Domestic Abuse Counselling in East London, London

Photo of Michelle Campbell, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor
Michelle Campbell
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
East London, London E17
I have experience of working with clients who have been impacted by bereavement and loss, trauma, the effects of rape, domestic violence, child and adult sexual abuse.
Sometimes, life in general can seem overwhelming, and there is a need to have a space that is non-judgemental, empathic and holding; to express fears, anxities, concerns and problems. I offer to you, a listening ear, a warm and welcoming presence that will promote an environment which makes you feel comfortable to talk.
I have experience of working with clients who have been impacted by bereavement and loss, trauma, the effects of rape, domestic violence, child and adult sexual abuse.
Sometimes, life in general can seem overwhelming, and there is a need to have a space that is non-judgemental, empathic and holding; to express fears, anxities, concerns and problems. I offer to you, a listening ear, a warm and welcoming presence that will promote an environment which makes you feel comfortable to talk.
07449 647133 View 07449 647133
Photo of Haleh Parsizadeh - Haleh's Counselling Room, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Haleh's Counselling Room
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
East London, London E11
My clients value openly talking about themselves and the difficulties they experience to work out how to move forward in their lives. To date I have worked with clients who experience: deep loneliness; anxiety and/or depression; who want to change their outlook of their life; who have an inability to cope with recent or continual change; who experience unhappiness with their work/life balance or relationship issues; who are impacted by or have been impacted by domestic violence.
My clients value openly talking about themselves and the difficulties they experience to work out how to move forward in their lives. To date I have worked with clients who experience: deep loneliness; anxiety and/or depression; who want to change their outlook of their life; who have an inability to cope with recent or continual change; who experience unhappiness with their work/life balance or relationship issues; who are impacted by or have been impacted by domestic violence.
07588 682658 View 07588 682658
Photo of Noreen Mukalazi, MSc, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Noreen Mukalazi
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
East London, London E15
I am integrative therapist and coach who uses different elements of specific therapies to suit individual needs or circumstances.I work with the Personal Consultancy model which combines therapy with coaching to build confidence whilst identifying specific triggers which could be causing disruptive patterns of behaviour. It can take a lot of courage to share your inner most thoughts and feelings with someone.I have experience working with complex trauma and victims of domestic and sexual violence.
I am integrative therapist and coach who uses different elements of specific therapies to suit individual needs or circumstances.I work with the Personal Consultancy model which combines therapy with coaching to build confidence whilst identifying specific triggers which could be causing disruptive patterns of behaviour. It can take a lot of courage to share your inner most thoughts and feelings with someone.I have experience working with complex trauma and victims of domestic and sexual violence.
020 4538 0354 View 020 4538 0354
Photo of Lesley Jane Sinnott, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Lesley Jane Sinnott
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
East London, London E7  (Online Only)
I have many years of personal and client based experience in life altering situations, including bereavement and loss, domestic abuse, depression and anxiety, self-esteem and confidence issues.
Are you struggling with feeling not only heard but listened to? Want to be able to safely discuss past and present difficulties gaining awareness and understanding about your unwanted thoughts, feelings and behaviours to bring about change in your life? Have you unsolved problems with bereavement and loss, domestic abuse, feeling depressed or anxious and have low self esteem? I provide a non-judgmental, empathetic and understanding approach to counselling, where clients feel comfortable to express their issues in a safe and caring environment.
I have many years of personal and client based experience in life altering situations, including bereavement and loss, domestic abuse, depression and anxiety, self-esteem and confidence issues.
Are you struggling with feeling not only heard but listened to? Want to be able to safely discuss past and present difficulties gaining awareness and understanding about your unwanted thoughts, feelings and behaviours to bring about change in your life? Have you unsolved problems with bereavement and loss, domestic abuse, feeling depressed or anxious and have low self esteem? I provide a non-judgmental, empathetic and understanding approach to counselling, where clients feel comfortable to express their issues in a safe and caring environment.
020 4538 1574 View 020 4538 1574
Photo of Ana Flores Reis, MBACP, Counsellor
Ana Flores Reis
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
East London, London E8
My background is in the charity sector, working with survivors of domestic/sexual abuse of all genders.
Hi, I’m Ana and I’m an integrative therapist. My practice is centred on creating a safe, containing and supportive space in which you can feel heard and validated. Together, we can start to explore the impact of your experiences at a pace you feel comfortable, looking at how you’ve coped so far to help you rebuild a sense of control and empowerment. My therapeutic style is empathic, relational and non-judgmental. I see you as the expert in your own life, and would work alongside you by providing support, honesty, compassion and understanding to help you make sense of your experiences and move forward in an authentic way.
My background is in the charity sector, working with survivors of domestic/sexual abuse of all genders.
Hi, I’m Ana and I’m an integrative therapist. My practice is centred on creating a safe, containing and supportive space in which you can feel heard and validated. Together, we can start to explore the impact of your experiences at a pace you feel comfortable, looking at how you’ve coped so far to help you rebuild a sense of control and empowerment. My therapeutic style is empathic, relational and non-judgmental. I see you as the expert in your own life, and would work alongside you by providing support, honesty, compassion and understanding to help you make sense of your experiences and move forward in an authentic way.
020 7046 1389 View 020 7046 1389
Photo of Carena Rogers, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Carena Rogers
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
East London, London E1
I have particular experience of working with domestic and sexual abuse.
Are you tired of pretending you’re OK? Are you your own harshest critic? So used to putting others first that it’s hard to hold on to your own self-worth? Or you may be finding that getting out of bed is a struggle, you don't want to go to work or show up in your life. Add in experiences of sexism, micro-aggressions, abuse, and ageism, and your confidence can be knocked. It’s not much fun feeling anxious, depressed or stressed all the time. Comparing yourself to others and not feeling good enough can affect your mood and your relationships with yourself and with others. These are all things that therapy can help you work through.
I have particular experience of working with domestic and sexual abuse.
Are you tired of pretending you’re OK? Are you your own harshest critic? So used to putting others first that it’s hard to hold on to your own self-worth? Or you may be finding that getting out of bed is a struggle, you don't want to go to work or show up in your life. Add in experiences of sexism, micro-aggressions, abuse, and ageism, and your confidence can be knocked. It’s not much fun feeling anxious, depressed or stressed all the time. Comparing yourself to others and not feeling good enough can affect your mood and your relationships with yourself and with others. These are all things that therapy can help you work through.
020 4538 0397 View 020 4538 0397
Photo of Amber Sheikh, MBACP, Counsellor
Amber Sheikh
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
East London, London E1W  (Online Only)
I am a qualified psychotherapeutic counsellor and have experience working in a number of organisations and charities providing psychotherapy and counselling in areas such as: Bereavement, Domestic Abuse, Emotional Abuse, Sexual Abuse, Stress and Anxiety, Depression, Divorce, Relationship issues, Childhood Trauma, Cultural Diversity, Racial Identity.
At times life can be challenging and we can get to point where we may feel a bit stuck and need to make sense of things. I seek to create a safe, culturally sensitive and non judgmental space for you to feel heard and understood. I’m here to support you to achieve the changes that you desire for yourself by helping you to process your feelings, gain greater clarity and to build more self awareness.
I am a qualified psychotherapeutic counsellor and have experience working in a number of organisations and charities providing psychotherapy and counselling in areas such as: Bereavement, Domestic Abuse, Emotional Abuse, Sexual Abuse, Stress and Anxiety, Depression, Divorce, Relationship issues, Childhood Trauma, Cultural Diversity, Racial Identity.
At times life can be challenging and we can get to point where we may feel a bit stuck and need to make sense of things. I seek to create a safe, culturally sensitive and non judgmental space for you to feel heard and understood. I’m here to support you to achieve the changes that you desire for yourself by helping you to process your feelings, gain greater clarity and to build more self awareness.
020 4538 7765 View 020 4538 7765
Photo of Georgia Powell, MBACP, Counsellor
Georgia Powell
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
East London, London E2  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I work as an adolescent and adult Counsellor based in East London. As well as my own private practice, I work in schools, universities and in the domestic abuse sector with victim-survivors of domestic abuse. I am a fully registered BACP member and integrate a variety of different therapeutic modalities, including person-centred and humanistic therapy, body therapy, art/play therapy, mindfulness and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) to meet each person’s specific needs.
I work as an adolescent and adult Counsellor based in East London. As well as my own private practice, I work in schools, universities and in the domestic abuse sector with victim-survivors of domestic abuse. I am a fully registered BACP member and integrate a variety of different therapeutic modalities, including person-centred and humanistic therapy, body therapy, art/play therapy, mindfulness and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) to meet each person’s specific needs.
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Photo of Nav Heer, MBACP, Counsellor
Nav Heer
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
East London, London E20  (Online Only)
I have been qualified for 14 years, working alongside community organisations, particularly with Anxiety/Stress; Domestic Abuse; Depression; Self confidence; Bereavement with local hospices and NHS.
In the current world of uncertainty and change, it has been a challenging time for ourselves, our loved ones and society’s mental health. Counselling explores difficulties you are having, distress you may be experiencing, dissatisfaction with life or loss of a sense of direction & purpose. I will listen attentively, in a non-judgemental way, provided in a professional and respectful manner, counselling will begin to bring awareness and help you to see things more clearly, possibly from a different perspective. I have worked with children & adults, giving equal respect and treatment, regardless of their background or beliefs.
I have been qualified for 14 years, working alongside community organisations, particularly with Anxiety/Stress; Domestic Abuse; Depression; Self confidence; Bereavement with local hospices and NHS.
In the current world of uncertainty and change, it has been a challenging time for ourselves, our loved ones and society’s mental health. Counselling explores difficulties you are having, distress you may be experiencing, dissatisfaction with life or loss of a sense of direction & purpose. I will listen attentively, in a non-judgemental way, provided in a professional and respectful manner, counselling will begin to bring awareness and help you to see things more clearly, possibly from a different perspective. I have worked with children & adults, giving equal respect and treatment, regardless of their background or beliefs.
024 7526 2023 View 024 7526 2023
Photo of Claudia Celadon - Claudia Celadon Psychotherapy, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Claudia Celadon Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
East London, London E8  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am also a clinical supervisor of groups and individuals working in private practice, as well as in voluntary organisations dealing with domestic violence, homelessness, sexual assault and rape, and gender specific abuse.
I am a qualified Psychologist and psychotherapist from Brazil, and I am very passionate about therapeutic interventions that vary from deep psychological interventions based on the client's history and memories, to an emphasis on the relationship between therapist and client, including their cultural context and systems. I am also very interested in using symbolic representations and meanings in the therapeutic setting to assist clients on their reflections and self-awareness. I have worked in a variety of settings including psychiatric hospitals, voluntary LGBTQ organisations, as well as the private and educational sectors.
I am also a clinical supervisor of groups and individuals working in private practice, as well as in voluntary organisations dealing with domestic violence, homelessness, sexual assault and rape, and gender specific abuse.
I am a qualified Psychologist and psychotherapist from Brazil, and I am very passionate about therapeutic interventions that vary from deep psychological interventions based on the client's history and memories, to an emphasis on the relationship between therapist and client, including their cultural context and systems. I am also very interested in using symbolic representations and meanings in the therapeutic setting to assist clients on their reflections and self-awareness. I have worked in a variety of settings including psychiatric hospitals, voluntary LGBTQ organisations, as well as the private and educational sectors.
020 3856 8374 View 020 3856 8374
Photo of Amina Begum Ba Hons (Accredited Bacp Mncps) - Trauma Informed Psychotherapy-Amina Begum, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Trauma Informed Psychotherapy-Amina Begum
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East London, London E10  (Online Only)
I am a BACP & MNCPS Accredited (Somatic) Psychotherapist and qualified Clinical Supervisor with many years experience working with issues of Sexual Abuse (Male & Female), Childhood Sexual Abuse, Adult & Childhood Trauma, Complex Trauma, Self-Harm, Domestic Abuse/Violence, Anxiety, Depression, Self Harm, Flashbacks, Suicide Ideation, Family Issues, Relationship issues. I offer a warm, compassionate and non judgmental therapeutic relationship creating a safe space where you can freely explore your issues, feel heard, make sense of your difficulties and ultimately transition towards living a more fulfilled and empowered life.
I am a BACP & MNCPS Accredited (Somatic) Psychotherapist and qualified Clinical Supervisor with many years experience working with issues of Sexual Abuse (Male & Female), Childhood Sexual Abuse, Adult & Childhood Trauma, Complex Trauma, Self-Harm, Domestic Abuse/Violence, Anxiety, Depression, Self Harm, Flashbacks, Suicide Ideation, Family Issues, Relationship issues. I offer a warm, compassionate and non judgmental therapeutic relationship creating a safe space where you can freely explore your issues, feel heard, make sense of your difficulties and ultimately transition towards living a more fulfilled and empowered life.
0121 817 7044 View 0121 817 7044
Photo of Nicole Barclay, MBACP, Counsellor
Nicole Barclay
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East London, London E4
I have worked within the mental health charity Mind for 3 years meeting a diverse group of people with wide ranging issues some of which include anxiety, depression, attachment trauma, narcissistic & domestic abuse, anger, struggles with sexuality/identity, bereavement & grief.
Finding the right therapist can make all the difference, often determining the success of therapy. This is why I offer a free 20-minute consultation to see if I am the right person for you. What you can expect from me is a warm, safe, compassionate space to explore your thoughts & feelings. I hold a flexible yet philosophical attitude, often curious about what it means to be oneself, to be human. As a humanistic & Integrative counsellor I draw upon a diverse range of approaches to suit your individual needs. I place special emphasis on cultivating a caring, honest, dynamic, respectful & very real relationship with you.
I have worked within the mental health charity Mind for 3 years meeting a diverse group of people with wide ranging issues some of which include anxiety, depression, attachment trauma, narcissistic & domestic abuse, anger, struggles with sexuality/identity, bereavement & grief.
Finding the right therapist can make all the difference, often determining the success of therapy. This is why I offer a free 20-minute consultation to see if I am the right person for you. What you can expect from me is a warm, safe, compassionate space to explore your thoughts & feelings. I hold a flexible yet philosophical attitude, often curious about what it means to be oneself, to be human. As a humanistic & Integrative counsellor I draw upon a diverse range of approaches to suit your individual needs. I place special emphasis on cultivating a caring, honest, dynamic, respectful & very real relationship with you.
01992 945326 View 01992 945326
Photo of Samantha Jones, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Samantha Jones
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
East London, London E1  (Online Only)
I am passionate about trauma informed work and believe that it is relevant to treating many conditions, from anxiety and depression to more severe complex mental health issues. Past and current abuse and neglect can leave a lasting imprint in the mind, emotions and nervous system. My method of working addresses the complex relational patterns that form as a result of this and we will work to resolve these using trauma informed strategies and build emotional processing skills.
I am passionate about trauma informed work and believe that it is relevant to treating many conditions, from anxiety and depression to more severe complex mental health issues. Past and current abuse and neglect can leave a lasting imprint in the mind, emotions and nervous system. My method of working addresses the complex relational patterns that form as a result of this and we will work to resolve these using trauma informed strategies and build emotional processing skills.
01258 444857 View 01258 444857
Photo of Eve Hanley, BACP, Counsellor
Eve Hanley
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
East London, London E1
I offer both counselling and supervision to adults, couples. adolescents and parents. My main counselling focus areas are working with neurodivergent clients, students and clients who have experienced domestic abuse and trauma. I am adoption registered as a link therapist with Banardos . As a counsellor, I believe in the essential need to create a space where you set the pace and we work together to look how this would work for you. Sometimes we don't know what this starting point is or direction an intial session can help to focus on an area to begin.As a supervisor my supervisees work in agencies, private practice and schools.
I offer both counselling and supervision to adults, couples. adolescents and parents. My main counselling focus areas are working with neurodivergent clients, students and clients who have experienced domestic abuse and trauma. I am adoption registered as a link therapist with Banardos . As a counsellor, I believe in the essential need to create a space where you set the pace and we work together to look how this would work for you. Sometimes we don't know what this starting point is or direction an intial session can help to focus on an area to begin.As a supervisor my supervisees work in agencies, private practice and schools.
01227 203901 View 01227 203901
Photo of Henrietta Priddie, MA, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Henrietta Priddie
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
East London, London E2
I have experience of working with clients of all ages on various issues affecting their well-being, including depression, anxiety, self-esteem, self-harm, anger, identity, body dysphoria, neurodiversity, trauma, abuse, PTSD, bereavement and loss, divorce and separation, family conflict, and fostering and adoption.
I am a UKCP-qualified integrative child, adolescent, parent and adult psychotherapist working across a wide range of areas and interests and have over 20 years of experience working in the mental health sector. I offer a safe space to allow clients the opportunity to explore presenting issues freely and in depth. I believe that compassion, empathy and the alliance between the therapist and client are the keys to therapeutic change. I am also passionate about supporting women in their journey through life and parents struggling with the complexities of raising a child in an ever-changing world.
I have experience of working with clients of all ages on various issues affecting their well-being, including depression, anxiety, self-esteem, self-harm, anger, identity, body dysphoria, neurodiversity, trauma, abuse, PTSD, bereavement and loss, divorce and separation, family conflict, and fostering and adoption.
I am a UKCP-qualified integrative child, adolescent, parent and adult psychotherapist working across a wide range of areas and interests and have over 20 years of experience working in the mental health sector. I offer a safe space to allow clients the opportunity to explore presenting issues freely and in depth. I believe that compassion, empathy and the alliance between the therapist and client are the keys to therapeutic change. I am also passionate about supporting women in their journey through life and parents struggling with the complexities of raising a child in an ever-changing world.
020 3987 1816 View 020 3987 1816
Photo of Rumena Pervin, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Rumena Pervin
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
East London, London E15
Over the years I have worked with clients presenting a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, stress, relational conflicts, cross-cultural and identity issues, physical and emotional abuse and many more.
My name is Rumena and I am so glad you have taken the first step towards enhancing your wellbeing. Life is full of transitions, hardships, ups and down and there will be times where you feel lost, empty or just stuck in a rut. Sometimes the distress, pain and isolation caused by life’s challenges can feel too unbearable to face alone, or the journey to your destination too long or even unreachable. Therapy is a gift to yourself to help you overcome life's challenges on your journey of self-exploration and healing so you can be your best and most authentic self. I can be your companion on that journey.
Over the years I have worked with clients presenting a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, stress, relational conflicts, cross-cultural and identity issues, physical and emotional abuse and many more.
My name is Rumena and I am so glad you have taken the first step towards enhancing your wellbeing. Life is full of transitions, hardships, ups and down and there will be times where you feel lost, empty or just stuck in a rut. Sometimes the distress, pain and isolation caused by life’s challenges can feel too unbearable to face alone, or the journey to your destination too long or even unreachable. Therapy is a gift to yourself to help you overcome life's challenges on your journey of self-exploration and healing so you can be your best and most authentic self. I can be your companion on that journey.
020 3835 6471 View 020 3835 6471
Photo of Zara N, MSc, MBACP, Counsellor
Zara N
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
East London, London E10
I am a BACP qualified therapist who has worked extensively with clients and organisations for over 13 years. I work with an extensive range of issues including: bereavement, depression, stress, anxiety, employee assistance, relationships, self harm and suicide, marital issues, divorce, mental health disorders, work related issues, abuse, identity, parenthood, menopause and life challenges. I work in an empathetic, non judgemental and safe way with clients from all backgrounds. I have an unrivalled professional and educational background and I provide online and telephone therapy as well as a face to face and a walk and talk service.
I am a BACP qualified therapist who has worked extensively with clients and organisations for over 13 years. I work with an extensive range of issues including: bereavement, depression, stress, anxiety, employee assistance, relationships, self harm and suicide, marital issues, divorce, mental health disorders, work related issues, abuse, identity, parenthood, menopause and life challenges. I work in an empathetic, non judgemental and safe way with clients from all backgrounds. I have an unrivalled professional and educational background and I provide online and telephone therapy as well as a face to face and a walk and talk service.
07400 346099 View 07400 346099
Photo of Lydia Sadana, MBACP, Counsellor
Lydia Sadana
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
East London, London E8
In my experience of working with clients, I have supported them with issues relating to family, relationships, work-related concerns, religious and spiritual differences, cultural experiences, sexuality and identity, abuse, trauma and health concerns. I have also helped clients on their journey with managing feelings of anxiety, delusions, depression and suicidal tendencies. However, if you feel there is something else you would like support with, please reach out and let’s discuss, I have experience in other areas too!
In my experience of working with clients, I have supported them with issues relating to family, relationships, work-related concerns, religious and spiritual differences, cultural experiences, sexuality and identity, abuse, trauma and health concerns. I have also helped clients on their journey with managing feelings of anxiety, delusions, depression and suicidal tendencies. However, if you feel there is something else you would like support with, please reach out and let’s discuss, I have experience in other areas too!
020 3597 6637 View 020 3597 6637
Photo of Tessi Tricks, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Tessi Tricks
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
East London, London E15
I offer a safe, non-judgemental and reflective space for you to explore your experiences, process difficult feelings and manage any challenges you may be facing. Therapy may help you free up mental space, widen your self-understanding and move toward a more authentic and satisfying way of being. I have experience working with a range of challenges including depression, anxiety, childhood trauma, relationship issues, abuse, sexuality and gender identity, loss and bereavement and the emotional impacts of oppression/marginalization.
I offer a safe, non-judgemental and reflective space for you to explore your experiences, process difficult feelings and manage any challenges you may be facing. Therapy may help you free up mental space, widen your self-understanding and move toward a more authentic and satisfying way of being. I have experience working with a range of challenges including depression, anxiety, childhood trauma, relationship issues, abuse, sexuality and gender identity, loss and bereavement and the emotional impacts of oppression/marginalization.
020 3667 9681 View 020 3667 9681
Photo of Eleanor Barreau, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Eleanor Barreau
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
East London, London E3
I have experience working with anxiety (panic attacks, health, generalised), OCD, depression, chronic fatigue, bereavement, childhood trauma, domestic violence, relationships issues, eating disorders, work issues, life goals.
As you consider finding a therapist, it's crucial to find someone who understands your unique story and makes you feel comfortable. I create a warm, non-judgmental space where you can explore your concerns and difficult experiences with ease. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, loneliness, or anger, tackling these issues alone can be overwhelming and even frightening. With therapy, you can start to rebuild that sense of connection with yourself. I believe that creating a safe space where you can be open and honest helps you explore and concur the issues that you feel are holding you back.
I have experience working with anxiety (panic attacks, health, generalised), OCD, depression, chronic fatigue, bereavement, childhood trauma, domestic violence, relationships issues, eating disorders, work issues, life goals.
As you consider finding a therapist, it's crucial to find someone who understands your unique story and makes you feel comfortable. I create a warm, non-judgmental space where you can explore your concerns and difficult experiences with ease. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, loneliness, or anger, tackling these issues alone can be overwhelming and even frightening. With therapy, you can start to rebuild that sense of connection with yourself. I believe that creating a safe space where you can be open and honest helps you explore and concur the issues that you feel are holding you back.
020 3893 5973 View 020 3893 5973
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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.