Domestic Abuse Therapists in Nashville, TN

Photo of Katy Odenbaugh, MSSW
Katy Odenbaugh
MSSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37215
Katy is certified in treatment from narcissistic abuse and antagonistic relationships.
Katy (she/her) is a pre-licensed clinician with experience working with individuals in different stages of life with a wide variety of clinical concerns. She uses a person-centered approach to her work, combining holistic and mindfulness-based techniques.
Katy is certified in treatment from narcissistic abuse and antagonistic relationships.
Katy (she/her) is a pre-licensed clinician with experience working with individuals in different stages of life with a wide variety of clinical concerns. She uses a person-centered approach to her work, combining holistic and mindfulness-based techniques.
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Photo of Laura Lara Salazar, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Lara Salazar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37215
My areas of focus include women's issues, depression, anxiety, interpersonal violence, domestic abuse, narcissistic abuse, trauma, intergenerational trauma, life transitions, addiction, immigration and cultural issues-adjustment.
Hey, I’m glad that you are here taking the first step towards your healing journey. My name is Laura Lara Salazar, I'm a Latina therapist. My goal is to provide you with a safe, supportive space where you can explore personal growth, healing, and mental well-being. I believe that everyone has the strength within them to overcome challenges, and I'm here to guide you on that journey. Whether you're navigating through life transitions, managing stress, or healing from trauma, we'll work together to help you feel more grounded, empowered, and at peace.
My areas of focus include women's issues, depression, anxiety, interpersonal violence, domestic abuse, narcissistic abuse, trauma, intergenerational trauma, life transitions, addiction, immigration and cultural issues-adjustment.
Hey, I’m glad that you are here taking the first step towards your healing journey. My name is Laura Lara Salazar, I'm a Latina therapist. My goal is to provide you with a safe, supportive space where you can explore personal growth, healing, and mental well-being. I believe that everyone has the strength within them to overcome challenges, and I'm here to guide you on that journey. Whether you're navigating through life transitions, managing stress, or healing from trauma, we'll work together to help you feel more grounded, empowered, and at peace.
(629) 306-9518 View (629) 306-9518
Photo of Beth Tucker, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Beth Tucker
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37211
My passion is working with those that are looking for a safe place to explore the challenges that life brings. My focus is to create an environment for my clients to embrace hope and reach their goals. I have worked with victims of domestic abuse, trafficking, and sexual abuse since 2016. I also work with clients that are struggling with anxiety and depression. I believe that my client is the expert in their life and that together we can get them back to leading their lives effectively.
My passion is working with those that are looking for a safe place to explore the challenges that life brings. My focus is to create an environment for my clients to embrace hope and reach their goals. I have worked with victims of domestic abuse, trafficking, and sexual abuse since 2016. I also work with clients that are struggling with anxiety and depression. I believe that my client is the expert in their life and that together we can get them back to leading their lives effectively.
(615) 206-4102 View (615) 206-4102
Photo of Tara Forrest Greene, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tara Forrest Greene
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37205
I am passionate about helping adults and children heal from relational trauma and move forward into relational health. I have a specialty in helping women recover from domestic abuse. I also work with children and teenagers who have experienced abuse and trauma or have high anxiety. I have additional training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT), TraumaPlay therapy, the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP), Premarital Counseling, and Domestic Abuse Victim Advocacy.
I am passionate about helping adults and children heal from relational trauma and move forward into relational health. I have a specialty in helping women recover from domestic abuse. I also work with children and teenagers who have experienced abuse and trauma or have high anxiety. I have additional training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT), TraumaPlay therapy, the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP), Premarital Counseling, and Domestic Abuse Victim Advocacy.
(615) 237-1237 View (615) 237-1237
Photo of Tammara Kamei, MA, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tammara Kamei
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37218  (Online Only)
I have 10+ years experience providing in home, intensive and outpatient therapy to victims of domestic violence, sexual abuse, etc.
It is my mission to provide effective counseling that is authentic, empathetic and non-judgmental. Increasing awareness of mental health in the black community is a must. I am focused on addressing the impact of primary an secondary trauma in black communities, so that those in need of support know they are not alone. As a supervisor I am also Currently providing supervision to those seeking licensure as a professional counselor.
I have 10+ years experience providing in home, intensive and outpatient therapy to victims of domestic violence, sexual abuse, etc.
It is my mission to provide effective counseling that is authentic, empathetic and non-judgmental. Increasing awareness of mental health in the black community is a must. I am focused on addressing the impact of primary an secondary trauma in black communities, so that those in need of support know they are not alone. As a supervisor I am also Currently providing supervision to those seeking licensure as a professional counselor.
(810) 529-2731 View (810) 529-2731
Photo of J. Gregory Briggs - The Briggs Institute, Inc.
The Briggs Institute, Inc.
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
We work with clients managing issues such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, substance abuse, addiction, work-life balance, corporate consulting, entertainment industry stressors, couple conflict, divorce, sexual and physical trauma, sex therapy, and parenting issues,.
“How can I make things better?” Whether you’re managing mental health issues like anxiety or depression or existing in a dissatisfying relationship, you’ve probably asked yourself many versions of this question. If you’re willing to work hard and are open to making changes, know that you have every reason to believe you can enjoy a healthier and happier life. Our purpose is to help our clients know what changes they may need to make in order to reach their goals. We are eager to serve and look forward to working with you.
We work with clients managing issues such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, substance abuse, addiction, work-life balance, corporate consulting, entertainment industry stressors, couple conflict, divorce, sexual and physical trauma, sex therapy, and parenting issues,.
“How can I make things better?” Whether you’re managing mental health issues like anxiety or depression or existing in a dissatisfying relationship, you’ve probably asked yourself many versions of this question. If you’re willing to work hard and are open to making changes, know that you have every reason to believe you can enjoy a healthier and happier life. Our purpose is to help our clients know what changes they may need to make in order to reach their goals. We are eager to serve and look forward to working with you.
(615) 593-3999 View (615) 593-3999
Photo of Catherine Lucas, LMSW
Catherine Lucas
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37228
I provide support in the following areas: Trauma/PTSD, Emotion Dysregulation, Codependency, Domestic Violence and Abuse, Emotional Abuse and Neglect, Childhood Trauma, Relationship issues, Sexual Assault and Abuse, Coping skills, Depression, Highly Sensitive Person (HSPs) , ADHD, Self-Compasssion.
I'm looking forward to supporting you. I enjoy helping others work to live more authentically while being able to enjoy life amid everyday challenges. I use a strengths-based and collaborative approach to treatment as each client is the expert in their life. I use therapeutic modalities including compassion-focused therapy, solution-focused therapy, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), expressive art, mindful movement, and yoga.
I provide support in the following areas: Trauma/PTSD, Emotion Dysregulation, Codependency, Domestic Violence and Abuse, Emotional Abuse and Neglect, Childhood Trauma, Relationship issues, Sexual Assault and Abuse, Coping skills, Depression, Highly Sensitive Person (HSPs) , ADHD, Self-Compasssion.
I'm looking forward to supporting you. I enjoy helping others work to live more authentically while being able to enjoy life amid everyday challenges. I use a strengths-based and collaborative approach to treatment as each client is the expert in their life. I use therapeutic modalities including compassion-focused therapy, solution-focused therapy, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), expressive art, mindful movement, and yoga.
(615) 909-4298 View (615) 909-4298
Photo of Jones Zimmerman, Jones Zimmerman, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jones Zimmerman
Licensed Professional Counselor, Jones Zimmerman
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37212
Waitlist for new clients
Because I specialize in complex trauma and dissociative disorders, most of the folks I work with are survivors of relational trauma: childhood abuse and neglect, religious trauma, and/or marginalization and oppression. In other words, I help people who’ve been deeply wounded in relationships. When relationships are the context for wounding, they are also the context for healing. I integrate a variety of treatment strategies, but my basic approach is relational. I strive to build an environment imbued with what Erik Erickson called "trust born of care."
Because I specialize in complex trauma and dissociative disorders, most of the folks I work with are survivors of relational trauma: childhood abuse and neglect, religious trauma, and/or marginalization and oppression. In other words, I help people who’ve been deeply wounded in relationships. When relationships are the context for wounding, they are also the context for healing. I integrate a variety of treatment strategies, but my basic approach is relational. I strive to build an environment imbued with what Erik Erickson called "trust born of care."
(615) 375-4389 View (615) 375-4389
Photo of Melinda Siders, MA, LMFT, CFRC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melinda Siders
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CFRC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
As an sufferer of trauma, pain is your life. You could be a singer, a stay-at-home mom, a nurse or a fireman. Trauma does not discriminate. Whether you're a victim of childhood abuse or you're someone who witnesses disturbing events regularly, you know how it feels. You experience fitful nights of sleep, your emotions are all over the place, and you lack motivation. On top of that, friendships are not what they used to be, your spouse and family are annoying, and life seems to be falling apart. Lately, it’s been difficult to focus as a sense of fear has crept in. Everything important has lost meaning and you feel alone.
As an sufferer of trauma, pain is your life. You could be a singer, a stay-at-home mom, a nurse or a fireman. Trauma does not discriminate. Whether you're a victim of childhood abuse or you're someone who witnesses disturbing events regularly, you know how it feels. You experience fitful nights of sleep, your emotions are all over the place, and you lack motivation. On top of that, friendships are not what they used to be, your spouse and family are annoying, and life seems to be falling apart. Lately, it’s been difficult to focus as a sense of fear has crept in. Everything important has lost meaning and you feel alone.
(629) 263-7504 View (629) 263-7504
Photo of Amanda Lucas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Lucas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37222
I have decades of experience and extensive training in trauma, substance abuse, ADHD, depression, and anxiety. I have a wealth of knowledge about the legal, school, and healthcare systems. I am comfortable working with people from every walk of life, including those who are people of color, disabled, and/or who identify as LGBTQ+. I specialize in working with adolescents and have worked with numerous trauma survivors. Mental health issues are often the direct result, not of individual responses to stress, but a reaction to a variety of societal ills - racism, homophobia and transphobia, ableism, economic inequality, etc.
I have decades of experience and extensive training in trauma, substance abuse, ADHD, depression, and anxiety. I have a wealth of knowledge about the legal, school, and healthcare systems. I am comfortable working with people from every walk of life, including those who are people of color, disabled, and/or who identify as LGBTQ+. I specialize in working with adolescents and have worked with numerous trauma survivors. Mental health issues are often the direct result, not of individual responses to stress, but a reaction to a variety of societal ills - racism, homophobia and transphobia, ableism, economic inequality, etc.
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Photo of Alexa Ritter, MSSW , Pre-Licensed Professional
Alexa Ritter
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37206
I deeply believe that each individual is the expert on themselves. I view the therapeutic relationship as mutually participatory, vulnerable, and authentic. Connection, community, and safety are integral to the healing process, so you can expect me to be present in each session with these tenets at the forefront of my mind. My approach is relational, anti-oppressive, culturally humble, casual, sex-positive, and gender-affirming. While I have specifically worked with victim/survivors of sexual violence and complex trauma, I am excited to accompany folks on all forms of healing journeys.
I deeply believe that each individual is the expert on themselves. I view the therapeutic relationship as mutually participatory, vulnerable, and authentic. Connection, community, and safety are integral to the healing process, so you can expect me to be present in each session with these tenets at the forefront of my mind. My approach is relational, anti-oppressive, culturally humble, casual, sex-positive, and gender-affirming. While I have specifically worked with victim/survivors of sexual violence and complex trauma, I am excited to accompany folks on all forms of healing journeys.
(629) 295-8603 View (629) 295-8603
Photo of Matthew Andrews, MSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matthew Andrews
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37204
Do you ever feel like life can be overwhelming? Has depression, anxiety, substance abuse, or other problems taken control of you life? As a therapist, I believe that everyone has the capacity to heal . Sometimes it just takes a little guidance to help you get better. I have been in this field since 2013 and have been honored to help clients achieve their goals, grow as human beings, and become happier and healthier.
Do you ever feel like life can be overwhelming? Has depression, anxiety, substance abuse, or other problems taken control of you life? As a therapist, I believe that everyone has the capacity to heal . Sometimes it just takes a little guidance to help you get better. I have been in this field since 2013 and have been honored to help clients achieve their goals, grow as human beings, and become happier and healthier.
(629) 201-7128 View (629) 201-7128
Photo of Bre’Onna Joyce Logothetis
Bre’Onna Joyce Logothetis
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37208
Those who are facing heart break, loneliness, family questions, drama, life transitions, trauma, loss and grief, anxiety and depression, those who have experienced abuse of any kind, those who are wanting to understand their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, & those who just need guidance.
There is a stigma that seeking therapy is weak or only for those who are going through “really hard things” - this is not true. I appreciate your courage as it takes a great amount of vulnerability to open up to someone about things you may have never talked about before. I will use the theoretical orientation best for you whether it be IFS, gestalt, person centered, CBT, DBT, trauma based, or others. My desire as a counselor is to build trust and create a safe and non-judgemental environment as we work together to cultivate understanding and healing.
Those who are facing heart break, loneliness, family questions, drama, life transitions, trauma, loss and grief, anxiety and depression, those who have experienced abuse of any kind, those who are wanting to understand their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, & those who just need guidance.
There is a stigma that seeking therapy is weak or only for those who are going through “really hard things” - this is not true. I appreciate your courage as it takes a great amount of vulnerability to open up to someone about things you may have never talked about before. I will use the theoretical orientation best for you whether it be IFS, gestalt, person centered, CBT, DBT, trauma based, or others. My desire as a counselor is to build trust and create a safe and non-judgemental environment as we work together to cultivate understanding and healing.
(615) 905-1344 View (615) 905-1344
Photo of Jessica Davidson, MA, MS, LPC, MHSP-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Davidson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LPC, MHSP-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37221
I have also been specially trained to work with children who have experienced physical and sexual abuse, behavioral issues and problems controlling anger.
Are you worried about your child? Does your child not seem like themselves? Your child may be irritable, aggressive and defiant. Your child may seem angry or withdrawn. Adolescents often refuse to talk to you, participate in enjoyable activities, experience thoughts of suicide or do things to harm themselves. Your child may have experienced a traumatic event or is having difficulty navigating a life change such as divorce, death of a family member or adoption. You may feel hopeless and not sure how to help your child. If this sounds familiar, I can help. I have experience working with children with these same issues.
I have also been specially trained to work with children who have experienced physical and sexual abuse, behavioral issues and problems controlling anger.
Are you worried about your child? Does your child not seem like themselves? Your child may be irritable, aggressive and defiant. Your child may seem angry or withdrawn. Adolescents often refuse to talk to you, participate in enjoyable activities, experience thoughts of suicide or do things to harm themselves. Your child may have experienced a traumatic event or is having difficulty navigating a life change such as divorce, death of a family member or adoption. You may feel hopeless and not sure how to help your child. If this sounds familiar, I can help. I have experience working with children with these same issues.
(615) 434-4227 View (615) 434-4227
Photo of Carol Smith - Insight Counseling Centers, LMFT, MDiv, Marriage & Family Therapist
Insight Counseling Centers
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MDiv
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37205
We support you in finding the therapist who's right for you! We offer a safe place to address anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship issues, premarital counseling, grief and loss, spiritual abuse, trauma, and stress, among other concerns. We serve individuals, couples, and families of all ages and from diverse backgrounds. Whether you have been struggling with a particular issue for years or you just want to try to make your life a little better, we are here to help.
We support you in finding the therapist who's right for you! We offer a safe place to address anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship issues, premarital counseling, grief and loss, spiritual abuse, trauma, and stress, among other concerns. We serve individuals, couples, and families of all ages and from diverse backgrounds. Whether you have been struggling with a particular issue for years or you just want to try to make your life a little better, we are here to help.
(615) 994-7026 View (615) 994-7026
Photo of Kimery Cockrell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimery Cockrell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37211
I am an EMDR and EFIT trained trauma informed therapist with a specialty for adults experiencing mental health concerns related issues such as perinatal depression/anxiety/OCD, parenthood, domestic violence recovery, and interpersonal relationships.
Hi! I am Kimery with Sonderhaus Counseling. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in perinatal mental health, I offer compassionate and collaborative support to individuals navigating the challenges of prenatal and postpartum depression and anxiety as well as complex trauma and attachment wounds. I tend to see adult clients who are navigating the challenges of these concerns as well as issues related to parenthood/parenting, domestic violence, and interpersonal relationships. I utilize a variety of approaches to help you learn, cope, process and heal.
I am an EMDR and EFIT trained trauma informed therapist with a specialty for adults experiencing mental health concerns related issues such as perinatal depression/anxiety/OCD, parenthood, domestic violence recovery, and interpersonal relationships.
Hi! I am Kimery with Sonderhaus Counseling. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in perinatal mental health, I offer compassionate and collaborative support to individuals navigating the challenges of prenatal and postpartum depression and anxiety as well as complex trauma and attachment wounds. I tend to see adult clients who are navigating the challenges of these concerns as well as issues related to parenthood/parenting, domestic violence, and interpersonal relationships. I utilize a variety of approaches to help you learn, cope, process and heal.
(629) 205-0513 View (629) 205-0513
Photo of Lane Newton, MEd, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lane Newton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37220
It is an honor to be able to listen, support, and help families find hope. I am a licensed professional counselor who provides counseling services to children and families in Nashville. I specialize in working with trauma, abuse, and attachment and have experience with clients in a variety of settings, including domestic violence, adoption, and foster care.
It is an honor to be able to listen, support, and help families find hope. I am a licensed professional counselor who provides counseling services to children and families in Nashville. I specialize in working with trauma, abuse, and attachment and have experience with clients in a variety of settings, including domestic violence, adoption, and foster care.
(615) 502-4937 View (615) 502-4937
Photo of Julia A McAninch, PsyD, Psychologist
Julia A McAninch
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37204
My specialty areas include trauma and PTSD (rape, child abuse, domestic violence, neglect, emotional abuse, car accidents and other accidents, combat exposure, and other violent crimes); relationship issues (couples therapy, recovering from affairs, LGBT couples, family conflict); sexuality (lesbian, gay, bisexual, and questioning concerns, sexual performance, diverse sexual expression); gender (women's issues, men's issues, transgender issues); identity exploration (college students, multicultural populations, career changes); mood disorders (depression and anxiety); along with other areas of concern. Please go to www.mcaninchpsychological.com to see more.
My specialty areas include trauma and PTSD (rape, child abuse, domestic violence, neglect, emotional abuse, car accidents and other accidents, combat exposure, and other violent crimes); relationship issues (couples therapy, recovering from affairs, LGBT couples, family conflict); sexuality (lesbian, gay, bisexual, and questioning concerns, sexual performance, diverse sexual expression); gender (women's issues, men's issues, transgender issues); identity exploration (college students, multicultural populations, career changes); mood disorders (depression and anxiety); along with other areas of concern. Please go to www.mcaninchpsychological.com to see more.
(615) 208-7104 View (615) 208-7104
Photo of Shantell Johnson-Jones, LPC, MHSP, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shantell Johnson-Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, MEd
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37206
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in sexual assault/ abuse, trauma from alcoholic/dysfunctional childhoods, LGBTQ identity, and pre-parental counseling.
I specialize in working with the emotional internalizers of the world. Do you self-isolate? Not return text messages or calls when life gets hard? Stuffing down your feelings and wants? Avoiding conflict? Self-sabotaging? Maybe intimacy is hard for you, especially if you're a survivor of sexual trauma. You want desperately to change but aren’t sure how. Trauma (especially from dysfunctional childhoods) convinces us that we’re an anomaly, not worth loving. It feels like everyone has it “together” except you. I get it, I’ve been there. The truth is, you’re not alone. Let's help YOU get what YOU what from life, relationships, and work.
I specialize in sexual assault/ abuse, trauma from alcoholic/dysfunctional childhoods, LGBTQ identity, and pre-parental counseling.
I specialize in working with the emotional internalizers of the world. Do you self-isolate? Not return text messages or calls when life gets hard? Stuffing down your feelings and wants? Avoiding conflict? Self-sabotaging? Maybe intimacy is hard for you, especially if you're a survivor of sexual trauma. You want desperately to change but aren’t sure how. Trauma (especially from dysfunctional childhoods) convinces us that we’re an anomaly, not worth loving. It feels like everyone has it “together” except you. I get it, I’ve been there. The truth is, you’re not alone. Let's help YOU get what YOU what from life, relationships, and work.
(615) 205-4736 View (615) 205-4736
Photo of Carrie Wilkerson, MA, MMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Carrie Wilkerson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MMFT
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37203
Hi, I’m Carrie. Whatever is happening in your life right now, we can face it with care and find authentic, effective ways to handle it, together. For over 20 years, I’ve worked with individuals, groups, organizations, and communities in making positive change. I have also experienced my own healing journey from childhood abuse and family dysfunction, so I’m intimately familiar with the terrain. My life’s passion is for healing trauma; transforming pain into wholeness; helping my clients develop their unique gifts and path; and nurturing relationships back to health; and that’s what I’ve trained to do.
Hi, I’m Carrie. Whatever is happening in your life right now, we can face it with care and find authentic, effective ways to handle it, together. For over 20 years, I’ve worked with individuals, groups, organizations, and communities in making positive change. I have also experienced my own healing journey from childhood abuse and family dysfunction, so I’m intimately familiar with the terrain. My life’s passion is for healing trauma; transforming pain into wholeness; helping my clients develop their unique gifts and path; and nurturing relationships back to health; and that’s what I’ve trained to do.
(615) 492-2208 View (615) 492-2208
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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.