Domestic Abuse Therapists in Encino, CA

Photo of Linda Qasabian, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Linda Qasabian
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91316
I have extensive training working with victims of Domestic Violence and parenting , anger management, and a variety of support groups.
If your struggling with knowing your self value and need others to vaidate you, if you are constantly seeking external affirmation to feel good about yourself ? Come and share your struggles and together we can discover your true self worth and unleash your full potential, to gain more strength and confidence.
I have extensive training working with victims of Domestic Violence and parenting , anger management, and a variety of support groups.
If your struggling with knowing your self value and need others to vaidate you, if you are constantly seeking external affirmation to feel good about yourself ? Come and share your struggles and together we can discover your true self worth and unleash your full potential, to gain more strength and confidence.
(747) 298-8355 View (747) 298-8355
Photo of Suseth Fonseca, APCC
Suseth Fonseca
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Encino, CA 91436  (Online Only)
She has over two years of experience in various settings and has worked with clients who have experienced domestic violence, self-harm, depression, anxiety, and trauma.
Suseth Fonseca is an Associate Professional Clinical Counselor (APCC) who is fluent in both English and Spanish. She obtained her bachelor's degree from Humboldt State University and her master's degree from Grand Canyon University (GCU). Suseth's approach to counseling is person-centered, and she works with individuals from diverse backgrounds, including children and adults from BIPOC communities.
She has over two years of experience in various settings and has worked with clients who have experienced domestic violence, self-harm, depression, anxiety, and trauma.
Suseth Fonseca is an Associate Professional Clinical Counselor (APCC) who is fluent in both English and Spanish. She obtained her bachelor's degree from Humboldt State University and her master's degree from Grand Canyon University (GCU). Suseth's approach to counseling is person-centered, and she works with individuals from diverse backgrounds, including children and adults from BIPOC communities.
(747) 298-8610 View (747) 298-8610
Photo of Parvin Jahanpanah, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Parvin Jahanpanah
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Encino, CA 91436
“Let me support you to build a greater awareness of your wisdom, and strength” As a licensed psychotherapist I can provide that support, awareness, problem-solving skills, and greater coping strategies for issues as depression, anxiety, parenting, domestic violence, and relationship difficulties. I have clinical experience working with children (play therapy), individuals, families, couples and groups. We all have an 'inner critic'. A pattern of blaming ourselves for events that were out of our control. This negative inner talk is more powerful when we fall into anxiety or depression.
“Let me support you to build a greater awareness of your wisdom, and strength” As a licensed psychotherapist I can provide that support, awareness, problem-solving skills, and greater coping strategies for issues as depression, anxiety, parenting, domestic violence, and relationship difficulties. I have clinical experience working with children (play therapy), individuals, families, couples and groups. We all have an 'inner critic'. A pattern of blaming ourselves for events that were out of our control. This negative inner talk is more powerful when we fall into anxiety or depression.
(818) 835-1520 View (818) 835-1520
Photo of Paul Thomas Brogan, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Paul Thomas Brogan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Encino, CA 91436
A personal crisis is a critical moment in a person's life, and seeking help can be very difficult, especially for men! As your "guide on the side," I have particular interest in serving people coping with depression, anxiety, stress, anger management, grief, relationship problems, and substance abuse.
A personal crisis is a critical moment in a person's life, and seeking help can be very difficult, especially for men! As your "guide on the side," I have particular interest in serving people coping with depression, anxiety, stress, anger management, grief, relationship problems, and substance abuse.
(818) 918-3679 View (818) 918-3679
Photo of Cass Lyons, MFA, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cass Lyons
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFA, MA
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91316
Effective psychotherapy is transforming. In my private practice both individuals and couples come seeking a therapeutic relationship to clarify the suffering in their life. My style is interactive and engaging, utilizing psychotherapy, Jungian analysis and dream work. Although I specialize in recovery from trauma (ptsd), those who are creatively blocked, grief and loss, victims of domestic violence, and addiction to alcohol/substances, I welcome all kinds of people into the sanctuary of my office
Effective psychotherapy is transforming. In my private practice both individuals and couples come seeking a therapeutic relationship to clarify the suffering in their life. My style is interactive and engaging, utilizing psychotherapy, Jungian analysis and dream work. Although I specialize in recovery from trauma (ptsd), those who are creatively blocked, grief and loss, victims of domestic violence, and addiction to alcohol/substances, I welcome all kinds of people into the sanctuary of my office
(818) 369-3134 View (818) 369-3134
Photo of Gary Michael Larkin, MA, MS, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gary Michael Larkin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91436  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with children with disabilities and their families, Autism, Tourette Syndrome, OCD, ADHD, learning and behavior disorders, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, addiction,adoption issues, Men's Issues, infertility, victims and perpetrators of crime and abuse, individuals, couples, families, and groups, and those with depression related to careers in Show Business.
I have been licensed for 18 years, and have worked with various populations. I am a client-centered behaviorist; meaning I help people change behaviors by presenting them with coping strategies and communication skills to help deal with life on life's terms. I use my experience, as well as professional life as a special education teacher for the last 22 years, a 48 year marriage, and 35 years of a personal 12-Step Program to guide my theoretical orientation to help change distorted thinking into positive choices. I listen with empathy, and offer suggestions for hope and change. .
I specialize in working with children with disabilities and their families, Autism, Tourette Syndrome, OCD, ADHD, learning and behavior disorders, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, addiction,adoption issues, Men's Issues, infertility, victims and perpetrators of crime and abuse, individuals, couples, families, and groups, and those with depression related to careers in Show Business.
I have been licensed for 18 years, and have worked with various populations. I am a client-centered behaviorist; meaning I help people change behaviors by presenting them with coping strategies and communication skills to help deal with life on life's terms. I use my experience, as well as professional life as a special education teacher for the last 22 years, a 48 year marriage, and 35 years of a personal 12-Step Program to guide my theoretical orientation to help change distorted thinking into positive choices. I listen with empathy, and offer suggestions for hope and change. .
(818) 351-7146 View (818) 351-7146
Photo of Linda J Hayes - Linda Hayes, LCSW, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Linda Hayes, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91436
I also treat depression, employment-related stress, domestic violence, self-esteem issues and challenges associated with adolescence and young adults.
I am a licensed therapist practicing in Encino, CA. My primary focus is on individuals, couples, and children coping with depression, anxiety, relationship issues and the impact of separation or divorce. I've worked as a mediator, evaluator and expert witness for the Los Angeles Superior Court for 16 years. I have years of experience helping individuals and families going through crises. I also provide Coparenting counseling, reunification therapy, marriage and divorce counseling. I specialize in working with adolescents, empty nest issues and coping with a loved one who lives with a psychiatric disorder.
I also treat depression, employment-related stress, domestic violence, self-esteem issues and challenges associated with adolescence and young adults.
I am a licensed therapist practicing in Encino, CA. My primary focus is on individuals, couples, and children coping with depression, anxiety, relationship issues and the impact of separation or divorce. I've worked as a mediator, evaluator and expert witness for the Los Angeles Superior Court for 16 years. I have years of experience helping individuals and families going through crises. I also provide Coparenting counseling, reunification therapy, marriage and divorce counseling. I specialize in working with adolescents, empty nest issues and coping with a loved one who lives with a psychiatric disorder.
(818) 918-2305 View (818) 918-2305
Photo of Allison Wolf, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Allison Wolf
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91316  (Online Only)
I see teens, adults, couples, and families who are seeking support in working through issues relating to depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, postpartum, substance abuse, co-occuring disorders, relational discord/dynamics, and difficult life transitions. I'm especially interested in helping others heal core conflicts and internal struggles while offering non-judgmental compassion and encouragement, in order to support others in being their true selves. I've adopted a holistic approach to growth and progress as I encourage others to accept and enhance parts of self.
I see teens, adults, couples, and families who are seeking support in working through issues relating to depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, postpartum, substance abuse, co-occuring disorders, relational discord/dynamics, and difficult life transitions. I'm especially interested in helping others heal core conflicts and internal struggles while offering non-judgmental compassion and encouragement, in order to support others in being their true selves. I've adopted a holistic approach to growth and progress as I encourage others to accept and enhance parts of self.
(818) 740-6603 View (818) 740-6603
Photo of Tina Dahlenburg, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tina Dahlenburg
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91436  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked extensively with survivors of trauma, sexual assault and domestic violence.
Ever wonder... "why is this not working?" Do the most important relationships in your life feel fractured & in a negative loop? Seeking therapy is one of the most personal & intimate decision you can make. Everyone has a view of what it is, but only your experience matters. Therapy is your time to decide what's most important & begin your healing process. It challenges you, comforts you, & frustrates you. Together, we find your inner strength & replace broken patterns with healthy ones.
I have worked extensively with survivors of trauma, sexual assault and domestic violence.
Ever wonder... "why is this not working?" Do the most important relationships in your life feel fractured & in a negative loop? Seeking therapy is one of the most personal & intimate decision you can make. Everyone has a view of what it is, but only your experience matters. Therapy is your time to decide what's most important & begin your healing process. It challenges you, comforts you, & frustrates you. Together, we find your inner strength & replace broken patterns with healthy ones.
(818) 970-7751 View (818) 970-7751
Photo of Hugo Cesar Villa, LMFT , Marriage & Family Therapist
Hugo Cesar Villa
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91436
Are you felling overwhelmed. COVD19 had impated your life and the lifes of your children. For over 25 years my professional career has focused on providing children and family therapy to help individuals recovering from various forms of trauma and maltreatment and managed anxiety. In addition to private practice I founded The Village Family Services, a nonprofit organization dedicated to protect children from abuse and neglect and preserve families.
Are you felling overwhelmed. COVD19 had impated your life and the lifes of your children. For over 25 years my professional career has focused on providing children and family therapy to help individuals recovering from various forms of trauma and maltreatment and managed anxiety. In addition to private practice I founded The Village Family Services, a nonprofit organization dedicated to protect children from abuse and neglect and preserve families.
(818) 351-1965 View (818) 351-1965
Photo of Susan Paul-Klein - Susan Paul-Klein LMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Susan Paul-Klein LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91316
I specialize in treating adults and adolescents with bi-polar disorder, post traumatic stress disorder, depression, substance abuse, obsessive compulsive disorder,& eating disorders.
I believe that each person searches to find a therapist with whom they feel a connection. It is very important to me that I provide you with a positive emotional experience. One that is free from judgement, or underlying agendas. I strive to support my clients by being a dependable, focused and consistently positive force in their lives. A person grows through connection, consistency and genuine caring. I am not a clinician who believes that one has to feel pain in order to progress in therapy. Quite the contrary, it is through having a more healthy positive relationship, which causes meaningful change.
I specialize in treating adults and adolescents with bi-polar disorder, post traumatic stress disorder, depression, substance abuse, obsessive compulsive disorder,& eating disorders.
I believe that each person searches to find a therapist with whom they feel a connection. It is very important to me that I provide you with a positive emotional experience. One that is free from judgement, or underlying agendas. I strive to support my clients by being a dependable, focused and consistently positive force in their lives. A person grows through connection, consistency and genuine caring. I am not a clinician who believes that one has to feel pain in order to progress in therapy. Quite the contrary, it is through having a more healthy positive relationship, which causes meaningful change.
(818) 839-6850 View (818) 839-6850
Photo of Vivian B Insua-Lopez - Finding Guidance Behavioral Services, PsyD, Psychologist
Finding Guidance Behavioral Services
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91316
We specialize in , depression, bipolar, anxiety, addiction, abuse, trauma, crisis intervention, suicidal thoughts, behavioral intervention, behavioral problems, parenting, mood disorders, EMDR, bereavement, PTSD, post partum depression, family issues, domestic violence, and marital problems.
Welcome to our practice. We are a group practice of licensed therapists and we provide individual, family, and couples therapy to children, adolescents, adults and the elderly. We have Spanish speaking staff and therapists. We offer evening and weekend appointments. We have friendly and dedicated staff. We also offer telehealth therapy which can be provided in the privacy and convenience of your home or office.
We specialize in , depression, bipolar, anxiety, addiction, abuse, trauma, crisis intervention, suicidal thoughts, behavioral intervention, behavioral problems, parenting, mood disorders, EMDR, bereavement, PTSD, post partum depression, family issues, domestic violence, and marital problems.
Welcome to our practice. We are a group practice of licensed therapists and we provide individual, family, and couples therapy to children, adolescents, adults and the elderly. We have Spanish speaking staff and therapists. We offer evening and weekend appointments. We have friendly and dedicated staff. We also offer telehealth therapy which can be provided in the privacy and convenience of your home or office.
(818) 330-4782 View (818) 330-4782
Photo of Judith (Judi) J Bucholtz, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Judith (Judi) J Bucholtz
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Encino, CA 91316
Are you struggling with a relationship and no longer able to communicate with each other? Do family and friends understand your feelings? Whether you are struggling with: depression, anxiety, fear, negative thinking, any type of abuse and/or trauma, self-esteem, communication in relationships, understanding can create positive changes and diminish symptoms. I am here to help understand what lies underneath these issues. As an experienced therapist who has worked with children, adolescents, and adults for 20 years, I work closely with my clients to develop individual goals that focus on: lessening depression, anxiety, and increasing communication in relationships.
Are you struggling with a relationship and no longer able to communicate with each other? Do family and friends understand your feelings? Whether you are struggling with: depression, anxiety, fear, negative thinking, any type of abuse and/or trauma, self-esteem, communication in relationships, understanding can create positive changes and diminish symptoms. I am here to help understand what lies underneath these issues. As an experienced therapist who has worked with children, adolescents, and adults for 20 years, I work closely with my clients to develop individual goals that focus on: lessening depression, anxiety, and increasing communication in relationships.
(424) 294-8907 View (424) 294-8907
Photo of Ernesto Peraza, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ernesto Peraza
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Encino, CA 91316  (Online Only)
In my private practice, I provide a motivational and empathic environment for children, adolescents, individuals, couples, and families to explore underlying issues to depression, anxiety, domestic violence, trauma, and anger outbursts. I am trained in TF-CBT (Trauma Focus Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), which helps Clients significantly improve symptoms related to depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder. For a free initial consultation contact my practice in San Fernando Valley, CA. I have 12 years of experience providing mental health services.
In my private practice, I provide a motivational and empathic environment for children, adolescents, individuals, couples, and families to explore underlying issues to depression, anxiety, domestic violence, trauma, and anger outbursts. I am trained in TF-CBT (Trauma Focus Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), which helps Clients significantly improve symptoms related to depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder. For a free initial consultation contact my practice in San Fernando Valley, CA. I have 12 years of experience providing mental health services.
(818) 746-2362 View (818) 746-2362
Photo of Holly Pearlman, LCPC, LPCC, Counselor
Holly Pearlman
Counselor, LCPC, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Encino, CA 91316  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping individuals and families heal from traumatic and stressful experiences, including adults abused as children, family relationships, narcissistic abuse, hoarding disorder, and family estrangement. You may not know what to expect from therapy, but you know you need to make some changes in your life so you can move forward. Stress, anxiety, and traumatic experiences are highly prevalent in our lives, and sometimes people need help and support in dealing with difficult/stressful situations. I am a trauma therapist specializing in family relationships that involve conflict, abuse, and a cycle of dysfunction.
I specialize in helping individuals and families heal from traumatic and stressful experiences, including adults abused as children, family relationships, narcissistic abuse, hoarding disorder, and family estrangement. You may not know what to expect from therapy, but you know you need to make some changes in your life so you can move forward. Stress, anxiety, and traumatic experiences are highly prevalent in our lives, and sometimes people need help and support in dealing with difficult/stressful situations. I am a trauma therapist specializing in family relationships that involve conflict, abuse, and a cycle of dysfunction.
(818) 650-3372 View (818) 650-3372
Photo of Mark John Souris, PsyD, SAP, Psychologist
Mark John Souris
Psychologist, PsyD, SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Encino, CA 91316
Additionally, I am a qualified Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) and conduct evaluations of individuals who are employed in "safety-sensitive" positions and violate drug and alcohol requirements per regulations as set forth by the U.
My goal as a licensed psychologist is to help individuals, couples, families, and groups find harmony between what they "think," how they "feel," and what they "do" as they work through multiple life challenges and demands. Since its beginning, the vision of my practice has focused on providing culturally-sensitive mental health services to diverse populations exhibiting a full range of difficulties and psychological disorders. This vision is launched from a cognitive-behavioral framework. My practice reflects the insight offered by Albert Einstein: "We cannot solve our problems with the same thinking we used when we created them." Hence, for change to happen, "thinking matters."
Additionally, I am a qualified Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) and conduct evaluations of individuals who are employed in "safety-sensitive" positions and violate drug and alcohol requirements per regulations as set forth by the U.
My goal as a licensed psychologist is to help individuals, couples, families, and groups find harmony between what they "think," how they "feel," and what they "do" as they work through multiple life challenges and demands. Since its beginning, the vision of my practice has focused on providing culturally-sensitive mental health services to diverse populations exhibiting a full range of difficulties and psychological disorders. This vision is launched from a cognitive-behavioral framework. My practice reflects the insight offered by Albert Einstein: "We cannot solve our problems with the same thinking we used when we created them." Hence, for change to happen, "thinking matters."
(818) 960-6127 View (818) 960-6127
Photo of Lynelle Goodreau, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lynelle Goodreau
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91436  (Online Only)
My practice orientation with clients integrates the power of our mind-body-spirit connection toward healing wounded areas within ourselves. I specifically help individuals that have been victims of narcissistic abuse in their early childhood relationships or current adult relationships heal this very real trauma to their minds and bodies. Focus is toward strengthening adaptive, rational and positive thoughts and behaviors instead of living from fear and trauma. Narcissism undermines growth, strength, health and productive ways of living. Meditation, creative visualization/affirmation skills, breathing exercises, role-playing, voice-dialogue and gestalt methods are employed for moving stagnant energy in our bodies. .
My practice orientation with clients integrates the power of our mind-body-spirit connection toward healing wounded areas within ourselves. I specifically help individuals that have been victims of narcissistic abuse in their early childhood relationships or current adult relationships heal this very real trauma to their minds and bodies. Focus is toward strengthening adaptive, rational and positive thoughts and behaviors instead of living from fear and trauma. Narcissism undermines growth, strength, health and productive ways of living. Meditation, creative visualization/affirmation skills, breathing exercises, role-playing, voice-dialogue and gestalt methods are employed for moving stagnant energy in our bodies. .
(213) 260-4724 View (213) 260-4724
Photo of M. Brigitt Lamothe-François - Dr. M. Brigitt Lamothe-François, PhD, MS, Psychologist
Dr. M. Brigitt Lamothe-François
Psychologist, PhD, MS
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91316
It is wisely said that “each client comes to the session embodying multiple voices from the past”. I believe this reflects the complexities and beauty in both being and understanding ourselves. I am a psychotherapist, clinical trainer and professor. I specialize in individual, couples, and group therapy, working with individuals who struggle with trauma and abuse, depression, anxiety, and relational wounds. My work is performed with cultural intentionality so as to help clients develop insight/self-awareness that helps them to better navigate transitional/life difficulties. I also provide diversity, equity & inclusion workshops
It is wisely said that “each client comes to the session embodying multiple voices from the past”. I believe this reflects the complexities and beauty in both being and understanding ourselves. I am a psychotherapist, clinical trainer and professor. I specialize in individual, couples, and group therapy, working with individuals who struggle with trauma and abuse, depression, anxiety, and relational wounds. My work is performed with cultural intentionality so as to help clients develop insight/self-awareness that helps them to better navigate transitional/life difficulties. I also provide diversity, equity & inclusion workshops
(562) 303-5625 View (562) 303-5625
Photo of Ellen Faulk, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ellen Faulk
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91316  (Online Only)
My goal is to help you achieve your goals. Having done this work for 30 years the issues that have sadly remained consistent are the high levels of child sexual abuse and adult sexual assault, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. A significant number of people will have an assault in their lifetime, so you are not alone. My doc dissertation was on sexual trauma, resilience (surviving), & posttraumatic growth (thriving). I am dedicated to all types of trauma and see that people can not only get better but they can choose the life they wish to live, often with help of a therapist and a desire to change.
My goal is to help you achieve your goals. Having done this work for 30 years the issues that have sadly remained consistent are the high levels of child sexual abuse and adult sexual assault, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. A significant number of people will have an assault in their lifetime, so you are not alone. My doc dissertation was on sexual trauma, resilience (surviving), & posttraumatic growth (thriving). I am dedicated to all types of trauma and see that people can not only get better but they can choose the life they wish to live, often with help of a therapist and a desire to change.
(424) 353-2338 View (424) 353-2338
Photo of Vanessa Hernandez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Vanessa Hernandez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91436
In addition to working with anxiety disorders, depression, processing trauma, and life transitions, I specialize in providing mental health services to survivors of Domestic Violence.
(Sesiones disponibles en Español) Hello & welcome! I know how overwhelming finding the right therapist can be, so I congratulate you on taking this first big step! Therapy can be healing and empowering but starting the process can feel overwhelming and nerve-wracking. Allow me to make that process easier and comfortable for you. Together we can identify your current needs, things that are working, your strengths, and your goals. In therapy, we will also explore and develop coping strategies that will help you better manage your stress and help you feel empowered!
In addition to working with anxiety disorders, depression, processing trauma, and life transitions, I specialize in providing mental health services to survivors of Domestic Violence.
(Sesiones disponibles en Español) Hello & welcome! I know how overwhelming finding the right therapist can be, so I congratulate you on taking this first big step! Therapy can be healing and empowering but starting the process can feel overwhelming and nerve-wracking. Allow me to make that process easier and comfortable for you. Together we can identify your current needs, things that are working, your strengths, and your goals. In therapy, we will also explore and develop coping strategies that will help you better manage your stress and help you feel empowered!
(747) 271-5330 View (747) 271-5330
1
Domestic Abuse Therapists

What are the most effective ways to recover from domestic abuse?

Leaving an abusive relationship requires tremendous courage, so survivors in treatment should recognize 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.