Domestic Abuse Therapists in Norfolk, VA

Photo of Alison Rinsland, MSEd
Alison Rinsland
Resident in Counseling, MSEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norfolk, VA 23508
My speciality varies from working with individuals with anxiety disorders, perinatal / postpartum mental health, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, and perfectionism. Additionally, I have clinical experience working with depression, trauma, grief, domestic violence, women's issues, religious trauma & abuse, neurodiversity, military, first responders, and addiction.
My speciality varies from working with individuals with anxiety disorders, perinatal / postpartum mental health, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, and perfectionism. Additionally, I have clinical experience working with depression, trauma, grief, domestic violence, women's issues, religious trauma & abuse, neurodiversity, military, first responders, and addiction.
(757) 780-8094 View (757) 780-8094
Photo of Angel Walcott, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Angel Walcott
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23504  (Online Only)
I have a wide range of experience in different settings such as community mental health, crisis home and domestic violence shelter, hospital, and private practice settings.
Grief and loss, childhood emotional neglect, domestic violence, and many other challenges and transitions in life affect how we see ourselves and the world we live in. It can lead to powerlessness, hopelessness, unspeakable pain and suffering, shame, emotional upheavals, and/or loss of sense of security. Yet all we seek is the ability to find peace, acceptance, and a strong connectivity with ourselves that lead to better connections with others. We want to be able to clear our view to ultimately see our deeper and meaningful purpose in life. I believe we have the innate capacity to achieve these.
I have a wide range of experience in different settings such as community mental health, crisis home and domestic violence shelter, hospital, and private practice settings.
Grief and loss, childhood emotional neglect, domestic violence, and many other challenges and transitions in life affect how we see ourselves and the world we live in. It can lead to powerlessness, hopelessness, unspeakable pain and suffering, shame, emotional upheavals, and/or loss of sense of security. Yet all we seek is the ability to find peace, acceptance, and a strong connectivity with ourselves that lead to better connections with others. We want to be able to clear our view to ultimately see our deeper and meaningful purpose in life. I believe we have the innate capacity to achieve these.
(757) 296-1639 View (757) 296-1639
Photo of Shaun Lamm, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shaun Lamm
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23517
I have worked in inpatient substance abuse recovery settings and understand the nuances of overcoming substance use alongside depression, anxiety, and trauma.
Hi, I'm Shaun! At the core of my counseling practice, I believe people are capable of change, growth, and can find new ways of coping with both the stressors of every day and the traumas of years passed. I work with clients with complex trauma, substance abuse and recovery, depression, anxiety, and grief. My goal is to facilitate a safe space where you can explore the past, find tools and strengths to help you feel grounded in the present, and develop goals and new meaning for the future. My practice, Connected Wellness Group, strives to take a whole person approach to healing.
I have worked in inpatient substance abuse recovery settings and understand the nuances of overcoming substance use alongside depression, anxiety, and trauma.
Hi, I'm Shaun! At the core of my counseling practice, I believe people are capable of change, growth, and can find new ways of coping with both the stressors of every day and the traumas of years passed. I work with clients with complex trauma, substance abuse and recovery, depression, anxiety, and grief. My goal is to facilitate a safe space where you can explore the past, find tools and strengths to help you feel grounded in the present, and develop goals and new meaning for the future. My practice, Connected Wellness Group, strives to take a whole person approach to healing.
(757) 832-1287 View (757) 832-1287
Photo of Victoria Holroyd - The Relationship Center of Hampton Roads, PhD, LPC, LMHC, NCC, DCMHS, Licensed Professional Counselor
The Relationship Center of Hampton Roads
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LMHC, NCC, DCMHS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norfolk, VA 23518
Extensively trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy, proven by research to be the most effective method of couples therapy, we specialize in infidelity, nonmonagamy, narcissistic abuse and intimacy issues as well as transitions such as engagement, parenting, divorce and stepparenting.
No intimacy? Infidelity? Addiction? Relationships are complicated! We know how overwhelming and painful communication and other challenges that emerge in intimate relationships can be. We also know the potential for change, growth, and connection that is possible in working through these issues with professional support. We use techniques based on the cutting-edge of relationship and neuroscience research to help make sense of communication breakdowns and patterns of conflict. We are passionate about diversity and inclusion and provide care through a multicultural, attachment-based, gender-affirmative, and trauma-informed lens.
Extensively trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy, proven by research to be the most effective method of couples therapy, we specialize in infidelity, nonmonagamy, narcissistic abuse and intimacy issues as well as transitions such as engagement, parenting, divorce and stepparenting.
No intimacy? Infidelity? Addiction? Relationships are complicated! We know how overwhelming and painful communication and other challenges that emerge in intimate relationships can be. We also know the potential for change, growth, and connection that is possible in working through these issues with professional support. We use techniques based on the cutting-edge of relationship and neuroscience research to help make sense of communication breakdowns and patterns of conflict. We are passionate about diversity and inclusion and provide care through a multicultural, attachment-based, gender-affirmative, and trauma-informed lens.
(757) 517-3938 View (757) 517-3938
Photo of Islam Mallory, LMSW
Islam Mallory
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norfolk, VA 23510
Areas of specialty include: trauma, crisis intervention, anxiety, domestic violence, sexual assault, self-esteem, and child abuse.
Have you been avoiding fights with your partner or in other relationships in your life? Do you feel like you are walking on eggshells, trying not to say or do something that will trigger them or have you blow up? This can be hurtful and lead to a cycle of continued conflict and long-term problems, including distance, disconnect and unhappiness. I use an eclectic approach that is strength-based, solution-focused, and person-centered when working with clients to develop healthy strategies to navigate the difficult problems that impact their lives.
Areas of specialty include: trauma, crisis intervention, anxiety, domestic violence, sexual assault, self-esteem, and child abuse.
Have you been avoiding fights with your partner or in other relationships in your life? Do you feel like you are walking on eggshells, trying not to say or do something that will trigger them or have you blow up? This can be hurtful and lead to a cycle of continued conflict and long-term problems, including distance, disconnect and unhappiness. I use an eclectic approach that is strength-based, solution-focused, and person-centered when working with clients to develop healthy strategies to navigate the difficult problems that impact their lives.
(757) 844-5375 View (757) 844-5375
Photo of Cathiep. Wellness: Jada L. Pannell, MSEd, LPC, NCC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cathiep. Wellness: Jada L. Pannell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Norfolk, VA 23510  (Online Only)
I specialize in dealing with trauma including: grief & loss, abuse (physical, sexual, & emotional).
With 8 years of experience in the mental health field, I firmly believe in the parity of mental and physical health. Life often leads us into dark tunnels, and my role in therapy is to guide individuals toward the light at the end of those tunnels. I provide a safe and empathetic space for people to explore their thoughts and feelings, recognizing the uniqueness of each individual's journey. If you have any questions or specific concerns, feel free to ask; I'm here to assist you.
I specialize in dealing with trauma including: grief & loss, abuse (physical, sexual, & emotional).
With 8 years of experience in the mental health field, I firmly believe in the parity of mental and physical health. Life often leads us into dark tunnels, and my role in therapy is to guide individuals toward the light at the end of those tunnels. I provide a safe and empathetic space for people to explore their thoughts and feelings, recognizing the uniqueness of each individual's journey. If you have any questions or specific concerns, feel free to ask; I'm here to assist you.
(757) 379-8593 View (757) 379-8593
Photo of Lemuel Osbert Williams, MA, CT, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lemuel Osbert Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, CT, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Norfolk, VA 23502
"Life without change is not living; To be uncomfortable means that change is right around the corner!" I believe these words wholeheartedly as every individual arrives at a crossroads that determine whether they move forward, backward or remain stagnant. I work alongside those who may be within a crossroad in life that has them questioning which direction to choose. In my work as a Therapist, my clinical training and experience encompasses depression, couples enrichment, grief/loss, separation/divorce, relationship issues, and other emotional/interpersonal disturbances. I specialize in trauma such as sexual abuse, domestic violence, and death/illness.
"Life without change is not living; To be uncomfortable means that change is right around the corner!" I believe these words wholeheartedly as every individual arrives at a crossroads that determine whether they move forward, backward or remain stagnant. I work alongside those who may be within a crossroad in life that has them questioning which direction to choose. In my work as a Therapist, my clinical training and experience encompasses depression, couples enrichment, grief/loss, separation/divorce, relationship issues, and other emotional/interpersonal disturbances. I specialize in trauma such as sexual abuse, domestic violence, and death/illness.
(757) 663-5958 View (757) 663-5958
Photo of Donna L Hurst, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Donna L Hurst
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23502
Waitlist for new clients
Dr. Donna Hurst is a licensed professional counselor and adjunct professor at Regent University in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Dr. Hurst began working with those in crisis in the 1990’s when she co-founded a non-profit for intimate-partner violence and stalking survivors in California. Dr. Hurst provided training, education, and assistance to crime victims, criminal offenders, and justice system professionals. Dr. Hurst found she had a heart for those hurting and left a corporate job to become a licensed professional counselor.
Dr. Donna Hurst is a licensed professional counselor and adjunct professor at Regent University in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Dr. Hurst began working with those in crisis in the 1990’s when she co-founded a non-profit for intimate-partner violence and stalking survivors in California. Dr. Hurst provided training, education, and assistance to crime victims, criminal offenders, and justice system professionals. Dr. Hurst found she had a heart for those hurting and left a corporate job to become a licensed professional counselor.
(757) 703-7808 View (757) 703-7808
Photo of Keisha Ross, LMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Keisha Ross
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23504  (Online Only)
My areas of expertise include long- term care, young adults dealing with stress management and life changes as well as victims of domestic violence.
I desire to assist others with trauma related issues as well as day to day issues that arise in a compassionate, person centered approach to help client's achieve their goals.
My areas of expertise include long- term care, young adults dealing with stress management and life changes as well as victims of domestic violence.
I desire to assist others with trauma related issues as well as day to day issues that arise in a compassionate, person centered approach to help client's achieve their goals.
(757) 866-5071 View (757) 866-5071
Photo of Cynthia Y Dupree, M Ed, QMHP, ICAADC, LCAS, SAP, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Cynthia Y Dupree
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, M Ed, QMHP, ICAADC, LCAS, SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norfolk, VA 23510  (Online Only)
Cynthia Dupree is a US Navy military veteran, a Qualified DOT Substance Abuse Professional Evaluator, servicing individuals and groups, experienced in Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services using evidenced based practices and techniques getting your desired results. Come learn how you can have the highest and best quality of life you deserve!
Cynthia Dupree is a US Navy military veteran, a Qualified DOT Substance Abuse Professional Evaluator, servicing individuals and groups, experienced in Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services using evidenced based practices and techniques getting your desired results. Come learn how you can have the highest and best quality of life you deserve!
(757) 210-7980 View (757) 210-7980
Photo of Jana Davis, LCSW, NBCCH, RRTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jana Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, NBCCH, RRTP
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23518  (Online Only)
It may be sexual abuse, domestic violence, childhood trauma, abandonment, motor vehicle accident, sudden loss, traumatic grief, infidelity, or life changes.
Are you tired of the words 'coping skills' or 'let it go'? Would you rather talk to your dog than talk to a therapist? Then you may really like Jana Davis. She's not a traditional therapist. Jana is not interested in 'coping skills'. She's interested in what is holding you back, and taking care of that. The result is you feeling more like yourself, and that's a good place to be. She does this without having the client 'relive' anything. Jana knows those other therapies (EMDR, prolonged exposure, cognitive processing, and many others). She uses something MUCH faster and WITHOUT reliving.
It may be sexual abuse, domestic violence, childhood trauma, abandonment, motor vehicle accident, sudden loss, traumatic grief, infidelity, or life changes.
Are you tired of the words 'coping skills' or 'let it go'? Would you rather talk to your dog than talk to a therapist? Then you may really like Jana Davis. She's not a traditional therapist. Jana is not interested in 'coping skills'. She's interested in what is holding you back, and taking care of that. The result is you feeling more like yourself, and that's a good place to be. She does this without having the client 'relive' anything. Jana knows those other therapies (EMDR, prolonged exposure, cognitive processing, and many others). She uses something MUCH faster and WITHOUT reliving.
(757) 267-6463 View (757) 267-6463
Photo of Lauren Darling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Darling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23507
Lauren Darling is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 8 years of experience in the mental health field. She has worked closely with couples, families, and individuals of all ages. Among adult populations, Lauren primarily works with women and LGBTQ+ individuals. She has worked with a wide variety of diagnoses and challenges including trauma, eating disorders, parenting, psychosis and dissociative disorders, addiction, self-harm, suicidal ideation, gender dysphoria, LGBTQ+ issues, personality and mood disorders, anxiety, and depression, with particular attention to complex childhood trauma including sexual abuse.
Lauren Darling is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 8 years of experience in the mental health field. She has worked closely with couples, families, and individuals of all ages. Among adult populations, Lauren primarily works with women and LGBTQ+ individuals. She has worked with a wide variety of diagnoses and challenges including trauma, eating disorders, parenting, psychosis and dissociative disorders, addiction, self-harm, suicidal ideation, gender dysphoria, LGBTQ+ issues, personality and mood disorders, anxiety, and depression, with particular attention to complex childhood trauma including sexual abuse.
(757) 780-8925 View (757) 780-8925
Photo of Cynthia Barrington Toye - Transitions Therapeutic Services, LCSW, CSAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Transitions Therapeutic Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAC
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23504
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor.
I am excited that you have chosen to take the journey towards improving your overall quality of life. At times we may feel the stressors of life are too much to handle alone. I would like the opportunity to partner with you in working through the process of growth and change.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor.
I am excited that you have chosen to take the journey towards improving your overall quality of life. At times we may feel the stressors of life are too much to handle alone. I would like the opportunity to partner with you in working through the process of growth and change.
(757) 349-8740 View (757) 349-8740
Photo of Sadie F Sheafe, PhD, LCSW, ABSDip, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sadie F Sheafe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, ABSDip, BCD
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23518
I am Licensed Psychotherapist and Psychoanalyst, Board Certified Clinical Sexologist, and Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am also a Diplomate, Board of Clinical Sexology. I have been a therapist for over 30 years. My team of Psychiatrists,Psychologists & clinicians service over 500 clients monthly. This team approach affords you an opportunity to capitalize on the 150 years of therapeutic expertise of the entire staff. Their specialties include: Marriage/Couple/divorce, Work Related Stress, Depression, Addictions, Gay/Lesbian/Gender Issues, Sex counseling & therapy, Anger Management, PTSD, Juveniles & Adolescent, Physical -Emotional-Verbal Abuse, Grief, Attention functioning & learning disorders
I am Licensed Psychotherapist and Psychoanalyst, Board Certified Clinical Sexologist, and Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am also a Diplomate, Board of Clinical Sexology. I have been a therapist for over 30 years. My team of Psychiatrists,Psychologists & clinicians service over 500 clients monthly. This team approach affords you an opportunity to capitalize on the 150 years of therapeutic expertise of the entire staff. Their specialties include: Marriage/Couple/divorce, Work Related Stress, Depression, Addictions, Gay/Lesbian/Gender Issues, Sex counseling & therapy, Anger Management, PTSD, Juveniles & Adolescent, Physical -Emotional-Verbal Abuse, Grief, Attention functioning & learning disorders
(888) 657-2343 View (888) 657-2343
Photo of Kelly Andrews, MS, LPC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelly Andrews
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23505
Waitlist for new clients
My modalities I use include but are not limited to; Art Therapy, Play Therapy, EMDR, EMDR sandtray IFS, & specialties; sexual and/or domestic violence, interpersonal violence, trauma work, posttraumatic stress disorder, grief and loss, anxiety.
Thank you for taking your time to read the information I have provided. One of the most important steps in counseling is finding a therapist you can connect with and trust. I offer free consultations so you can assess if I am the right fit for your healing process. For over 16 years I have been honored to work with children, adolescents and adults on their therapeutic journey’s. I am passionate about addressing and treating the client as a whole which includes the physical, emotional and spiritual self. I collaborate with each client and tailor sessions to meet their current needs.
My modalities I use include but are not limited to; Art Therapy, Play Therapy, EMDR, EMDR sandtray IFS, & specialties; sexual and/or domestic violence, interpersonal violence, trauma work, posttraumatic stress disorder, grief and loss, anxiety.
Thank you for taking your time to read the information I have provided. One of the most important steps in counseling is finding a therapist you can connect with and trust. I offer free consultations so you can assess if I am the right fit for your healing process. For over 16 years I have been honored to work with children, adolescents and adults on their therapeutic journey’s. I am passionate about addressing and treating the client as a whole which includes the physical, emotional and spiritual self. I collaborate with each client and tailor sessions to meet their current needs.
(757) 389-8834 View (757) 389-8834
Photo of Kimberleigh M Mubarak- Rivers Of Hope Counseling, MS, RIC, CTP
Kimberleigh M Mubarak- Rivers Of Hope Counseling
Resident in Counseling, MS, RIC, CTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norfolk, VA 23502  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with all ages and a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, sexual & domestic violence, trauma, grief, BPD, self-esteem issues, and a plethora of other issues.
Making the decision to attend counseling is not an easy one. It takes courage and strength to admit "I need help". Though life presents many challenges, I am a firm believer that everyone is capable of working through tough times but there are times when we need assistance. My goal is to empower, encourage, and give my clients the tools they need to work through any season. I am Resident in Counseling in the Commonwealth of Virginia who has always had a passion and desire for helping others.
I enjoy working with all ages and a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, sexual & domestic violence, trauma, grief, BPD, self-esteem issues, and a plethora of other issues.
Making the decision to attend counseling is not an easy one. It takes courage and strength to admit "I need help". Though life presents many challenges, I am a firm believer that everyone is capable of working through tough times but there are times when we need assistance. My goal is to empower, encourage, and give my clients the tools they need to work through any season. I am Resident in Counseling in the Commonwealth of Virginia who has always had a passion and desire for helping others.
(571) 506-7214 View (571) 506-7214
Photo of Christie Huse, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christie Huse
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Norfolk, VA 23510
I specialize in Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety, ADHD, Depression, Military life, and Domestic Violence Survivors.
Therapist: Your partner has complained that you never buy her flowers, what do you say to that? Patient: To be honest, I had no idea my partner even sold flowers. :) I am passionate about helping individuals and couples work through their problems and cope with life's struggles with a positive and humorous approach. My goal is to alleviate suffering due to trauma, addiction, anxiety, depression, and personality disorders. LGBTQ+, ENM, and Poly allied and supported :).
I specialize in Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety, ADHD, Depression, Military life, and Domestic Violence Survivors.
Therapist: Your partner has complained that you never buy her flowers, what do you say to that? Patient: To be honest, I had no idea my partner even sold flowers. :) I am passionate about helping individuals and couples work through their problems and cope with life's struggles with a positive and humorous approach. My goal is to alleviate suffering due to trauma, addiction, anxiety, depression, and personality disorders. LGBTQ+, ENM, and Poly allied and supported :).
(757) 780-1719 View (757) 780-1719
Photo of Lexie Braza, MSEd, RIC
Lexie Braza
Resident in Counseling, MSEd, RIC
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23503
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience working with a diverse clientele, including survivors of sexual and interpersonal violence.
Seeking help can be difficult. I believe that with guidance and skillsets, clients can take control of their wellness and move toward healing. My goal is to provide a safe and inclusive therapeutic space. My clients often experience anxiety, depression, trauma, loss, or relational concerns. Therapy goals are based on each individual or couple's unique needs. I enjoy working with teens, adults, and couples.
I have experience working with a diverse clientele, including survivors of sexual and interpersonal violence.
Seeking help can be difficult. I believe that with guidance and skillsets, clients can take control of their wellness and move toward healing. My goal is to provide a safe and inclusive therapeutic space. My clients often experience anxiety, depression, trauma, loss, or relational concerns. Therapy goals are based on each individual or couple's unique needs. I enjoy working with teens, adults, and couples.
(757) 349-1483 View (757) 349-1483
Photo of Emily Nayar, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Nayar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23503  (Online Only)
For the last 13 years I've been working with survivors of sexual assault, childhood abuse and neglect, domestic violence, refugees, and people in recovery.
Do you ever feel that you're living in the past? Do the thoughts, memories, and dreams keep coming back? Do you always feel that something bad is going to happen? These are some of the affects of trauma. Others can include panic attacks, anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders. Unfortunately we can't talk (or logic) our way out of our body and brain's response to trauma, and often we leave talk therapy feeling like we're spinning our wheels. There is good news: we can help your brain and body heal from the trauma so that the past can STAY in the past. Healing is possible, and I'm excited to work with you
For the last 13 years I've been working with survivors of sexual assault, childhood abuse and neglect, domestic violence, refugees, and people in recovery.
Do you ever feel that you're living in the past? Do the thoughts, memories, and dreams keep coming back? Do you always feel that something bad is going to happen? These are some of the affects of trauma. Others can include panic attacks, anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders. Unfortunately we can't talk (or logic) our way out of our body and brain's response to trauma, and often we leave talk therapy feeling like we're spinning our wheels. There is good news: we can help your brain and body heal from the trauma so that the past can STAY in the past. Healing is possible, and I'm excited to work with you
(757) 260-5059 View (757) 260-5059
Photo of Gwyneth Limber, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gwyneth Limber
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23503
Gwyn Limber is an LPC who has over 20 years of experience in the field treating trauma, LGBTQA+ issues, women's issues, and more. Gwyn has worked with children, pre-teens, teens and adults in multiple different settings. She has been a counselor and therapist in group homes, domestic violence shelters, substance abuse centers, in-home, and multiple outpatient settings. Gwyn completed her Master of Science (MS) at the University of Kentucky. She began as an art major, but found her passion in psychology and helping others.
Gwyn Limber is an LPC who has over 20 years of experience in the field treating trauma, LGBTQA+ issues, women's issues, and more. Gwyn has worked with children, pre-teens, teens and adults in multiple different settings. She has been a counselor and therapist in group homes, domestic violence shelters, substance abuse centers, in-home, and multiple outpatient settings. Gwyn completed her Master of Science (MS) at the University of Kentucky. She began as an art major, but found her passion in psychology and helping others.
(757) 520-0509 View (757) 520-0509
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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.