Domestic Abuse Therapists in Ottawa, ON

Photo of Jessica Breault, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Jessica Breault
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2P
I have experience working in the Employee Assistance field as well as working in community mental health and with survivors of domestic violence.
Hey there! Finding a therapist you connect with can be a daunting task, but it’s worth it once you find that person you feel comfortable with and can trust. My own approach is warm, relaxed, and collaborative. I make sure that you have space in sessions to share whatever is on your mind while also ensuring that we have continuity between sessions and are working toward your goals. I always strive to create a space that feels open and non-judgemental, and I work from a client-centred and trauma-informed perspective.
I have experience working in the Employee Assistance field as well as working in community mental health and with survivors of domestic violence.
Hey there! Finding a therapist you connect with can be a daunting task, but it’s worth it once you find that person you feel comfortable with and can trust. My own approach is warm, relaxed, and collaborative. I make sure that you have space in sessions to share whatever is on your mind while also ensuring that we have continuity between sessions and are working toward your goals. I always strive to create a space that feels open and non-judgemental, and I work from a client-centred and trauma-informed perspective.
(343) 338-4094 View (343) 338-4094
Photo of Katrina Landon, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Katrina Landon
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2B  (Online Only)
I am an Indigenous social worker accepting NEW clients and offering NIHB coverage. My primary areas of expertise are mental health, trauma, domestic violence, and intergenerational issues. As an Indigenous social worker, my practice focuses on decolonizing principles and empowering clients in their healing journey. I offer virtual counselling sessions via phone, video call, or chat (IM).
I am an Indigenous social worker accepting NEW clients and offering NIHB coverage. My primary areas of expertise are mental health, trauma, domestic violence, and intergenerational issues. As an Indigenous social worker, my practice focuses on decolonizing principles and empowering clients in their healing journey. I offer virtual counselling sessions via phone, video call, or chat (IM).
(343) 307-6231 View (343) 307-6231
Photo of Chelsea Graham, MACP, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Chelsea Graham
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2E
I have experience working with individuals who are faced with addiction, sexual assault and domestic violence, as well as those seeking support for self-esteem issues, anxiety, depression, stress and anger management, grief/loss, self-harm and other obstacles that present themselves at any stage of life.
As a Registered Psychotherapist, I pride myself on creating a safe and compassionate environment for clients to begin their healing process. I firmly believe that the therapeutic relationship is most effective when it is based on collaboration, trust, and openness. In my experience, all clients are unique and my priority is to mold my therapeutic approach to suit each individual's needs. I focus on building every client’s strengths in order to assist them in enriching all areas of life and and help them move toward whole-hearted living. I take a holistic approach by incorporating techniques from various treatment modalities.
I have experience working with individuals who are faced with addiction, sexual assault and domestic violence, as well as those seeking support for self-esteem issues, anxiety, depression, stress and anger management, grief/loss, self-harm and other obstacles that present themselves at any stage of life.
As a Registered Psychotherapist, I pride myself on creating a safe and compassionate environment for clients to begin their healing process. I firmly believe that the therapeutic relationship is most effective when it is based on collaboration, trust, and openness. In my experience, all clients are unique and my priority is to mold my therapeutic approach to suit each individual's needs. I focus on building every client’s strengths in order to assist them in enriching all areas of life and and help them move toward whole-hearted living. I take a holistic approach by incorporating techniques from various treatment modalities.
(613) 831-4547 View (613) 831-4547
Photo of Paul Gemmell, MACP, RP, CCC, Registered Psychotherapist
Paul Gemmell
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K0A  (Online Only)
My main area of focus is helping eliminate abuse in interpersonal relationships, from as seemingly "light" as bickering to more escalated confrontations. I've worked with perpetrators (males and females) of domestic violence for nine years, helping people as they work to re-establish healthier relationships with partners and family members again, or start new relationships better. Much of this is developing communication and empathy skills, all in the context of understanding yourself better and, often, your life experiences you've had that have brought you to this point.
My main area of focus is helping eliminate abuse in interpersonal relationships, from as seemingly "light" as bickering to more escalated confrontations. I've worked with perpetrators (males and females) of domestic violence for nine years, helping people as they work to re-establish healthier relationships with partners and family members again, or start new relationships better. Much of this is developing communication and empathy skills, all in the context of understanding yourself better and, often, your life experiences you've had that have brought you to this point.
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Photo of Lyna Hijazi - Narcissistic Abuse - Attachment - Anxiety, RP(Q), MACP, BEd, BA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Narcissistic Abuse - Attachment - Anxiety
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q), MACP, BEd, BA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K0A  (Online Only)
My goal is to help you overcome the abuse, begin for you to build trust again, and regain your sense of control.
Do you struggle with recovering from narcissistic abuse? Maybe it's a partner or parent that affects your current relationships, day to day life, or overall trust? Do you feel isolated, broken, embarrassed, hoping that things will change? Do you put other people's needs before your own? If so you likely feel overwhelmed, lost, and hurt by your partner, previous partner, or parent. You're probably wondering if things can possibly get better. If you're currently in a relationship with a narcissist or are recovering from narcissistic abuse, anxiety, depression, or trauma, you’re not alone, and I'm here to help you.
My goal is to help you overcome the abuse, begin for you to build trust again, and regain your sense of control.
Do you struggle with recovering from narcissistic abuse? Maybe it's a partner or parent that affects your current relationships, day to day life, or overall trust? Do you feel isolated, broken, embarrassed, hoping that things will change? Do you put other people's needs before your own? If so you likely feel overwhelmed, lost, and hurt by your partner, previous partner, or parent. You're probably wondering if things can possibly get better. If you're currently in a relationship with a narcissist or are recovering from narcissistic abuse, anxiety, depression, or trauma, you’re not alone, and I'm here to help you.
(365) 600-5073 View (365) 600-5073
Photo of Brooke Willis, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Brooke Willis
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1R  (Online Only)
My focus as a therapist has been trauma, abuse, interpersonal relationships, depression, suicide intervention, and services for first responders.
The world can be a dark and heavy place, and that's why I believe kindness, compassion, and hope are so important. I try to bring all of these values to my practice as a therapist, where I will strive to connect with you by cheering on your personal growth, sitting with you in the dark, and listening to your story. We will work together to help you achieve your goals and gain confidence. I offer a listening ear, tools and advice, and a safe-place where you can lay it all out and trust that you will be treated with honour and respect.
My focus as a therapist has been trauma, abuse, interpersonal relationships, depression, suicide intervention, and services for first responders.
The world can be a dark and heavy place, and that's why I believe kindness, compassion, and hope are so important. I try to bring all of these values to my practice as a therapist, where I will strive to connect with you by cheering on your personal growth, sitting with you in the dark, and listening to your story. We will work together to help you achieve your goals and gain confidence. I offer a listening ear, tools and advice, and a safe-place where you can lay it all out and trust that you will be treated with honour and respect.
(807) 500-0676 View (807) 500-0676
Photo of Shannon Jervis - Shannon Jervis @ Psychotherapy for You, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Shannon Jervis @ Psychotherapy for You
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1J  (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Shannon! BSW, MSW, RSW, Master of Social Work I am a dedicated and compassionate professional with extensive experience working with victims of trauma in diverse settings. Throughout my career, I have provided unwavering support to clients affected by neglect, child abuse, domestic violence, and various mental health challenges. I specialize in creating a collaborative and meaningful treatment plan tailored to individual needs, fostering a therapeutic environment.
Hi, my name is Shannon! BSW, MSW, RSW, Master of Social Work I am a dedicated and compassionate professional with extensive experience working with victims of trauma in diverse settings. Throughout my career, I have provided unwavering support to clients affected by neglect, child abuse, domestic violence, and various mental health challenges. I specialize in creating a collaborative and meaningful treatment plan tailored to individual needs, fostering a therapeutic environment.
(289) 903-1272 View (289) 903-1272
Photo of Martha Dougherty, MA, BA, BEd, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Martha Dougherty
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, BA, BEd, RP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1G  (Online Only)
I have either lived it or been witness to trauma via stories of abuse, accidents, conflict and assaults.
I am only accepting clients for Clinical Supervision and/or consultations. I am no longer accepting clients for individual psychotherapy.
I have either lived it or been witness to trauma via stories of abuse, accidents, conflict and assaults.
I am only accepting clients for Clinical Supervision and/or consultations. I am no longer accepting clients for individual psychotherapy.
(343) 312-6921 View (343) 312-6921
Photo of Tessa Groten, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Tessa Groten
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2S
I specialize in treating people from all walks of life experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, guilt, self-esteem, anger and abuse issues.
I work with those struggling with anxiety, depression, domestic violence, trauma, grief, anger & self esteem . Here you'll find solution-focused answers that result in lasting, positive change and growth. There is no one-size-fits-all solution for everyone, but using a combination of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy and other therapies, I will tailor a plan just for you to achieve your goals and gain the tools to face whatever life brings you. Learn to live a peaceful, symptom-free life with your needs and goals in mind. I've been where you are - it takes a lot of courage to ask for help, and I will be here for you every step of the way.
I specialize in treating people from all walks of life experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, guilt, self-esteem, anger and abuse issues.
I work with those struggling with anxiety, depression, domestic violence, trauma, grief, anger & self esteem . Here you'll find solution-focused answers that result in lasting, positive change and growth. There is no one-size-fits-all solution for everyone, but using a combination of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy and other therapies, I will tailor a plan just for you to achieve your goals and gain the tools to face whatever life brings you. Learn to live a peaceful, symptom-free life with your needs and goals in mind. I've been where you are - it takes a lot of courage to ask for help, and I will be here for you every step of the way.
(343) 338-4135 View (343) 338-4135
Photo of Annick Lavoie, RSW, TSI, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Annick Lavoie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RSW, TSI
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1N
As a Registered Social Worker practicing psychotherapy, I offer individual counselling to adults presenting with a variety of issues. My areas of expertise include trauma, intimate partner abuse, childhood sexual abuse, anxiety, sexuality, grief, relationship problems, depression and family of origin issues. I am also very committed working with members of the LGBTTQ+ community around issues of coming out, gender identity, heterosexism and internalized homophobia.
As a Registered Social Worker practicing psychotherapy, I offer individual counselling to adults presenting with a variety of issues. My areas of expertise include trauma, intimate partner abuse, childhood sexual abuse, anxiety, sexuality, grief, relationship problems, depression and family of origin issues. I am also very committed working with members of the LGBTTQ+ community around issues of coming out, gender identity, heterosexism and internalized homophobia.
(343) 500-7331 View (343) 500-7331
Photo of Eleanore Altman (She Her Elle), MA, RP, RMFT-S, Registered Psychotherapist
Eleanore Altman (She Her Elle)
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, RMFT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1V
I offer a safe and non-judgmental space for youth and teens to explore issues related to gender and sexuality, including any experiences of bullying or LBGTQ-based discrimination or violence.
Hello! I am an LGBTQ+ affirmative psychotherapist and couple and family therapist in the Ottawa area. I offer therapy to youth, parents, couples, and families from a systemic, anti-oppressive and trauma-informed perspective. I am happy to offer both in-person and telephone sessions depending on your preference, and I have the option of an in-office cat for those who would like to have an animal present in their therapy session.
I offer a safe and non-judgmental space for youth and teens to explore issues related to gender and sexuality, including any experiences of bullying or LBGTQ-based discrimination or violence.
Hello! I am an LGBTQ+ affirmative psychotherapist and couple and family therapist in the Ottawa area. I offer therapy to youth, parents, couples, and families from a systemic, anti-oppressive and trauma-informed perspective. I am happy to offer both in-person and telephone sessions depending on your preference, and I have the option of an in-office cat for those who would like to have an animal present in their therapy session.
(343) 313-1008 View (343) 313-1008
Photo of Sean O'Keeffe, RSW, MSW, Registered Social Worker
Sean O'Keeffe
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1T  (Online Only)
At one time or another, the cliché that sometimes you just need a little help applies to us all. Unsure where to seek support? I would be happy to connect with you and help get you started on the path to better mental and emotional wellness. My focus is in supporting people with mental health issues within our diverse community. I offer psychotherapy services to adults and adolescents struggling with severe and persistent mental illness (Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety and Depression to name a few), substance use disorders, emotional dysregulation, domestic abuse, and involved with the criminal justice system.
At one time or another, the cliché that sometimes you just need a little help applies to us all. Unsure where to seek support? I would be happy to connect with you and help get you started on the path to better mental and emotional wellness. My focus is in supporting people with mental health issues within our diverse community. I offer psychotherapy services to adults and adolescents struggling with severe and persistent mental illness (Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety and Depression to name a few), substance use disorders, emotional dysregulation, domestic abuse, and involved with the criminal justice system.
(343) 308-2078 View (343) 308-2078
Photo of Joy Tabakman, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Joy Tabakman
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2P
If you struggle with anxiety, abuse, trauma, PTSD or depression, EMDR is a recognized effective tool for processing and healing.
"I AM CURRENTLY ACCEPTING new CLIENTS" My direct number is 613-294-6592. My vocation and passion is to assist couples, individuals and families to use the challenges they experience as an opportunity for growth. The goal in therapy is to explore the root causes of adversity and success so there is mindfulness regarding clear goal setting; this will contribute to balance and harmony in your life. Over the past 29 years my personal life and work with clients have taught me that we are all challenged by trust and emotional intimacy issues. I am passionate about empowering others to design vibrant relationships and lives.
If you struggle with anxiety, abuse, trauma, PTSD or depression, EMDR is a recognized effective tool for processing and healing.
"I AM CURRENTLY ACCEPTING new CLIENTS" My direct number is 613-294-6592. My vocation and passion is to assist couples, individuals and families to use the challenges they experience as an opportunity for growth. The goal in therapy is to explore the root causes of adversity and success so there is mindfulness regarding clear goal setting; this will contribute to balance and harmony in your life. Over the past 29 years my personal life and work with clients have taught me that we are all challenged by trust and emotional intimacy issues. I am passionate about empowering others to design vibrant relationships and lives.
(343) 312-9805 View (343) 312-9805
Photo of Jeannette Robert, MA, CCC, Registered Psychotherapist
Jeannette Robert
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1S  (Online Only)
*Addictions: Substance Abuse, Assessments, Treatment Plan, *Family of Origin Issues & Family Reconciliation *Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) & Trauma *Anger management Individuals, Couple, Family, & Group Therapy *Relational and Family Issues.
My philosophy is Existential, meaning that we are free and therefore responsible for our choices, We are the authors of our lives, and we design the pathways we follow. My basic premise is that we are not victims of circumstance because, to a large extent, we are what we choose to be. Life is a cycle of transitions and experiences, presenting opportunities and challenges. Often the most important life lessons comes from our suffering. My aim is to assist people to develop their meaning and purpose, by encouraging them to explore options, in order to achieve a more meaningful existence.
*Addictions: Substance Abuse, Assessments, Treatment Plan, *Family of Origin Issues & Family Reconciliation *Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) & Trauma *Anger management Individuals, Couple, Family, & Group Therapy *Relational and Family Issues.
My philosophy is Existential, meaning that we are free and therefore responsible for our choices, We are the authors of our lives, and we design the pathways we follow. My basic premise is that we are not victims of circumstance because, to a large extent, we are what we choose to be. Life is a cycle of transitions and experiences, presenting opportunities and challenges. Often the most important life lessons comes from our suffering. My aim is to assist people to develop their meaning and purpose, by encouraging them to explore options, in order to achieve a more meaningful existence.
(613) 801-6262 View (613) 801-6262
Photo of Narcissistic Abuse Recovery Clinic Canada, RP, MA, ABA, CCC, PMP, Registered Psychotherapist
Narcissistic Abuse Recovery Clinic Canada
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MA, ABA, CCC, PMP
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1N
I can assess the level of Narcissistic Abuse and Trauma as a result.
Soteldo Psychotherapy (Narcissistic Abuse Recovery Clinic). My name is Raquel Soteldo, a Registered Psychotherapist, MA, ABA, PMP. I am a Certified Narcissistic Abuse Treatment Clinician who works with Trauma-related symptoms: High Anxiety, Unhealthy attachments and relationships either within the family, romantic or workplace interaction. I work with individuals to secure attachments to self, leave insecure/anxious attachments to abusive people, and establish new/better attachments to the world. I work with undiagnosed ADHD, Depression, Anxiety and C-PTSD/Trauma. To book pls email me or use soteldotherapy.securevideo.com/Book.
I can assess the level of Narcissistic Abuse and Trauma as a result.
Soteldo Psychotherapy (Narcissistic Abuse Recovery Clinic). My name is Raquel Soteldo, a Registered Psychotherapist, MA, ABA, PMP. I am a Certified Narcissistic Abuse Treatment Clinician who works with Trauma-related symptoms: High Anxiety, Unhealthy attachments and relationships either within the family, romantic or workplace interaction. I work with individuals to secure attachments to self, leave insecure/anxious attachments to abusive people, and establish new/better attachments to the world. I work with undiagnosed ADHD, Depression, Anxiety and C-PTSD/Trauma. To book pls email me or use soteldotherapy.securevideo.com/Book.
(343) 312-5283 View (343) 312-5283
Photo of Melanie Parent-Dance, RSW, MSW, Registered Social Worker
Melanie Parent-Dance
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2C
Grief, fertility, perinatal mental health, trauma, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, life transitions, I am a licensed social worker and would love to work with you. In my counseling practice, I have a holistic therapeutic style where compassion and empathy are ingrained in my active listening and in validating your experiences and feelings. My therapy experience comes from a variety of settings such as non-profit organizations primarily focused on supporting women affected by violence, the female judicial environment, an employee assistance program, and the pediatric hospital setting. I speak french and English.
Grief, fertility, perinatal mental health, trauma, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, life transitions, I am a licensed social worker and would love to work with you. In my counseling practice, I have a holistic therapeutic style where compassion and empathy are ingrained in my active listening and in validating your experiences and feelings. My therapy experience comes from a variety of settings such as non-profit organizations primarily focused on supporting women affected by violence, the female judicial environment, an employee assistance program, and the pediatric hospital setting. I speak french and English.
(343) 453-7323 View (343) 453-7323
Photo of Ghassan Arabieh, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Ghassan Arabieh
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1H
Waitlist for new clients
I have had the opportunity to work in hospitals and community-based health care settings providing counselling and psychotherapy. I have worked cross-culturally with clients who are dealing with a wide array of psychosocial issues. My clinical experience includes working with people who are struggling with depression, anxiety, loss, acculturation stress, war trauma, childhood abuse, anger management and conflict with the law.
I have had the opportunity to work in hospitals and community-based health care settings providing counselling and psychotherapy. I have worked cross-culturally with clients who are dealing with a wide array of psychosocial issues. My clinical experience includes working with people who are struggling with depression, anxiety, loss, acculturation stress, war trauma, childhood abuse, anger management and conflict with the law.
(343) 321-1380 View (343) 321-1380
Photo of Roxana Manoiu, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Roxana Manoiu
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1S  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients starting April 2024 - I recognize that it takes a lot of courage to make the first step to reach out, and for that, I congratulate you. In working together, I invite you to discover yourself, empower you to process any wounded parts of your past, reach your goals, in a safe, secure and non-judgmental space. Through my work as a crisis counsellor, I have had the opportunity of working with survivors of Intimate-Partner Violence, complex grief and trauma, and tragic circumstances, in addition to providing support to first responders.
Accepting new clients starting April 2024 - I recognize that it takes a lot of courage to make the first step to reach out, and for that, I congratulate you. In working together, I invite you to discover yourself, empower you to process any wounded parts of your past, reach your goals, in a safe, secure and non-judgmental space. Through my work as a crisis counsellor, I have had the opportunity of working with survivors of Intimate-Partner Violence, complex grief and trauma, and tragic circumstances, in addition to providing support to first responders.
(343) 700-6090 View (343) 700-6090
Photo of Gundel Lake, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Gundel Lake
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1N
My specialties include trauma, addiction, domestic and (childhood) sexual violence, grief, depression, sexuality, and relationship issues.
My approach to psychotherapy is deeply rooted in feminist and structural analyses that contextualize individual "problems" in our social environments. My therapeutic orientation is comprised of an eclectic mix of theoretical models that guide my work, including emotion focused therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and somatic therapy. While I don't practice exclusively from one perspective, I believe that it is my role to be constantly assessing whether or not the work we are doing appears to be helping you to achieve your therapeutic goals. I offer psychological services under the supervision of Dr. Leigh Karos, C. Psych.
My specialties include trauma, addiction, domestic and (childhood) sexual violence, grief, depression, sexuality, and relationship issues.
My approach to psychotherapy is deeply rooted in feminist and structural analyses that contextualize individual "problems" in our social environments. My therapeutic orientation is comprised of an eclectic mix of theoretical models that guide my work, including emotion focused therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and somatic therapy. While I don't practice exclusively from one perspective, I believe that it is my role to be constantly assessing whether or not the work we are doing appears to be helping you to achieve your therapeutic goals. I offer psychological services under the supervision of Dr. Leigh Karos, C. Psych.
(855) 798-7280 View (855) 798-7280
Photo of Laura McGavin, MACP, RP(Q), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Laura McGavin
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P
Perhaps you're feeling anxious, numb or stuck. Or maybe you’re struggling with past trauma or loss. Whether you’re searching for solid ground, a way forward, or a greater sense of meaning and connection in life, I will hold your story with dignity and non-judgment. I bring a gentle, focused attention to our time together, offering a space where you’re welcome to feel, talk about—and question—anything. I have experience working with childhood/complex trauma, PTSD, abuse, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, relationship ruptures, identity shifts and other concerns.
Perhaps you're feeling anxious, numb or stuck. Or maybe you’re struggling with past trauma or loss. Whether you’re searching for solid ground, a way forward, or a greater sense of meaning and connection in life, I will hold your story with dignity and non-judgment. I bring a gentle, focused attention to our time together, offering a space where you’re welcome to feel, talk about—and question—anything. I have experience working with childhood/complex trauma, PTSD, abuse, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, relationship ruptures, identity shifts and other concerns.
(343) 453-3506 View (343) 453-3506
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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.