Domestic Abuse Therapists in Boston, MA

Photo of Holly Howren, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Holly Howren
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02114
My commitment to a person-centered approach leads me to seek clients who seek a therapeutic relationship based on mutual respect, collaboration, and tailored interventions. For individuals who have experienced trauma, whether through interpersonal violence or other traumatic events, my trauma-informed approach can create a safe and supportive space for clients to process and heal from their experiences.
My commitment to a person-centered approach leads me to seek clients who seek a therapeutic relationship based on mutual respect, collaboration, and tailored interventions. For individuals who have experienced trauma, whether through interpersonal violence or other traumatic events, my trauma-informed approach can create a safe and supportive space for clients to process and heal from their experiences.
(617) 405-8930 View (617) 405-8930
Photo of Alexandra J Baltimore, LICSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexandra J Baltimore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02125
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with new, overwhelmed moms experiencing postpartum depression/anxiety and women impacted by coercive control and narcissistic abuse.
I know - there are hundreds of therapists out there, so why me? I believe in being a warm and authentic fellow human being - who happens to do therapy. Forget cold, clinical waiting rooms and blank expressions. I am here to provide you a safe, non-judgmental space where you can truly say what you need to work through your trauma and pain.
I specialize in working with new, overwhelmed moms experiencing postpartum depression/anxiety and women impacted by coercive control and narcissistic abuse.
I know - there are hundreds of therapists out there, so why me? I believe in being a warm and authentic fellow human being - who happens to do therapy. Forget cold, clinical waiting rooms and blank expressions. I am here to provide you a safe, non-judgmental space where you can truly say what you need to work through your trauma and pain.
(781) 630-6089 View (781) 630-6089
Photo of Carlos A Cuevas, PhD, Psychologist
Carlos A Cuevas
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02115
I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced trauma and abuse. I recognize the sensitive nature of these issues and the challenges these individual experience. I aim to provide a supportive environment and use empirically validated techniques to address trauma symptoms. I also work with individuals who need general mental health treatment, including difficulties with depression and anxiety. All services are available in English or Spanish. I also provide forensic services, including assessment and expert witness testimony. I specialize in interpersonal violence and abuse, trauma and PTSD, and sexual abuse.
I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced trauma and abuse. I recognize the sensitive nature of these issues and the challenges these individual experience. I aim to provide a supportive environment and use empirically validated techniques to address trauma symptoms. I also work with individuals who need general mental health treatment, including difficulties with depression and anxiety. All services are available in English or Spanish. I also provide forensic services, including assessment and expert witness testimony. I specialize in interpersonal violence and abuse, trauma and PTSD, and sexual abuse.
(617) 606-9756 View (617) 606-9756
Photo of Jordana Nolan, LMHC, MEd, Counselor
Jordana Nolan
Counselor, LMHC, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116
Intimate partner violence and domestic abuse are very sensitive topics.
I am an LMHC whose aim is to create an empathetic and empowering therapeutic environment for each individual. I tailor treatment to the unique needs and strengths of each person by flexibly integrating techniques from a variety of clinical frameworks including psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral and dialectical behavioral therapy. Through the collaborative work conducted in treatment, I strive to enhance an individual’s insight into his/her struggles, cultivate resolutions that improve quality of life, bolster self-esteem, and establish skills to manage symptoms adaptively.
Intimate partner violence and domestic abuse are very sensitive topics.
I am an LMHC whose aim is to create an empathetic and empowering therapeutic environment for each individual. I tailor treatment to the unique needs and strengths of each person by flexibly integrating techniques from a variety of clinical frameworks including psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral and dialectical behavioral therapy. Through the collaborative work conducted in treatment, I strive to enhance an individual’s insight into his/her struggles, cultivate resolutions that improve quality of life, bolster self-esteem, and establish skills to manage symptoms adaptively.
(617) 675-5339 View (617) 675-5339
Photo of Elana Steinberg, PhD, Psychologist
Elana Steinberg
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02130  (Online Only)
I treat depression, anxiety, PTSD/trauma, substance abuse and dual diagnosis, grief, self esteem and relationship issues.
My aim is to provide a supportive and safe environment for addressing issues, such as managing emotional symptoms, dealing with life stress, or experiencing inner struggles or relationship problems. With an empathetic and engaged approach, my goal is to help you feel better and more fulfilled. I work primarily with adults and adolescents. My approach is eclectic, which means sometimes helping people to make changes in behavior and ways of coping and sometimes helping people to better understand their feelings and resolve past experiences by exploring their personal meanings. Overall, I strive to meet each person's unique needs from therapy.
I treat depression, anxiety, PTSD/trauma, substance abuse and dual diagnosis, grief, self esteem and relationship issues.
My aim is to provide a supportive and safe environment for addressing issues, such as managing emotional symptoms, dealing with life stress, or experiencing inner struggles or relationship problems. With an empathetic and engaged approach, my goal is to help you feel better and more fulfilled. I work primarily with adults and adolescents. My approach is eclectic, which means sometimes helping people to make changes in behavior and ways of coping and sometimes helping people to better understand their feelings and resolve past experiences by exploring their personal meanings. Overall, I strive to meet each person's unique needs from therapy.
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Photo of Christopher M. Carter, MSW, LICSW, BCD, CATODSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christopher M. Carter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, BCD, CATODSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02117  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with many issues but specialize somewhat in Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, complex PTSD (C-PTSD), childhood issues of neglect and abuse, anxiety/depression, complicated relationship dynamics, general issues managing stress and boundaries, as well as problems with assertive communication.
My style is warm and casual, creating a dialogue that results in mutual insight and understanding. I like to take an active role in the discussion and use humor while providing an inviting environment to explore the problems and successes of your life. My approach is based in the Psychodynamic, Acceptance/Commitment Therapy (ACT), EMDR and Mindfulness traditions. I've worked in private practice since 2008 and also at the VA where I am a therapist for veterans in Boston. I graduated from Smith College School for Social Work in Northampton, MA and have practiced in the Boston area since.
I enjoy working with many issues but specialize somewhat in Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, complex PTSD (C-PTSD), childhood issues of neglect and abuse, anxiety/depression, complicated relationship dynamics, general issues managing stress and boundaries, as well as problems with assertive communication.
My style is warm and casual, creating a dialogue that results in mutual insight and understanding. I like to take an active role in the discussion and use humor while providing an inviting environment to explore the problems and successes of your life. My approach is based in the Psychodynamic, Acceptance/Commitment Therapy (ACT), EMDR and Mindfulness traditions. I've worked in private practice since 2008 and also at the VA where I am a therapist for veterans in Boston. I graduated from Smith College School for Social Work in Northampton, MA and have practiced in the Boston area since.
(857) 401-8089 View (857) 401-8089
Photo of Emilia Taliento, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emilia Taliento
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02114
I have assisted individuals dealing with an array of mental health challenges, including domestic violence, chronic relapse, relationship issues, grief and loss, eating disorders, and suicidal ideation.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, domestic violence, eating disorders, dual diagnosis, or life changes? I can assist you with developing coping skills, practicing mindfulness, and utilizing tools to manage your mental health effectively. I aim to work with clients willing to help themselves and open to the therapeutic process. This mindset will allow us to build a positive therapeutic relationship that can bring about positive changes in their lives.
I have assisted individuals dealing with an array of mental health challenges, including domestic violence, chronic relapse, relationship issues, grief and loss, eating disorders, and suicidal ideation.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, domestic violence, eating disorders, dual diagnosis, or life changes? I can assist you with developing coping skills, practicing mindfulness, and utilizing tools to manage your mental health effectively. I aim to work with clients willing to help themselves and open to the therapeutic process. This mindset will allow us to build a positive therapeutic relationship that can bring about positive changes in their lives.
(617) 615-6930 View (617) 615-6930
Photo of Jessica Knight, MA, CPCC, NICC
Jessica Knight
MA, CPCC, NICC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02114  (Online Only)
emotional abusecoach (dot) com & jessicaknightcoaching (dot) com &.
It's okay if you need healing and a way forward and have no idea of where to start. Maybe you’ve tried individual or couples therapy but it’s been more harmful than helpful because your therapist didn’t understand emotional abuse and toxic relationship dynamics. Applying tools intended for two healthy people doesn’t work when there’s a Narcissist and/or abuse present in the relationship. Working with someone who understands patterns of abuse can help you make the right decision for yourself. I am trained in Narcissistic Abuse and High Conflict Divorce Coaching. - I also work with Millennial Women on life transitions (website below)
emotional abusecoach (dot) com & jessicaknightcoaching (dot) com &.
It's okay if you need healing and a way forward and have no idea of where to start. Maybe you’ve tried individual or couples therapy but it’s been more harmful than helpful because your therapist didn’t understand emotional abuse and toxic relationship dynamics. Applying tools intended for two healthy people doesn’t work when there’s a Narcissist and/or abuse present in the relationship. Working with someone who understands patterns of abuse can help you make the right decision for yourself. I am trained in Narcissistic Abuse and High Conflict Divorce Coaching. - I also work with Millennial Women on life transitions (website below)
(508) 484-8230 View (508) 484-8230
Photo of Crystal Johnson, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Crystal Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02127  (Online Only)
Also, I have extensive experience working with survivors of intimate partner violence.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker who works to provide professional therapeutic services to people across Massachusetts. I consider it an absolute privilege when someone allows me to be a part of their process. I have a natural curiosity toward people and strive to provide a non-judgmental environment in my practice. I take pride in understanding my client’s needs while providing quality mental health care. I’m a millennial committed to making mental health relatable. My intention is to bring warmth, compassion, and curiosity to the therapeutic space.
Also, I have extensive experience working with survivors of intimate partner violence.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker who works to provide professional therapeutic services to people across Massachusetts. I consider it an absolute privilege when someone allows me to be a part of their process. I have a natural curiosity toward people and strive to provide a non-judgmental environment in my practice. I take pride in understanding my client’s needs while providing quality mental health care. I’m a millennial committed to making mental health relatable. My intention is to bring warmth, compassion, and curiosity to the therapeutic space.
(781) 537-0916 View (781) 537-0916
Photo of Beth Waterman, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Beth Waterman
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in complex PTSD, organizational and religious abuse, and dissociative disorders.
As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor I specialize in working with individuals and couples that have been impacted by trauma. I believe we are shaped by our experiences and that each client is unique. There is not a “one size fits all” approach to trauma treatment, which is why I utilize an eclectic approach that focuses on each client’s needs. I use an individualized approach that includes Internal Family Systems (IFS), narrative therapy, and attachment theory to inform treatment. I also offer individual case consults and work with organizations as a consultant and trainer to improve understanding around trauma response.
I specialize in complex PTSD, organizational and religious abuse, and dissociative disorders.
As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor I specialize in working with individuals and couples that have been impacted by trauma. I believe we are shaped by our experiences and that each client is unique. There is not a “one size fits all” approach to trauma treatment, which is why I utilize an eclectic approach that focuses on each client’s needs. I use an individualized approach that includes Internal Family Systems (IFS), narrative therapy, and attachment theory to inform treatment. I also offer individual case consults and work with organizations as a consultant and trainer to improve understanding around trauma response.
(339) 217-4191 View (339) 217-4191
Photo of Angelica Griegel, MA
Angelica Griegel
MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02215  (Online Only)
Are you exhausted from dealing with a narcissist or toxic relationship, whether it’s with a partner, ex, or family member? Have you tried everything to successfully interact with this person but still find yourself suffering, going in circles, and feeling utterly drained? You may even be questioning your own sanity, wondering if you’re the crazy one. To make matters worse, the toxic person may have manipulated others into believing they are the victim, and it’s unbearable to watch everyone else fall for their facade when you know the truth. You’re not alone and you’re not crazy. I have so been there and understand the struggle!
Are you exhausted from dealing with a narcissist or toxic relationship, whether it’s with a partner, ex, or family member? Have you tried everything to successfully interact with this person but still find yourself suffering, going in circles, and feeling utterly drained? You may even be questioning your own sanity, wondering if you’re the crazy one. To make matters worse, the toxic person may have manipulated others into believing they are the victim, and it’s unbearable to watch everyone else fall for their facade when you know the truth. You’re not alone and you’re not crazy. I have so been there and understand the struggle!
(508) 658-9062 View (508) 658-9062
Photo of Caroline Steele, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caroline Steele
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02110
I have experience working with survivors of sexual violence, childhood abuse, and domestic violence.
Accepting New Clients - Summer 2024! Beginning therapy is a brave act of self-care, and working with an effective clinician can provide you the support you deserve in bringing about powerful changes in your life and relationships. I believe you have the skills and strengths necessary to overcome the obstacles you face and I cannot wait to join you on the journey. I am passionate about my work with adults navigating life transitions and exploring what they need to live as their most authentic selves. I specialize in trauma, attachment/relationship issues, burnout, depression, and anxiety.
I have experience working with survivors of sexual violence, childhood abuse, and domestic violence.
Accepting New Clients - Summer 2024! Beginning therapy is a brave act of self-care, and working with an effective clinician can provide you the support you deserve in bringing about powerful changes in your life and relationships. I believe you have the skills and strengths necessary to overcome the obstacles you face and I cannot wait to join you on the journey. I am passionate about my work with adults navigating life transitions and exploring what they need to live as their most authentic selves. I specialize in trauma, attachment/relationship issues, burnout, depression, and anxiety.
(857) 367-0094 View (857) 367-0094
Photo of Sid Mondell, PhD, Psychologist
Sid Mondell
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02108
I have been operating a general clinical practice serving adults, adolescents, children, families, and couples for over 20 years. My professional orientation is client-centered and problem solving/solution focused – integrating cognitive and family systems approaches. My services offered include brief treatment, intermittent treatment, longer term treatment, individual, couples, and family therapy. Referral problems typically include mood disorders, relationship problems, parenting problems, family adjustment problems, trauma and abuse issues, anxiety disorders, loss and bereavement issues, marital issues and post-divorce adjustment, and adolescent behavior problems.
I have been operating a general clinical practice serving adults, adolescents, children, families, and couples for over 20 years. My professional orientation is client-centered and problem solving/solution focused – integrating cognitive and family systems approaches. My services offered include brief treatment, intermittent treatment, longer term treatment, individual, couples, and family therapy. Referral problems typically include mood disorders, relationship problems, parenting problems, family adjustment problems, trauma and abuse issues, anxiety disorders, loss and bereavement issues, marital issues and post-divorce adjustment, and adolescent behavior problems.
(857) 367-2444 View (857) 367-2444
Photo of Quandus Patterson, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Quandus Patterson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02199
I have experience assisting individuals dealing with depression, trauma, PTSD, anxiety, grief, substance abuse, and relationship conflicts. I provide services to individuals, groups, and families ranging from ages 5 to 65+. My various theoretical and therapeutic techniques allow me to address the needs of each client. I believe there is a solution for every problem, getting help is the first step to resolving it.
I have experience assisting individuals dealing with depression, trauma, PTSD, anxiety, grief, substance abuse, and relationship conflicts. I provide services to individuals, groups, and families ranging from ages 5 to 65+. My various theoretical and therapeutic techniques allow me to address the needs of each client. I believe there is a solution for every problem, getting help is the first step to resolving it.
(508) 290-8612 View (508) 290-8612
Photo of Kammeron Newton, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kammeron Newton
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02199
, grief, abuse, sexual assault, or any life-changing event).
Hello, I am Kammeron and I’m currently working toward my Ph.D. in Social Work at Our Lady of the Lake University. I have earned my Bachelor's and Master's in Social Work at Indiana Wesleyan University. I have over 10 years of experience in Coaching, the last three years have been in Behavioral Health/Social Work. My favorite quote is, “Broken things can be fixed and healed. Nothing is too difficult or dirty to clean,” by Marika McCoola. This quote has become my mantra and I have dedicated my life to helping those who are broken, hurt, and filled with hidden sorrow over life-changing events.
, grief, abuse, sexual assault, or any life-changing event).
Hello, I am Kammeron and I’m currently working toward my Ph.D. in Social Work at Our Lady of the Lake University. I have earned my Bachelor's and Master's in Social Work at Indiana Wesleyan University. I have over 10 years of experience in Coaching, the last three years have been in Behavioral Health/Social Work. My favorite quote is, “Broken things can be fixed and healed. Nothing is too difficult or dirty to clean,” by Marika McCoola. This quote has become my mantra and I have dedicated my life to helping those who are broken, hurt, and filled with hidden sorrow over life-changing events.
(508) 682-4583 View (508) 682-4583
Photo of Vesper Jingxuan Yang, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vesper Jingxuan Yang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02109  (Online Only)
I have experience working with trauma, depression, anxiety, substance use, life transition challenges, self-esteem, relationship issues including intimate partner violence, and immigration matter.
The desire to know and to be known is a normal human experience. I value the trauma-informed safety and client-centered connection we collaboratively create through a systematic lens. I am particularly sensitive to diversity in culture and self-identity, including with respect to race, gender and sexuality. I believe the importance of affirming the unique individual experience with cultural humility. Through compassion, sensitivity, and empowerment, we will work together respectfully to acknowledge vulnerability, unearth patterns, attend complexity, and gain ownership change to achieve the most authentic and expansive self.
I have experience working with trauma, depression, anxiety, substance use, life transition challenges, self-esteem, relationship issues including intimate partner violence, and immigration matter.
The desire to know and to be known is a normal human experience. I value the trauma-informed safety and client-centered connection we collaboratively create through a systematic lens. I am particularly sensitive to diversity in culture and self-identity, including with respect to race, gender and sexuality. I believe the importance of affirming the unique individual experience with cultural humility. Through compassion, sensitivity, and empowerment, we will work together respectfully to acknowledge vulnerability, unearth patterns, attend complexity, and gain ownership change to achieve the most authentic and expansive self.
(508) 413-2256 View (508) 413-2256
Photo of Georgia Thomas-Diaz, LMHC, LADC1, CTS, Counselor
Georgia Thomas-Diaz
Counselor, LMHC, LADC1, CTS
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02131
As a warm, compassionate, and bilingual therapist with a culturally diverse background, I specialize in working with individuals from all walks of life, particularly those dealing with difficult life experiences, anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use and intimate partner violence.
I firmly believe in everyone's potential to heal from the wounds caused by life's challenges. My experience includes working with individuals struggling with overwhelming worry, low mood, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, grief, substance use, and trauma. In my practice, I adopt a collaborative approach with my clients, developing creative and compelling plans to build strengths and support emotional growth.
As a warm, compassionate, and bilingual therapist with a culturally diverse background, I specialize in working with individuals from all walks of life, particularly those dealing with difficult life experiences, anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use and intimate partner violence.
I firmly believe in everyone's potential to heal from the wounds caused by life's challenges. My experience includes working with individuals struggling with overwhelming worry, low mood, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, grief, substance use, and trauma. In my practice, I adopt a collaborative approach with my clients, developing creative and compelling plans to build strengths and support emotional growth.
(857) 349-5178 View (857) 349-5178
Photo of Carolyn Lewis, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carolyn Lewis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02135  (Online Only)
Carolyn's areas of expertise are in serving survivors of gender-based violence, people who have experienced trauma, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and individual's experiencing postpartum mental health challenges. Particularly people experiencing depression, anxiety, gender dysphoria, adjustment challenges, various forms of trauma involving abuse and neglect, body image concerns, domestic violence, sexual violence, and human trafficking.
Carolyn's areas of expertise are in serving survivors of gender-based violence, people who have experienced trauma, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and individual's experiencing postpartum mental health challenges. Particularly people experiencing depression, anxiety, gender dysphoria, adjustment challenges, various forms of trauma involving abuse and neglect, body image concerns, domestic violence, sexual violence, and human trafficking.
(508) 715-8837 View (508) 715-8837
Photo of March Kim, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
March Kim
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My clinical experience includes working with college students, supporting partner abuse survivors, and educating people who cause harm.
I believe that healing in relationship with one another is a critical prerequisite to our collective liberation and reimagined future. As a therapist, I hope to create a space that promotes a sense of trust and safety where we can work collaboratively to remove barriers and gain tools to thrive throughout life’s various challenges. My job is to support you in solidarity with humility and authenticity alongside an understanding of how our lived experiences shape us to be who we are.
My clinical experience includes working with college students, supporting partner abuse survivors, and educating people who cause harm.
I believe that healing in relationship with one another is a critical prerequisite to our collective liberation and reimagined future. As a therapist, I hope to create a space that promotes a sense of trust and safety where we can work collaboratively to remove barriers and gain tools to thrive throughout life’s various challenges. My job is to support you in solidarity with humility and authenticity alongside an understanding of how our lived experiences shape us to be who we are.
(508) 501-6078 View (508) 501-6078
Photo of Sade Massiah, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Sade Massiah
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02125  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, trauma symptoms ( Domestic Violence), self-esteem issues, parent – child conflict, grief and common life stressors.
Licensed in MA & NC. Accepting BCBS for NC residents only. I truly believe that empowered people can face any challenge that comes their way. Helping those that are willing to face their fears and connect the dots over various life experiences, provides for great therapeutic work to be done for any client. I want to help my clients grow and walk away from therapy feeling that they have transformed.
I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, trauma symptoms ( Domestic Violence), self-esteem issues, parent – child conflict, grief and common life stressors.
Licensed in MA & NC. Accepting BCBS for NC residents only. I truly believe that empowered people can face any challenge that comes their way. Helping those that are willing to face their fears and connect the dots over various life experiences, provides for great therapeutic work to be done for any client. I want to help my clients grow and walk away from therapy feeling that they have transformed.
(617) 618-6747 View (617) 618-6747
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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.