Domestic Abuse Therapists in Santa Cruz, CA

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 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
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 people of all ages. 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 people of all ages. 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 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 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 Rory Valentine Diller, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rory Valentine Diller
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
I work with all kinds of people, particularly folks who've dealt with Trauma, childhood trauma, childhood abuse, domestic violence, narcissistic abuse, sexual trauma, addiction and alcohol abuse, neuro-diversity, LGBTQ identity, and anger issues.
Hello, I'm Rory! I am a nonjudgemental, down to Earth, kind-hearted, and experienced therapist. Have you been struggling with Life? Feeling stuck or frozen? Feeling pained by relationships? Feeling frustrated with yourself and want to change patterns? Going through hard times and need help navigating stress and uncertainty?
I work with all kinds of people, particularly folks who've dealt with Trauma, childhood trauma, childhood abuse, domestic violence, narcissistic abuse, sexual trauma, addiction and alcohol abuse, neuro-diversity, LGBTQ identity, and anger issues.
Hello, I'm Rory! I am a nonjudgemental, down to Earth, kind-hearted, and experienced therapist. Have you been struggling with Life? Feeling stuck or frozen? Feeling pained by relationships? Feeling frustrated with yourself and want to change patterns? Going through hard times and need help navigating stress and uncertainty?
(925) 259-3996 View (925) 259-3996
Photo of Dana Bail, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dana Bail
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
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 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 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 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 Heather Rodriguez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Heather Rodriguez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95064
Welcome! My name is Heather Rodriguez, and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist with over 10 years of experience working with teens, at-risk youth, adults, parents, and families. I help with issues like Depression, Anxiety, Sexual abuse/trauma, Sexual Identity, Stress, Grief, Trauma, Relationships, Self-Harm, and Coping Skills. I incorporate many modalities including Crisis Intervention, Solution Focused Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Psychodynamic therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I recognize that seeking therapy is a difficult decision, and I am proud of you for taking the first step!
Welcome! My name is Heather Rodriguez, and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist with over 10 years of experience working with teens, at-risk youth, adults, parents, and families. I help with issues like Depression, Anxiety, Sexual abuse/trauma, Sexual Identity, Stress, Grief, Trauma, Relationships, Self-Harm, and Coping Skills. I incorporate many modalities including Crisis Intervention, Solution Focused Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Psychodynamic therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I recognize that seeking therapy is a difficult decision, and I am proud of you for taking the first step!
(323) 370-0976 View (323) 370-0976
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 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 Rebecca Zulim, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rebecca Zulim
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Feeling anxious or worried? Too busy for therapy during the work week? I'm available for Friday afternoon and Sunday appointments. I provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges, reduce stress levels, and lead richer, fuller lives. I am an interactive, solution-focused, cognitive behavioral therapist. In a comfortable and supportive atmosphere I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues.
Feeling anxious or worried? Too busy for therapy during the work week? I'm available for Friday afternoon and Sunday appointments. I provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges, reduce stress levels, and lead richer, fuller lives. I am an interactive, solution-focused, cognitive behavioral therapist. In a comfortable and supportive atmosphere I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues.
(831) 245-3983 View (831) 245-3983
Photo of Leah Adrian-Briggs, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Leah Adrian-Briggs
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95062  (Online Only)
You've been thinking about this for some time. Waking up to your morning alarm and automatically dreading the day. It's exhausting to put on a brave face and pretend everything is OK, while inside you can't stop criticizing and doubting yourself. How agonizing it can be when you feel compelled to obsess over conversations or the worst moments of your life and sit in that pain. And when you do try to talk to someone they try to give you advice, "look on the bright side", or to try some yoga or something. It's so isolating when it seems like no one understands, so it feels easier to just keep trying to do this all on your own.
You've been thinking about this for some time. Waking up to your morning alarm and automatically dreading the day. It's exhausting to put on a brave face and pretend everything is OK, while inside you can't stop criticizing and doubting yourself. How agonizing it can be when you feel compelled to obsess over conversations or the worst moments of your life and sit in that pain. And when you do try to talk to someone they try to give you advice, "look on the bright side", or to try some yoga or something. It's so isolating when it seems like no one understands, so it feels easier to just keep trying to do this all on your own.
(650) 618-2954 View (650) 618-2954
Photo of Dayna Lea, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dayna Lea
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
There's nothing hurt that can't be healed and there's nothing broken that can't be fixed. With insight, compassion and humor, I will support you on your journey towards right relationship with yourself and others. I am comfortable sitting with people who are having a challenging time and will create a safe space for us to move together towards deep healing and change. I invite a co-creative experience where together we hold the vision of your highest good and best possible life.
There's nothing hurt that can't be healed and there's nothing broken that can't be fixed. With insight, compassion and humor, I will support you on your journey towards right relationship with yourself and others. I am comfortable sitting with people who are having a challenging time and will create a safe space for us to move together towards deep healing and change. I invite a co-creative experience where together we hold the vision of your highest good and best possible life.
(831) 667-5108 View (831) 667-5108
Photo of Helen Giffrow, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Helen Giffrow
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95060  (Online Only)
These are turbulent times that place an extra burden on our mental health. In addition, perhaps you're in a role of caring for others and struggle to find enough time for yourself, or you're in the midst of a challenging life event or transition. You may be experiencing some symptoms that concern you. Stress, anxiety, depression, loss, or unresolved trauma can interfere with moving forward and put stress on our relationships. In my role as your witness and collaborator, I offer a comfortable and safe space for you to process, problem solve, and explore ways to re-connect with your own internal wisdom.
These are turbulent times that place an extra burden on our mental health. In addition, perhaps you're in a role of caring for others and struggle to find enough time for yourself, or you're in the midst of a challenging life event or transition. You may be experiencing some symptoms that concern you. Stress, anxiety, depression, loss, or unresolved trauma can interfere with moving forward and put stress on our relationships. In my role as your witness and collaborator, I offer a comfortable and safe space for you to process, problem solve, and explore ways to re-connect with your own internal wisdom.
(831) 201-1319 View (831) 201-1319
Photo of Aaron Michael Desuacido, PsyD, Psychological Associate
Aaron Michael Desuacido
Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95062
Greetings! I am so glad you are here. My name is Dr. Aaron Desuacido and I am passionate about helping people realize their true value. I have worked with people from many different backgrounds, age groups, and demographics but I have extensive experience working with trauma survivors and transitional age youth, which includes individuals from adolescence to early adulthood.
Greetings! I am so glad you are here. My name is Dr. Aaron Desuacido and I am passionate about helping people realize their true value. I have worked with people from many different backgrounds, age groups, and demographics but I have extensive experience working with trauma survivors and transitional age youth, which includes individuals from adolescence to early adulthood.
(831) 604-2237 View (831) 604-2237
Photo of Dr. Dean Leav - Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
(831) 744-7224 View (831) 744-7224
Photo of Elizabeth (Lisa) Ann Herendeen, LCSW, MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth (Lisa) Ann Herendeen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Are your seeking a more peaceful and harmonious life?  One that can hold both the challenges and the goodness?  Therapy can help. My style is warm, empathic, and collaborative.  I use evidence-based techniques such as cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness and brain science. I would like to help you tackle what is impeding you and open up new options so that you can make good decisions and create more happiness for you and your loved ones.
Are your seeking a more peaceful and harmonious life?  One that can hold both the challenges and the goodness?  Therapy can help. My style is warm, empathic, and collaborative.  I use evidence-based techniques such as cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness and brain science. I would like to help you tackle what is impeding you and open up new options so that you can make good decisions and create more happiness for you and your loved ones.
(650) 334-1549 View (650) 334-1549
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.