Photo of April Gilchrist, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
April Gilchrist
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75287
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 13 years of clinical experience, and I have worked with various individuals with Anxiety, Depression, Domestic Abuse/Violence, Trauma, PTSD, and Substance Use. I approach counseling from a cognitive-behavioral perspective in that patterns of thoughts and actions are explored to understand the client’s perspective better and develop solutions. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused, Reality therapy, EMDR, and DBT are used when applicable. I believe that trust and genuineness are the bedrock of the therapeutic relationship.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 13 years of clinical experience, and I have worked with various individuals with Anxiety, Depression, Domestic Abuse/Violence, Trauma, PTSD, and Substance Use. I approach counseling from a cognitive-behavioral perspective in that patterns of thoughts and actions are explored to understand the client’s perspective better and develop solutions. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused, Reality therapy, EMDR, and DBT are used when applicable. I believe that trust and genuineness are the bedrock of the therapeutic relationship.
(512) 722-7968 View (512) 722-7968
Photo of Balavikash Ravi, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Balavikash Ravi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75023  (Online Only)
I have worked primarily with POC and other American Cultural Minority populations, including South Asian survivors of domestic and sexual violence, LGBTQIA+, and many others. As a first generation Tamil-American, I have extensive personal and professional experience with model minority stressors, cultural trauma, immigration abuse, religious abuse and various other struggles common for those that identify as a minority in America. I believe that therapy is meant to be a space of mutual collaboration, to help work towards and help understand those aspects of your life that motivated you to seek guidance.
I have worked primarily with POC and other American Cultural Minority populations, including South Asian survivors of domestic and sexual violence, LGBTQIA+, and many others. As a first generation Tamil-American, I have extensive personal and professional experience with model minority stressors, cultural trauma, immigration abuse, religious abuse and various other struggles common for those that identify as a minority in America. I believe that therapy is meant to be a space of mutual collaboration, to help work towards and help understand those aspects of your life that motivated you to seek guidance.
(972) 498-1409 View (972) 498-1409
Photo of Katie Jean McDonald - Reign Psychotherapy, PLLC , LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Reign Psychotherapy, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Forney, TX 75126
I want to applaud you for taking a brave step as you have decided to explore your therapy options. My approach to the therapeutic process is one that is down to earth, direct, and compassionate in nature. I would love to help you explore and heal from your trauma whether it be lack of attachment or mental/ emotional abuse. Or are you looking to create a more meaningful and healthy relationship with your spouse/ partner, then let’s get started on your journey to freedom and wholeness.
I want to applaud you for taking a brave step as you have decided to explore your therapy options. My approach to the therapeutic process is one that is down to earth, direct, and compassionate in nature. I would love to help you explore and heal from your trauma whether it be lack of attachment or mental/ emotional abuse. Or are you looking to create a more meaningful and healthy relationship with your spouse/ partner, then let’s get started on your journey to freedom and wholeness.
(469) 378-9980 View (469) 378-9980
Photo of DeEdra Powell - A Place of Peace Therapeutic Services, LMSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
A Place of Peace Therapeutic Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77084  (Online Only)
Hello! I am DeEdra Powell LMSW, LCSW licensed in the state Texas. I graduated from the University of Houston with a Bachelors in Communication and a Masters Degree in Social Work in 2016. I have spent the last 15 years of my career working with children and families in the child welfare system helping to mend families while treating the individual. I have a wealth of knowledge in issues related to parenting, attachment, substance abuse, trauma and child development.
Hello! I am DeEdra Powell LMSW, LCSW licensed in the state Texas. I graduated from the University of Houston with a Bachelors in Communication and a Masters Degree in Social Work in 2016. I have spent the last 15 years of my career working with children and families in the child welfare system helping to mend families while treating the individual. I have a wealth of knowledge in issues related to parenting, attachment, substance abuse, trauma and child development.
(832) 521-8251 View (832) 521-8251
Photo of Kimberly Smith, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kimberly Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78724  (Online Only)
Hi there, I’m Kimberly and I am dedicated to helping you connect to yourself and those around you meaningfully. My goal is to support you in navigating through life’s uncertainties, relational challenges, and growth obstacles. With 10 years of experience, I provide trauma-informed care to those who feel their behaviors are not in alignment with their beliefs about themselves. Having primarily worked in the area of domestic and intimate partner violence, I am equipped to help you focus on enhancing relational safety and fulfillment.
Hi there, I’m Kimberly and I am dedicated to helping you connect to yourself and those around you meaningfully. My goal is to support you in navigating through life’s uncertainties, relational challenges, and growth obstacles. With 10 years of experience, I provide trauma-informed care to those who feel their behaviors are not in alignment with their beliefs about themselves. Having primarily worked in the area of domestic and intimate partner violence, I am equipped to help you focus on enhancing relational safety and fulfillment.
(512) 942-2630 View (512) 942-2630
Photo of Amina Ishaq - Jannah Therapy & Healing Services, BSW, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jannah Therapy & Healing Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sugar Land, TX 77478
I'm skilled in trauma-informed strengths based counseling, solution-focused brief therapy, somatic & cognitive behavioral therapy, individual & youth counseling, domestic violence, family counseling, autism awareness, Islamically Integrated Counseling, case management, Foster Care, juvenile justice, social justice, grassroots activism, community building.
Creating an empathy driven & compassion focused mental health & social service practice has been my dream since I was 16 years old. My own life experiences drove me into the field of Social Work & mental health to empower, motivate, uplift and elevate individuals, youth, and families. I have over 15 years of experience in Trauma-informed psychotherapy and/or social work practices with a demonstrated history of working in government, civic & social non-profit organizations.
I'm skilled in trauma-informed strengths based counseling, solution-focused brief therapy, somatic & cognitive behavioral therapy, individual & youth counseling, domestic violence, family counseling, autism awareness, Islamically Integrated Counseling, case management, Foster Care, juvenile justice, social justice, grassroots activism, community building.
Creating an empathy driven & compassion focused mental health & social service practice has been my dream since I was 16 years old. My own life experiences drove me into the field of Social Work & mental health to empower, motivate, uplift and elevate individuals, youth, and families. I have over 15 years of experience in Trauma-informed psychotherapy and/or social work practices with a demonstrated history of working in government, civic & social non-profit organizations.
(346) 708-6205 View (346) 708-6205
Photo of Lydia K Cain, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lydia K Cain
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78253  (Online Only)
As a counselor, I love helping my clients feel empowered, confident, and helping them make meaning out of their difficult life experiences. I have a passion for helping people heal from traumatic experiences and find ways to cope in order to move on in their journey. I specialize in helping people who have experienced Child Sexual Abuse, Sexual Assault, and Domestic Violence. I have also worked with client's struggling with depression, anxiety, and relationship issues.
As a counselor, I love helping my clients feel empowered, confident, and helping them make meaning out of their difficult life experiences. I have a passion for helping people heal from traumatic experiences and find ways to cope in order to move on in their journey. I specialize in helping people who have experienced Child Sexual Abuse, Sexual Assault, and Domestic Violence. I have also worked with client's struggling with depression, anxiety, and relationship issues.
(210) 791-8078 View (210) 791-8078
Photo of Shannon Higgins, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shannon Higgins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75024  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked in a youth and family clinic, a domestic violence & sexual abuse outreach center & provided in-home crisis counseling for at-risk youth and their families.
Welcome to the first and most courageous step of therapy - looking for help and support. I consider myself a compass helping adolescents, adults, families and parents by guiding them in the direction of health and well-being. People are already whole and complete. Sometimes life experiences, circumstances, illness and relationships can impose clouded judgment, maladaptive behavior, poor self esteem and obstacles from achieving what we truly desire and deserve. My approach is educative, supportive, trusting, safe, evidenced based and healing. Most importantly, I customize treatment plans unique to each client and at their pace..
I have worked in a youth and family clinic, a domestic violence & sexual abuse outreach center & provided in-home crisis counseling for at-risk youth and their families.
Welcome to the first and most courageous step of therapy - looking for help and support. I consider myself a compass helping adolescents, adults, families and parents by guiding them in the direction of health and well-being. People are already whole and complete. Sometimes life experiences, circumstances, illness and relationships can impose clouded judgment, maladaptive behavior, poor self esteem and obstacles from achieving what we truly desire and deserve. My approach is educative, supportive, trusting, safe, evidenced based and healing. Most importantly, I customize treatment plans unique to each client and at their pace..
(214) 838-1052 View (214) 838-1052
Photo of Donna Amtsberg, LCSW-S, Equine, Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Donna Amtsberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, Equine, Therapy
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
With over 30 years of family violence and human trafficking experience, I have assisted individuals challenged by the worst of relationship issues; physical, sexual and emotional abuse.
My focus is restoring healthy relationships with individuals experiencing conflict within their family, workplace, or social group. I am comfortable with having "hard" conversations. We all want to belong and feel as though we contribute to the health and happiness of ourselves and those around us. Traumatic events block us from moving forward in a meaningful way. Focusing on increasing one's sense of self and understanding why we become stuck in unhealthy thinking patterns is my specialty. I will partner with you to explore your experiences and create new, healthy pathways of thinking and living.
With over 30 years of family violence and human trafficking experience, I have assisted individuals challenged by the worst of relationship issues; physical, sexual and emotional abuse.
My focus is restoring healthy relationships with individuals experiencing conflict within their family, workplace, or social group. I am comfortable with having "hard" conversations. We all want to belong and feel as though we contribute to the health and happiness of ourselves and those around us. Traumatic events block us from moving forward in a meaningful way. Focusing on increasing one's sense of self and understanding why we become stuck in unhealthy thinking patterns is my specialty. I will partner with you to explore your experiences and create new, healthy pathways of thinking and living.
(281) 666-9392 View (281) 666-9392
Photo of Mary Wilson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary Wilson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Beaumont, TX 77705  (Online Only)
Hi there, my name is Mary Wilson. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 9 years of clinical experience. My expertise and training are working with adults during significant life transitions, mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, grief, perpetrators, and victims of domestic violence. ​I utilize several theoretical approaches, including Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered, and Jungian. I believe that our journey together will be collaborative and productive when I follow and go at the pace that you want.
Hi there, my name is Mary Wilson. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 9 years of clinical experience. My expertise and training are working with adults during significant life transitions, mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, grief, perpetrators, and victims of domestic violence. ​I utilize several theoretical approaches, including Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered, and Jungian. I believe that our journey together will be collaborative and productive when I follow and go at the pace that you want.
(956) 275-3197 View (956) 275-3197
Photo of Juliann Ebelherr - pegasustherapies, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
pegasustherapies
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Weatherford, TX 76088
I designed, implemented and ran the trauma program for First Step, A domestic violence,sexual assault shelter for men and women.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor. I am one of 30 therapists certified to do CPT in the state of Texas, which is the therapy used for trauma and PTSD. I work with various populations including active duty service members from the air force,army,navy and marines as well as the international pilot training wing, their families, veterans, and clients of all ages. My clients include ones with with abusive histories, physical,emotional,sexual,ritual, or currently in an abusive situation. I am certified in CBT, CPT, TF-CBT, EMDR, and TF-EAP. All used for trauma work. I use animal therapy also
I designed, implemented and ran the trauma program for First Step, A domestic violence,sexual assault shelter for men and women.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor. I am one of 30 therapists certified to do CPT in the state of Texas, which is the therapy used for trauma and PTSD. I work with various populations including active duty service members from the air force,army,navy and marines as well as the international pilot training wing, their families, veterans, and clients of all ages. My clients include ones with with abusive histories, physical,emotional,sexual,ritual, or currently in an abusive situation. I am certified in CBT, CPT, TF-CBT, EMDR, and TF-EAP. All used for trauma work. I use animal therapy also
(940) 227-6090 View (940) 227-6090
Photo of Mary Wilson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary Wilson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78217
Hi there, my name is Mary Wilson. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 9 years of clinical experience. My expertise and training are working with adults during significant life transitions, mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, grief, perpetrators, and victims of domestic violence. ​I utilize several theoretical approaches, including Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered, and Jungian. I believe that our journey together will be collaborative and productive when I follow and go at the pace that you want.
Hi there, my name is Mary Wilson. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 9 years of clinical experience. My expertise and training are working with adults during significant life transitions, mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, grief, perpetrators, and victims of domestic violence. ​I utilize several theoretical approaches, including Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered, and Jungian. I believe that our journey together will be collaborative and productive when I follow and go at the pace that you want.
(469) 772-4366 View (469) 772-4366
Photo of Nicole Garcia, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Garcia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78613  (Online Only)
I specialize as a trauma therapist, specifically working with clients with domestic violence, sexual assault and other trauma history.
My ideal client is any person wanting to work on themselves, regardless of what brought you here. Most of my clients have a goal of feeling in control of themselves and their lives.
I specialize as a trauma therapist, specifically working with clients with domestic violence, sexual assault and other trauma history.
My ideal client is any person wanting to work on themselves, regardless of what brought you here. Most of my clients have a goal of feeling in control of themselves and their lives.
(737) 215-3881 View (737) 215-3881
Photo of Deborah Lyon, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Deborah Lyon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78258
You may have been thinking about counseling for a long time but have just now gathered your courage to reach out - I understand, it’s not easy. You may know some things need to change but are not sure how, where to begin, or even what you are experiencing. I create a working relationship of safety, trust, and warmth that feels accepting, and non-judgmental, yet also encourages you to explore new ideas, set collaborative goals, and can help you find renewed hope for your future. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I specialize in helping people with anxiety, sexual and domestic abuse, and relationship issues. I’m here for YOU!
You may have been thinking about counseling for a long time but have just now gathered your courage to reach out - I understand, it’s not easy. You may know some things need to change but are not sure how, where to begin, or even what you are experiencing. I create a working relationship of safety, trust, and warmth that feels accepting, and non-judgmental, yet also encourages you to explore new ideas, set collaborative goals, and can help you find renewed hope for your future. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I specialize in helping people with anxiety, sexual and domestic abuse, and relationship issues. I’m here for YOU!
(210) 942-9775 View (210) 942-9775
Photo of Dr. Allison C Davis, MS, LPCC, LPC, PhD, Counselor
Dr. Allison C Davis
Counselor, MS, LPCC, LPC, PhD
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77094  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with the too-often invisible chains of domestic abuse / coercive control? You don’t have to face it alone. I understand the unique challenges and emotional turmoil that coercive control can bring. I’m a compassionate and experienced trauma-focused therapist specializing in empowering women to break free from psychological abuse and rebuild their lives with confidence and strength. I have a background in child development and further specialize in helping protective mothers raise resilient children within post-separation abuse. (NM & TX Telehealth)
Are you struggling with the too-often invisible chains of domestic abuse / coercive control? You don’t have to face it alone. I understand the unique challenges and emotional turmoil that coercive control can bring. I’m a compassionate and experienced trauma-focused therapist specializing in empowering women to break free from psychological abuse and rebuild their lives with confidence and strength. I have a background in child development and further specialize in helping protective mothers raise resilient children within post-separation abuse. (NM & TX Telehealth)
(505) 587-5294 View (505) 587-5294
Photo of Courtney Diane Czar, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Courtney Diane Czar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78748
I work with individuals who have experienced domestic violence and have extensive training in family and intimate partner violence.
I offer depth oriented therapy, meaning transformation through felt experience, getting in touch and being curious with the most complex parts of ourselves, examining wishes, fears, and possible traumas, and creating safety both relationally and internally for the exploration of these things. I place emotional safety at the forefront of my work as I believe that most psychological injuries are the result of being afraid, neglected or humiliated during states of emotional distress or need in the past. I work well with creative and deeply feeling and thinking people and those who have an authentic desire toward growth and healing.
I work with individuals who have experienced domestic violence and have extensive training in family and intimate partner violence.
I offer depth oriented therapy, meaning transformation through felt experience, getting in touch and being curious with the most complex parts of ourselves, examining wishes, fears, and possible traumas, and creating safety both relationally and internally for the exploration of these things. I place emotional safety at the forefront of my work as I believe that most psychological injuries are the result of being afraid, neglected or humiliated during states of emotional distress or need in the past. I work well with creative and deeply feeling and thinking people and those who have an authentic desire toward growth and healing.
(520) 661-5066 View (520) 661-5066
Photo of Madhuri Govindu ( Emdr Trained), MA, NCC, EMDR, AA Psyc, CBT-TF
Madhuri Govindu ( Emdr Trained)
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, NCC, EMDR, AA Psyc, CBT-TF
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sugar Land, TX 77478  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients in Texas. A trauma-informed multilingual, psychotherapist and career specialist with over 18 years of coaching experience working with individuals and families.Specialties in working with individuals, and veterans who are survivors of crime, domestic violence, dysfunctional relationships, and abuse issues. In our 15-minute free initial consultation, I can provide you with more information on EMDR and how it can help you heal from trauma effectively. I also specialize in Career Transitions, Work Stress, Bullying at work, and Career Confusion. Fluent in Telugu, Bengali, Assamese, Bihari, and Hindi. Call me!
Accepting new clients in Texas. A trauma-informed multilingual, psychotherapist and career specialist with over 18 years of coaching experience working with individuals and families.Specialties in working with individuals, and veterans who are survivors of crime, domestic violence, dysfunctional relationships, and abuse issues. In our 15-minute free initial consultation, I can provide you with more information on EMDR and how it can help you heal from trauma effectively. I also specialize in Career Transitions, Work Stress, Bullying at work, and Career Confusion. Fluent in Telugu, Bengali, Assamese, Bihari, and Hindi. Call me!
(832) 645-4505 View (832) 645-4505
Photo of Linda Marie Miller, MS, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Linda Marie Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Corpus Christi, TX 78414  (Online Only)
My Teletherapy Practice is accepting new clients in HIPPA secured sessions. I believe it takes courage to sort out life's problems, and a helping hand can make it more manageable. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and also a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC). I provide services to Individuals, and Couples including: Substance Abuse, Marriage Counseling, Grief Counseling, Aging issues, Anxiety and Stress, Low Self-Esteem, Shame and Sexual Abuse issues.
My Teletherapy Practice is accepting new clients in HIPPA secured sessions. I believe it takes courage to sort out life's problems, and a helping hand can make it more manageable. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and also a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC). I provide services to Individuals, and Couples including: Substance Abuse, Marriage Counseling, Grief Counseling, Aging issues, Anxiety and Stress, Low Self-Esteem, Shame and Sexual Abuse issues.
(361) 209-8607 View (361) 209-8607
Photo of Eleny Guerrero Pena Lpc Lcdc - Courage 2 Overcome Counseling, MS, LPC, LCDC, EMDR, trained, Licensed Professional Counselor
Eleny Guerrero Pena Lpc Lcdc - Courage 2 Overcome Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC, EMDR, trained
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78752
Do anxiety, generation trauma ("what happens at home stays home" and never resolved), sexual abuse, addiction and insecurities run your life more than your values and dreams? Do you relive the past as if it were happening right now? Your head knows better, but it fails to convince your heart otherwise. As challenging as those experiences were for the past, they continue to zap away your joy and confidence today. You might even avoid situations that trigger the feelings.
Do anxiety, generation trauma ("what happens at home stays home" and never resolved), sexual abuse, addiction and insecurities run your life more than your values and dreams? Do you relive the past as if it were happening right now? Your head knows better, but it fails to convince your heart otherwise. As challenging as those experiences were for the past, they continue to zap away your joy and confidence today. You might even avoid situations that trigger the feelings.
(512) 890-2730 View (512) 890-2730
Photo of Olajumoke M. Iyiola, LPC, LCDC, TTS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Olajumoke M. Iyiola
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC, TTS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77004  (Online Only)
I am experienced in helping people work through a variety of life challenges, including: mood related disorders such as anxiety and depression, trauma and abuse, domestic violence, stress, problematic substance use, self-esteem issues, life transitions, relationships, grief, marriage and family and addiction.
Whether your present life feels unmanageable, or past hurtful experiences are still causing you pain, there is hope. Reaching out for help is the first step to making positive changes in your life. As a therapist, my goal is to provide you with a safe, supportive, non-judgmental space in which you can share, explore, and achieve greater self-awareness. Together, we will build on the strengths you already possess to help you grow and find balance. My style of therapy is a conversational, collaborative approach aimed at helping people understand themselves better.
I am experienced in helping people work through a variety of life challenges, including: mood related disorders such as anxiety and depression, trauma and abuse, domestic violence, stress, problematic substance use, self-esteem issues, life transitions, relationships, grief, marriage and family and addiction.
Whether your present life feels unmanageable, or past hurtful experiences are still causing you pain, there is hope. Reaching out for help is the first step to making positive changes in your life. As a therapist, my goal is to provide you with a safe, supportive, non-judgmental space in which you can share, explore, and achieve greater self-awareness. Together, we will build on the strengths you already possess to help you grow and find balance. My style of therapy is a conversational, collaborative approach aimed at helping people understand themselves better.
(713) 597-2223 View (713) 597-2223
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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.