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 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 Mary Aroyan, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mary Aroyan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91206
My practice provides psychotherapy and crisis intervention assessing a spectrum of mental health issues, mainly focused on: depression, anxiety, domestic violence, grief, trauma, and abuse.
CHANGE! Does something need to change? Are you overwhelmed, sad, anxious, or unsure of what's going on? There's hope! You're already on the right track; hardest step is to admit you need help. All individuals are capable of change and therapy can bring new insight to the changes that you want to see within yourself, relationships and other sectors of your life. I am here to provide you with tools and coping skills to accomplish that change in a safe and relaxing environment set at a comfortable pace to ease the process that can often be difficult.
My practice provides psychotherapy and crisis intervention assessing a spectrum of mental health issues, mainly focused on: depression, anxiety, domestic violence, grief, trauma, and abuse.
CHANGE! Does something need to change? Are you overwhelmed, sad, anxious, or unsure of what's going on? There's hope! You're already on the right track; hardest step is to admit you need help. All individuals are capable of change and therapy can bring new insight to the changes that you want to see within yourself, relationships and other sectors of your life. I am here to provide you with tools and coping skills to accomplish that change in a safe and relaxing environment set at a comfortable pace to ease the process that can often be difficult.
(323) 746-1189 View (323) 746-1189
Photo of Jessica Wolfe, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Wolfe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92663
I believe that if we do not cope and deal with trauma that happens in our life, trauma will take over and infiltrate into all areas of our life. I have experience in counseling stroke survivors and survivors of sexual, physical, emotional and mental abuse. In addition, I’m experienced in helping clients work through grief and loss issues. My approach is diverse and client specific focusing on empowerment and becoming active participants in our life. By utilizing a variety of psycho-therapeutic techniques consistent with CBT, DBT, IFS and Trauma informed care, clients will feel supported through their mental health journey.
I believe that if we do not cope and deal with trauma that happens in our life, trauma will take over and infiltrate into all areas of our life. I have experience in counseling stroke survivors and survivors of sexual, physical, emotional and mental abuse. In addition, I’m experienced in helping clients work through grief and loss issues. My approach is diverse and client specific focusing on empowerment and becoming active participants in our life. By utilizing a variety of psycho-therapeutic techniques consistent with CBT, DBT, IFS and Trauma informed care, clients will feel supported through their mental health journey.
(414) 240-0308 View (414) 240-0308
Photo of Georgette Vojdani, PsyD, Psychologist
Georgette Vojdani
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90211
Clients who experienced neglect, emotional abuse, sexual abuse or other sudden and traumatic events and as adults are suffering from anxiety, depression, phobia, insomnia, anger, drug addiction and relational issues are able to heal by processing these past traumatic events.
Traumatic events causes one to develop negative beliefs about oneself or the world. These experiences become fixed in the body-mind in form of negative emotions causing anger, depression, nightmares, intrusive thoughts, panic, anxiety, phobias, shame, low self-esteem which can create difficulties with your relationships at home and at work. I use EMDR to heal the deep wounds of traumatic childhood events which are the source that one may believe that he/she is not a good enough person, not loveable, does not deserve to be loved or trusted. Negative self beliefs and negative emotions effects our body and mind causing physical and emotional distress.
Clients who experienced neglect, emotional abuse, sexual abuse or other sudden and traumatic events and as adults are suffering from anxiety, depression, phobia, insomnia, anger, drug addiction and relational issues are able to heal by processing these past traumatic events.
Traumatic events causes one to develop negative beliefs about oneself or the world. These experiences become fixed in the body-mind in form of negative emotions causing anger, depression, nightmares, intrusive thoughts, panic, anxiety, phobias, shame, low self-esteem which can create difficulties with your relationships at home and at work. I use EMDR to heal the deep wounds of traumatic childhood events which are the source that one may believe that he/she is not a good enough person, not loveable, does not deserve to be loved or trusted. Negative self beliefs and negative emotions effects our body and mind causing physical and emotional distress.
(424) 236-6210 View (424) 236-6210
Photo of Gayle R. Lewis, PhD, ABPP, MSCS, Psychologist
Gayle R. Lewis
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP, MSCS
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014  (Online Only)
Let me begin my saying I am Accepting new patients! I warmly welcome working with individuals and couples struggling with a variety of emotional and relational conflicts. My areas of specialty are the following: Those currently dealing with present or past sexual harassment issues, Trauma (survivors of domestic/sexual abuse, those in ongoing abusive relationships), Eating Disorders and Chronic disease, with particular experience working with patients with Multiple Sclerosis. Practice accepting new patients in New York and California. If you reside in a state other than those two, please reach out anyway; I likely can work with you.
Let me begin my saying I am Accepting new patients! I warmly welcome working with individuals and couples struggling with a variety of emotional and relational conflicts. My areas of specialty are the following: Those currently dealing with present or past sexual harassment issues, Trauma (survivors of domestic/sexual abuse, those in ongoing abusive relationships), Eating Disorders and Chronic disease, with particular experience working with patients with Multiple Sclerosis. Practice accepting new patients in New York and California. If you reside in a state other than those two, please reach out anyway; I likely can work with you.
(646) 553-4047 View (646) 553-4047
Photo of Brian Thompson, CATC-IV, CHT, CCA, CI, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brian Thompson
Marriage & Family Therapist, CATC-IV, CHT, CCA, CI, LMFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
I am looking for clients that are ready to get to work and make lasting change possible in their lives. My style is centered on creating a direct partnership with my clients in order to make change happen rather than continue to sit in the problem. I am very well versed in working with all aspects of addiction, anxiety, depression, life changes, sexual abuse, trauma & PTSD, and day to day living concerns, to name a few, for all individuals, couples & families.
I am looking for clients that are ready to get to work and make lasting change possible in their lives. My style is centered on creating a direct partnership with my clients in order to make change happen rather than continue to sit in the problem. I am very well versed in working with all aspects of addiction, anxiety, depression, life changes, sexual abuse, trauma & PTSD, and day to day living concerns, to name a few, for all individuals, couples & families.
(714) 942-2736 View (714) 942-2736
Photo of Simon Uche, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Simon Uche
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Downey, CA 90240  (Online Only)
I have also spent time working with survivors of domestic violence.
My goal is to provide a safe space for you to discuss your concerns to change your life for the better. Couples, families, and individuals seek my support for various issues and life moments, including communication, depression, and anxiety. The change will happen when you are willing to learn about yourself and others, both the good and bad.
I have also spent time working with survivors of domestic violence.
My goal is to provide a safe space for you to discuss your concerns to change your life for the better. Couples, families, and individuals seek my support for various issues and life moments, including communication, depression, and anxiety. The change will happen when you are willing to learn about yourself and others, both the good and bad.
(562) 512-6909 View (562) 512-6909
Photo of Jessica McGowen, MS, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jessica McGowen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94104  (Online Only)
I know that its hard for others to understand the abuse you endured and why you couldn’t “just leave.
I have 20 years of experience but I don't believe that says anything unless I can relate, connect and feel with my clients. I can be professional when necessary but I am better at just being real. I am not everyones therapist and I am okay with it. I engage in the conversation with respect and authenticity. I'm direct with the intention to help and shift the issues in a place for change . I am good at what I do and passionate about helping people through pain.
I know that its hard for others to understand the abuse you endured and why you couldn’t “just leave.
I have 20 years of experience but I don't believe that says anything unless I can relate, connect and feel with my clients. I can be professional when necessary but I am better at just being real. I am not everyones therapist and I am okay with it. I engage in the conversation with respect and authenticity. I'm direct with the intention to help and shift the issues in a place for change . I am good at what I do and passionate about helping people through pain.
(415) 529-8891 View (415) 529-8891
Photo of Lorena P Frey - Immigration Diagnostic Evaluations Academy, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Immigration Diagnostic Evaluations Academy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Redlands, CA 92373  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
If you've experienced human trafficking or domestic violence, I'm here to support you.
My ideal client is a survivor of human trafficking dealing with overwhelming shame, guilt, and feelings of worthlessness due to the stigma attached to their experience. They need a safe and validating space to heal and understand that being trafficked was not their fault. Their goals are to reclaim their sense of self, overcome emotional and mental challenges, and rebuild their fragmented identity. They want to feel valued, whole, and complete, free from the burdens of their past, so they can lead fulfilling lives. Their motivation is to regain their dignity and self-worth after the trauma they've survived.
If you've experienced human trafficking or domestic violence, I'm here to support you.
My ideal client is a survivor of human trafficking dealing with overwhelming shame, guilt, and feelings of worthlessness due to the stigma attached to their experience. They need a safe and validating space to heal and understand that being trafficked was not their fault. Their goals are to reclaim their sense of self, overcome emotional and mental challenges, and rebuild their fragmented identity. They want to feel valued, whole, and complete, free from the burdens of their past, so they can lead fulfilling lives. Their motivation is to regain their dignity and self-worth after the trauma they've survived.
(909) 442-4459 View (909) 442-4459
Photo of Rahul Ragu, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rahul Ragu
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95816
I work with clients who have social anxiety, shyness, and feel awkward and out of place. They want to feel better about themselves and their circumstances. They may have been through a difficult childhood and trauma and abuse. They are motivated to get better and want to speak to someone who is nonjudgmental and compassionate. Clients have opened up to me about their deepest traumas and secrets that they have not shared with anyone else. I feel honored to be part of my client's journey and help them to find solutions. I have a strong client centered approach blended with a CBT intervention based approach.
I work with clients who have social anxiety, shyness, and feel awkward and out of place. They want to feel better about themselves and their circumstances. They may have been through a difficult childhood and trauma and abuse. They are motivated to get better and want to speak to someone who is nonjudgmental and compassionate. Clients have opened up to me about their deepest traumas and secrets that they have not shared with anyone else. I feel honored to be part of my client's journey and help them to find solutions. I have a strong client centered approach blended with a CBT intervention based approach.
(916) 304-7674 View (916) 304-7674
Photo of Steve Palos, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Steve Palos
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Roseville, CA 95678
I treat trauma, victims of crime, PTSD, grief, anxiety, depression, addiction, self-esteem issues, self-sabotaging behaviors, stress, OCD, ADHD, domestic/sexual violence and abuse, anger management, personality disorders, separation and divorce.
We all strive to be happy in life. Unfortunately life is full of unpredictable struggles that get in the way of our path to happiness. To gain true happiness we must learn how to love ourselves. Loving ourselves starts with self-understanding and believing in ourselves. Struggles unfortunately make us believe that things are not meant to be, or that we will simply never be happy. This negative pattern of thinking is what keeps us from finding happiness. Remember, we have all the tools within us to achieve happiness and create the life we love.
I treat trauma, victims of crime, PTSD, grief, anxiety, depression, addiction, self-esteem issues, self-sabotaging behaviors, stress, OCD, ADHD, domestic/sexual violence and abuse, anger management, personality disorders, separation and divorce.
We all strive to be happy in life. Unfortunately life is full of unpredictable struggles that get in the way of our path to happiness. To gain true happiness we must learn how to love ourselves. Loving ourselves starts with self-understanding and believing in ourselves. Struggles unfortunately make us believe that things are not meant to be, or that we will simply never be happy. This negative pattern of thinking is what keeps us from finding happiness. Remember, we have all the tools within us to achieve happiness and create the life we love.
(916) 560-1491 View (916) 560-1491
Stuart S Riskin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90067
I have worked with individuals from young adolescents to the very elderly; with families facing issues of blending, divorce, adoption, childhood illness and domestic violence; to help individuals with stage-of-life struggles; as well as addressing the many kinds of trauma that people face throughout their lives.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been practicing for over 25 years. My professional experience as a clinician, supervisor, and educator in both the public and private sectors has equipped me with a unique set of skills, a wealth of knowledge, and clinical expertise to support and facilitate my clients’ personal growth and development.
I have worked with individuals from young adolescents to the very elderly; with families facing issues of blending, divorce, adoption, childhood illness and domestic violence; to help individuals with stage-of-life struggles; as well as addressing the many kinds of trauma that people face throughout their lives.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been practicing for over 25 years. My professional experience as a clinician, supervisor, and educator in both the public and private sectors has equipped me with a unique set of skills, a wealth of knowledge, and clinical expertise to support and facilitate my clients’ personal growth and development.
(323) 991-9095 View (323) 991-9095
Photo of Icinda Siqueira-Darwin, PhD, Psychologist
Icinda Siqueira-Darwin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90815
If you are near the Southern area of Los Angeles County, you may want to consider psychotherapy or counseling in Long Beach. I work evening hours, as well as day time, and have experience with most mental health needs. I work in Spanish, English, and Portuguese. I have extensive experience with problems in living using Evidence Based Therapy models and Mindfulness with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, as well as major mental illness including schizophrenia, , and other thought disorders. I work with family problems , including sexual dysfunction. Performing psychological assessments are offered when necessary to set new goals.
If you are near the Southern area of Los Angeles County, you may want to consider psychotherapy or counseling in Long Beach. I work evening hours, as well as day time, and have experience with most mental health needs. I work in Spanish, English, and Portuguese. I have extensive experience with problems in living using Evidence Based Therapy models and Mindfulness with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, as well as major mental illness including schizophrenia, , and other thought disorders. I work with family problems , including sexual dysfunction. Performing psychological assessments are offered when necessary to set new goals.
(562) 526-0592 View (562) 526-0592
Photo of Brad Gilmore, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brad Gilmore
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90048
Growing up in a narcissistically-oriented home, you had to learn how to read people well. Although reading others is a strength, it has also led to a lack of identity and sense of self. Establishing healthy boundaries was something you never learned how to do, which has led to dysfunctional relationships. You’ve faced harsh criticism from people who were meant to lift you up, so instead of feeling supported, you’ve gained anxiety, depression, and complex trauma. This compounding stress from difficult relationships has left you feeling exhausted. You wish you knew how to stop this cycle of emotional abuse.
Growing up in a narcissistically-oriented home, you had to learn how to read people well. Although reading others is a strength, it has also led to a lack of identity and sense of self. Establishing healthy boundaries was something you never learned how to do, which has led to dysfunctional relationships. You’ve faced harsh criticism from people who were meant to lift you up, so instead of feeling supported, you’ve gained anxiety, depression, and complex trauma. This compounding stress from difficult relationships has left you feeling exhausted. You wish you knew how to stop this cycle of emotional abuse.
(323) 604-1069 View (323) 604-1069
Photo of Crystal Burns - Theraville Counseling Services, MSW, LCSW, LMFT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Theraville Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
We are available to address relational and family problems, as well as such issues as depression, anxiety, sexual, emotional and physical abuse, separation and divorce, parenting problems, stress management, life changing losses, post-traumatic stress, physical illness and pain.
We here at TheraVille Counseling Services, Inc. believe in utilizing an eclectic approach to therapy. The therapy is customized to meet the uniqueness of each and every client. By personalizing the therapeutic experience to best address and respond to the needs of the individual or families, our eclecticism ensures that the most effective therapeutic techniques are integrated into treatment.
We are available to address relational and family problems, as well as such issues as depression, anxiety, sexual, emotional and physical abuse, separation and divorce, parenting problems, stress management, life changing losses, post-traumatic stress, physical illness and pain.
We here at TheraVille Counseling Services, Inc. believe in utilizing an eclectic approach to therapy. The therapy is customized to meet the uniqueness of each and every client. By personalizing the therapeutic experience to best address and respond to the needs of the individual or families, our eclecticism ensures that the most effective therapeutic techniques are integrated into treatment.
(909) 345-8004 View (909) 345-8004
Photo of Rick Nizzardini, LCSW, JD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rick Nizzardini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, JD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
I work with clients facing many challenges, including traumatic histories of childhood and adult abuse, depression, anxiety, relationship and work problems, and sexuality concerns, including sexual functioning issues facing individuals and couples.
People have questions about therapy or selecting a therapist: When is the right time? What can it help me with? How do I find the right therapist? From my perspective, therapy is a process where we can change our internal sense of self to enjoy and engage with the world more. We can alter beliefs about ourselves and world that may not work nor support us in becoming who we want to be. Therapy is like this: helping to move you to an awareness of all that you're capable of with the ability to tolerate feelings that arise in life.
I work with clients facing many challenges, including traumatic histories of childhood and adult abuse, depression, anxiety, relationship and work problems, and sexuality concerns, including sexual functioning issues facing individuals and couples.
People have questions about therapy or selecting a therapist: When is the right time? What can it help me with? How do I find the right therapist? From my perspective, therapy is a process where we can change our internal sense of self to enjoy and engage with the world more. We can alter beliefs about ourselves and world that may not work nor support us in becoming who we want to be. Therapy is like this: helping to move you to an awareness of all that you're capable of with the ability to tolerate feelings that arise in life.
(415) 801-8306 View (415) 801-8306
Photo of Kala D Patterson, MBA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kala D Patterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MBA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90036  (Online Only)
I have additional training to support clients in trauma resiliency, workforce development, and abuse.
Are you sad, anxious or do you feel alone? Perhaps you realize that emotional pain doesn’t just “go away”. It stings and lingers as you attempt to reconcile that some of your relationships were toxic. You may have concluded that you have an overall pattern of interpersonal conduct that yields poor results at home, school or work. You find yourself in poor relationships, feeling isolated and can’t seem to stop the cycle. Although you are working hard, you are plagued with self doubt and crippled by fears. You may avoid to feel safe. You want to improve your outcomes but you end up with resentments as you attempt to relate to others.
I have additional training to support clients in trauma resiliency, workforce development, and abuse.
Are you sad, anxious or do you feel alone? Perhaps you realize that emotional pain doesn’t just “go away”. It stings and lingers as you attempt to reconcile that some of your relationships were toxic. You may have concluded that you have an overall pattern of interpersonal conduct that yields poor results at home, school or work. You find yourself in poor relationships, feeling isolated and can’t seem to stop the cycle. Although you are working hard, you are plagued with self doubt and crippled by fears. You may avoid to feel safe. You want to improve your outcomes but you end up with resentments as you attempt to relate to others.
(424) 348-4019 View (424) 348-4019
Photo of Stacy Cordero, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stacy Cordero
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fresno, CA 93720
I have extensive experience working with individuals navigating relationships, divorce, domestic violence, trauma, sexual abuse/assault, parenting challenges, and children impacted by media use.
I am excited to introduce myself to you. My name is Stacy, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Fresno. I am committed to the idea that a healthy therapeutic foundation must include a safe space where individuals feel comfortable. I consider it my responsibility to build a relationship built on trust and mutual respect so the client can get the most out of the time we spend together. I recognize therapy is hard to work into busy schedules and the time I spend with clients is treated as such with great respect.
I have extensive experience working with individuals navigating relationships, divorce, domestic violence, trauma, sexual abuse/assault, parenting challenges, and children impacted by media use.
I am excited to introduce myself to you. My name is Stacy, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Fresno. I am committed to the idea that a healthy therapeutic foundation must include a safe space where individuals feel comfortable. I consider it my responsibility to build a relationship built on trust and mutual respect so the client can get the most out of the time we spend together. I recognize therapy is hard to work into busy schedules and the time I spend with clients is treated as such with great respect.
(559) 344-5549 View (559) 344-5549
Photo of Icinda Siqueira-Darwin, PhD,, Psychologist
Icinda Siqueira-Darwin
Psychologist, PhD,
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90815
My usual clients are young adults, under 45 years age,(I do see children and elders), experiencing mood disorders such as depression, or anxiety. Substance abuse issues are frequently involved, or alcohol abuse. There are always relationship issues with others involved as well. The Goals of Therapy include feeling happier, calmer, more at peace, to reducing substance abuse and alcohol abuse. They want to learn how to improve their relationships with themselves and others.
My usual clients are young adults, under 45 years age,(I do see children and elders), experiencing mood disorders such as depression, or anxiety. Substance abuse issues are frequently involved, or alcohol abuse. There are always relationship issues with others involved as well. The Goals of Therapy include feeling happier, calmer, more at peace, to reducing substance abuse and alcohol abuse. They want to learn how to improve their relationships with themselves and others.
(562) 303-5525 View (562) 303-5525
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.