Domestic Abuse Therapists in Dorchester, MA
![Photo of Sid Mondell, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/383fa1ba-e21d-4fa2-a302-7ffe5aecf43d/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Daisha Roberts, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46c1ddb1-9ef3-44a2-b6e8-0386c827dbff/1/320x400.jpeg)
Daisha Roberts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dorchester, MA 02122 (Online Only)
A lot has happened for you, and you’ve been doing a lot just to get by. You’ve had to hide what’s really going on from others, and even from yourself. The trauma, toxic relationships, and negative life experiences have been making it hard for you to have fulfilling relationships, work, and even just to be you. You live with a lot of anxiety, stress, and depression. You don’t feel like yourself, or even know who you are, and you’re not where you want to be in life.
A lot has happened for you, and you’ve been doing a lot just to get by. You’ve had to hide what’s really going on from others, and even from yourself. The trauma, toxic relationships, and negative life experiences have been making it hard for you to have fulfilling relationships, work, and even just to be you. You live with a lot of anxiety, stress, and depression. You don’t feel like yourself, or even know who you are, and you’re not where you want to be in life.
![Photo of Leroy Adams - LA Counseling, LMHC, REV, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c33dbe3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
Mental health is how we think, feel and act as we cope with life. It helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others and make choices. Like physical health, mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood.
Everyone feels worried, anxious, sad or stressed sometimes. But with a mental illness, these feelings do not go away and are severe enough to interfere with your daily life. It can make it hard meeting and keeping friends, hold a job or enjoy life. "Get plugged In". You cannot wish your problems away. Therapy can help.
Mental health is how we think, feel and act as we cope with life. It helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others and make choices. Like physical health, mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood.
Everyone feels worried, anxious, sad or stressed sometimes. But with a mental illness, these feelings do not go away and are severe enough to interfere with your daily life. It can make it hard meeting and keeping friends, hold a job or enjoy life. "Get plugged In". You cannot wish your problems away. Therapy can help.
![Photo of Leona Franklin, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/67425799-6e0d-4339-a13b-1bb9fc6a8324/2/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal client is open and honest in her presentation and is eager to work on identified issues. This client is committed to treatment and arrives weekly (or biweekly) for therapy sessions as per treatment agreement. Ideally, my clients would be somewhat self-reflective, although this is not a requirement. Self-reflection tends to promote the development of insight.
My ideal client is open and honest in her presentation and is eager to work on identified issues. This client is committed to treatment and arrives weekly (or biweekly) for therapy sessions as per treatment agreement. Ideally, my clients would be somewhat self-reflective, although this is not a requirement. Self-reflection tends to promote the development of insight.
![Photo of Km Collaborative Multi-Cultural Group Practice, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5a07714a-c27d-4485-9c3b-ee0fea4fca32/1/320x400.jpeg)
Km Collaborative Multi-Cultural Group Practice
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dorchester, MA 02124 (Online Only)
Are there times when you feel anxious, sad, or uncertain? Do you have difficulty coping with your stressors and find that you often push or run away from unwanted thoughts and feelings? You have taken the brave first step to search for a clinician who may fit your needs and We are here for you! We are a group of multicultural, female, therapist, who believe we all have a natural ability to heal and grow. We believe in the power of therapy to enhance your capacity for curiosity, self-compassion, self- understanding, and a deeper sense of self-worth.If you are curious about what therapy can offer you, trust your gut and reach out!
Are there times when you feel anxious, sad, or uncertain? Do you have difficulty coping with your stressors and find that you often push or run away from unwanted thoughts and feelings? You have taken the brave first step to search for a clinician who may fit your needs and We are here for you! We are a group of multicultural, female, therapist, who believe we all have a natural ability to heal and grow. We believe in the power of therapy to enhance your capacity for curiosity, self-compassion, self- understanding, and a deeper sense of self-worth.If you are curious about what therapy can offer you, trust your gut and reach out!
![Photo of Pei-Hsuan Lu - Pei-Hsuan Lu, LMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43cc7203-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Pei-Hsuan Lu, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dorchester, MA 02122 (Online Only)
Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance, Telehealth only. As a Therapist, I am passionate and committed to supporting any individuals, couples, and families in finding more hope in their preferred lives and relationships. Being non-judgmental, compassionate, collaborative, and respectful are my main principles in my practice. I am excited to co-create possibilities with you to see that there is Light despite all of the darkness.
Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance, Telehealth only. As a Therapist, I am passionate and committed to supporting any individuals, couples, and families in finding more hope in their preferred lives and relationships. Being non-judgmental, compassionate, collaborative, and respectful are my main principles in my practice. I am excited to co-create possibilities with you to see that there is Light despite all of the darkness.
![Photo of Gordonia Tawanda Cundiff - No Stones Thrown Counseling Services Inc. , MEd, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/20177086-99f9-45e2-be7c-b8832949c82d/1/320x400.jpeg)
No Stones Thrown Counseling Services Inc.
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
Dorchester, MA 02124 (Online Only)
No Stones Thrown Counseling Services Inc., was formed in 2022 to address the needs of BIPOC families living in the City of Boston to help decrease the stigmas associated with therapy. We are interested in supporting clients with processing complex trauma, mental issues, and healing in non traditional environments that promote healing and recovery. Clients will have the opportunity to choose their in office experience, telehealth, or in-home therapy.
No Stones Thrown Counseling Services Inc., was formed in 2022 to address the needs of BIPOC families living in the City of Boston to help decrease the stigmas associated with therapy. We are interested in supporting clients with processing complex trauma, mental issues, and healing in non traditional environments that promote healing and recovery. Clients will have the opportunity to choose their in office experience, telehealth, or in-home therapy.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Alexandra (Janis) Baltimore, LICSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/13b129f7-9833-4b79-8dfd-64e8d9c0400f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alexandra (Janis) 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.
![Photo of Carlos A Cuevas, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e631433f-5400-44d1-990f-cc0552e9001f/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Sade Massiah, MA, LCMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0a11ccbc-2840-40a1-832f-b69850cd6064/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Barbara E Miller, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40ce497c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
She honed her expertise in treating clients with substance abuse, Adult Children of Alcoholics, sexual abuse, physical abuse, childhood trauma and abuse, PTSD, eating disorders, addictions, adult relationship dysfunctionality and more.
How to therapeutically claim the disowned self.by using what is already inside of you. Are you stuck in a relationship? with addiction? settling for less in work or career? Find the joy.... Barbara Miller, LICSW, psychotherapist can help you do just that. She has a gift for healing. Psychotherapy, with her skill and competency, can help you find and focus on the major psychosocial issues that are keeping you stuck.Throughout the years Barbara's clients credit her with saving their lives even though it is really the client who saves his own life. Is your life worth saving?
She honed her expertise in treating clients with substance abuse, Adult Children of Alcoholics, sexual abuse, physical abuse, childhood trauma and abuse, PTSD, eating disorders, addictions, adult relationship dysfunctionality and more.
How to therapeutically claim the disowned self.by using what is already inside of you. Are you stuck in a relationship? with addiction? settling for less in work or career? Find the joy.... Barbara Miller, LICSW, psychotherapist can help you do just that. She has a gift for healing. Psychotherapy, with her skill and competency, can help you find and focus on the major psychosocial issues that are keeping you stuck.Throughout the years Barbara's clients credit her with saving their lives even though it is really the client who saves his own life. Is your life worth saving?
![Photo of Michelle (Shelley) Schlief, PhD, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f8de7f0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle (Shelley) Schlief
Psychologist, PhD, PsyD
Verified Verified
Jamaica Plain, MA 02130
Waitlist for new clients
I have specialty working with people with a history of childhood abuse, PTSD, and dissociation.
Welcome! Meaningful change and lasting healing happen through the co-creation of safe therapeutic spaces. Together, we can develop your capacity not only to feel better, but to be healthier. Understanding yourself is a powerful source of transformation and development. However, insight alone is not always enough to create psychological healing. I work with people to generate deep insight but also to create a new way of being and feeling in the world. For these purposes, I often incorporate both experiential and mind/brain/body therapies.
I have specialty working with people with a history of childhood abuse, PTSD, and dissociation.
Welcome! Meaningful change and lasting healing happen through the co-creation of safe therapeutic spaces. Together, we can develop your capacity not only to feel better, but to be healthier. Understanding yourself is a powerful source of transformation and development. However, insight alone is not always enough to create psychological healing. I work with people to generate deep insight but also to create a new way of being and feeling in the world. For these purposes, I often incorporate both experiential and mind/brain/body therapies.
![Photo of Kathryn Buchanan-Howland, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f67516b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in relationship issues, trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, college counseling/life transitions, stress management, career issues and drugs and alcohol abuse.
I approach psychotherapy from a place of empathy and non-judgment. I tailor my treatment approach to each unique individual I work with, drawing from cognitive-behavioral, relational, dialectical-behavioral and motivational interviewing; assisting clients with both the here-and-now symptoms (e.g. anxiety, depression) and the underlying issues associated with those symptoms (e.g. relationship problems, identity issues, past experiences of trauma).
I specialize in relationship issues, trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, college counseling/life transitions, stress management, career issues and drugs and alcohol abuse.
I approach psychotherapy from a place of empathy and non-judgment. I tailor my treatment approach to each unique individual I work with, drawing from cognitive-behavioral, relational, dialectical-behavioral and motivational interviewing; assisting clients with both the here-and-now symptoms (e.g. anxiety, depression) and the underlying issues associated with those symptoms (e.g. relationship problems, identity issues, past experiences of trauma).
![Photo of Elana Steinberg, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cbd6764-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Andrew Seplow, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c73e2ce-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Andrew Seplow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jamaica Plain, MA 02130
Therapy is about seeking balance and asking questions and looking for answers. Finding a balance between what we feel and what we know and a balance between the quicker emotional side of our mind and the more considered rational side are part of the process. Whether the questions are around interpersonal relationships, substance abuse, parenting, or career and motivation the answers will come only with this balance.
My approach to therapy is about solving problems based on a relational and collaborative approach offering a supportive and sympathetic ear balanced with reality and solutions.
Therapy is about seeking balance and asking questions and looking for answers. Finding a balance between what we feel and what we know and a balance between the quicker emotional side of our mind and the more considered rational side are part of the process. Whether the questions are around interpersonal relationships, substance abuse, parenting, or career and motivation the answers will come only with this balance.
My approach to therapy is about solving problems based on a relational and collaborative approach offering a supportive and sympathetic ear balanced with reality and solutions.
![Photo of Marykate Shorter, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/751d9043-50b0-4d98-b66f-a1fd61d5d29d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Marykate Shorter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02115 (Online Only)
I have worked with individuals facing a variety of issues and challenges, including anxiety, depression, family/couples relationship issues, identity, domestic violence, and trauma.
I have worked with clients of many backgrounds, with a variety of goals and challenges. They have all wanted to improve their quality of life through the support that therapy provides.
I have worked with individuals facing a variety of issues and challenges, including anxiety, depression, family/couples relationship issues, identity, domestic violence, and trauma.
I have worked with clients of many backgrounds, with a variety of goals and challenges. They have all wanted to improve their quality of life through the support that therapy provides.
![Photo of Aishwarya Chitoor Subash, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/720299b3-a46c-4acb-8dfe-3de52cac88e2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Aishwarya Chitoor Subash
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02115
I have experience working with refugee populations, as well as survivors of domestic violence, intimate partner violence, and sexual assault.
My approach to psychotherapy is rooted in psychodynamic and relational theory, cultural awareness, cognitive behavioral techniques, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) and neurobehavioral therapeutic approaches. I am dedicated to meeting my clients where they are at and adapting treatment to meet their needs. My therapeutic style is compassionate, relaxed, and empowering. I am currently a postgraduate Social Work Fellow and have worked in a variety of clinical settings, ranging from hospital settings supporting individuals' socio-emotional needs to educational settings supporting individuals' learning needs.
I have experience working with refugee populations, as well as survivors of domestic violence, intimate partner violence, and sexual assault.
My approach to psychotherapy is rooted in psychodynamic and relational theory, cultural awareness, cognitive behavioral techniques, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) and neurobehavioral therapeutic approaches. I am dedicated to meeting my clients where they are at and adapting treatment to meet their needs. My therapeutic style is compassionate, relaxed, and empowering. I am currently a postgraduate Social Work Fellow and have worked in a variety of clinical settings, ranging from hospital settings supporting individuals' socio-emotional needs to educational settings supporting individuals' learning needs.
![Photo of Christopher M. Carter, MSW, LICSW, BCD, CATODSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/39bc93d4-d2b6-4399-a289-c23ead121969/2/320x400.jpeg)
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 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 assertiveness and 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 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 assertiveness and 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.
![Photo of Jewell M Simmons - Jewell Simmons Healthy Girls & Women Institute, BSW, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a4f80196-9466-43e5-9d50-4100872e310c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jewell Simmons Healthy Girls & Women Institute
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02121 (Online Only)
My clients have consisted of teen mothers, individuals who have witnessed, experienced, or perpetrated violence & abuse in their intimate partner relationships or in their families of origin, and trauma survivors who have suffered with negative health implications due to community violence, stress, oppression, racism, and/or other life circumstances.
As a retuning scholar I entered the field of social work as a seasoned individual who continues to utilize current clinical practice and life/lived experiences to support the populations that I serve. My primary expertise is in domestic violence, childhood and adult trauma, loss and grief, anger management, and solution focused therapy. During my 20+ years as an LCSW my goal has been to provide strength’s based, holistic, trauma informed care to people seeking support with their mental, emotional, spiritual, social, and physical well-being. I welcome members of all races, ethnicities, family structures and economic backgrounds.
My clients have consisted of teen mothers, individuals who have witnessed, experienced, or perpetrated violence & abuse in their intimate partner relationships or in their families of origin, and trauma survivors who have suffered with negative health implications due to community violence, stress, oppression, racism, and/or other life circumstances.
As a retuning scholar I entered the field of social work as a seasoned individual who continues to utilize current clinical practice and life/lived experiences to support the populations that I serve. My primary expertise is in domestic violence, childhood and adult trauma, loss and grief, anger management, and solution focused therapy. During my 20+ years as an LCSW my goal has been to provide strength’s based, holistic, trauma informed care to people seeking support with their mental, emotional, spiritual, social, and physical well-being. I welcome members of all races, ethnicities, family structures and economic backgrounds.
![Photo of Ronda Jones D Tobey, LHMC, LCSW, LADC, CADC, SAP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/070d7f46-b2df-4329-bfb6-a412be680abf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ronda Jones D Tobey
Counselor, LHMC, LCSW, LADC, CADC, SAP
Not Verified Not Verified
Boston, MA 02101
She has great experience working with family of domestic violence and trauma.
Ronda D Jones Tobey, LMHC, LADC, CADC, SAP, MAC believes in a Healthy Person/Family not just the basic therapy.
She has great experience working with family of domestic violence and trauma.
Ronda D Jones Tobey, LMHC, LADC, CADC, SAP, MAC believes in a Healthy Person/Family not just the basic therapy.
See more therapy options for Dorchester
Nearby Domestic Abuse Therapists Searches for Dorchester
- Allston
- Boston
- Brookline
- Cambridge
- Chestnut Hill
- Hyde Park
- Jamaica Plain
- Milton
- Quincy
- Roslindale
- Roxbury
- South Boston
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.