Domestic Abuse Counselling in Nottingham

Photo of Jo Dean, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Jo Dean
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nottingham NG5
I work with adults both one to one and in group therapy that present with a range of difficulties which include Addiction, Mental Health, Eating Disorders, Self Harm, Bereavement, Anxiety, Depression, Domestic and Sexual Abuse, Trauma, Personality Disorders and many other challenges that individuals come to therapy for.
I am a qualified, experienced therapist and clinical supervisor working in Nottingham with clients seeking support when they are struggling with emotional or mental health challenges. Many people seek therapy when they are feeling vulnerable and experiencing challenging times, due to past experiences or events that are happening in the present day. I understand how big this first step is. My role as a therapist is to provide you with a safe and confidential space to talk and help you explore the challenges you are currently facing and help you heal and find solutions. I have worked for the Priory Clinic, Steps Together Rehab.
I work with adults both one to one and in group therapy that present with a range of difficulties which include Addiction, Mental Health, Eating Disorders, Self Harm, Bereavement, Anxiety, Depression, Domestic and Sexual Abuse, Trauma, Personality Disorders and many other challenges that individuals come to therapy for.
I am a qualified, experienced therapist and clinical supervisor working in Nottingham with clients seeking support when they are struggling with emotional or mental health challenges. Many people seek therapy when they are feeling vulnerable and experiencing challenging times, due to past experiences or events that are happening in the present day. I understand how big this first step is. My role as a therapist is to provide you with a safe and confidential space to talk and help you explore the challenges you are currently facing and help you heal and find solutions. I have worked for the Priory Clinic, Steps Together Rehab.
0115 697 1022 View 0115 697 1022
Photo of Zareeda Rashid, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Zareeda Rashid
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG9
Hello, I'm Zareeda and I work with people on issues ranging from rape and sexual abuse to stress, bereavement, anxiety and depression. If you are struggling to find meaning in life you may be feeling disconnected from yourself and/or those around you. This loss of contact with yourself, your needs, values and beliefs may decrease your trust in your ability to form and build meaningful relationships and achieve personal goals.
Hello, I'm Zareeda and I work with people on issues ranging from rape and sexual abuse to stress, bereavement, anxiety and depression. If you are struggling to find meaning in life you may be feeling disconnected from yourself and/or those around you. This loss of contact with yourself, your needs, values and beliefs may decrease your trust in your ability to form and build meaningful relationships and achieve personal goals.
0115 697 1567 View 0115 697 1567
Photo of Sara Badr-Andrews, BACP, Counsellor
Sara Badr-Andrews
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG9
I have worked as a counsellor in a variety of organisations including those focused on working with trauma and abuse and those which focus on young people between 6 and 25.
I am based in Beeston, Nottingham. It easily accessible by car, bus and tram. Things can throw us off course and we can lose ourselves and need support through difficult times. It may just be that you need someone to talk to about what’s going on for you. I can help you by offering a warm and safe space where you will be fully listened to and can explore your emotional difficulties without judgement and at a pace that suits you.
I have worked as a counsellor in a variety of organisations including those focused on working with trauma and abuse and those which focus on young people between 6 and 25.
I am based in Beeston, Nottingham. It easily accessible by car, bus and tram. Things can throw us off course and we can lose ourselves and need support through difficult times. It may just be that you need someone to talk to about what’s going on for you. I can help you by offering a warm and safe space where you will be fully listened to and can explore your emotional difficulties without judgement and at a pace that suits you.
0115 824 4112 View 0115 824 4112
Photo of Susan Faulkner, MBACP, Counsellor
Susan Faulkner
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG16
The essence of my work is to facilitate self-growth, so that you can overcome your challenges, which might be based around feelings of stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, sadness, domestic abuse, family issues, bereavement & loss, or perhaps relationship or work related issues, and see a brighter, clearer road ahead.
I am a qualified Counselling Therapist based in Kimberley, Nottinghamshire, and a Registered Member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (MBACP).  I work within the Person Centred Modality, which is a talking therapy, geared towards supporting clients in making considered and autonomous decisions.  I work in an empathic and non-judgemental manner in order to create a safe space for clients to explore and grow their sense of self by gaining a better understanding of their personal thoughts, feelings and values related to their core challenges and life setbacks.
The essence of my work is to facilitate self-growth, so that you can overcome your challenges, which might be based around feelings of stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, sadness, domestic abuse, family issues, bereavement & loss, or perhaps relationship or work related issues, and see a brighter, clearer road ahead.
I am a qualified Counselling Therapist based in Kimberley, Nottinghamshire, and a Registered Member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (MBACP).  I work within the Person Centred Modality, which is a talking therapy, geared towards supporting clients in making considered and autonomous decisions.  I work in an empathic and non-judgemental manner in order to create a safe space for clients to explore and grow their sense of self by gaining a better understanding of their personal thoughts, feelings and values related to their core challenges and life setbacks.
0115 647 7388 View 0115 647 7388
Photo of Maya Patrizia Gagni, MA, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Maya Patrizia Gagni
Counsellor, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nottingham NG17
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked in the Domestic and Sexual abuse sector for many years, supporting clients through their healing process.
Please note my practice is a women only service. I am a Counsellor/Psychotherapist, Dramatherapist, Supervisor, Equine Facilitated Psychotherapist, Trauma Therapist and EMDR accredited practitioner with more than 20 years experience of working with a variety of presenting issues including complex PTSD. I can support clients with a number of difficulties and have extensive experience in supporting clients on the ASD spectrum. I am also trained in CBT, PCE-CfD and DBT therapy, Couple Counselling, MBCT and Mindfulness. All my training enables me to support clients through difficulties that classical talking therapy might not be able.
I have worked in the Domestic and Sexual abuse sector for many years, supporting clients through their healing process.
Please note my practice is a women only service. I am a Counsellor/Psychotherapist, Dramatherapist, Supervisor, Equine Facilitated Psychotherapist, Trauma Therapist and EMDR accredited practitioner with more than 20 years experience of working with a variety of presenting issues including complex PTSD. I can support clients with a number of difficulties and have extensive experience in supporting clients on the ASD spectrum. I am also trained in CBT, PCE-CfD and DBT therapy, Couple Counselling, MBCT and Mindfulness. All my training enables me to support clients through difficulties that classical talking therapy might not be able.
01623 272429 View 01623 272429
Abida Haroon
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG2  (Online Only)
I have supported women who have experienced domestic abuse and supported them in their journey.
Sometimes life can be tough and talking about the challenges and struggles we go through with our loved ones can be even more difficult and it can leave us feeling isolated and lonely. Asking for help is not easy and if you have not experienced counselling before you may find your self asking the question, do i need counselling? If you feel the need to gain insight and self awareness than counselling is a safe place for you to start your journey of self healing. We are living in the time of uncertainty and many of us are feeling stressed and anxious.It can be helpful to talk to a professional who can provide an outside perspective.
I have supported women who have experienced domestic abuse and supported them in their journey.
Sometimes life can be tough and talking about the challenges and struggles we go through with our loved ones can be even more difficult and it can leave us feeling isolated and lonely. Asking for help is not easy and if you have not experienced counselling before you may find your self asking the question, do i need counselling? If you feel the need to gain insight and self awareness than counselling is a safe place for you to start your journey of self healing. We are living in the time of uncertainty and many of us are feeling stressed and anxious.It can be helpful to talk to a professional who can provide an outside perspective.
01254 786538 View 01254 786538
Photo of Virginia Messina, MBACP, Counsellor
Virginia Messina
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nottingham NG11  (Online Only)
Recovering from a relational abuse is truly a spiritual recovery and I can't wait to facilitate yours.
Hi, Welcome to this page. I am Virginia, an experienced psychotherapeutic counsellor. I have a profound passion for working with clients who have experienced abusive relationships (romantic or parental) and so would need support in recovering from it, establishing a healthier relationship with the self, and significant ones.  If you have low self-esteem, anxiety about establishing new relationships, difficulty in trusting people, struggle with depression as a result of a break up or a loss, or have a tendency to take all the responsibility within your relationships, I would love to hear from you. Let's book a free 15 mins call.
Recovering from a relational abuse is truly a spiritual recovery and I can't wait to facilitate yours.
Hi, Welcome to this page. I am Virginia, an experienced psychotherapeutic counsellor. I have a profound passion for working with clients who have experienced abusive relationships (romantic or parental) and so would need support in recovering from it, establishing a healthier relationship with the self, and significant ones.  If you have low self-esteem, anxiety about establishing new relationships, difficulty in trusting people, struggle with depression as a result of a break up or a loss, or have a tendency to take all the responsibility within your relationships, I would love to hear from you. Let's book a free 15 mins call.
01453 702647 View 01453 702647
Photo of Leigh Manning, MA, BACP, Psychotherapist
Leigh Manning
Psychotherapist, MA, BACP
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG5
I am a fully qualified person-centered psychotherapist, educated to MA level. I have 16 years experience working with a range of issues including abandonment, addiction, anxiety, bereavement, depression, complex trauma, PTSD, relationship problems, and victims/perpetrators of abuse. I am a registered member of the British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy (MBACP).
I am a fully qualified person-centered psychotherapist, educated to MA level. I have 16 years experience working with a range of issues including abandonment, addiction, anxiety, bereavement, depression, complex trauma, PTSD, relationship problems, and victims/perpetrators of abuse. I am a registered member of the British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy (MBACP).
0115 647 7098 View 0115 647 7098
Photo of Karen Laura Martin - Karen Martin Counselling and psychotherapy service, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Karen Martin Counselling and psychotherapy service
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG3
Specialising in trauma - using EMDR, loss, stress, anxiety, low self - esteem, abuse, addiction, self harm and issues within relationships.
Are you feeling lost or out of sorts? Life can be hard and this is where counselling can play a pivotal role in turning your life around. No one should be dealing with issues alone. Standing beside you, developing a trusting relationship where you feel at ease and able to share in a place of safety without judgements or demands is an important starting point. People don’t need to be in crisis or at breaking point to have therapy. It is about empowerment for you to lead the life you want. The outcome being that you have a strong mental platform and resources to facilitate growth.
Specialising in trauma - using EMDR, loss, stress, anxiety, low self - esteem, abuse, addiction, self harm and issues within relationships.
Are you feeling lost or out of sorts? Life can be hard and this is where counselling can play a pivotal role in turning your life around. No one should be dealing with issues alone. Standing beside you, developing a trusting relationship where you feel at ease and able to share in a place of safety without judgements or demands is an important starting point. People don’t need to be in crisis or at breaking point to have therapy. It is about empowerment for you to lead the life you want. The outcome being that you have a strong mental platform and resources to facilitate growth.
0115 647 1038 View 0115 647 1038
Photo of Anthony Bedward - A2BTherapy , MBACP, Counsellor
A2BTherapy
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG5
Hi I’m Anthony I have wanted to help others my whole life and now I’m in a position to do so. I am easy to talk to and very passionate and caring I’ve been told I’m a safe pair of hands which has stayed with me throughout my journey. I’m non judgmental with and very laid back I have dealt with many issues and able to manage anything that comes my way. I have dealt with -trauma,sexual abuse, domestic abuse childhood trauma, sexual identity,behavioural issues,complex needs,mental health issues . just to name a few
Hi I’m Anthony I have wanted to help others my whole life and now I’m in a position to do so. I am easy to talk to and very passionate and caring I’ve been told I’m a safe pair of hands which has stayed with me throughout my journey. I’m non judgmental with and very laid back I have dealt with many issues and able to manage anything that comes my way. I have dealt with -trauma,sexual abuse, domestic abuse childhood trauma, sexual identity,behavioural issues,complex needs,mental health issues . just to name a few
0115 647 7377 View 0115 647 7377
Photo of Ana Haynes - Anna Haynes Counselling and Coaching, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor
Anna Haynes Counselling and Coaching
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG2
I specialise and have experience working with clients who are dealing with the following: Human trafficking victims, Modern day slavery victims, Postpartum anxiety, Postpartum depression, Postpartum rage, Child sexual abuse survivors, Adult sexual abuse survivors, Substance misuse, Generalised or specific Anxiety, Depression, Physical abuse victims.
I am trained in a variety of therapeutic modalities, including Gestalt, mindfulness and breath work. These approaches offer unique and powerful tools for exploring and processing emotions, gaining insight into patterns of behaviour and thought, and fostering personal growth and transformation. Whether you prefer talk therapy, creative expression, or a combination of approaches, I can work with you to find the modalities that best suit your needs and goals. It's important to note that everyone's experience with therapy and these modalities is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. ​
I specialise and have experience working with clients who are dealing with the following: Human trafficking victims, Modern day slavery victims, Postpartum anxiety, Postpartum depression, Postpartum rage, Child sexual abuse survivors, Adult sexual abuse survivors, Substance misuse, Generalised or specific Anxiety, Depression, Physical abuse victims.
I am trained in a variety of therapeutic modalities, including Gestalt, mindfulness and breath work. These approaches offer unique and powerful tools for exploring and processing emotions, gaining insight into patterns of behaviour and thought, and fostering personal growth and transformation. Whether you prefer talk therapy, creative expression, or a combination of approaches, I can work with you to find the modalities that best suit your needs and goals. It's important to note that everyone's experience with therapy and these modalities is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. ​
01777 809692 View 01777 809692
Photo of Joseph Leonard Archer, BACP, Psychotherapist
Joseph Leonard Archer
Psychotherapist, BACP
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG7
My foundation is working with adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse, so I am sensitive to the complexities of trauma.
Hey now, and welcome. I'm Joe and I'm an integrative therapist, primarily working from the Gestalt modality. My wish here is to really connect with you and find out your story. I believe that therapy should be natural. Keeping it real. It's my wish to help gain awareness for a deeper enjoyment of life, exploring potential blocks that maybe stopping you from moving forward. I come with a lot of lived-experience, and am no stranger to the hard knocks of life. Taking that first step into the therapy room is the hardest - but once you do, I am here for you.
My foundation is working with adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse, so I am sensitive to the complexities of trauma.
Hey now, and welcome. I'm Joe and I'm an integrative therapist, primarily working from the Gestalt modality. My wish here is to really connect with you and find out your story. I believe that therapy should be natural. Keeping it real. It's my wish to help gain awareness for a deeper enjoyment of life, exploring potential blocks that maybe stopping you from moving forward. I come with a lot of lived-experience, and am no stranger to the hard knocks of life. Taking that first step into the therapy room is the hardest - but once you do, I am here for you.
0115 647 4237 View 0115 647 4237
Photo of Guy Berresford, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Guy Berresford
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG6
Hi, my name is Guy and I'm a Integrative Relational Psychotherapeutic Counsellor. Most of my clients have become perfectionists or people pleasers as a survival response to dealing with Narcissistic or Borderline Parents. I work primarily with clients that have suffered complex relational trauma such as emotional neglect or psychological abuse or consider themselves to be Neurodivergent. I work to reduce the symptoms of Anxiety, Depression, Low self-esteem, Self-loathing, and Toxic shame.
Hi, my name is Guy and I'm a Integrative Relational Psychotherapeutic Counsellor. Most of my clients have become perfectionists or people pleasers as a survival response to dealing with Narcissistic or Borderline Parents. I work primarily with clients that have suffered complex relational trauma such as emotional neglect or psychological abuse or consider themselves to be Neurodivergent. I work to reduce the symptoms of Anxiety, Depression, Low self-esteem, Self-loathing, and Toxic shame.
0115 647 2545 View 0115 647 2545
Photo of Natalie Brunning, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Natalie Brunning
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG11  (Online Only)
I have more than 10 years experience working within the domestic and sexual abuse.
Hi my name is Natalie. I am an experienced BACP accredited counsellor working in Nottingham. I offer a friendly, safe and confidential space to enable you to work through any difficulties you may be experiencing. I work within the Humanistic person centered approach and I believe that given the right conditions, through therapy, positive changes can be made. I offer counselling for all ages, individuals, couples, EAP, and group work. I work with both long and short term clients. I have extensive experience working with depression, complex mental health and PTSD
I have more than 10 years experience working within the domestic and sexual abuse.
Hi my name is Natalie. I am an experienced BACP accredited counsellor working in Nottingham. I offer a friendly, safe and confidential space to enable you to work through any difficulties you may be experiencing. I work within the Humanistic person centered approach and I believe that given the right conditions, through therapy, positive changes can be made. I offer counselling for all ages, individuals, couples, EAP, and group work. I work with both long and short term clients. I have extensive experience working with depression, complex mental health and PTSD
0115 647 0413 View 0115 647 0413
Photo of Abigael Walton-Mowbray - Changing Leaves Play Therapy
Changing Leaves Play Therapy
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG8
Through working in a variety of school settings, I have worked with lots of trauma, attachment issues, domestic violence, anxiety, and anger issues.
Witnessing a child or young person in your care go through an emotional time can be overwhelming. Knowing what to do for the best can be stressful when many therapeutic options can seem serious. Play therapy is a holistic and child-centered therapeutic approach that can support you and your child. Through play which they will naturally explore and communicate their experiences and create healthy coping mechanisms for the future.
Through working in a variety of school settings, I have worked with lots of trauma, attachment issues, domestic violence, anxiety, and anger issues.
Witnessing a child or young person in your care go through an emotional time can be overwhelming. Knowing what to do for the best can be stressful when many therapeutic options can seem serious. Play therapy is a holistic and child-centered therapeutic approach that can support you and your child. Through play which they will naturally explore and communicate their experiences and create healthy coping mechanisms for the future.
0115 697 1734 View 0115 697 1734
Photo of Paul J. Gilbert, MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Paul J. Gilbert
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG5
I am an experienced and highly qualified Psychotherapist and Counsellor. I offer Single-Session, Short-Term and Long-Term Therapy. I work with a wide range of problems such as Depression, Anxiety, Low Self-Esteem, Sadness, Loss, Relationship Issues, BPD, OCD, Anger, Feeling Lost, Domestic Violence, Trauma, Sexual Violence & Abuse etc. People can seek therapy when they are feeling vulnerable and experiencing a challenging time in their lives, often due to past experiences or events that are happening in the present time. I will help you to explore and understand your experience and find solutions together.
I am an experienced and highly qualified Psychotherapist and Counsellor. I offer Single-Session, Short-Term and Long-Term Therapy. I work with a wide range of problems such as Depression, Anxiety, Low Self-Esteem, Sadness, Loss, Relationship Issues, BPD, OCD, Anger, Feeling Lost, Domestic Violence, Trauma, Sexual Violence & Abuse etc. People can seek therapy when they are feeling vulnerable and experiencing a challenging time in their lives, often due to past experiences or events that are happening in the present time. I will help you to explore and understand your experience and find solutions together.
0115 671 3873 View 0115 671 3873
Photo of Emily Louise Reeve - Emily Reeve Counselling Services, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Emily Reeve Counselling Services
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG5
I offer Counselling and Psychotherapy to individuals who are suffering from many different areas of difficulty. Counselling can help with a variety of issues including but not limited to: Abuse Anger Anxiety Childhood Difficulties Depression Eating disorders Family Problems Grief Self esteem Self harm Stress Trauma. Counselling can be short or long term as agreed between us. It may be easier to have a few sessions and assess whether you think it will be beneficial to you. This may be particulary useful and helpful if you have never accessed therapy before and it may help to calm some nerves.
I offer Counselling and Psychotherapy to individuals who are suffering from many different areas of difficulty. Counselling can help with a variety of issues including but not limited to: Abuse Anger Anxiety Childhood Difficulties Depression Eating disorders Family Problems Grief Self esteem Self harm Stress Trauma. Counselling can be short or long term as agreed between us. It may be easier to have a few sessions and assess whether you think it will be beneficial to you. This may be particulary useful and helpful if you have never accessed therapy before and it may help to calm some nerves.
0115 697 1369 View 0115 697 1369
Photo of John Bernath, MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
John Bernath
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG3
Are you seeking a compassionate and experienced therapist to guide you through life's challenges? With over a decade of experience, I provide a safe and empowering environment where you can explore, heal, and take control of your life. Specializing in individual therapy, I also offer expertise in addressing complex issues such as sexual and domestic abuse, trauma, life-limiting illness, and bereavement. These experiences can profoundly impact your well-being, and my goal is to help you navigate these difficulties with empathy and understanding. I’m committed to helping you feel heard, valued, and supported every step of the way.
Are you seeking a compassionate and experienced therapist to guide you through life's challenges? With over a decade of experience, I provide a safe and empowering environment where you can explore, heal, and take control of your life. Specializing in individual therapy, I also offer expertise in addressing complex issues such as sexual and domestic abuse, trauma, life-limiting illness, and bereavement. These experiences can profoundly impact your well-being, and my goal is to help you navigate these difficulties with empathy and understanding. I’m committed to helping you feel heard, valued, and supported every step of the way.
0115 697 1143 View 0115 697 1143
Photo of Raj Butler, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Raj Butler
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG5
I have worked with many clients with complexed trauma and abuse.
Making the decision about coming to counselling can be quite daunting however more and more people are looking to therapists for support. It is important to choose a therapist that is right for you so I will give you as much information as possible to help you make an informed choice. I believe that when we have a better understanding of who we are/our patterns of behaviour then we can engage in healthier relationships, live autonomous lives and fulfil our potential.
I have worked with many clients with complexed trauma and abuse.
Making the decision about coming to counselling can be quite daunting however more and more people are looking to therapists for support. It is important to choose a therapist that is right for you so I will give you as much information as possible to help you make an informed choice. I believe that when we have a better understanding of who we are/our patterns of behaviour then we can engage in healthier relationships, live autonomous lives and fulfil our potential.
0115 647 7037 View 0115 647 7037
Photo of Judith Byrnes Adults And Children's Therapist, MBACP, Counsellor
Judith Byrnes Adults And Children's Therapist
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG5
Immediate Availability - currently have availability online/telephone and face to face (Nottingham). I have over a decades experience, working with people of all ages and from all walks of life. I work with a range of issues including anxiety, grief, domestic abuse and sexual assault. I worked for Women’s Aid for over 12 years as an Independent Domestic Violence Advocate and as a Sexual Assault Referral Centre as a crisis worker, gaining a full insight of the impact trauma has. Welcome to a judgement-free zone, where you can talk openly. You will be heard, you will be seen and you will never be judged.
Immediate Availability - currently have availability online/telephone and face to face (Nottingham). I have over a decades experience, working with people of all ages and from all walks of life. I work with a range of issues including anxiety, grief, domestic abuse and sexual assault. I worked for Women’s Aid for over 12 years as an Independent Domestic Violence Advocate and as a Sexual Assault Referral Centre as a crisis worker, gaining a full insight of the impact trauma has. Welcome to a judgement-free zone, where you can talk openly. You will be heard, you will be seen and you will never be judged.
0115 647 0515 View 0115 647 0515

See more therapy options for Nottingham

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.