Domestic Abuse Therapists in Felton, CA

Photo of Jennifer Fenton - The Equine Healing Collaborative, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
The Equine Healing Collaborative
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Felton, CA 95018
It has been shown effective in the treatment of PTSD, mood related disorders, anxiety related disorders, learning disabilities,and substance abuse.
The Equine Healing Collaborative was created to provide a path to recovery, self-discovery, personal growth, a re-connection with the natural world, and/or emotional insight and health. The Equine Healing Collaborative offers more than just traditional talk therapy and utilizes interventions such as equine assisted therapy, mindfulness, and mindful equine massage to promote health and quality of life for individuals seeking change.
It has been shown effective in the treatment of PTSD, mood related disorders, anxiety related disorders, learning disabilities,and substance abuse.
The Equine Healing Collaborative was created to provide a path to recovery, self-discovery, personal growth, a re-connection with the natural world, and/or emotional insight and health. The Equine Healing Collaborative offers more than just traditional talk therapy and utilizes interventions such as equine assisted therapy, mindfulness, and mindful equine massage to promote health and quality of life for individuals seeking change.
(831) 750-1526 View (831) 750-1526
Photo of Patricia Toscano, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patricia Toscano
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Felton, CA 95018
Hello! I’m Patricia Toscano. I am a Marriage and Family Therapist. I’ve been providing counseling to BIPOC for the past 12 years. When I first began my career, I never thought I’d become an expert at trauma, violence, and relationship issues. My career path has afforded me the privilege to help people with intimate relationship issues and concerns with violence and trauma. My ability to be fluent in Spanish and to understand the various factors related to the living experience of BIPOC has granted me the opportunity to guide my client’s in a better understanding of their lives and to help them come to a resolution.
Hello! I’m Patricia Toscano. I am a Marriage and Family Therapist. I’ve been providing counseling to BIPOC for the past 12 years. When I first began my career, I never thought I’d become an expert at trauma, violence, and relationship issues. My career path has afforded me the privilege to help people with intimate relationship issues and concerns with violence and trauma. My ability to be fluent in Spanish and to understand the various factors related to the living experience of BIPOC has granted me the opportunity to guide my client’s in a better understanding of their lives and to help them come to a resolution.
(669) 322-4021 View (669) 322-4021
Photo of Jenna E Wolfson, LCSW, C-PAT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenna E Wolfson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, C-PAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Felton, CA 95018
The work you and I will do together is focused on your goals and needs and capitalizes on your strengths. My assessment process takes into account the biological, psychological, social, emotional, spiritual, and cultural aspects of your life. Once that assessment is completed, you and I will explore the issues and needs that you are trying to manage by utilizing a "motivational interviewing" approach. We then work to discover the maladaptive behaviors and coping mechanisms; and explore healthy, productive, and strengths-based strategies for getting these needs met.
The work you and I will do together is focused on your goals and needs and capitalizes on your strengths. My assessment process takes into account the biological, psychological, social, emotional, spiritual, and cultural aspects of your life. Once that assessment is completed, you and I will explore the issues and needs that you are trying to manage by utilizing a "motivational interviewing" approach. We then work to discover the maladaptive behaviors and coping mechanisms; and explore healthy, productive, and strengths-based strategies for getting these needs met.
(805) 429-6264 View (805) 429-6264
Photo of Andrea Wright, ASW, BCBA
Andrea Wright
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW, BCBA
Verified Verified
Felton, CA 95018
In my practice, I have the privilege of working closely with children and parents, witnessing the transformation as children regain emotional balance, learn to understand their feelings, and improve their self-esteem. I strive to offer a safe and trusting space where children can freely express themselves and parents can find a focused plan of action that works to strengthen family bonds and promote healthy relationships. With a background in social work and years of experience as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, I've refined a unique and effective approach to supporting children on their journey towards emotional well-being.
In my practice, I have the privilege of working closely with children and parents, witnessing the transformation as children regain emotional balance, learn to understand their feelings, and improve their self-esteem. I strive to offer a safe and trusting space where children can freely express themselves and parents can find a focused plan of action that works to strengthen family bonds and promote healthy relationships. With a background in social work and years of experience as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, I've refined a unique and effective approach to supporting children on their journey towards emotional well-being.
(831) 851-3482 View (831) 851-3482
Photo of Pamela J. Clements, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Pamela J. Clements
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Felton, CA 95018
I believe that healing and growth are innate human capacities which can become overwhelmed by powerful and/or chronic stressors. My priorities for our healing relationship are to ensure a sense of safety for you in the therapy process, as well as collaborativity. I have developed a process that I call Developmental Mindfulness to promote wellness on the somatic, emotional, and cognitive levels of human experience. I integrate somatic modalities, archetypal psychology, art therapy, play therapy, the fundamentals of qigong and yoga, Internal Family Systems, narrative strategies, cognitive strategies, and nutritional psychology.
I believe that healing and growth are innate human capacities which can become overwhelmed by powerful and/or chronic stressors. My priorities for our healing relationship are to ensure a sense of safety for you in the therapy process, as well as collaborativity. I have developed a process that I call Developmental Mindfulness to promote wellness on the somatic, emotional, and cognitive levels of human experience. I integrate somatic modalities, archetypal psychology, art therapy, play therapy, the fundamentals of qigong and yoga, Internal Family Systems, narrative strategies, cognitive strategies, and nutritional psychology.
(831) 508-7217 View (831) 508-7217
Photo of Ariana Rice O’Day, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ariana Rice O’Day
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Felton, CA 95018
Not accepting new clients
My practice centers on promoting change through love, compassion and acceptance. You may have a sense that something isn't right in your life but aren't sure what it is. Or you may know what it is but have no idea how to change it. You hope that if you just try harder or stay busy your situation will change and, when that doesn't work, you beat yourself up. Neither forcing change nor avoiding problems work because we must first feel accepted. Whether you have anxiety, troubles setting boundaries, difficulties cultivating healthy relationships or are struggling with the aftermath of a traumatic experience, I am here to help.
My practice centers on promoting change through love, compassion and acceptance. You may have a sense that something isn't right in your life but aren't sure what it is. Or you may know what it is but have no idea how to change it. You hope that if you just try harder or stay busy your situation will change and, when that doesn't work, you beat yourself up. Neither forcing change nor avoiding problems work because we must first feel accepted. Whether you have anxiety, troubles setting boundaries, difficulties cultivating healthy relationships or are struggling with the aftermath of a traumatic experience, I am here to help.
(510) 674-1244 View (510) 674-1244
Photo of Jeff Ebbage, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jeff Ebbage
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Felton, CA 95018
Not accepting new clients
“I can’t take this _______ anymore, but I just don’t know what else to do”. If you’re willing to fill in the blank, you’ve taken the first step. The next step is finding an experienced therapist with whom you have a good fit: a relationship that includes trust, empathy and compassion. Ultimately I have found this lead to new possibilities, often from identifying and endorsing new perspectives and behaviors.
“I can’t take this _______ anymore, but I just don’t know what else to do”. If you’re willing to fill in the blank, you’ve taken the first step. The next step is finding an experienced therapist with whom you have a good fit: a relationship that includes trust, empathy and compassion. Ultimately I have found this lead to new possibilities, often from identifying and endorsing new perspectives and behaviors.
(831) 216-0695 View (831) 216-0695

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Carolyn A Vitale, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carolyn A Vitale
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
I have led various groups for children such as social skills/empowerment and domestic violence.
I like to work with a wide range of folks from 8yr old kids to those aging. Often with adults I am interested in getting beyond everyday conversation into deeper layers of self, incorporating an inward focus of the body, mind and spirit. I am eclectic and offer a strength-based approach to help with depression, anxiety, transitions, relationship challenges, overall stuckness and other challenges. My approach is humanistic and compassionate, providing the support needed to get through hardships into a more empowered, creative and celebratory self.
I have led various groups for children such as social skills/empowerment and domestic violence.
I like to work with a wide range of folks from 8yr old kids to those aging. Often with adults I am interested in getting beyond everyday conversation into deeper layers of self, incorporating an inward focus of the body, mind and spirit. I am eclectic and offer a strength-based approach to help with depression, anxiety, transitions, relationship challenges, overall stuckness and other challenges. My approach is humanistic and compassionate, providing the support needed to get through hardships into a more empowered, creative and celebratory self.
(831) 275-7727 View (831) 275-7727
Photo of Dr. Elizabeth Briggs, LMFT, PsyD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Elizabeth Briggs
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PsyD
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
I am a substance abuse specialist and my clinical interests include working with adolescents, adults, couples and families struggling with life transitions, family and relationship conflict, trauma and anxiety.
The decision to seek help is the first step in creating the life you have always envisioned. Although difficult and often overwhelming, seeking support for the complexity of life's issues has the power to change your life for the better. My goal is to help you achieve your personal goals and create a life that is worth celebrating. Collaboratively, we will work to uncover unhealthy patterns and explore deep rooted issues that may be preventing you from experiencing a more fulfilling, peaceful, and meaningful life.
I am a substance abuse specialist and my clinical interests include working with adolescents, adults, couples and families struggling with life transitions, family and relationship conflict, trauma and anxiety.
The decision to seek help is the first step in creating the life you have always envisioned. Although difficult and often overwhelming, seeking support for the complexity of life's issues has the power to change your life for the better. My goal is to help you achieve your personal goals and create a life that is worth celebrating. Collaboratively, we will work to uncover unhealthy patterns and explore deep rooted issues that may be preventing you from experiencing a more fulfilling, peaceful, and meaningful life.
(805) 261-4592 View (805) 261-4592
Photo of Kasey Bogoje - The Mindful Lemon, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
The Mindful Lemon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95062  (Online Only)
Our mission is to provide quality online mental health and substance abuse services while breaking down the barriers of traditional, office based therapy. Traditional mental health and substance abuse treatment tends to focus on what makes you sick, what you are lacking but at The Mindful Lemon, our clinicians let you sit in the driver’s seat, focusing on your strengths and assets to help you become the best version of you! This can be via traditional talk therapy, medication management, mindfulness techniques, an emphasis on health, wellness and fitness or any combination of the above.
Our mission is to provide quality online mental health and substance abuse services while breaking down the barriers of traditional, office based therapy. Traditional mental health and substance abuse treatment tends to focus on what makes you sick, what you are lacking but at The Mindful Lemon, our clinicians let you sit in the driver’s seat, focusing on your strengths and assets to help you become the best version of you! This can be via traditional talk therapy, medication management, mindfulness techniques, an emphasis on health, wellness and fitness or any combination of the above.
(831) 276-0279 View (831) 276-0279
Photo of Persephone Brianna Gonzalez - Persephone B. Gonzalez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Persephone B. Gonzalez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Capitola, CA 95010
Persephone Gonzalez, LMFT, has worked extensively with the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health, providing intensive, long and short-term psychotherapy in both English and Spanish. Her specialties include complex trauma, major depression, anxiety, substance abuse and dependence, issues of gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, sexuality and intimacy. Her practice has focused on adolescents and young adults, in addition to adults and families including non-monogamy, polyamory, open relationships, and other relationships styles.
Persephone Gonzalez, LMFT, has worked extensively with the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health, providing intensive, long and short-term psychotherapy in both English and Spanish. Her specialties include complex trauma, major depression, anxiety, substance abuse and dependence, issues of gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, sexuality and intimacy. Her practice has focused on adolescents and young adults, in addition to adults and families including non-monogamy, polyamory, open relationships, and other relationships styles.
(831) 226-8566 View (831) 226-8566
Photo of Mariann C Tymn - Mariann C. Tymn, LMFT, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mariann C. Tymn, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Do you need help to make changes in your life? My main areas of interest & experience include parenting issues, LGBTQ issues, sexual abuse, trauma (childhood & recent), marriage/relationship problems, depression, ADHD, & career counseling. I have worked with individuals, couples, and families from diverse cultures, ethnicities, and sexual/gender orientation. My work with you begins by providing a safe and non-judging place for you to talk about your needs. We will work together to help you make positive changes in your life. I am happy to answer any questions about how I work and how therapy might work for you.
Do you need help to make changes in your life? My main areas of interest & experience include parenting issues, LGBTQ issues, sexual abuse, trauma (childhood & recent), marriage/relationship problems, depression, ADHD, & career counseling. I have worked with individuals, couples, and families from diverse cultures, ethnicities, and sexual/gender orientation. My work with you begins by providing a safe and non-judging place for you to talk about your needs. We will work together to help you make positive changes in your life. I am happy to answer any questions about how I work and how therapy might work for you.
(831) 535-3759 View (831) 535-3759
Photo of Alicia M Foronda, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alicia M Foronda
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95062
Specialized in treating children, teenagers and adults with history of severe trauma and abuse, as well with the usual relational family problems.
Invest in yourself and your loved ones; therapy is not just a mental health treatment sought when we are suffering from mental distress, or unable to conduct life as wanted. Therapy is also a self discovery process to get a greater and deeper knowledge about ourselves, which will allow to make better choices and become the person that we have wished. Having someone to accompany you in this path, with a professional perspective, non-judgmental listening and accurate interventions, will allow you to cope with painful circumstances, significant life changes / transitions, as well with symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD and others.
Specialized in treating children, teenagers and adults with history of severe trauma and abuse, as well with the usual relational family problems.
Invest in yourself and your loved ones; therapy is not just a mental health treatment sought when we are suffering from mental distress, or unable to conduct life as wanted. Therapy is also a self discovery process to get a greater and deeper knowledge about ourselves, which will allow to make better choices and become the person that we have wished. Having someone to accompany you in this path, with a professional perspective, non-judgmental listening and accurate interventions, will allow you to cope with painful circumstances, significant life changes / transitions, as well with symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD and others.
(831) 704-8692 View (831) 704-8692
Photo of Diane Sunseri, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diane Sunseri
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Warm Greetings. I'm here to support you in Living Your Best Life. Let's work together to get you there. I can help you navigate challenges & discover your path forward. I believe we all know how to heal ourselves. My role is to guide you in this process. My experience: 16 yrs. working with clients of all ages. Focus: Anxiety, depression, self-esteem, parenting, troubled teens, self-harm, divorce, substance abuse, Survivors of childhood sexual abuse & breast cancer. I also offer parents guidance navigating Special Education Systems in schools & colleges, assuring students receive needed accommodations & services.
Warm Greetings. I'm here to support you in Living Your Best Life. Let's work together to get you there. I can help you navigate challenges & discover your path forward. I believe we all know how to heal ourselves. My role is to guide you in this process. My experience: 16 yrs. working with clients of all ages. Focus: Anxiety, depression, self-esteem, parenting, troubled teens, self-harm, divorce, substance abuse, Survivors of childhood sexual abuse & breast cancer. I also offer parents guidance navigating Special Education Systems in schools & colleges, assuring students receive needed accommodations & services.
(831) 218-6214 View (831) 218-6214
Photo of Dana Bail, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dana Bail
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Soquel, CA 95073
I have experienced quick and effective results using EMDR therapy with survivors of childhood abuse, domestic violence and victims of crime.
I provide counseling for people of all ages who are struggling to find peace within themselves. We often find ourselves stuck within the grip of anxiety and depression due to the impact of unresolved trauma. These traumatic events can be either "big" or "small," yet they can interfere with the ability to live and love fully. It is possible to learn to love the unlovable and accept the unacceptable through a growth in awareness and compassion towards all that we are. I specialize in the treatment of trauma using EMDR therapy, the Hakomi Method and a compassionate presence.
I have experienced quick and effective results using EMDR therapy with survivors of childhood abuse, domestic violence and victims of crime.
I provide counseling for people of all ages who are struggling to find peace within themselves. We often find ourselves stuck within the grip of anxiety and depression due to the impact of unresolved trauma. These traumatic events can be either "big" or "small," yet they can interfere with the ability to live and love fully. It is possible to learn to love the unlovable and accept the unacceptable through a growth in awareness and compassion towards all that we are. I specialize in the treatment of trauma using EMDR therapy, the Hakomi Method and a compassionate presence.
(831) 216-1294 View (831) 216-1294
Photo of Minnie Shukla, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Minnie Shukla
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Gatos, CA 95033
My areas of interest include: Life transitions, grief, multi-cultural adjustment, work/life balance, meaning of life, emotional/physical abuse, couples issues, infidelity, parenting issues, anxiety, low self-esteem, and more.
The most difficult and painful circumstances in our lives can also serve as an opportunity to look at what needs our attention! Very often, we give our POWER away to people and situations in our life, causing us to feel victimized and stuck. Your current challenges can be a gateway towards self empowerment! you do not need to walk this path alone. In a safe space, we can begin the process of uncovering and healing the pain which may be keeping you paralyzed! It is possible to regain trust and confidence, in order to invite joy back into your life, get you power back and enjoy waking up each day !
My areas of interest include: Life transitions, grief, multi-cultural adjustment, work/life balance, meaning of life, emotional/physical abuse, couples issues, infidelity, parenting issues, anxiety, low self-esteem, and more.
The most difficult and painful circumstances in our lives can also serve as an opportunity to look at what needs our attention! Very often, we give our POWER away to people and situations in our life, causing us to feel victimized and stuck. Your current challenges can be a gateway towards self empowerment! you do not need to walk this path alone. In a safe space, we can begin the process of uncovering and healing the pain which may be keeping you paralyzed! It is possible to regain trust and confidence, in order to invite joy back into your life, get you power back and enjoy waking up each day !
(408) 850-4338 View (408) 850-4338
Photo of Magda Wroblewska, MA, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Magda Wroblewska
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
My primary areas of expertise are issues of trauma (early or recent), grief and loss, sexual abuse, substance abuse, divorce and blended family issues.
It's not easy to look for a therapist. I talk to many nervous people who question if counseling and therapy work. They usually leave my office relaxed, sometimes laughing, most importantly hopeful. My job is to first of all provide a safe space for your self-exploration. I am endlessly fascinated by the growth that happens when people feel safe and not judged. I invite you to be your "uncensored self" because only when we accept who we are; are we open to change.
My primary areas of expertise are issues of trauma (early or recent), grief and loss, sexual abuse, substance abuse, divorce and blended family issues.
It's not easy to look for a therapist. I talk to many nervous people who question if counseling and therapy work. They usually leave my office relaxed, sometimes laughing, most importantly hopeful. My job is to first of all provide a safe space for your self-exploration. I am endlessly fascinated by the growth that happens when people feel safe and not judged. I invite you to be your "uncensored self" because only when we accept who we are; are we open to change.
(408) 335-3513 View (408) 335-3513
Photo of Yvonne D Vermillion, LMFT, MA, PsyD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Yvonne D Vermillion
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
I offer presentations on empowering the victim in bullying situations entitled, "It's NOT About the Bully.
Blending conventional and alternative approaches I empower children, adolescents, and adults to reach their therapeutic goals. It is my belief that all children, regardless of age or race, speak their own unique language based on their unique life experiences. This language expresses who they are and what they need in order to live a more functional and productive life. My mission is to interpret that language and offer innovative strategies that foster positive growth and maturity. It is not only a challenge to change, grow, and learn. As a member of the human race, I feel it is an obligation!
I offer presentations on empowering the victim in bullying situations entitled, "It's NOT About the Bully.
Blending conventional and alternative approaches I empower children, adolescents, and adults to reach their therapeutic goals. It is my belief that all children, regardless of age or race, speak their own unique language based on their unique life experiences. This language expresses who they are and what they need in order to live a more functional and productive life. My mission is to interpret that language and offer innovative strategies that foster positive growth and maturity. It is not only a challenge to change, grow, and learn. As a member of the human race, I feel it is an obligation!
(831) 272-4956 View (831) 272-4956
Photo of Stephen L Braveman, LMFT, DST, CST, CST-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stephen L Braveman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, DST, CST, CST-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95060  (Online Only)
His unique Male Sexual Abuse Survivors Group has been meeting for 30 years.
Founder and Director of the Intimacy, Sexuality & Gender Center of California, Stephen has been providing professional top of the field Sex Therapy and Gender Identity Therapy to the Central Coast for over 32 years! ISGC, extensively serves the needs of individuals with sexual dysfunctions, those who have been sexually abused, couples struggling with sexual and intimacy issues, the Transgender/Transsexual community, the LGBT communities and the communities of all other sexual and gender minorities. Stephen also serves Victims of Domestic Violence and Sexual Compulsivity (Out of Control Sexual Behavior.)
His unique Male Sexual Abuse Survivors Group has been meeting for 30 years.
Founder and Director of the Intimacy, Sexuality & Gender Center of California, Stephen has been providing professional top of the field Sex Therapy and Gender Identity Therapy to the Central Coast for over 32 years! ISGC, extensively serves the needs of individuals with sexual dysfunctions, those who have been sexually abused, couples struggling with sexual and intimacy issues, the Transgender/Transsexual community, the LGBT communities and the communities of all other sexual and gender minorities. Stephen also serves Victims of Domestic Violence and Sexual Compulsivity (Out of Control Sexual Behavior.)
(831) 216-6848 View (831) 216-6848
Photo of Monique Miller, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Monique Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Waitlist for new clients
I'd be honored to support your healing and personal growth. I love guiding those ready to re-parent themselves and repair wounds of complex trauma. I'm experienced in recovery from emotional neglect or narcissistic abuse, whether from family of origin or a romantic relationship. I love working with couples and families, with an emphasis on those in non-traditional spaces. This includes members of the LGBTQ+ community, as well as blended families/step-parents looking to create a family system that functions in the healthiest way possible. I also offer Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy and support with medicine journey integration.
I'd be honored to support your healing and personal growth. I love guiding those ready to re-parent themselves and repair wounds of complex trauma. I'm experienced in recovery from emotional neglect or narcissistic abuse, whether from family of origin or a romantic relationship. I love working with couples and families, with an emphasis on those in non-traditional spaces. This includes members of the LGBTQ+ community, as well as blended families/step-parents looking to create a family system that functions in the healthiest way possible. I also offer Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy and support with medicine journey integration.
(831) 539-2451 View (831) 539-2451

See more therapy options for Felton

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.