Domestic Abuse Therapists in Palos Park, IL

Photo of Casey McEllen, MS, LCPC
Casey McEllen
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Palos Park, IL 60464  (Online Only)
Do you find yourself struggling with memories of past events, anxiety, feelings of worthlessness, or difficulty connecting to others? Trauma leaves a profound and lasting impact, and healing requires: compassion, understanding, and support. I believe that people don’t develop habits or ways of viewing the world that didn’t, at least at some point, serve and/or protect them. Oftentimes, what once was previously beneficial becomes the reason someone seeks services, because it’s no longer helpful or needed. I want to support you to feel empowered, befriend your emotions, trust yourself, and take back control of your life.
Do you find yourself struggling with memories of past events, anxiety, feelings of worthlessness, or difficulty connecting to others? Trauma leaves a profound and lasting impact, and healing requires: compassion, understanding, and support. I believe that people don’t develop habits or ways of viewing the world that didn’t, at least at some point, serve and/or protect them. Oftentimes, what once was previously beneficial becomes the reason someone seeks services, because it’s no longer helpful or needed. I want to support you to feel empowered, befriend your emotions, trust yourself, and take back control of your life.
(708) 834-6425 View (708) 834-6425
Photo of Ghada Sharabatee, Ghada Sharabatee, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ghada Sharabatee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Ghada Sharabatee, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palos Park, IL 60464
I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps to towards change. I am here to support and empower you in that journey.
I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps to towards change. I am here to support and empower you in that journey.
(708) 726-5469 View (708) 726-5469
Photo of Drea Richards, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Drea Richards
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Palos Park, IL 60464
My approach to providing therapy is collaborative and based on the client's existing strengths. I believe in the client's inherent ability to find his/her own solutions to life's challenges, and see my role as a guide in helping to unearth those solutions. I have a warm and open demeanor, which helps to put clients at ease. My style in practicing therapy is active and vocal. With compassion and respect, I will always offer my perspective on any given problem a client may face.
My approach to providing therapy is collaborative and based on the client's existing strengths. I believe in the client's inherent ability to find his/her own solutions to life's challenges, and see my role as a guide in helping to unearth those solutions. I have a warm and open demeanor, which helps to put clients at ease. My style in practicing therapy is active and vocal. With compassion and respect, I will always offer my perspective on any given problem a client may face.
(708) 586-9545 View (708) 586-9545
Photo of Anastasia 'annie' Zubek, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anastasia 'annie' Zubek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Palos Park, IL 60464
Annie Zubek is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2022. She has a B.A. in Psychology from Governors State University and an M.S.W. from UIC. Annie helps her clients achieve growth and wellness using a flexible, holistic approach in order to meet them where they are. She considers her style to be warm, inviting, and relaxed in order to create a safe environment for her clients without fear of judgement. Annie believes clients to be the experts of their own lives and that they should never have to face their challenges alone. In her free time, Annie likes to spend time with her family and friends.
Annie Zubek is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2022. She has a B.A. in Psychology from Governors State University and an M.S.W. from UIC. Annie helps her clients achieve growth and wellness using a flexible, holistic approach in order to meet them where they are. She considers her style to be warm, inviting, and relaxed in order to create a safe environment for her clients without fear of judgement. Annie believes clients to be the experts of their own lives and that they should never have to face their challenges alone. In her free time, Annie likes to spend time with her family and friends.
(708) 734-4159 View (708) 734-4159

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jenna McGill, MA , Pre-Licensed Professional
Jenna McGill
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Orland Park, IL 60462  (Online Only)
My name is Jenna, I am a clinical mental health counselor and certified Pilates instructor. I am passionate about supporting individuals on their journey towards holistic well-being and personal growth. I provide compassionate and evidence-based therapy to help clients navigate through life's challenges. The experience I have developed since my time working with clients has been depression, anxiety, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, personality disorders, neurodivergence, play therapy, couples counseling, family issues, self-esteem, and abuse.
My name is Jenna, I am a clinical mental health counselor and certified Pilates instructor. I am passionate about supporting individuals on their journey towards holistic well-being and personal growth. I provide compassionate and evidence-based therapy to help clients navigate through life's challenges. The experience I have developed since my time working with clients has been depression, anxiety, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, personality disorders, neurodivergence, play therapy, couples counseling, family issues, self-esteem, and abuse.
(708) 809-3779 View (708) 809-3779
Photo of Kimberly Briney - Mental Edge Counseling LLC, PsyD, RDDP, Psychologist
Mental Edge Counseling LLC
Psychologist, PsyD, RDDP
Verified Verified
Orland Park, IL 60462
Kimberly specializes in numerous mental health issues, including: Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, PTSD, Anger Issues, Relationship issues, and Personality and Behavior Disorders. Over the years, Kimberly has gained expertise with several specialty areas and populations in mental health, including co-occurring disorders, trauma-informed/ gender-responsive treatment, and has significant experience working with diverse populations. Kimberly also has expertise working with clients with substance abuse struggles and is a Registered Dual Disorder Professional (RDDP).
Kimberly specializes in numerous mental health issues, including: Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, PTSD, Anger Issues, Relationship issues, and Personality and Behavior Disorders. Over the years, Kimberly has gained expertise with several specialty areas and populations in mental health, including co-occurring disorders, trauma-informed/ gender-responsive treatment, and has significant experience working with diverse populations. Kimberly also has expertise working with clients with substance abuse struggles and is a Registered Dual Disorder Professional (RDDP).
(708) 742-7166 View (708) 742-7166
Photo of Deborah Mary Lynch - BELA Recovery, PhD, CAADC, LAC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
BELA Recovery
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, PhD, CAADC, LAC
Verified Verified
Orland Park, IL 60462
I am a certified addiction counselor, licensed educator, licensed addiction counselor (LAC) in Colorado, and the Director of BELA Recovery, a nonprofit, Illinois-state-licensed addiction treatment Center. We specialize in adolescent and adult substance use prevention, early intervention and outpatient treatment services. We also provide DUI classes and counseling, domestic violence, anger management, and more. We also do community outreach and presentations for schools, community organizations and professional organizations on topics such as supporting students struggling with substance use, trauma, anxiety/depression and ADHD.
I am a certified addiction counselor, licensed educator, licensed addiction counselor (LAC) in Colorado, and the Director of BELA Recovery, a nonprofit, Illinois-state-licensed addiction treatment Center. We specialize in adolescent and adult substance use prevention, early intervention and outpatient treatment services. We also provide DUI classes and counseling, domestic violence, anger management, and more. We also do community outreach and presentations for schools, community organizations and professional organizations on topics such as supporting students struggling with substance use, trauma, anxiety/depression and ADHD.
(708) 794-6867 View (708) 794-6867
Photo of Dr. Lenore Tinics, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dr. Lenore Tinics
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Palos Heights, IL 60463
I have worked with individuals and groups including parole, probation, and substance abuse clients.
Everyday we are presented with challenges. It is your choice as to how you will manage them. As a mental health provider, I can help you create a strategy and path that will allow you to take control and manage your life so that you feel more satisfied and happier. Together we will work toward realistic goals that are set by you and I will work with you at a pace that is comfortable for you. Because everyone is different, I offer evidence-based psychotherapy that is customized to you and your needs. I have experience working with diverse clients in a variety of ages children through the senior community.
I have worked with individuals and groups including parole, probation, and substance abuse clients.
Everyday we are presented with challenges. It is your choice as to how you will manage them. As a mental health provider, I can help you create a strategy and path that will allow you to take control and manage your life so that you feel more satisfied and happier. Together we will work toward realistic goals that are set by you and I will work with you at a pace that is comfortable for you. Because everyone is different, I offer evidence-based psychotherapy that is customized to you and your needs. I have experience working with diverse clients in a variety of ages children through the senior community.
(331) 297-0897 View (331) 297-0897
Photo of Rashid A. Raja, PsyD, BCPC, HSPP, Psychologist
Rashid A. Raja
Psychologist, PsyD, BCPC, HSPP
Verified Verified
Orland Park, IL 60462
The above mentioned psychological problems often originate, in part, from factors such as lack of knowledge, deficient communication and social skills, distorted thought patterns, maladaptive personality styles, low self-esteem, resentments associated with childhood abuse, emotional neglect, and partner abuse, or a devastating loss of any kind.
THE SKYPE TREATMENT IS OFFERED AT EXTREMELY LOW FEE Emotional stress resulting from our own erroneous beliefs, problematic relationships, and stressful life circumstances can compromise our mental health. I firmly believe that my pragmatic therapeutic style and clinically proven treatment approaches can be highly instrumental in helping you learn effective ways to resolve your emotional pain, and develop practical skills and effective coping styles to ultimately take charge of your own mental health. The central focus of my practice is the treatment of Relationship Issues including Marital/Couples' Issues and Parent-Child Conflicts, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, and Anger Control Problems.
The above mentioned psychological problems often originate, in part, from factors such as lack of knowledge, deficient communication and social skills, distorted thought patterns, maladaptive personality styles, low self-esteem, resentments associated with childhood abuse, emotional neglect, and partner abuse, or a devastating loss of any kind.
THE SKYPE TREATMENT IS OFFERED AT EXTREMELY LOW FEE Emotional stress resulting from our own erroneous beliefs, problematic relationships, and stressful life circumstances can compromise our mental health. I firmly believe that my pragmatic therapeutic style and clinically proven treatment approaches can be highly instrumental in helping you learn effective ways to resolve your emotional pain, and develop practical skills and effective coping styles to ultimately take charge of your own mental health. The central focus of my practice is the treatment of Relationship Issues including Marital/Couples' Issues and Parent-Child Conflicts, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, and Anger Control Problems.
(708) 942-8959 View (708) 942-8959
Photo of Allison Joy Stephens - Peace Through Hope Therapy, LCPC
Peace Through Hope Therapy
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Orland Park, IL 60462  (Online Only)
I have successfully worked with many different populations, including adults with substance abuse issues, individuals with developmental disabilities, children and adolescents with behavioral problems and women with a history of domestic violence.
If you can change your thoughts, you can change your world. I believe that our day-to-day thoughts directly dictate our emotions and ultimately our decisions and actions. Whether it is childhood trauma, adult anxiety or postpartum depression, we can take captive every self-defeating thought and turn that negative narrative into a powerful and hopeful future. Regaining control over our thoughts and actions can provide such lasting peace and happiness. My focus is to thoroughly get to know my patients, by listening to and trying my best to understand their unique experiences, while working collaboratively toward agreed upon goals.
I have successfully worked with many different populations, including adults with substance abuse issues, individuals with developmental disabilities, children and adolescents with behavioral problems and women with a history of domestic violence.
If you can change your thoughts, you can change your world. I believe that our day-to-day thoughts directly dictate our emotions and ultimately our decisions and actions. Whether it is childhood trauma, adult anxiety or postpartum depression, we can take captive every self-defeating thought and turn that negative narrative into a powerful and hopeful future. Regaining control over our thoughts and actions can provide such lasting peace and happiness. My focus is to thoroughly get to know my patients, by listening to and trying my best to understand their unique experiences, while working collaboratively toward agreed upon goals.
(872) 266-1392 View (872) 266-1392
Photo of Sheila Harris-Fitzpatrick, MA, LCPC, NCC, DCC, PhD
Sheila Harris-Fitzpatrick
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC, DCC, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Palos Heights, IL 60463
I have experience with children and adults dealing with mental health disorders, substance abuse, parenting issues.
ONLINE COUNSELING AVAILABLE! Get counseling without going out. I specialized in remote online counseling. I have immediate openings for daytime, evening, and weekend appointments. My passion is working with individuals relating to grief and other life transitions; which include, employment exit strategies, career decisions while identifying gifts and talents, finding your life calling and coaching through life altering events. I am a excellent couples counselor and whether you are preparing for marriage or married, I can help you become better communicators and partners for life.
I have experience with children and adults dealing with mental health disorders, substance abuse, parenting issues.
ONLINE COUNSELING AVAILABLE! Get counseling without going out. I specialized in remote online counseling. I have immediate openings for daytime, evening, and weekend appointments. My passion is working with individuals relating to grief and other life transitions; which include, employment exit strategies, career decisions while identifying gifts and talents, finding your life calling and coaching through life altering events. I am a excellent couples counselor and whether you are preparing for marriage or married, I can help you become better communicators and partners for life.
(630) 491-4239 View (630) 491-4239
Photo of Jamie Simmert, MS, LSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jamie Simmert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Orland Park, IL 60462
I specialize in anxiety/depression, relationship issues, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, eating disorders, PTSD/trauma (EMDR), and improving communication and self-esteem.
We’ve all experienced times when we just feel stuck, going through the motions of life rather than actually living our best lives. Anxiety, depression, addiction, low self-esteem, past trauma or many other issues can impact your ability to live a full and happy life and have healthy family and other relationships. Therapy is a powerful medium that can provide many tools and strategies to help you navigate all of these challenges and many more. I enjoy working with child/adolescent, adult, and geriatric populations using a variety of therapeutic techniques including CBT, DBT, 12-Step, Trauma-Informed, and Family Systems Therapy.
I specialize in anxiety/depression, relationship issues, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, eating disorders, PTSD/trauma (EMDR), and improving communication and self-esteem.
We’ve all experienced times when we just feel stuck, going through the motions of life rather than actually living our best lives. Anxiety, depression, addiction, low self-esteem, past trauma or many other issues can impact your ability to live a full and happy life and have healthy family and other relationships. Therapy is a powerful medium that can provide many tools and strategies to help you navigate all of these challenges and many more. I enjoy working with child/adolescent, adult, and geriatric populations using a variety of therapeutic techniques including CBT, DBT, 12-Step, Trauma-Informed, and Family Systems Therapy.
(708) 315-2734 View (708) 315-2734
Photo of Ashley Hartman, MSW, LCSW, PMHC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Hartman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orland Park, IL 60462
Specialty interests: maternal wounds, narcissistic abuse, attachment trauma, and motherhood/postpartum.
My practice specializes in providing individual therapy to women of all ages who are struggling with attachment trauma, anxiety, divorce, motherhood, and relationship conflict. My specializations include attachment focused EMDR, perinatal mental health, insecure attachment, anxiety, and trauma. I offer attachment informed psychotherapy which is based off the principle that early relationships with caregivers profoundly influence our ability to trust and feel safe with others. This can show up most commonly in our adult relationships.
Specialty interests: maternal wounds, narcissistic abuse, attachment trauma, and motherhood/postpartum.
My practice specializes in providing individual therapy to women of all ages who are struggling with attachment trauma, anxiety, divorce, motherhood, and relationship conflict. My specializations include attachment focused EMDR, perinatal mental health, insecure attachment, anxiety, and trauma. I offer attachment informed psychotherapy which is based off the principle that early relationships with caregivers profoundly influence our ability to trust and feel safe with others. This can show up most commonly in our adult relationships.
(630) 283-8152 View (630) 283-8152
Photo of Rosario Villanueva-Khan, LCPC, ICDVP, CADC, EMDR, Counselor
Rosario Villanueva-Khan
Counselor, LCPC, ICDVP, CADC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Orland Park, IL 60462
As a clinical therapist I am passionate about my profession and care for my clients. I strive toward their empowerment and personalize the therapeutic interventions best suited for their life needs and therapeutic goals. I use an eclectic mix of Cognitive Behavioral, Reality Therapy and EMDR techniques to best meet the needs of my clients. I am a Licensed Certified Professional Counselor (LCPC), Certified Alcohol & Other Drug Abuse Counselor (CADC) and Certified Domestic Violence Professional (CDVP) with nine 9 years of extensive experience in Trauma, Domestic Violence, Mood Disorders and Alcohol and Drugs.
As a clinical therapist I am passionate about my profession and care for my clients. I strive toward their empowerment and personalize the therapeutic interventions best suited for their life needs and therapeutic goals. I use an eclectic mix of Cognitive Behavioral, Reality Therapy and EMDR techniques to best meet the needs of my clients. I am a Licensed Certified Professional Counselor (LCPC), Certified Alcohol & Other Drug Abuse Counselor (CADC) and Certified Domestic Violence Professional (CDVP) with nine 9 years of extensive experience in Trauma, Domestic Violence, Mood Disorders and Alcohol and Drugs.
(779) 205-0237 View (779) 205-0237
Photo of V Manger, MA, LCPC, CAADC, CODP, ICCS
V Manger
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, CAADC, CODP, ICCS
Verified Verified
Orland Park, IL 60462  (Online Only)
Believing that we...ourselves are responsible for our own lives...No matter what comes our way...We have a choice as to how we will respond to the situation that will be in our own best interests...at all times. Working together as a team, you will be assisted in choosing the best 'interest' for you, and how you can work toward achieving this goal. Being mindful that you have the power within to choose, work toward and achieve any goal you create and accomplish. "Have the courage to be imperfect!" ~~~ Alfred Adler
Believing that we...ourselves are responsible for our own lives...No matter what comes our way...We have a choice as to how we will respond to the situation that will be in our own best interests...at all times. Working together as a team, you will be assisted in choosing the best 'interest' for you, and how you can work toward achieving this goal. Being mindful that you have the power within to choose, work toward and achieve any goal you create and accomplish. "Have the courage to be imperfect!" ~~~ Alfred Adler
(708) 279-4369 View (708) 279-4369
Photo of Shannon M Mannix - Shannon Mannix Services Inc, MSW, LCSW, type 73, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shannon Mannix Services Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, type 73
Verified Verified
Orland Park, IL 60462
Ms. Mannix's clinical practice focuses on providing cognitive behavioral therapy to children, adolescents & adults. Ms. Mannix also provides family therapy to clients of all ages. She has worked extensively with children, adolescents and adults who have Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Behavioral Problems & ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Autism, Divorce, Grief and loss, family conflicts, learning difficulties, school concerns. Ms. Mannix focuses on post traumatic stress, relational/behavioral problems in children, school difficulties, adolescences and adults as well. Ms. Mannix is also a strong advocate for persons with disabilities.
Ms. Mannix's clinical practice focuses on providing cognitive behavioral therapy to children, adolescents & adults. Ms. Mannix also provides family therapy to clients of all ages. She has worked extensively with children, adolescents and adults who have Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Behavioral Problems & ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Autism, Divorce, Grief and loss, family conflicts, learning difficulties, school concerns. Ms. Mannix focuses on post traumatic stress, relational/behavioral problems in children, school difficulties, adolescences and adults as well. Ms. Mannix is also a strong advocate for persons with disabilities.
(708) 315-6302 View (708) 315-6302
Photo of Diana M. Voith, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Diana M. Voith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Orland Park, IL 60462
As a holistic therapist, I am able to provide alternative practices for clients to explore their belief systems, patterns of behaviors, interpersonal relationships, conflicts, and traumatic life events. I have a Masters degree in Clinical Psychology, I am a native Spanish speaking therapist with a multicultural background, and a certified Sound Healer. I am passionate to incorporate a diverse number of western therapeutic techniques and Eastern modalities creating healing vibrations tuned at strategic frequencies for healing purposes.
As a holistic therapist, I am able to provide alternative practices for clients to explore their belief systems, patterns of behaviors, interpersonal relationships, conflicts, and traumatic life events. I have a Masters degree in Clinical Psychology, I am a native Spanish speaking therapist with a multicultural background, and a certified Sound Healer. I am passionate to incorporate a diverse number of western therapeutic techniques and Eastern modalities creating healing vibrations tuned at strategic frequencies for healing purposes.
(708) 541-1814 View (708) 541-1814
Photo of Melissa Baranowski, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melissa Baranowski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orland Park, IL 60462
Do you sometimes feel like you’re disconnected, or feel like you don’t belong? Are you finding yourself overwhelmed by feelings of anxiety? Or perhaps relationship struggles or past traumas are not allowing you to live the life you want. You are not alone. Therapy is a powerful medium that can provide many tools and strategies to help you navigate all of these challenges and more. I pride myself on being open and accepting of everyone and have been fortunate to work with clients from all walks of life.
Do you sometimes feel like you’re disconnected, or feel like you don’t belong? Are you finding yourself overwhelmed by feelings of anxiety? Or perhaps relationship struggles or past traumas are not allowing you to live the life you want. You are not alone. Therapy is a powerful medium that can provide many tools and strategies to help you navigate all of these challenges and more. I pride myself on being open and accepting of everyone and have been fortunate to work with clients from all walks of life.
(708) 419-3644 View (708) 419-3644
Photo of Dezaray Leslie, MSW, LSW
Dezaray Leslie
MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orland Park, IL 60462  (Online Only)
Are you looking to strengthen your relationships and improve family dynamics? I'm a therapist dedicated to helping families and couples thrive through compassionate and holistic therapy. I provide a supportive environment where healing and growth can flourish. I believe in addressing the symptoms and underlying dynamics that affect relationships. Whether you're facing communication challenges, navigating life transitions, or seeking to strengthen bonds, I will work with you to promote healing, growth, and stronger connections.
Are you looking to strengthen your relationships and improve family dynamics? I'm a therapist dedicated to helping families and couples thrive through compassionate and holistic therapy. I provide a supportive environment where healing and growth can flourish. I believe in addressing the symptoms and underlying dynamics that affect relationships. Whether you're facing communication challenges, navigating life transitions, or seeking to strengthen bonds, I will work with you to promote healing, growth, and stronger connections.
(708) 694-9772 View (708) 694-9772
Photo of Tracey Kim Snow, PhD, LCPC, LFT, RMT, CFT, Counselor
Tracey Kim Snow
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, LFT, RMT, CFT
Verified Verified
Orland Park, IL 60462
Counseling is my calling. I feel honored to play a role in assisting people to overcome obstacles and to become the person that they always felt was possible. I am hear to guide people on their journey of self discovery while also providing the skills and tools necessary to overcome what ever challenges life has brought their way. I truly love what I do and provide caring acceptance and support to my clients. I am proud to say that my biggest referral base is former clients and I could not ask for a biggest compliment. Looking forward to helping you.
Counseling is my calling. I feel honored to play a role in assisting people to overcome obstacles and to become the person that they always felt was possible. I am hear to guide people on their journey of self discovery while also providing the skills and tools necessary to overcome what ever challenges life has brought their way. I truly love what I do and provide caring acceptance and support to my clients. I am proud to say that my biggest referral base is former clients and I could not ask for a biggest compliment. Looking forward to helping you.
(708) 265-3858 View (708) 265-3858

See more therapy options for Palos Park

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.