Domestic Abuse Therapists in Clearwater, FL

Photo of Seher Jangda, LMHC, Counselor
Seher Jangda
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Clearwater, FL 33756
Seher enjoys working with people from all walks of life, however, she has specialized training and experience in helping trauma survivors as well as victims of domestic violence.
Seher Jangda is a bilingual (English/Urdu) Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) who has over 7 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples. She specializes in anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, child therapy, poor coping skills, divorce, and domestic abuse.
Seher enjoys working with people from all walks of life, however, she has specialized training and experience in helping trauma survivors as well as victims of domestic violence.
Seher Jangda is a bilingual (English/Urdu) Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) who has over 7 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples. She specializes in anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, child therapy, poor coping skills, divorce, and domestic abuse.
(727) 756-8230 View (727) 756-8230
Photo of Bianca Doll, Pre-Licensed Professional
Bianca Doll
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Clearwater, FL 33756
Bianca Doll is a Registered Clinical Mental Health Counseling Intern who specializes in a diverse range of conditions and provides comprehensive support and healing. With a focus on depression, anxiety, narcissistic abuse, sexual trauma, trauma, PTSD, grief, and personality disorders, Bianca offers a compassionate evidence-based approach to address each client's unique needs. Bianca creates a safe and supportive space for clients to process and heal from trauma, navigate the grieving process with resilience and self-compassion, and learn about self-awareness, coping skills, and relational growth.
Bianca Doll is a Registered Clinical Mental Health Counseling Intern who specializes in a diverse range of conditions and provides comprehensive support and healing. With a focus on depression, anxiety, narcissistic abuse, sexual trauma, trauma, PTSD, grief, and personality disorders, Bianca offers a compassionate evidence-based approach to address each client's unique needs. Bianca creates a safe and supportive space for clients to process and heal from trauma, navigate the grieving process with resilience and self-compassion, and learn about self-awareness, coping skills, and relational growth.
(904) 299-1763 View (904) 299-1763
Photo of Bianca Massi, LMHC
Bianca Massi
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Clearwater, FL 33764  (Online Only)
As a seasoned therapist with over a decade of experience, I specialize in working with adolescents, young adults, and families, creating a safe and empowering environment that fosters healing and growth. My areas of expertise include treating addiction, trauma, PTSD, physical and sexual abuse, family violence, depression, anxiety, and helping individuals navigate life transitions and grief and loss.
As a seasoned therapist with over a decade of experience, I specialize in working with adolescents, young adults, and families, creating a safe and empowering environment that fosters healing and growth. My areas of expertise include treating addiction, trauma, PTSD, physical and sexual abuse, family violence, depression, anxiety, and helping individuals navigate life transitions and grief and loss.
(347) 508-9157 View (347) 508-9157
Photo of Charlene Richardson, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Charlene Richardson
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33765
I expertly combine truths of Scripture with extensive training in trauma, abuse, mood issues, personality assessments and more.
Are you feeling beaten down, misunderstood, overwhelmed, anxious, sad, or lonely? Do you have trouble saying no, even when you are already stretched thin? Do you often feel unheard or overlooked? Is it difficult to see yourself as God in His compassion sees you? Are you weighed down by a painful past or struggling with difficult relationships? If you are struggling in any of these areas, I can help.
I expertly combine truths of Scripture with extensive training in trauma, abuse, mood issues, personality assessments and more.
Are you feeling beaten down, misunderstood, overwhelmed, anxious, sad, or lonely? Do you have trouble saying no, even when you are already stretched thin? Do you often feel unheard or overlooked? Is it difficult to see yourself as God in His compassion sees you? Are you weighed down by a painful past or struggling with difficult relationships? If you are struggling in any of these areas, I can help.
(727) 261-1509 View (727) 261-1509
Photo of Joan Nodzon - Healing Stone Therapy Services, LLC, LMHC, Counselor
Healing Stone Therapy Services, LLC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33759
I have experience working with such issues as sexual abuse, domestic violence, anxiety, relationship issues, conflict resolution, parenting skills and other types of behavioral difficulties.
Are you experiencing traumatic experiences from the past or present which continue to cause you distress? Are you having relationship issues regarding communication, trust or unhealthy boundaries, behavior issues with your child or grieving from a loss? I am a Licensed Therapist and I will work with you to resolve your issues by developing healthy coping skills. I can assist you on your journey to change painful patterns and search for solutions to your issues. With hard work and motivation you can identify solutions and move forward in your life. Your past does not define you as a person.
I have experience working with such issues as sexual abuse, domestic violence, anxiety, relationship issues, conflict resolution, parenting skills and other types of behavioral difficulties.
Are you experiencing traumatic experiences from the past or present which continue to cause you distress? Are you having relationship issues regarding communication, trust or unhealthy boundaries, behavior issues with your child or grieving from a loss? I am a Licensed Therapist and I will work with you to resolve your issues by developing healthy coping skills. I can assist you on your journey to change painful patterns and search for solutions to your issues. With hard work and motivation you can identify solutions and move forward in your life. Your past does not define you as a person.
(727) 240-3961 View (727) 240-3961
Photo of Ileana Abreu, MA, EdD, (ABD)
Ileana Abreu
MA, EdD, (ABD)
Verified Verified
Clearwater, FL 33760
Rewire your brain; reclaim your life! Trauma and/or relational abuse can drive anyone to break down or act out. There is a way to find healing that does not involve pharmaceuticals or a deficit-based diagnosis. Dr. Ileana is poised to support and enhance your unique path of self-directed healing. She helps clients overcome fears and reclaim desires, specializing in mind-body-spirit alignment and psychological integration. (Spanish: La clave de la salud mental es el apoyo y la comprension. Existen soluciones que no implican el uso de drogas psiquiatricas. Por favor, llama a la Dra. Ileana por una consulta gratuita para saber mas.)
Rewire your brain; reclaim your life! Trauma and/or relational abuse can drive anyone to break down or act out. There is a way to find healing that does not involve pharmaceuticals or a deficit-based diagnosis. Dr. Ileana is poised to support and enhance your unique path of self-directed healing. She helps clients overcome fears and reclaim desires, specializing in mind-body-spirit alignment and psychological integration. (Spanish: La clave de la salud mental es el apoyo y la comprension. Existen soluciones que no implican el uso de drogas psiquiatricas. Por favor, llama a la Dra. Ileana por una consulta gratuita para saber mas.)
(727) 312-0626 View (727) 312-0626
Photo of Brian L Long, LPC, MAC, NCC, TH-FL, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brian L Long
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MAC, NCC, TH-FL
Verified Verified
Clearwater, FL 33763  (Online Only)
I have worked extensively with children, adolescents and adults with moderate to severe behavioral and emotional issues, such as AD/HD, oppositional and defiance issues, conduct problems, anxiety, depression, PTSD, Autism spectrum, relationship conflict, family conflict, anger management, career coaching and substance abuse related disorders and issues.
Greetings! Thank you for viewing my profile. Regarding my experience and education, I received a Master's degree with a specialization in mental health counseling in 2008. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Florida Tele-Health approved provider, National Certified Counselor, and Master Addiction Counselor. I have worked with children, adolescents and adults in many different capacities over the last 21 years. To schedule an appointment and to inquire about your insurance benefits, please visit www.brianleelong.com.
I have worked extensively with children, adolescents and adults with moderate to severe behavioral and emotional issues, such as AD/HD, oppositional and defiance issues, conduct problems, anxiety, depression, PTSD, Autism spectrum, relationship conflict, family conflict, anger management, career coaching and substance abuse related disorders and issues.
Greetings! Thank you for viewing my profile. Regarding my experience and education, I received a Master's degree with a specialization in mental health counseling in 2008. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Florida Tele-Health approved provider, National Certified Counselor, and Master Addiction Counselor. I have worked with children, adolescents and adults in many different capacities over the last 21 years. To schedule an appointment and to inquire about your insurance benefits, please visit www.brianleelong.com.
(470) 946-6402 View (470) 946-6402
Photo of Michael E Whalen - Michael E Whalen LMHC - DayQuest Life Counseling, MA, LMHC, ART, Certifi, Counselor
Michael E Whalen LMHC - DayQuest Life Counseling
Counselor, MA, LMHC, ART, Certifi
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33762
I appreciate you reaching out. Dealing with Anxiety, Trauma, Depression, Relationships, Substance Abuse, Anger, Stress, Eco-Anxiety, Insomnia, Pain? Finding Direction? Career Path? Whatever the issue, a professional counselor can help. Counseling fills an important role in your life. Having a non-judgmental, mindful perspective & highly skilled assistance is empowering and life enhancing. With the right counselor you have a safe place to tell your story, find healing, and grow. Get caring & experienced support for being your Self - from the very first visit. Contact me and we'll talk about how I can help with your therapy needs.
I appreciate you reaching out. Dealing with Anxiety, Trauma, Depression, Relationships, Substance Abuse, Anger, Stress, Eco-Anxiety, Insomnia, Pain? Finding Direction? Career Path? Whatever the issue, a professional counselor can help. Counseling fills an important role in your life. Having a non-judgmental, mindful perspective & highly skilled assistance is empowering and life enhancing. With the right counselor you have a safe place to tell your story, find healing, and grow. Get caring & experienced support for being your Self - from the very first visit. Contact me and we'll talk about how I can help with your therapy needs.
(727) 341-9397 View (727) 341-9397
Photo of Suzanne Wright, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Suzanne Wright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Clearwater, FL 33756
Suzanne Wright is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 7 years of experience. She comes from a multi-cultural background and it has allowed her to see things in all different lights and spaces. It has allowed her to observe and be present in ways not many people get to experience. She enjoys working with individuals and assisting them in their challenges. Suzanne specializes in anxiety, depression, trauma, domestic violence, and chronic illness.
Suzanne Wright is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 7 years of experience. She comes from a multi-cultural background and it has allowed her to see things in all different lights and spaces. It has allowed her to observe and be present in ways not many people get to experience. She enjoys working with individuals and assisting them in their challenges. Suzanne specializes in anxiety, depression, trauma, domestic violence, and chronic illness.
(407) 638-8711 View (407) 638-8711
Photo of Daniella Jackson, PhD, LMHC, Counselor
Daniella Jackson
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33760
Our philosophy is to promote various aspects of health based on the strengths of each individual by thoughtfully acknowledging each person's unique talents and abilities. I have 20 years of experience in working with adolescents and adults with mental health problems, dual disorders, and substance abuse issues. For the past 16 years, I have directly worked with adults who had these problems. I offer mental health counseling for dual disorders, substance abuse, addictive behaviors (i.e., food, gambling, technology), the impact of family members' addiction, adult children of addicts (i.e., ACOAs), codependency, and more.
Our philosophy is to promote various aspects of health based on the strengths of each individual by thoughtfully acknowledging each person's unique talents and abilities. I have 20 years of experience in working with adolescents and adults with mental health problems, dual disorders, and substance abuse issues. For the past 16 years, I have directly worked with adults who had these problems. I offer mental health counseling for dual disorders, substance abuse, addictive behaviors (i.e., food, gambling, technology), the impact of family members' addiction, adult children of addicts (i.e., ACOAs), codependency, and more.
(727) 619-1578 View (727) 619-1578
Photo of Frederick Potter, LMHC, Counselor
Frederick Potter
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Clearwater, FL 33756  (Online Only)
Fritz Potter is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 25 years of experience with children, single parents, families, spouses, active duty, veterans, and the homeless. From his learnings and experience, Fritz has helped clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, anger, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)/trauma, substance abuse, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Fritz also counsels people who have experienced physical and emotional abuse. He is a Master Certified Addiction Professional (MCAP).
Fritz Potter is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 25 years of experience with children, single parents, families, spouses, active duty, veterans, and the homeless. From his learnings and experience, Fritz has helped clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, anger, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)/trauma, substance abuse, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Fritz also counsels people who have experienced physical and emotional abuse. He is a Master Certified Addiction Professional (MCAP).
(727) 746-5951 View (727) 746-5951
Photo of Candice Sapiro Barsky, LMHC, PsyD, Counselor
Candice Sapiro Barsky
Counselor, LMHC, PsyD
Verified Verified
Clearwater, FL 33767
I specialize in adolescents and adults dealing with life crisis, eating disorders, body dysmorphic disorder, substance abuse, depression and anxiety disorders, trauma, phobias, marital and relationship problems (including GLBT issues).
I am from Brazil where I received a clinical psychologist license in 1998 (Brazilian Psychology Board). I understand the importance of cultural sensitivity in establishing trust and comfort to achieve a successful treatment. Besides fluent English, I speak Spanish and Portuguese. My professional training and education, allows me to combine a psychoanalytical vision with cognitive-behavioral interventions in a sensitive and non judgmental style. I utilize sense of humor to guide clients through insights; I am very dynamic and make use of analogies to help clients visualize their problems in a more concrete and manageable way.
I specialize in adolescents and adults dealing with life crisis, eating disorders, body dysmorphic disorder, substance abuse, depression and anxiety disorders, trauma, phobias, marital and relationship problems (including GLBT issues).
I am from Brazil where I received a clinical psychologist license in 1998 (Brazilian Psychology Board). I understand the importance of cultural sensitivity in establishing trust and comfort to achieve a successful treatment. Besides fluent English, I speak Spanish and Portuguese. My professional training and education, allows me to combine a psychoanalytical vision with cognitive-behavioral interventions in a sensitive and non judgmental style. I utilize sense of humor to guide clients through insights; I am very dynamic and make use of analogies to help clients visualize their problems in a more concrete and manageable way.
(407) 501-8984 View (407) 501-8984
Photo of Sandra Swary Hall - Sandra Hall, LMHC, CAP, CRC, PA, LMHC, CAP, CRC, SAP, Counselor
Sandra Hall, LMHC, CAP, CRC, PA
Counselor, LMHC, CAP, CRC, SAP
Verified Verified
Clearwater, FL 33765
I am a professional counselor that truly enjoys what I do immensely. I have worked in varied situations, including residential adolescent treatment, psychiatric hospitalization, DUI outpatient groups and private practice. My background includes volunteering in domestic violence shelters and working with women's issues. I am well suited for individual, couples, families, and group counseling.
I am a professional counselor that truly enjoys what I do immensely. I have worked in varied situations, including residential adolescent treatment, psychiatric hospitalization, DUI outpatient groups and private practice. My background includes volunteering in domestic violence shelters and working with women's issues. I am well suited for individual, couples, families, and group counseling.
(727) 248-0378 View (727) 248-0378
Photo of Amanda Mole, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Mole
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Clearwater, FL 33767  (Online Only)
I specialize in trauma and mood disorders, and have experience with domestic violence, sexual assault, spiritual and religious trauma, LGBTQIA issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, gender dysphoria, and other issues.
Waitlist only at this time - I accept clients of all backgrounds, but I find that people who have religious trauma, such as spiritual abuse, sexism, homophobia, sexual abuse, etc., are quite comfortable with me and my style of therapy. I also am neurodiversity-affirming and welcome adults who are autistic or live with other brain types that fall under the neurodiversity umbrella. My specialized training includes gender affirming treatment, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and internal family systems therapy. I help clients process and integrate trauma as well as build new skills.
I specialize in trauma and mood disorders, and have experience with domestic violence, sexual assault, spiritual and religious trauma, LGBTQIA issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, gender dysphoria, and other issues.
Waitlist only at this time - I accept clients of all backgrounds, but I find that people who have religious trauma, such as spiritual abuse, sexism, homophobia, sexual abuse, etc., are quite comfortable with me and my style of therapy. I also am neurodiversity-affirming and welcome adults who are autistic or live with other brain types that fall under the neurodiversity umbrella. My specialized training includes gender affirming treatment, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and internal family systems therapy. I help clients process and integrate trauma as well as build new skills.
(727) 235-7273 View (727) 235-7273
Photo of Patrick Smith, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patrick Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33755
Patrick has more than eight years of experience in the mental health and addictions field, having worked in many different settings with diverse populations. Patrick is a veteran of the U.S. Coast Guard and the U.S. Army, where he served multiple combat deployments. His areas of clinical expertise include: co-occurring disorders, trauma, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, male sexual trauma, depression, anxiety, substance abuse/addictions, anger management, crisis intervention, childhood issues, grief/loss, couples and families.
Patrick has more than eight years of experience in the mental health and addictions field, having worked in many different settings with diverse populations. Patrick is a veteran of the U.S. Coast Guard and the U.S. Army, where he served multiple combat deployments. His areas of clinical expertise include: co-occurring disorders, trauma, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, male sexual trauma, depression, anxiety, substance abuse/addictions, anger management, crisis intervention, childhood issues, grief/loss, couples and families.
(727) 240-2279 View (727) 240-2279
Photo of Emily Chavie, Marriage & Family Therapist
Emily Chavie
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Clearwater, FL 33755
I am honored to walk with you on a journey of healing where you can come as you are and leave renewed. I work with all people regardless of their backgrounds or circumstances; holding a space for healing, peace and love. I would love to support you in your times of trouble and despair including trauma work, depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, relationship issues, domestic violence, sexual/physical/emotional/verbal/psychological abuse, co-dependency, communication struggles, self-esteem and self-love struggles, LGBTQIA+ struggles, victim and offender abuse issues, and more. Let me help you shoulder the burden into healing.
I am honored to walk with you on a journey of healing where you can come as you are and leave renewed. I work with all people regardless of their backgrounds or circumstances; holding a space for healing, peace and love. I would love to support you in your times of trouble and despair including trauma work, depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, relationship issues, domestic violence, sexual/physical/emotional/verbal/psychological abuse, co-dependency, communication struggles, self-esteem and self-love struggles, LGBTQIA+ struggles, victim and offender abuse issues, and more. Let me help you shoulder the burden into healing.
(727) 761-1119 View (727) 761-1119
Photo of Richard Tifft, Marriage & Family Therapist
Richard Tifft
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33761
My specialty is working with couples in intimate relationships who feel their relationship is in distress. I can help when you're not talking, not communicating, not connecting anymore. I can help if you and your partner are constantly fighting, or if you're living like roommates. I can help if there has been an affair, that has been ended, and you want to find a way to rebuild trust and reconnect. I have a passion for this work and have the specific training and experience required to help you and your partner find connection and understanding again.
My specialty is working with couples in intimate relationships who feel their relationship is in distress. I can help when you're not talking, not communicating, not connecting anymore. I can help if you and your partner are constantly fighting, or if you're living like roommates. I can help if there has been an affair, that has been ended, and you want to find a way to rebuild trust and reconnect. I have a passion for this work and have the specific training and experience required to help you and your partner find connection and understanding again.
(727) 300-1041 View (727) 300-1041
Photo of Elizabeth Lindell Mendez, LMHC, Counselor
Elizabeth Lindell Mendez
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Clearwater, FL 33756
Elizabeth is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 6 years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about helping others improve their mental health, relationships, and day-to-day sense of purpose in life. Providing tailored mental health care to clients, she has experience working with a broad spectrum of mental health concerns. Additionally, she has worked as a counselor in an outpatient setting with adults, adolescents, and couples working to improve relationships, communication, emotional regulation skills, depression, anxiety, trauma, and major life transitions.
Elizabeth is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 6 years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about helping others improve their mental health, relationships, and day-to-day sense of purpose in life. Providing tailored mental health care to clients, she has experience working with a broad spectrum of mental health concerns. Additionally, she has worked as a counselor in an outpatient setting with adults, adolescents, and couples working to improve relationships, communication, emotional regulation skills, depression, anxiety, trauma, and major life transitions.
(407) 890-0617 View (407) 890-0617
Photo of Mandy Hines, LMHC, QS, MCAP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mandy Hines
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, QS, MCAP
Verified Verified
Clearwater, FL 33762
Waitlist for new clients
Each person is unique. Therefore, my approach is holistic, person centered, and strength based. I am trained in an array of evidence based practices including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. I often utilize Motivational Interviewing and Solution Focused Therapy so you will see results QUICKLY. It is my passion to embark on a journey of wellness with each of my clients, by hearing their story and finding meaning and purpose of their life circumstances while providing a safe and non-judgmental environment.
Each person is unique. Therefore, my approach is holistic, person centered, and strength based. I am trained in an array of evidence based practices including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. I often utilize Motivational Interviewing and Solution Focused Therapy so you will see results QUICKLY. It is my passion to embark on a journey of wellness with each of my clients, by hearing their story and finding meaning and purpose of their life circumstances while providing a safe and non-judgmental environment.
(727) 263-1762 x701 View (727) 263-1762 x701
Photo of Loreley Caplan, LMHC, Counselor
Loreley Caplan
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Clearwater, FL 33767  (Online Only)
Hola I'm Loreley. A bilingual therapist, licensed in Florida who specializes in working with young adults (18-30 y/o), helping them redefine their personal needs, priorities, and goals to reach a more fulfilling life. I also work with adult individuals (30-65 y/o), with diverse psychological concerns. / Hi! Soy Loreley, Psicóloga latina radicada en la Florida hace más de 20 años. Si necesitas apoyo porque sientes que tu vida no funciona como quisieras, yo te puedo ayudar a explorar opciones que te ayuden a lograr una vida más plena y feliz.
Hola I'm Loreley. A bilingual therapist, licensed in Florida who specializes in working with young adults (18-30 y/o), helping them redefine their personal needs, priorities, and goals to reach a more fulfilling life. I also work with adult individuals (30-65 y/o), with diverse psychological concerns. / Hi! Soy Loreley, Psicóloga latina radicada en la Florida hace más de 20 años. Si necesitas apoyo porque sientes que tu vida no funciona como quisieras, yo te puedo ayudar a explorar opciones que te ayuden a lograr una vida más plena y feliz.
(352) 780-1465 View (352) 780-1465
1
Domestic Abuse Therapists

What are the most effective ways to recover from domestic abuse?

Leaving an abusive relationship requires tremendous courage, so survivors in treatment should recognize that they have already completed the most important step. Still, the trauma of physical or emotional abuse can be difficult to process and overcome. Therapy can help survivors process trauma, grief, and difficult emotions, treat relevant mental health symptoms, and create a new framework for boundaries and relationships in the future. For some, support groups can also be an invaluable outlet for healing.

When should an individual seek help for domestic abuse?

Victims of intimate partner violence should seek help immediately. It can take substantial time, planning, energy, and courage to leave an abusive relationship, but starting the process—by seeking therapy, calling the domestic violence hotline, or simply confiding in a loved one—will help them get there. Those who have left abusive relationships but haven’t sought treatment can also greatly benefit from therapy to process and heal from the experience.

What are the consequences of staying in an abusive relationship?

Remaining in an abusive relationship has serious repercussions. In addition to the ongoing threat of physical danger and emotional abuse, research shows that intimate partner violence is associated with a range of mental health disorders including depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and substance abuse. Therefore it’s important for individuals in an abusive relationship to seek help as soon as possible.

How can you get domestic abuse treatment for someone else?

It can be very complicated to identify and leave an abusive relationship; barriers include the threat of violence, financial instability, and family pressures. Those concerned about a loved one in an abusive relationship should talk to them about the situation, provide them with resources such as the domestic violence hotline, and introduce the idea of seeing a therapist due to their concern for the person’s safety and well-being.