 3144
Lital is a qualified counsellor with extensive experience working with families and couples who have experienced trauma, family violence, depression and anxiety and mental health related issues. She works from a client-centered, strengths-based approach and provides a safe and supportive therapeutic environment for clients to work through their issues.
Lital is a qualified counsellor with extensive experience working with families and couples who have experienced trauma, family violence, depression and anxiety and mental health related issues. She works from a client-centered, strengths-based approach and provides a safe and supportive therapeutic environment for clients to work through their issues.
(03) 9111 5330 View (03) 9111 5330
Photo of Asha Padisetti - Mindful Counselling Australia, ACA-L3, Psychotherapist
Mindful Counselling Australia
Psychotherapist, ACA-L3
Verified Verified
Malvern, VIC 3144
Life can be challenging at times. When we are faced with challenges we may feel alone, 'stuck', confused or feel that our well-being is being compromised. I work with children, adolescents and adults struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, grief , loss or trauma, or are experiencing domestic violence. At the same juncture, you may want some help overcoming anxiety when faced with a job interview or an exam. By working within the therapy framework, clients learn to understand themselves better and see what is needed to become empowered in their own lives.
Life can be challenging at times. When we are faced with challenges we may feel alone, 'stuck', confused or feel that our well-being is being compromised. I work with children, adolescents and adults struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, grief , loss or trauma, or are experiencing domestic violence. At the same juncture, you may want some help overcoming anxiety when faced with a job interview or an exam. By working within the therapy framework, clients learn to understand themselves better and see what is needed to become empowered in their own lives.
(03) 5911 3014 View (03) 5911 3014
Photo of Leigh Milne - People Psychology, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Leigh Milne - People Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Camberwell, VIC 3124
Get help by seeing Leigh, who has extensive experience with: Trauma & PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Fears, Phobias & Panic / Social Anxiety, Grief & Loss, Mood Disorders, Coping Skills, Dissociative Disorders (DD), Sexual Abuse & Sexual Assault, Domestic Abuse, Domestic Violence & Coercive Control Weight Loss & Binge Eating Eating Disorders Body Dysmorphia OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) Exercise Motivation & Sports Psychology / Performance Chronic Pain & Somatic Illness Low Self Esteem & Confidence Issues IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) & Digestive Issues Workplace Bullying & Assertiveness
Get help by seeing Leigh, who has extensive experience with: Trauma & PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Fears, Phobias & Panic / Social Anxiety, Grief & Loss, Mood Disorders, Coping Skills, Dissociative Disorders (DD), Sexual Abuse & Sexual Assault, Domestic Abuse, Domestic Violence & Coercive Control Weight Loss & Binge Eating Eating Disorders Body Dysmorphia OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) Exercise Motivation & Sports Psychology / Performance Chronic Pain & Somatic Illness Low Self Esteem & Confidence Issues IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) & Digestive Issues Workplace Bullying & Assertiveness
(03) 7003 2164 View (03) 7003 2164
Photo of Fiona Halliday - People Psychology, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Fiona Halliday - People Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Toorak, VIC 3142
Get help by seeing Fiona, who has extensive experience with: Women’s issues Domestic Abuse Domestic Violence (DV) Family Violence Stress management Anxiety Depression Self esteem Assertiveness Identity issues Change and transition Grief and bereavement Wellbeing and balance Self-Esteem Life Coaching Spirituality Meaning and Purpose Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) Issues, Counselling, Coaching and De-Briefing Workplace Issues Workplace Bullying Medicare, Private Health Insurers provider Psychologist Reports
Get help by seeing Fiona, who has extensive experience with: Women’s issues Domestic Abuse Domestic Violence (DV) Family Violence Stress management Anxiety Depression Self esteem Assertiveness Identity issues Change and transition Grief and bereavement Wellbeing and balance Self-Esteem Life Coaching Spirituality Meaning and Purpose Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) Issues, Counselling, Coaching and De-Briefing Workplace Issues Workplace Bullying Medicare, Private Health Insurers provider Psychologist Reports
(03) 7003 2481 View (03) 7003 2481

See more therapy options for Hawthorn East

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.