Domestic Abuse Therapists in Palmetto, FL

Photo of Melissa Klemkosky, MSW, MCAP, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Klemkosky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MCAP, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palmetto, FL 34221  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with a wide range of individuals and problems, including substance abuse, depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, difficulty with life transitions, stress management, and grief.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, feeling controlled by your past, immobilized by anxiety or depression, or feeling like addiction is taking over your life? You are not alone. My goal is to help people overcome some of the barriers they are facing. I strive to assist people in becoming the best versions of themselves. I believe we all have the answers on how we can live our best life and therapy is a way for us to tap into those answers. I take a collaborative approach with your treatment, as you are the expert on your life.
I have extensive experience working with a wide range of individuals and problems, including substance abuse, depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, difficulty with life transitions, stress management, and grief.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, feeling controlled by your past, immobilized by anxiety or depression, or feeling like addiction is taking over your life? You are not alone. My goal is to help people overcome some of the barriers they are facing. I strive to assist people in becoming the best versions of themselves. I believe we all have the answers on how we can live our best life and therapy is a way for us to tap into those answers. I take a collaborative approach with your treatment, as you are the expert on your life.
(941) 213-5367 View (941) 213-5367
Photo of Maria Ewing - Betterment Mental Health Counseling, Inc, LMHC, EMDR, CPP, Counselor
Betterment Mental Health Counseling, Inc
Counselor, LMHC, EMDR, CPP
Verified Verified
Palmetto, FL 34221
The goal of Betterment Mental Health Counseling, Inc will be to provide personalized and effective mental health counseling to those who are experiencing poor mental health, suffer from mental illness and/or negative lifestyle choices. We offer individual counseling, in person and virtually (via Zoom). We will be seeing clients by appointment only with evening and Saturday appointments available.
The goal of Betterment Mental Health Counseling, Inc will be to provide personalized and effective mental health counseling to those who are experiencing poor mental health, suffer from mental illness and/or negative lifestyle choices. We offer individual counseling, in person and virtually (via Zoom). We will be seeing clients by appointment only with evening and Saturday appointments available.
(941) 335-9536 View (941) 335-9536
Photo of Jane Pavich - Bradenton Counseling Center, MSW, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bradenton Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Palmetto, FL 34221
Do you have a knot in your stomach from anxiety or struggle to live with depression? Is your marriage filled with arguing or experiencing infidelity? Have the demands of caregiving become overwhelming? Is your teenager dealing with anxiety, depression or stress about friends or school? Counseling can provide encouragement and direction to successfully help in all of these areas. Beginning therapy may be easier than you think. Information on our web site www.bradentoncounseling.com will show you how to get started quickly on relieving the tension in your life and bringing back the contentment and joy.
Do you have a knot in your stomach from anxiety or struggle to live with depression? Is your marriage filled with arguing or experiencing infidelity? Have the demands of caregiving become overwhelming? Is your teenager dealing with anxiety, depression or stress about friends or school? Counseling can provide encouragement and direction to successfully help in all of these areas. Beginning therapy may be easier than you think. Information on our web site www.bradentoncounseling.com will show you how to get started quickly on relieving the tension in your life and bringing back the contentment and joy.
(941) 214-4862 View (941) 214-4862
Photo of James Dale Thompson - Dale Thompson, LMHC, LMHC, Counselor
Dale Thompson, LMHC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Palmetto, FL 34220
Are you struggling with Depression, Anxiety, Stress or Addictions? Are you in the middle of a Crisis? If so I am here to help. I regularly treat CEO's, Professionals, Executives, Elite Athletes, Pastors and other Therapists in addressing issues that they face. I am Identified as a Licensure Supervisor and have trained thousands of therapists for professional development since 1993. I specialize in treating Couples, Men, Male Teens and Women that prefer a male therapist and I have 30 years of experience as a professional counselor.
Are you struggling with Depression, Anxiety, Stress or Addictions? Are you in the middle of a Crisis? If so I am here to help. I regularly treat CEO's, Professionals, Executives, Elite Athletes, Pastors and other Therapists in addressing issues that they face. I am Identified as a Licensure Supervisor and have trained thousands of therapists for professional development since 1993. I specialize in treating Couples, Men, Male Teens and Women that prefer a male therapist and I have 30 years of experience as a professional counselor.
(941) 845-6590 View (941) 845-6590
Photo of Lisa Grossman, DOM, AP, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Grossman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DOM, AP, LCSW
Verified Verified
Palmetto, FL 34221
I offer over 28 years of clinical experience to address your emotional & physical issues with counseling and evidence based natural medicine. We have all experienced emotions that manifest in our bodies as pain. You may experience stomach pain after an argument or headache at work. You may notice you get anxiety that feels like low blood sugar signals. Emotions manifest in our bodies and our body gives us signals. I help guide people into understanding how to listen to their body while including Cognitive Behavioral therapy for attaining a stronger sense of self. Mindfulness starts when we reside in our bodies; empowerment follows!
I offer over 28 years of clinical experience to address your emotional & physical issues with counseling and evidence based natural medicine. We have all experienced emotions that manifest in our bodies as pain. You may experience stomach pain after an argument or headache at work. You may notice you get anxiety that feels like low blood sugar signals. Emotions manifest in our bodies and our body gives us signals. I help guide people into understanding how to listen to their body while including Cognitive Behavioral therapy for attaining a stronger sense of self. Mindfulness starts when we reside in our bodies; empowerment follows!
(941) 479-2924 View (941) 479-2924
Photo of Marly Ayala-Icaza, LMHC, Counselor
Marly Ayala-Icaza
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Palmetto, FL 34220
Multicultural and Multilingual Mental Health Counselor with Nursing degree specialized in acute psychiatric patients, crisis intervention, personality disorders and pain management
Multicultural and Multilingual Mental Health Counselor with Nursing degree specialized in acute psychiatric patients, crisis intervention, personality disorders and pain management
(941) 840-5227 View (941) 840-5227
Photo of Cameisha McQueen, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cameisha McQueen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Palmetto, FL 34220  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
While specializing in trauma, I am also well-versed with situations related to domestic violence, substance use disorders, human trafficking, depression, and anxiety.
Feeling stressed, and overwhelmed? Having difficulties facing yourself or your past? Honestly, you are not alone. There are many people who struggle with facing obstacles, traumas, and everyday life situations who desire to be happy and mentally and emotionally healthy. It is my heartfelt mission to help individuals and families to learn how to develop better coping strategies, face and overcome trauma, and develop healthy techniques that will follow them throughout their entire life journey.
While specializing in trauma, I am also well-versed with situations related to domestic violence, substance use disorders, human trafficking, depression, and anxiety.
Feeling stressed, and overwhelmed? Having difficulties facing yourself or your past? Honestly, you are not alone. There are many people who struggle with facing obstacles, traumas, and everyday life situations who desire to be happy and mentally and emotionally healthy. It is my heartfelt mission to help individuals and families to learn how to develop better coping strategies, face and overcome trauma, and develop healthy techniques that will follow them throughout their entire life journey.
(727) 250-5379 View (727) 250-5379

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jennifer R Millar - Begin Healing Within, LLC, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Begin Healing Within, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bradenton, FL 34209  (Online Only)
My specialty lies in helping individuals heal from narcissistic abuse, trauma, and relationship conflicts.
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, uncertain about your life? Struggling in your relationships or the aftermath of a traumatic event? You don’t have to face this alone. I specialize in helping those ready to embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery & healing. If you’re prepared to unlock your full potential & overcome barriers, I'm here to support you. My approach is empathetic & compassionate. I provide a safe space to explore the roots of your issues together. We will gain insights that empower you to understand yourself and others on a more conscious level. Let's work to help you achieve the fulfilling life you deserve!
My specialty lies in helping individuals heal from narcissistic abuse, trauma, and relationship conflicts.
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, uncertain about your life? Struggling in your relationships or the aftermath of a traumatic event? You don’t have to face this alone. I specialize in helping those ready to embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery & healing. If you’re prepared to unlock your full potential & overcome barriers, I'm here to support you. My approach is empathetic & compassionate. I provide a safe space to explore the roots of your issues together. We will gain insights that empower you to understand yourself and others on a more conscious level. Let's work to help you achieve the fulfilling life you deserve!
(941) 214-2832 View (941) 214-2832
Photo of Justin M. Lampert, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Justin M. Lampert
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34243
I have experience working with patients who suffer from various conditions, including depression, anxiety, LGBTQ issues, substance addiction, alcohol abuse, trauma, personality disorders, grief and loss, specific phobias, impulsive behaviors, Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorders, eating disorders, and "cutting.
I strive to build an authentic connection with my patients and do so by taking a "human-first" approach in my interactions. I am engaged and active in therapy, easily-accessible to answer questions and encourage communication outside of sessions via e-mail. My goal is to take the knowledge I have as a doctor and apply it in a meaningful and friendly manner; this is accomplished through a comprehensive care model, with ongoing research, communication, and individually-tailored interventions.
I have experience working with patients who suffer from various conditions, including depression, anxiety, LGBTQ issues, substance addiction, alcohol abuse, trauma, personality disorders, grief and loss, specific phobias, impulsive behaviors, Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorders, eating disorders, and "cutting.
I strive to build an authentic connection with my patients and do so by taking a "human-first" approach in my interactions. I am engaged and active in therapy, easily-accessible to answer questions and encourage communication outside of sessions via e-mail. My goal is to take the knowledge I have as a doctor and apply it in a meaningful and friendly manner; this is accomplished through a comprehensive care model, with ongoing research, communication, and individually-tailored interventions.
(941) 263-2976 View (941) 263-2976
Photo of Katherine Ann Best, PhD, LCSW, MPH, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katherine Ann Best
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, MPH, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202  (Online Only)
She is available for presentations, in the areas of: Suicide, Cooperative and Amicable Divorces, Bullying and Violence, Resilience, Domestic Violence and Child Abuse, Complex Trauma and PTSD.
Dr. Katherine Best is dedicated to your wellbeing by providing a quick response and flexible hours of care. Building upon strengths, she uses a positive, non-judgmental approach to encourage growth and change. Dr. Best offers: psychotherapy, marriage and family therapy, trauma resolution, pre and post divorce counseling, family mediation for conflict resolution, clinical hypnosis, EMDR, archetypal pattern dream analysis, and life coaching. In addition, Dr. Katherine Best offers treatment for stress, anxiety, procrastination, depression, cumulative exposures to trauma, priest and clergy abuse, chronic pain, and insomnia.
She is available for presentations, in the areas of: Suicide, Cooperative and Amicable Divorces, Bullying and Violence, Resilience, Domestic Violence and Child Abuse, Complex Trauma and PTSD.
Dr. Katherine Best is dedicated to your wellbeing by providing a quick response and flexible hours of care. Building upon strengths, she uses a positive, non-judgmental approach to encourage growth and change. Dr. Best offers: psychotherapy, marriage and family therapy, trauma resolution, pre and post divorce counseling, family mediation for conflict resolution, clinical hypnosis, EMDR, archetypal pattern dream analysis, and life coaching. In addition, Dr. Katherine Best offers treatment for stress, anxiety, procrastination, depression, cumulative exposures to trauma, priest and clergy abuse, chronic pain, and insomnia.
(941) 487-0956 View (941) 487-0956
Photo of Sabra Maurice - Serenity Psychotherapy LLC, LMHC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Serenity Psychotherapy LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bradenton, FL 34203  (Online Only)
Getting to the root of your pain, learning to deal with it, building upon your strengths then learning to act versus react to people and events is the goal of our approach. We have a long history of working with diverse populations, who have developed varied problems: Mental Health, Substance Abuse, Marital, Parenting, Occupational, grief and more Our approach is to work with your strengths; help you to develop new views and skills and then organize them into a plan that works in obtaining your goals. As a psychotherapy group practice, we can see just about anyone no matter what you're dealing with.
Getting to the root of your pain, learning to deal with it, building upon your strengths then learning to act versus react to people and events is the goal of our approach. We have a long history of working with diverse populations, who have developed varied problems: Mental Health, Substance Abuse, Marital, Parenting, Occupational, grief and more Our approach is to work with your strengths; help you to develop new views and skills and then organize them into a plan that works in obtaining your goals. As a psychotherapy group practice, we can see just about anyone no matter what you're dealing with.
(352) 703-0313 View (352) 703-0313
Photo of Sarah Markin, MSW, RCSWI, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sarah Markin
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, RCSWI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bradenton, FL 34203  (Online Only)
I am a Registered Clinical Social Work Intern in the State of Florida. I hold a Bachelor‘s Degree in Psychology from the University of Florida, as well as a Master’s Degree in Social Work and a Master’s Degree in Criminology from Florida State University. During my career, I have spent time working with children, families, and adults with varying backgrounds. Some of these have included women and families experiencing domestic violence, families involved with the child protective system. I am comfortable working with adults, teenagers, preteens, and families. Contact me at Suncoast Psychotherapy and Associates by email or phone.
I am a Registered Clinical Social Work Intern in the State of Florida. I hold a Bachelor‘s Degree in Psychology from the University of Florida, as well as a Master’s Degree in Social Work and a Master’s Degree in Criminology from Florida State University. During my career, I have spent time working with children, families, and adults with varying backgrounds. Some of these have included women and families experiencing domestic violence, families involved with the child protective system. I am comfortable working with adults, teenagers, preteens, and families. Contact me at Suncoast Psychotherapy and Associates by email or phone.
(941) 265-2626 View (941) 265-2626
Photo of Marcia Netherland, MA, LMHC, CTF-CBT, Counselor
Marcia Netherland
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CTF-CBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bradenton, FL 34205
I have more than 15 years of experience working with children and adolescents with a wide range of mental health concerns, such as ADHD, trauma, abuse, adoption/foster care, depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, and Autism, just to name a few. I use techniques such as play therapy, art therapy, and traditional talk therapy with my clients, based on their age and preferences.
I have more than 15 years of experience working with children and adolescents with a wide range of mental health concerns, such as ADHD, trauma, abuse, adoption/foster care, depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, and Autism, just to name a few. I use techniques such as play therapy, art therapy, and traditional talk therapy with my clients, based on their age and preferences.
(941) 231-5682 x315 View (941) 231-5682 x315
Photo of Michael Gaskin, MS(MFT), CPRS-V, Pre-Licensed Professional
Michael Gaskin
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS(MFT), CPRS-V
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bradenton, FL 34206
Waitlist for new clients
I am humbly honored to provide a safe space to communicate and unpack life's complications. I offer compassionate, non-shaming, unbiased, and non-judgmental therapeutic experiences. I'm a retired military veteran who loves to work with adolescents, young adults, senior citizens, other veterans, and their families in various capacities. It is my honor to assist those affected by life, family trauma, military service, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, mental health issues, personality concerns, emotional dysregulations, grief, and substance abuse.
I am humbly honored to provide a safe space to communicate and unpack life's complications. I offer compassionate, non-shaming, unbiased, and non-judgmental therapeutic experiences. I'm a retired military veteran who loves to work with adolescents, young adults, senior citizens, other veterans, and their families in various capacities. It is my honor to assist those affected by life, family trauma, military service, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, mental health issues, personality concerns, emotional dysregulations, grief, and substance abuse.
(941) 368-3443 View (941) 368-3443
Photo of Michael W. Hamilton, PsyD, LMHC, CCDVC, Counselor
Michael W. Hamilton
Counselor, PsyD, LMHC, CCDVC
Verified Verified
Bradenton, FL 34209
Diplomat of the Board - Clinical Forensic Counselors, Forensic evaluations: (ie) * Pretrial, * Competence *Divorce, Child Custody, Visitation and Relocation *Criminal law, mitigation reports and psychosocial/mental health assessments *Immigration extreme/exceptional hardship *Spousal Abuse *Sexual Abuse *Battered Woman's Syndrome *Parenting Alienation Syndrome *Social Security Disability Cases *Domestic Violence/Anger Management.
If your serious about making healthy changes in your life and if what you have been doing is not working, try something new. I am passionate about opening your mind to a healthier view by instructing you on how to rid yourself of stubborn thinking. Awaken your mind and transform your uncertainty into clear and meaningful direction. Most clients will immediately recognize a change in their thinking and find emotional relief after their first visit. Allow me to lead you to the healthy change you desire.
Diplomat of the Board - Clinical Forensic Counselors, Forensic evaluations: (ie) * Pretrial, * Competence *Divorce, Child Custody, Visitation and Relocation *Criminal law, mitigation reports and psychosocial/mental health assessments *Immigration extreme/exceptional hardship *Spousal Abuse *Sexual Abuse *Battered Woman's Syndrome *Parenting Alienation Syndrome *Social Security Disability Cases *Domestic Violence/Anger Management.
If your serious about making healthy changes in your life and if what you have been doing is not working, try something new. I am passionate about opening your mind to a healthier view by instructing you on how to rid yourself of stubborn thinking. Awaken your mind and transform your uncertainty into clear and meaningful direction. Most clients will immediately recognize a change in their thinking and find emotional relief after their first visit. Allow me to lead you to the healthy change you desire.
(941) 909-3412 View (941) 909-3412
Photo of S. Sophie Bierker, MSW
S. Sophie Bierker
MSW
Verified Verified
Bradenton, FL 34210
My mission and joy in life is to help survivors of sexual, physical and emotional abuse heal and have more peaceful and fulfilling lives. I am highly experienced with 18 years as a licensed Clinical Social Worker and many more years as a Life Coach. You will appreciate my compassionate and supportive skills. I experience great joy when my clients go on to having peaceful and fulfilling loves. I so love helping clients be all they can be.
My mission and joy in life is to help survivors of sexual, physical and emotional abuse heal and have more peaceful and fulfilling lives. I am highly experienced with 18 years as a licensed Clinical Social Worker and many more years as a Life Coach. You will appreciate my compassionate and supportive skills. I experience great joy when my clients go on to having peaceful and fulfilling loves. I so love helping clients be all they can be.
(941) 909-2181 View (941) 909-2181
Photo of Linda McGee, MA, MBA, CPLC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Linda McGee
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MBA, CPLC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202
Relationships, careers, and retirement dreams cannot thrive when you are hurting. I work with adults, both individuals and couples, to treat grief, anxiety, depression and difficult life transitions (retirement, divorce, relocation, illness, end-of-life issues), as well as communication and sexual functioning. Some clients are anxious to free themselves from nagging issues of the past, while others struggle to discern the best path for their future. I support couples who want to increase intimacy, and I help couples who have already decided to separate to do so as respectfully as possible.
Relationships, careers, and retirement dreams cannot thrive when you are hurting. I work with adults, both individuals and couples, to treat grief, anxiety, depression and difficult life transitions (retirement, divorce, relocation, illness, end-of-life issues), as well as communication and sexual functioning. Some clients are anxious to free themselves from nagging issues of the past, while others struggle to discern the best path for their future. I support couples who want to increase intimacy, and I help couples who have already decided to separate to do so as respectfully as possible.
(704) 369-9403 View (704) 369-9403
Photo of Jodi Smith, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jodi Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bradenton, FL 34203  (Online Only)
It is difficult and very anxiety provoking to make the initial appointment, although, that is the first step towards success! I want to validate that emotional response, and to bring comfort by providing a faith driven approach enlightened with hope and strength for your personal growth and development. I assist my clients to be empowered by their self-worth, and work collaboratively to reach their ideal goal of success and progress. I provide a supportive, humorous, and safe environment where it's possible to connect on a therapeutic level.
It is difficult and very anxiety provoking to make the initial appointment, although, that is the first step towards success! I want to validate that emotional response, and to bring comfort by providing a faith driven approach enlightened with hope and strength for your personal growth and development. I assist my clients to be empowered by their self-worth, and work collaboratively to reach their ideal goal of success and progress. I provide a supportive, humorous, and safe environment where it's possible to connect on a therapeutic level.
(763) 575-8685 View (763) 575-8685
Photo of Cheryl Peppers, LCSW, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cheryl Peppers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Bradenton, FL 34208
While our outer lives may seem well organized, our inner lives are often plagued with unexpressed conflict and confusion. Those who dare to cultivate self-awareness are often surprised by its healing effects - that the process itself unlocks energy and propels one forward. It is never too late. I look forward to witnessing your transformation and discovering how your unique set of issues and ways of working come to bear in the therapeutic alliance that will be uniquely ours.
While our outer lives may seem well organized, our inner lives are often plagued with unexpressed conflict and confusion. Those who dare to cultivate self-awareness are often surprised by its healing effects - that the process itself unlocks energy and propels one forward. It is never too late. I look forward to witnessing your transformation and discovering how your unique set of issues and ways of working come to bear in the therapeutic alliance that will be uniquely ours.
(941) 932-8691 View (941) 932-8691
Photo of Danielle Green, MA, MDiv, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Danielle Green
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MDiv, PhD
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34236
I provide a safe environment to explore and resolve beliefs, thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that stand in the way of living a fully conscious and authentic life. Specialties include work with anxiety, depression, trauma, divorce, death, attachment ruptures, and ancestral/ inter-generational shame, and PTSD. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I have studied at the Graduate Theological Union - University of California, Berkeley, The Graduate School for Marriage and Family Therapy, Ca.Institute of Integral Studies (San Francisco), and The Jung Institute in Zurich, Switzerland. I hold two Masters degrees and a Ph D in Psychology.
I provide a safe environment to explore and resolve beliefs, thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that stand in the way of living a fully conscious and authentic life. Specialties include work with anxiety, depression, trauma, divorce, death, attachment ruptures, and ancestral/ inter-generational shame, and PTSD. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I have studied at the Graduate Theological Union - University of California, Berkeley, The Graduate School for Marriage and Family Therapy, Ca.Institute of Integral Studies (San Francisco), and The Jung Institute in Zurich, Switzerland. I hold two Masters degrees and a Ph D in Psychology.
(941) 203-3351 View (941) 203-3351

See more therapy options for Palmetto

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.