Domestic Abuse Therapists in Santa Clara, CA

Photo of Janet James, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janet James
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Clara, CA 95052  (Online Only)
I have the most experience working with individuals struggling with mood disorders, family/relationship conflicts such as divorce/ domestic violence, occupation distress (work stress) and status anxiety.
Hello there! I'm Janet. You deserve to live a life that makes you feel excited to face every day, and sometimes this can feel tough. I believe that compassion and unconditional acceptance are non-negotiable when it comes to therapy. Please know that when you and I meet, you can expect authenticity, and empowerment in our meeting room.
I have the most experience working with individuals struggling with mood disorders, family/relationship conflicts such as divorce/ domestic violence, occupation distress (work stress) and status anxiety.
Hello there! I'm Janet. You deserve to live a life that makes you feel excited to face every day, and sometimes this can feel tough. I believe that compassion and unconditional acceptance are non-negotiable when it comes to therapy. Please know that when you and I meet, you can expect authenticity, and empowerment in our meeting room.
(408) 214-1842 View (408) 214-1842
Photo of Marla M Koenig, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marla M Koenig
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Clara, CA 95050
I have experience in working with couples/families to build more positive and healthy relationships, individuals with depression/anxiety management issues, trauma and trauma recovery, domestic violence, and adolescent emotional/behavioral issues.
Often, our greatest struggles come when our relationships are not as we'd wished; relationships with family are tense, a partnership is struggling, or our relationship with ourselves is unhealthy. I aim to provide a supportive environment that allows for exploration and identification and recovery of inner strengths that can be utilized as you explore new ways of thinking and relating. Whether you come for support with individual issues, family struggles, or couples' issues, I work to help clients learn new ways of relating, both to themselves and with others that may be more meaningful, compassionate, trusting, and satisfying.
I have experience in working with couples/families to build more positive and healthy relationships, individuals with depression/anxiety management issues, trauma and trauma recovery, domestic violence, and adolescent emotional/behavioral issues.
Often, our greatest struggles come when our relationships are not as we'd wished; relationships with family are tense, a partnership is struggling, or our relationship with ourselves is unhealthy. I aim to provide a supportive environment that allows for exploration and identification and recovery of inner strengths that can be utilized as you explore new ways of thinking and relating. Whether you come for support with individual issues, family struggles, or couples' issues, I work to help clients learn new ways of relating, both to themselves and with others that may be more meaningful, compassionate, trusting, and satisfying.
(408) 479-5425 View (408) 479-5425
Photo of Cynthia Stern, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cynthia Stern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Clara, CA 95054  (Online Only)
Some presenting challenges include high conflict, finances, child problems, substance abuse, infidelity, a mental illness and more.
The individuals, families, and couples I treat should expect to produce true fundamental change.I practice a brief systemic solution focused treatment. Be ready to work with me to construct a clear understanding of the problem/symptom in order to co-create an action plan. Clients should expect to practice new patterns of behavior both in and out of sessions. I prescribe strategic interventions such as tasks, rituals, enactments, and assignments. I have integrated my expertise as a psychotherapist with my life coaching skills.I see my role as a change agent. I specialize in high conflict relational challenges and divorce.
Some presenting challenges include high conflict, finances, child problems, substance abuse, infidelity, a mental illness and more.
The individuals, families, and couples I treat should expect to produce true fundamental change.I practice a brief systemic solution focused treatment. Be ready to work with me to construct a clear understanding of the problem/symptom in order to co-create an action plan. Clients should expect to practice new patterns of behavior both in and out of sessions. I prescribe strategic interventions such as tasks, rituals, enactments, and assignments. I have integrated my expertise as a psychotherapist with my life coaching skills.I see my role as a change agent. I specialize in high conflict relational challenges and divorce.
(310) 494-7260 View (310) 494-7260
Photo of Diane Patton Gaither, MA, LMFT, CEDS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Diane Patton Gaither
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CEDS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Clara, CA 95051
I have a broad practice with extensive experience working with people struggling with Eating Disorders, Anxiety, and Domestic Violence.
Relationship issues? Do you suffer from anxiety? Does low self-esteem get in the way for you of having the life you really want? Maybe you are seeking insight into why you can't let go of past events that have impacted you. I can help. I believe strongly in the idea that everyone has the ability to heal themselves and at times may need additional support or guidance along the way. At the core of my therapeutic style, is the belief that a foundation of mindfulness and cultivating a healthy relationship to self is where healing and wholeness begin.
I have a broad practice with extensive experience working with people struggling with Eating Disorders, Anxiety, and Domestic Violence.
Relationship issues? Do you suffer from anxiety? Does low self-esteem get in the way for you of having the life you really want? Maybe you are seeking insight into why you can't let go of past events that have impacted you. I can help. I believe strongly in the idea that everyone has the ability to heal themselves and at times may need additional support or guidance along the way. At the core of my therapeutic style, is the belief that a foundation of mindfulness and cultivating a healthy relationship to self is where healing and wholeness begin.
(408) 260-5008 View (408) 260-5008
Photo of Judith Buck Hanf - Better Living Marriage & Family Therapy Inc., MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Better Living Marriage & Family Therapy Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Clara, CA 95051  (Online Only)
I work with people who are experiencing issues with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationships (including domestic violence), trauma (including post-traumatic stress disorder), anger or stress. Working with a neutral third party can offer you an environment--one of safety and non-judgement--in which you may feel more at ease sharing and exploring your innermost thoughts and feelings. I see us working collaboratively on whatever issue(s) and/or goal(s)you bring in. I have been working in the counseling profession for more than 10 years. I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families.
I work with people who are experiencing issues with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationships (including domestic violence), trauma (including post-traumatic stress disorder), anger or stress. Working with a neutral third party can offer you an environment--one of safety and non-judgement--in which you may feel more at ease sharing and exploring your innermost thoughts and feelings. I see us working collaboratively on whatever issue(s) and/or goal(s)you bring in. I have been working in the counseling profession for more than 10 years. I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families.
(408) 413-4559 View (408) 413-4559
Photo of Irfan Akbar, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Irfan Akbar
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Clara, CA 95050  (Online Only)
I have over 25 years of experience in providing psychotherapy to teens, adults, couples and families. With Couples, treatment issues may include domestic conflict, cross cultural and inter-faith marriages, in-laws, infidelity, trust, spousal equality and respect, and intimacy. With individual adults, my specialities include depression, grief and loss, stress, anxiety, trauma, and life transitions (work, family or self related). With teens, my experience encompasses delinquent behaviors, trauma, substance abuse, self-harm, depression, ADHD, OCD, identity issues, school problems and parent-child conflict.
I have over 25 years of experience in providing psychotherapy to teens, adults, couples and families. With Couples, treatment issues may include domestic conflict, cross cultural and inter-faith marriages, in-laws, infidelity, trust, spousal equality and respect, and intimacy. With individual adults, my specialities include depression, grief and loss, stress, anxiety, trauma, and life transitions (work, family or self related). With teens, my experience encompasses delinquent behaviors, trauma, substance abuse, self-harm, depression, ADHD, OCD, identity issues, school problems and parent-child conflict.
(510) 344-8377 View (510) 344-8377
Photo of Nina Atanassova - Nina Atanassova, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nina Atanassova
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Clara, CA 95050  (Online Only)
I help clients with issues related to: * Depression and Anxiety * Stress Management * Domestic Violence * Anger Management * Self Esteem Issues * Communication and Relationship Issues * Adolescent Behavioral Issues * Trauma, Grief and Loss * Parenting and Step-Parenting Issues.
In my practice, I believe that the process of change requires an approach that is tailored to each individual's unique style and needs. I strive to create a collaborative, caring, and supportive atmosphere that will assist you in identifying and changing the thoughts, the behaviors, and the interpersonal styles that are no longer effective for you. I offer confidential, supportive and caring environment free of judgment that will facilitate your journey through difficulties and challenges.
I help clients with issues related to: * Depression and Anxiety * Stress Management * Domestic Violence * Anger Management * Self Esteem Issues * Communication and Relationship Issues * Adolescent Behavioral Issues * Trauma, Grief and Loss * Parenting and Step-Parenting Issues.
In my practice, I believe that the process of change requires an approach that is tailored to each individual's unique style and needs. I strive to create a collaborative, caring, and supportive atmosphere that will assist you in identifying and changing the thoughts, the behaviors, and the interpersonal styles that are no longer effective for you. I offer confidential, supportive and caring environment free of judgment that will facilitate your journey through difficulties and challenges.
(628) 244-9011 View (628) 244-9011
Photo of Mitra Taheri, EdS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mitra Taheri
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdS
Verified Verified
Santa Clara, CA 95050
I worked with the clients that they had a problem with depression, anxiety, phobia, conduct disorder, divorce, family conflicts, parenting problems, relational problems, physical, emotional and sexual abuse, learning disabilities, low self-esteem, issues associated with job and educational decisions, ADHD, ODD, anger management, and multi - cultural Issues.
My goal as a mental health clinician, specialized in marriage and family therapy is to create a supportive enviroment in which my clients can explore their emotional needs and overcome barriers that limit their full potential. I have a significant amount of experience in providing individual, couple and family therapy. My work experience as the mental health clinician taught me how to understand the special needs of children, adolescents, adults, couples and families.
I worked with the clients that they had a problem with depression, anxiety, phobia, conduct disorder, divorce, family conflicts, parenting problems, relational problems, physical, emotional and sexual abuse, learning disabilities, low self-esteem, issues associated with job and educational decisions, ADHD, ODD, anger management, and multi - cultural Issues.
My goal as a mental health clinician, specialized in marriage and family therapy is to create a supportive enviroment in which my clients can explore their emotional needs and overcome barriers that limit their full potential. I have a significant amount of experience in providing individual, couple and family therapy. My work experience as the mental health clinician taught me how to understand the special needs of children, adolescents, adults, couples and families.
(408) 514-5146 View (408) 514-5146
Photo of Christine Lemmon, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christine Lemmon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Santa Clara, CA 95051
Immigration Evaluations: I work with the immigrant population impacted by violence in the US and abroad as well as those seeking asylum in the US.
I am a psychotherapist providing individual therapy services to adults. Many of clients who come to me are experiencing feelings of grief, sadness, anxiety, confusion about an area of their life, or difficulty in intimate or familial relationships. I also specialize in working with adults who are impacted by trauma. In my work I understand trauma as how we are impacted by the painful experiences in our lives and the ways in which those experiences shape the way we form relationships with others, with ourselves, and the degree to which we are able to find joy.
Immigration Evaluations: I work with the immigrant population impacted by violence in the US and abroad as well as those seeking asylum in the US.
I am a psychotherapist providing individual therapy services to adults. Many of clients who come to me are experiencing feelings of grief, sadness, anxiety, confusion about an area of their life, or difficulty in intimate or familial relationships. I also specialize in working with adults who are impacted by trauma. In my work I understand trauma as how we are impacted by the painful experiences in our lives and the ways in which those experiences shape the way we form relationships with others, with ourselves, and the degree to which we are able to find joy.
(408) 844-4374 View (408) 844-4374
Photo of Maritza Henry, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Maritza Henry
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Clara, CA 95050
My clinical areas of specialties are Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, women's issues, fertility issues, parenting, children / adolescent behavioral problems, ADD/ADHD, Issues of Abuse ( Abused) and Bicultural/Multicultural Relations.
I have an extensive background in providing psychotherapy for individual adults, couples, adolescents and traditional as well as non-traditional families from various ethnic, cultural, religious and socio-economic backgrounds. I believe that everyone has strengths and all the ingredients to acquire self-love, peace and happiness. My job is to help a client tap into those strengths and ingredients. My job is to provide a platform for which clients can begin to identify and experience healthy ways to be in a relationship with others and themselves.
My clinical areas of specialties are Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, women's issues, fertility issues, parenting, children / adolescent behavioral problems, ADD/ADHD, Issues of Abuse ( Abused) and Bicultural/Multicultural Relations.
I have an extensive background in providing psychotherapy for individual adults, couples, adolescents and traditional as well as non-traditional families from various ethnic, cultural, religious and socio-economic backgrounds. I believe that everyone has strengths and all the ingredients to acquire self-love, peace and happiness. My job is to help a client tap into those strengths and ingredients. My job is to provide a platform for which clients can begin to identify and experience healthy ways to be in a relationship with others and themselves.
(408) 759-4858 View (408) 759-4858
Photo of Rachel Krantz, LCSW, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Krantz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Clara, CA 95051
Greetings! Each of us has moments when we need to step back, re-consider our lives and find guidance in taking the next courageous steps toward change. If you are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, conflicts in relationships, lack of clarity about your future direction, or the after-effects of past trauma or abuse, this might be one of those times in your life.
Greetings! Each of us has moments when we need to step back, re-consider our lives and find guidance in taking the next courageous steps toward change. If you are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, conflicts in relationships, lack of clarity about your future direction, or the after-effects of past trauma or abuse, this might be one of those times in your life.
(408) 610-1351 View (408) 610-1351
Photo of Christina Yip, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christina Yip
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Santa Clara, CA 95050
As a therapist, my biggest reward is to see my clients transformed after being healed from issues with mood swings, relationships, parenting, cultural conflicts, family origin, past traumatic experiences, and abuse. I care deeply for each of my clients and I do my best to ensure that each and every one of them gets the help he or she seeks.
As a therapist, my biggest reward is to see my clients transformed after being healed from issues with mood swings, relationships, parenting, cultural conflicts, family origin, past traumatic experiences, and abuse. I care deeply for each of my clients and I do my best to ensure that each and every one of them gets the help he or she seeks.
(408) 217-0834 View (408) 217-0834
Photo of Elizabeth Ojeda, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Elizabeth Ojeda
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Clara, CA 95055
It's when we address the roots of violence and oppression from a sociopolitical, historical, and cultural context do we then truly gain a holistic understanding of the impacts life experience has on our mental health and relationships.
I am a Queer, Mexican-American Therapist based in San Jose. I believe that healing starts with the individual and leads to greater shifts in the collective. I strive to integrate the innate wisdom my clients carry to move toward embodied wellness. My intention is to uphold a space to help you reclaim your narrative, realign with your authentic self, and orient towards what is possible - to return home to healing and hope.
It's when we address the roots of violence and oppression from a sociopolitical, historical, and cultural context do we then truly gain a holistic understanding of the impacts life experience has on our mental health and relationships.
I am a Queer, Mexican-American Therapist based in San Jose. I believe that healing starts with the individual and leads to greater shifts in the collective. I strive to integrate the innate wisdom my clients carry to move toward embodied wellness. My intention is to uphold a space to help you reclaim your narrative, realign with your authentic self, and orient towards what is possible - to return home to healing and hope.
(408) 676-1506 View (408) 676-1506
Photo of Tracy Lynn Fleming, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tracy Lynn Fleming
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Clara, CA 95050
I specialize in the treatment of depression, bipolar disorder, relational issues, trauma, adjustment disorders, domestic violence, divorce and child custody/visitation issues, and issues related to sexual orientation.
Many people come to therapy to resolve problems in relationships, manage stress related to work and family, to learn how to adapt to minor and major changes in life, or simply to enhance one’s sense of self. I believe that clients are the experts in their own lives, and that my job as a therapist is to guide clients in resolving their issues by providing a wide variety of cognitive behavioral and mindfulness tools and techniques that can easily be applied to daily life and that will alleviate suffering in a relatively short period of time.
I specialize in the treatment of depression, bipolar disorder, relational issues, trauma, adjustment disorders, domestic violence, divorce and child custody/visitation issues, and issues related to sexual orientation.
Many people come to therapy to resolve problems in relationships, manage stress related to work and family, to learn how to adapt to minor and major changes in life, or simply to enhance one’s sense of self. I believe that clients are the experts in their own lives, and that my job as a therapist is to guide clients in resolving their issues by providing a wide variety of cognitive behavioral and mindfulness tools and techniques that can easily be applied to daily life and that will alleviate suffering in a relatively short period of time.
(408) 628-1061 View (408) 628-1061
Photo of Carol Olmos Crawley, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carol Olmos Crawley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Clara, CA 95053  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My focus is working with survivors of narcissistic abuse, first responders, and couples looking to recover from infidelity. I see individuals as well as couples and if appropriate, will alternate seeing a couple together and then separately for individual sessions. I use an integrative approach that combines evidence-based practices with a personalized, holistic perspective. Whether you are struggling with infidelity, trauma, anxiety, depression, or other challenges, I am here to provide a compassionate and non-judgmental space where you can explore your experiences and develop the skills and tools you need to achieve your goals.
My focus is working with survivors of narcissistic abuse, first responders, and couples looking to recover from infidelity. I see individuals as well as couples and if appropriate, will alternate seeing a couple together and then separately for individual sessions. I use an integrative approach that combines evidence-based practices with a personalized, holistic perspective. Whether you are struggling with infidelity, trauma, anxiety, depression, or other challenges, I am here to provide a compassionate and non-judgmental space where you can explore your experiences and develop the skills and tools you need to achieve your goals.
(669) 322-3302 View (669) 322-3302
Photo of Meera Kalimata Tanikella, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Meera Kalimata Tanikella
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Clara, CA 95050
If you find yourself stuck in repetitive patterns, self-destructive behaviors, or relationship challenges, I am here to support you on your journey toward healing. I help clients heal both emotionally and spiritually, fostering growth and emotional resilience. Together, we will unlock a full, authentic life, rich with a strong sense of self, meaningful connections, and fulfilling work.
If you find yourself stuck in repetitive patterns, self-destructive behaviors, or relationship challenges, I am here to support you on your journey toward healing. I help clients heal both emotionally and spiritually, fostering growth and emotional resilience. Together, we will unlock a full, authentic life, rich with a strong sense of self, meaningful connections, and fulfilling work.
(408) 539-5180 View (408) 539-5180
Photo of Tanya Pekker, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tanya Pekker
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Clara, CA 95054
Do you want to have a healthier life and more satisfying relationships? Therapy consists of a direct and compassionate approach to help individuals, couples and families. You have found me on the Web through your own search, so you are presumably trying to find an affordable professional therapist who would suit your particular needs. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I can offer counseling and therapy. Caring professional support and understanding can provide relief and healing during stressful times.
Do you want to have a healthier life and more satisfying relationships? Therapy consists of a direct and compassionate approach to help individuals, couples and families. You have found me on the Web through your own search, so you are presumably trying to find an affordable professional therapist who would suit your particular needs. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I can offer counseling and therapy. Caring professional support and understanding can provide relief and healing during stressful times.
(650) 452-6311 View (650) 452-6311
Photo of Reeta Laique Stewart, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Reeta Laique Stewart
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Clara, CA 95054  (Online Only)
As a passionate and dedicated therapist, I am committed to helping individuals navigate life's challenges and achieve personal growth. With a client-centered approach, I provide a safe and empathetic space for you to explore your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Drawing from evidence-based techniques and a deep understanding of human psychology, I tailor my therapeutic interventions to suit your unique needs. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or simply seeking personal development, I am here to support you on your journey towards self-discovery and mental well-being.
As a passionate and dedicated therapist, I am committed to helping individuals navigate life's challenges and achieve personal growth. With a client-centered approach, I provide a safe and empathetic space for you to explore your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Drawing from evidence-based techniques and a deep understanding of human psychology, I tailor my therapeutic interventions to suit your unique needs. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or simply seeking personal development, I am here to support you on your journey towards self-discovery and mental well-being.
(408) 665-7765 View (408) 665-7765
Photo of Aida Muller, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Aida Muller
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Clara, CA 95054
If you or someone you care about are going through a difficult time and need help, guidance, and support, or feeling anxious, stuck, depressed, confused or lost, then give me a call. It is not always easy to ask for help and for what you need, particularly when you don't know the therapist and at times don't know what you need or can't put it into words. It takes courage and strength to make this first step and reach out to ask for help. I am a licensed, seasoned, compassionate psychotherapist, and I would be honored to work with you, so you don't have to do it all alone.
If you or someone you care about are going through a difficult time and need help, guidance, and support, or feeling anxious, stuck, depressed, confused or lost, then give me a call. It is not always easy to ask for help and for what you need, particularly when you don't know the therapist and at times don't know what you need or can't put it into words. It takes courage and strength to make this first step and reach out to ask for help. I am a licensed, seasoned, compassionate psychotherapist, and I would be honored to work with you, so you don't have to do it all alone.
(408) 457-0411 View (408) 457-0411
Photo of Dr. Lyndsie M. Amtoft, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Lyndsie M. Amtoft
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Clara, CA 95054  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! My name is Dr. Lyndsie Amtoft and I’m a licensed psychotherapist practicing in NorCal. I have been licensed for 12 years while practicing within the mental health field for over 20 years. I enjoy working with individuals, families, and children. I specialize in working with clients who have been diagnosed with Autism, those processing bereavement and grief, parents who are dealing with high-conflict custodial litigation, and children, teens, and adults having experienced trauma in their lives. I look forward to meeting you and working together to offer support in your journey of self exploration, healing, and personal growth.
Hello! My name is Dr. Lyndsie Amtoft and I’m a licensed psychotherapist practicing in NorCal. I have been licensed for 12 years while practicing within the mental health field for over 20 years. I enjoy working with individuals, families, and children. I specialize in working with clients who have been diagnosed with Autism, those processing bereavement and grief, parents who are dealing with high-conflict custodial litigation, and children, teens, and adults having experienced trauma in their lives. I look forward to meeting you and working together to offer support in your journey of self exploration, healing, and personal growth.
(707) 709-5406 View (707) 709-5406
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.