Domestic Abuse Therapists in California

Photo of Scott D Altamirano, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Scott D Altamirano
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94103  (Online Only)
To me, a large part of therapy is about grieving, acceptance, and peace within ourselves and others; I am particularly good at helping people get in touch with their feelings. I tend to work with the heavier side of therapy, that include drug/ alcohol /cannabis addiction, domestic violence, narcissism, borderline, sex/porn addiction, sex offense, sexual shame, couples working through sobriety-recovery dynamics, infidelity, poly relationships, court, and anger management. I tend to work really well with those who enjoy dark humor, who are avoidant by nature, and those who are seeking redemption from guilt/shame.
To me, a large part of therapy is about grieving, acceptance, and peace within ourselves and others; I am particularly good at helping people get in touch with their feelings. I tend to work with the heavier side of therapy, that include drug/ alcohol /cannabis addiction, domestic violence, narcissism, borderline, sex/porn addiction, sex offense, sexual shame, couples working through sobriety-recovery dynamics, infidelity, poly relationships, court, and anger management. I tend to work really well with those who enjoy dark humor, who are avoidant by nature, and those who are seeking redemption from guilt/shame.
(972) 945-7714 View (972) 945-7714
Photo of Joshua DeWeese, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joshua DeWeese
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94612  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who approaches therapy with a trauma informed and culturally sensitive lens. I have been a resident of Los Angeles for five years, and in 2018 I earned my Master of Social Work degree from the University of Southern California. Since graduating I have worked extensively in community mental health settings with adults diagnosed with substance use disorders and severe and persistent mental illnesses, as well as survivors of domestic violence and sexual abuse.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who approaches therapy with a trauma informed and culturally sensitive lens. I have been a resident of Los Angeles for five years, and in 2018 I earned my Master of Social Work degree from the University of Southern California. Since graduating I have worked extensively in community mental health settings with adults diagnosed with substance use disorders and severe and persistent mental illnesses, as well as survivors of domestic violence and sexual abuse.
(510) 876-4013 View (510) 876-4013
Photo of Christine Rivlin, LPCC, NCC, MA,  MS, Counselor
Christine Rivlin
Counselor, LPCC, NCC, MA, MS
Verified Verified
Concord, CA 94520
Have you experienced significant trauma? Traumatic events can have feelings of horror, helplessness, and feeling unsafe mentally and physically. I work with acute trauma, which can result from a recent single event, including rape, suicide, murder, or natural disaster events. Chronic trauma, which can be repeated events over a long period of time including domestic violence, abuse of any sort. Complex trauma which is exposure to multiple and varied traumatic events which can often be of an invasive and interpersonal nature. Additionally I work with addictions and eating disorders.
Have you experienced significant trauma? Traumatic events can have feelings of horror, helplessness, and feeling unsafe mentally and physically. I work with acute trauma, which can result from a recent single event, including rape, suicide, murder, or natural disaster events. Chronic trauma, which can be repeated events over a long period of time including domestic violence, abuse of any sort. Complex trauma which is exposure to multiple and varied traumatic events which can often be of an invasive and interpersonal nature. Additionally I work with addictions and eating disorders.
(925) 666-7715 View (925) 666-7715
Photo of Carmon Conover - Carmon Conover Counseling, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carmon Conover Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Roseville, CA 95747
Waitlist for new clients
I have a special focus on helping clients deal with abuse trauma, sexual problems, and relationship issues.
Stress. Anxiety. Depression. Confusing emotions. Relationship issues. Poor self image. Unresolved trauma. People seek therapy for many reasons, but taking that first step can be scary. It's a brave step into the unknown, but it's also a path toward healing and insight. Therapy is a special relationship with a guide who offers a new perspective so you can discover your strengths and grow into the person you want to be. I offer a safe environment to learn more about yourself and help you integrate all the parts of yourself into the strong person you were created to be. Strong selves, strong connections.
I have a special focus on helping clients deal with abuse trauma, sexual problems, and relationship issues.
Stress. Anxiety. Depression. Confusing emotions. Relationship issues. Poor self image. Unresolved trauma. People seek therapy for many reasons, but taking that first step can be scary. It's a brave step into the unknown, but it's also a path toward healing and insight. Therapy is a special relationship with a guide who offers a new perspective so you can discover your strengths and grow into the person you want to be. I offer a safe environment to learn more about yourself and help you integrate all the parts of yourself into the strong person you were created to be. Strong selves, strong connections.
(916) 932-9253 View (916) 932-9253
Photo of Susie Adams, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Susie Adams
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
I have specific experience working with substance abuse at Casa Serena and domestic violence at Domestic Violence Solutions.
Whether you are coming to therapy because you are battling addiction, have relationship issues, unresolved trauma, or are striving for more balance in your life, I am here to help. Making an appointment with a therapist takes courage and is the first step toward personal growth and change. Some people come to therapy to improve their communication skills while others come to explore their unresolved pain that may show up in various symptoms such as, depression, anxiety, or substance abuse. If the underlying pain is not dealt with, life can seem difficult and maybe even unbearable. There is no need to suffer. There is hope.
I have specific experience working with substance abuse at Casa Serena and domestic violence at Domestic Violence Solutions.
Whether you are coming to therapy because you are battling addiction, have relationship issues, unresolved trauma, or are striving for more balance in your life, I am here to help. Making an appointment with a therapist takes courage and is the first step toward personal growth and change. Some people come to therapy to improve their communication skills while others come to explore their unresolved pain that may show up in various symptoms such as, depression, anxiety, or substance abuse. If the underlying pain is not dealt with, life can seem difficult and maybe even unbearable. There is no need to suffer. There is hope.
(805) 519-7149 View (805) 519-7149
Photo of Kimberly Stewart, CADCIIl, SAP, MA, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Kimberly Stewart
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADCIIl, SAP, MA
Verified Verified
Temecula, CA 92591
I have specialty areas within the many struggles that lead to/result from substance use such as: Domestic Violence, Emotional Abuse, Sexual Assault, low self- worth, Codependency, and PTSD to name a few close to my heart.
Addiction is a confusing, overwhelming, & powerful force. It is all- encompassing, taking over slowly or quickly in every area of one's life. Before long you don't know which way is up and are just struggling to get through the day...or hour. Together we uncover patterns of behavior that no longer serve you, understand why you developed these patterns, and discover new ways of living. I support individuals in rediscovering who they are and what they are passionate about.
I have specialty areas within the many struggles that lead to/result from substance use such as: Domestic Violence, Emotional Abuse, Sexual Assault, low self- worth, Codependency, and PTSD to name a few close to my heart.
Addiction is a confusing, overwhelming, & powerful force. It is all- encompassing, taking over slowly or quickly in every area of one's life. Before long you don't know which way is up and are just struggling to get through the day...or hour. Together we uncover patterns of behavior that no longer serve you, understand why you developed these patterns, and discover new ways of living. I support individuals in rediscovering who they are and what they are passionate about.
(909) 403-7483 View (909) 403-7483
Photo of Carl V Mitchell, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carl V Mitchell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Rosa, CA 95407
Waitlist for new clients
My background includes individual, couple, family, adolescent, & group therapy; teaching Psychology classes at Sonoma State University; facilitating Gestalt Therapy training; consulting Head Start, schools, human service agencies; treatment for PTSD, providing therapy for judicated Domestic Violence offenders, & crisis recovery with mental health clients.
We work together to develop awareness, response-ability and the making of more satisfying choices. We may focus on relationships, conflicts, effective communication, boundary handling and adequate expression. Issues such as validation, power and control, trust and intimacy, anxiety, abandonment and loss are met as needed. We shift more deeply from who we thought we had to be to the integrity of what we are. We become more capable of handling feelings & behaviors within ourselves & with others.
My background includes individual, couple, family, adolescent, & group therapy; teaching Psychology classes at Sonoma State University; facilitating Gestalt Therapy training; consulting Head Start, schools, human service agencies; treatment for PTSD, providing therapy for judicated Domestic Violence offenders, & crisis recovery with mental health clients.
We work together to develop awareness, response-ability and the making of more satisfying choices. We may focus on relationships, conflicts, effective communication, boundary handling and adequate expression. Issues such as validation, power and control, trust and intimacy, anxiety, abandonment and loss are met as needed. We shift more deeply from who we thought we had to be to the integrity of what we are. We become more capable of handling feelings & behaviors within ourselves & with others.
(707) 879-8997 View (707) 879-8997
Photo of Nancy R. Rhodes, PhD, Psychologist
Nancy R. Rhodes
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91105
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Clinical Psychologist with more than 25 years of experience in treating adults for a variety of issues. These include depression, anxiety, and life adjustment problems such relationship or career concerns. A significant portion of my practice is devoted to helping people overcome traumatic experiences such as violent crimes, domestic violence, and childhood abuse. Regardless of what brings a person into therapy, I work actively in an atmosphere of support and empathy to help my patients understand themselves, to heal, and to learn how to live happier, more productive lives.
I am a Clinical Psychologist with more than 25 years of experience in treating adults for a variety of issues. These include depression, anxiety, and life adjustment problems such relationship or career concerns. A significant portion of my practice is devoted to helping people overcome traumatic experiences such as violent crimes, domestic violence, and childhood abuse. Regardless of what brings a person into therapy, I work actively in an atmosphere of support and empathy to help my patients understand themselves, to heal, and to learn how to live happier, more productive lives.
(626) 385-8932 View (626) 385-8932
Photo of Alysia Wong, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alysia Wong
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92093
My name is Alysia Wong and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California. I primarily work with adults who need support with mood disorders, trauma, domestic violence, life transitions, or anxiety. I approach treatment with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and I may incorporate Person-Centered, Strength-Based, Trauma Informed, and Applied Behavioral Analysis modalities as well. I have been working in the mental health system of care since 2013 in various settings (inpatient, outpatient, private practice, court-mandated).
My name is Alysia Wong and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California. I primarily work with adults who need support with mood disorders, trauma, domestic violence, life transitions, or anxiety. I approach treatment with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and I may incorporate Person-Centered, Strength-Based, Trauma Informed, and Applied Behavioral Analysis modalities as well. I have been working in the mental health system of care since 2013 in various settings (inpatient, outpatient, private practice, court-mandated).
(858) 422-3282 View (858) 422-3282
Photo of Brenda Stephens - Narcissistic Abuse Recovery Center, MS, LPCC, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Narcissistic Abuse Recovery Center
Counselor, MS, LPCC, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92123  (Online Only)
Our specialty is working with the unique type of trauma experienced by survivors of narcissistic abuse.
Without the help from someone who has lived through narcissistic abuse themselves, your journey toward recovery might feel like a lonely, difficult pursuit. Our goal is to help you heal, recover, and reclaim your life and learn to avoid toxic relationships forever. With a proven coaching program, we can walk you through the process with the support you need from coaches and therapists who have lived experiences in narcissistic relationships, themselves.
Our specialty is working with the unique type of trauma experienced by survivors of narcissistic abuse.
Without the help from someone who has lived through narcissistic abuse themselves, your journey toward recovery might feel like a lonely, difficult pursuit. Our goal is to help you heal, recover, and reclaim your life and learn to avoid toxic relationships forever. With a proven coaching program, we can walk you through the process with the support you need from coaches and therapists who have lived experiences in narcissistic relationships, themselves.
(858) 251-9791 View (858) 251-9791
Photo of Renee M Winters - Dr Renee M. Winters, PhD, MFT, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr Renee M. Winters, PhD, MFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Upland, CA 91786
Additional certificates: Domestic Violence, Anger Management & Sexual Addiction.
I practice from two different modalities: Reality Therapy and Insight Therapy. Reality Therapy (Choice-Centered approach) helps the patient determine how effective their behaviors have been in fulfilling their needs and then works with the patient to determine a plan for more effective actions. Insight Therapy encourages empowerment of the individual which implies personal responsibility for one's behavior. I specialize in working with patients needing assistance with Anger Management, Marital/Premarital Counseling, Individual/Adolescent Counseling, Loss & Bereavement Recovery, Sexual Addiction/Recovery, Personal Growth & Enrichment, and Divorce Healing. I also possess knowledge in understanding acute mental illness symptoms from my training at Riverside Psyciatric Hospital.
Additional certificates: Domestic Violence, Anger Management & Sexual Addiction.
I practice from two different modalities: Reality Therapy and Insight Therapy. Reality Therapy (Choice-Centered approach) helps the patient determine how effective their behaviors have been in fulfilling their needs and then works with the patient to determine a plan for more effective actions. Insight Therapy encourages empowerment of the individual which implies personal responsibility for one's behavior. I specialize in working with patients needing assistance with Anger Management, Marital/Premarital Counseling, Individual/Adolescent Counseling, Loss & Bereavement Recovery, Sexual Addiction/Recovery, Personal Growth & Enrichment, and Divorce Healing. I also possess knowledge in understanding acute mental illness symptoms from my training at Riverside Psyciatric Hospital.
(909) 992-0979 View (909) 992-0979
Photo of Laleh Aflatooni, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Laleh Aflatooni
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Mateo, CA 94402
I’ve helped clients with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family and couple conflicts, a history of domestic violence, trauma, abuse, and parenting issues.
If you feel like nothing makes you happy, no one understands you, and reaching your true potential is an impossible task, I’m here to help. I will give my absolute best so that we together can solve your dilemmas—however small or encompassing. I am an English and Farsi bilingual California-licensed therapist with eight years of extensive professional experience. I have a Doctorate (PsyD) in Marriage and Family Therapy.
I’ve helped clients with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family and couple conflicts, a history of domestic violence, trauma, abuse, and parenting issues.
If you feel like nothing makes you happy, no one understands you, and reaching your true potential is an impossible task, I’m here to help. I will give my absolute best so that we together can solve your dilemmas—however small or encompassing. I am an English and Farsi bilingual California-licensed therapist with eight years of extensive professional experience. I have a Doctorate (PsyD) in Marriage and Family Therapy.
(650) 770-1647 View (650) 770-1647
Photo of Tanya Gaum, MEd, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tanya Gaum
Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90405  (Online Only)
My decision to specialize in narcissistic abuse recovery was prompted by patterns I was recognizing in the narratives of many of my clients as well as my personal experiences with narcissistic personalities.
I believe clients are the experts on their own lives. I take a strength-based and person-centered approach to therapy, meaning that while I see myself as a consultant in peoples' journeys toward enhanced wellness, I work in a collaborative way that keeps the client's goals and priorities front and center. During our time together, I will listen to your story, offer reflections, and ask creative questions to gain clarity and discover the deeper and richer meanings within your narrative. Together, we will work to understand your pain and to mutually identify your strengths, resources, and desired future.
My decision to specialize in narcissistic abuse recovery was prompted by patterns I was recognizing in the narratives of many of my clients as well as my personal experiences with narcissistic personalities.
I believe clients are the experts on their own lives. I take a strength-based and person-centered approach to therapy, meaning that while I see myself as a consultant in peoples' journeys toward enhanced wellness, I work in a collaborative way that keeps the client's goals and priorities front and center. During our time together, I will listen to your story, offer reflections, and ask creative questions to gain clarity and discover the deeper and richer meanings within your narrative. Together, we will work to understand your pain and to mutually identify your strengths, resources, and desired future.
(213) 372-0264 View (213) 372-0264
Photo of Michael Kaufman, MFT, PsyD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michael Kaufman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, PsyD
Verified Verified
Have you ever heard that you have an anger management problem? Is substance abuse an issue? Do you have teenagers that are "challenging?" Dr. Kaufman is a licensed marriage and family therapist who works in the area of helping people through various issues including anger management, substance abuse and alternative parenting techniques for parents of challenging teens for over 29 years. He has helped thousands of individuals, couples and families. He is a licensed anger management and domestic violence provider for Los Angeles and Ventura Counties and has lectured extensively. He creates a safe and supportive environment.
Have you ever heard that you have an anger management problem? Is substance abuse an issue? Do you have teenagers that are "challenging?" Dr. Kaufman is a licensed marriage and family therapist who works in the area of helping people through various issues including anger management, substance abuse and alternative parenting techniques for parents of challenging teens for over 29 years. He has helped thousands of individuals, couples and families. He is a licensed anger management and domestic violence provider for Los Angeles and Ventura Counties and has lectured extensively. He creates a safe and supportive environment.
(818) 293-5976 View (818) 293-5976
Photo of Linda Qasabian, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Linda Qasabian
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
I have extensive training working with victims of Domestic Violence and parenting , anger management, and a variety of support groups.
If your struggling with knowing your self value and need others to vaidate you, if you are constantly seeking external affirmation to feel good about yourself ? Come and share your struggles and together we can discover your true self worth and unleash your full potential, to gain more strength and confidence.
I have extensive training working with victims of Domestic Violence and parenting , anger management, and a variety of support groups.
If your struggling with knowing your self value and need others to vaidate you, if you are constantly seeking external affirmation to feel good about yourself ? Come and share your struggles and together we can discover your true self worth and unleash your full potential, to gain more strength and confidence.
(747) 298-8355 View (747) 298-8355
Photo of Dianne Stern Gorsey, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dianne Stern Gorsey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423  (Online Only)
Feeling sad, mad, anxious, confused, overwhelmed, lonely, stuck? In my private practice I see individuals and couples dealing with depression and anxiety, life transitions including aging, retirement, illness, divorce, death of spouse, empty nest and career transitions as well as domestic violence, and parenting. I utilize a variety of theoretical orientations and interventions all tailored to the needs of each client. I am California certified to see survivors of domestic abuse. If you are ready to make changes in your life, therapy might be the conduit through which you can discover alternatives and improve your life.
Feeling sad, mad, anxious, confused, overwhelmed, lonely, stuck? In my private practice I see individuals and couples dealing with depression and anxiety, life transitions including aging, retirement, illness, divorce, death of spouse, empty nest and career transitions as well as domestic violence, and parenting. I utilize a variety of theoretical orientations and interventions all tailored to the needs of each client. I am California certified to see survivors of domestic abuse. If you are ready to make changes in your life, therapy might be the conduit through which you can discover alternatives and improve your life.
(818) 918-3211 View (818) 918-3211
Photo of Scott D Altamirano, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Scott D Altamirano
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94103  (Online Only)
To me, a large part of therapy is about grieving, acceptance, and peace within ourselves and others; I am particularly good at helping people get in touch with their feelings. I tend to work with the heavier side of therapy, that include drug/ alcohol /cannabis addiction, domestic violence, narcissism, borderline, sex/porn addiction, sex offense, sexual shame, couples working through sobriety-recovery dynamics, infidelity, poly relationships, court, and anger management. I tend to work really well with those who enjoy dark humor, who are avoidant by nature, and those who are seeking redemption from guilt/shame.
To me, a large part of therapy is about grieving, acceptance, and peace within ourselves and others; I am particularly good at helping people get in touch with their feelings. I tend to work with the heavier side of therapy, that include drug/ alcohol /cannabis addiction, domestic violence, narcissism, borderline, sex/porn addiction, sex offense, sexual shame, couples working through sobriety-recovery dynamics, infidelity, poly relationships, court, and anger management. I tend to work really well with those who enjoy dark humor, who are avoidant by nature, and those who are seeking redemption from guilt/shame.
(650) 789-5893 View (650) 789-5893
Photo of Teri Watts - The Sound Mind, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Teri Watts - The Sound Mind
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Redding, CA 96002
I love working with individuals who have experienced trauma and abuse.
Whether you are experiencing depression, anxiety, panic, or failed relationships, I am here to help you. I am dedicated to helping you discover who you are meant to be and to live your best life. I am passionate about helping you realize your intrinsic value and worth. If you are confused and find yourself in relationships that do not seem to be working, I would love to help. I am passionate about helping individuals understand how behaviors and patterns of thought may be keeping them stuck.
I love working with individuals who have experienced trauma and abuse.
Whether you are experiencing depression, anxiety, panic, or failed relationships, I am here to help you. I am dedicated to helping you discover who you are meant to be and to live your best life. I am passionate about helping you realize your intrinsic value and worth. If you are confused and find yourself in relationships that do not seem to be working, I would love to help. I am passionate about helping individuals understand how behaviors and patterns of thought may be keeping them stuck.
(530) 319-5226 View (530) 319-5226
Photo of Dawn Hull, MSW, LCSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dawn Hull
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Big Bear, CA 92314  (Online Only)
As a clinical social worker and therapist, I have worked with survivors of narcissistic abuse, domestic violence, sexual assault, and childhood trauma.
I believe that everyone deserves to live a life that makes them excited to wake up in the morning. Unfortunately, many people live imprisoned in negativity brought upon by childhood trauma, abusive relationships, or toxic work environments. One of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story and take steps to create a life worth living. My goal is to provide a safe place to work through your pain to understand the patterns that have kept you feeling stuck and help you get on a path towards self-compassion, healthy relationships, and overall contentment.
As a clinical social worker and therapist, I have worked with survivors of narcissistic abuse, domestic violence, sexual assault, and childhood trauma.
I believe that everyone deserves to live a life that makes them excited to wake up in the morning. Unfortunately, many people live imprisoned in negativity brought upon by childhood trauma, abusive relationships, or toxic work environments. One of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story and take steps to create a life worth living. My goal is to provide a safe place to work through your pain to understand the patterns that have kept you feeling stuck and help you get on a path towards self-compassion, healthy relationships, and overall contentment.
(909) 324-6171 View (909) 324-6171
Photo of Daria Foehr Sievers, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Daria Foehr Sievers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, CA 94930  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating Post Traumatic Stress, Loss & Grief, Relationship Stress and Intimate Partner Violence.
I practice strengths based, solution focused therapy & specialize in Complex Trauma, Loss & Grief. My approach: Hope Centered, Values-Based, aimed at building resilience & nurturing Post Traumatic Growth. My goal: help you enjoy a productive, joyful life balance.
I specialize in treating Post Traumatic Stress, Loss & Grief, Relationship Stress and Intimate Partner Violence.
I practice strengths based, solution focused therapy & specialize in Complex Trauma, Loss & Grief. My approach: Hope Centered, Values-Based, aimed at building resilience & nurturing Post Traumatic Growth. My goal: help you enjoy a productive, joyful life balance.
(415) 888-9419 View (415) 888-9419
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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.