Domestic Abuse Therapists in Pleasant Ridge, MI

Photo of Tristen Davis, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tristen Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pleasant Ridge, MI 48069
I bring a deep understanding and passion for addressing a variety of challenges such as depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, relationship issues, domestic violence, trauma recovery, family conflicts, and a variety of life issues.
Immediate openings available. Connection has always been at the heart of what I do. Becoming a therapist was a natural choice because I genuinely enjoy getting to know people on a deep, authentic level. I help clients navigate depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, relationship and family conflicts, and LGBTQ+ and intimacy concerns. Clients appreciate my keen observations, reflective nature, challenges, and positive energy. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where YOU are the expert of your own life.
I bring a deep understanding and passion for addressing a variety of challenges such as depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, relationship issues, domestic violence, trauma recovery, family conflicts, and a variety of life issues.
Immediate openings available. Connection has always been at the heart of what I do. Becoming a therapist was a natural choice because I genuinely enjoy getting to know people on a deep, authentic level. I help clients navigate depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, relationship and family conflicts, and LGBTQ+ and intimacy concerns. Clients appreciate my keen observations, reflective nature, challenges, and positive energy. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where YOU are the expert of your own life.
(616) 522-8593 View (616) 522-8593
Photo of Maria Barretta, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maria Barretta
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pleasant Ridge, MI 48069  (Online Only)
Maria is dedicated to staying at the forefront of education in the constantly developing field of mental health. Maria started her career started in early childhood education, where her passion for working with children and families directed her to grow expertise in other areas. Then, as a counselor for the incarcerated population working for the Oakland Sheriff's Department, she was an acting subject matter expert for violence, substance abuse, impulse control, depressive and suicidal ideation, and schizoaffective disorders. Maria received a Bachelor's in Psychology from UC Davis and Master's in Counseling from Oakland University.
Maria is dedicated to staying at the forefront of education in the constantly developing field of mental health. Maria started her career started in early childhood education, where her passion for working with children and families directed her to grow expertise in other areas. Then, as a counselor for the incarcerated population working for the Oakland Sheriff's Department, she was an acting subject matter expert for violence, substance abuse, impulse control, depressive and suicidal ideation, and schizoaffective disorders. Maria received a Bachelor's in Psychology from UC Davis and Master's in Counseling from Oakland University.
(248) 720-6272 View (248) 720-6272
Photo of Colette Spaulding, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Colette Spaulding
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Pleasant Ridge, MI 48069
Colette Spaulding is a Licensed MSW and has worked for 18 years in the mental health field. She views each client as a whole person, taking a client-centered approach and collaborating with them to match interventions with their particular needs. She has worked with survivors of abuse, domestic violence, and trauma, as well as clients with mood disorders, anxiety and depression, grief, relationship issues, and major life transitions. Her professional experience includes working with culturally diverse populations in urban and rural settings, with a wide variety of mental health issues and challenges.
Colette Spaulding is a Licensed MSW and has worked for 18 years in the mental health field. She views each client as a whole person, taking a client-centered approach and collaborating with them to match interventions with their particular needs. She has worked with survivors of abuse, domestic violence, and trauma, as well as clients with mood disorders, anxiety and depression, grief, relationship issues, and major life transitions. Her professional experience includes working with culturally diverse populations in urban and rural settings, with a wide variety of mental health issues and challenges.
(248) 773-3978 View (248) 773-3978
Photo of Heather Evjen, MA, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Heather Evjen
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
Pleasant Ridge, MI 48069
My intention as a Master's level psychologist and intuitive practitioner is to serve as a guide to empower my clients and increase their self-awareness and self-respect in order to have the life they genuinely desire. I believe that if you can make sense of your life story, you can change it. I work from a humanistic and existential framework, recognizing that suffering is inherent in being alive and trusting every person has everything they need to live up to their full potential in the presence of life's challenges.
My intention as a Master's level psychologist and intuitive practitioner is to serve as a guide to empower my clients and increase their self-awareness and self-respect in order to have the life they genuinely desire. I believe that if you can make sense of your life story, you can change it. I work from a humanistic and existential framework, recognizing that suffering is inherent in being alive and trusting every person has everything they need to live up to their full potential in the presence of life's challenges.
(248) 809-4519 View (248) 809-4519
Photo of Dana M Decapite, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dana M Decapite
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pleasant Ridge, MI 48069
I am state-licensed therapist serving Pleasant Ridge and the Metro Detroit area. I offer psychotherapy and counseling services, helping people overcome life's challenges. My specialties include the treatment of depression, anxiety disorders, relationship problems, grief/bereavement, ADHD, OCD and mood disorders. I build a personalized treatment plan designed specifically for your needs, and then take you through the process at your own pace. Opening up your soul to a stranger requires a great deal of trust. I provide a comfortable and private setting for you to share your feelings.
I am state-licensed therapist serving Pleasant Ridge and the Metro Detroit area. I offer psychotherapy and counseling services, helping people overcome life's challenges. My specialties include the treatment of depression, anxiety disorders, relationship problems, grief/bereavement, ADHD, OCD and mood disorders. I build a personalized treatment plan designed specifically for your needs, and then take you through the process at your own pace. Opening up your soul to a stranger requires a great deal of trust. I provide a comfortable and private setting for you to share your feelings.
(248) 876-3549 View (248) 876-3549
Photo of Noor Hamzeh, MA, TLLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Noor Hamzeh
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, TLLP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pleasant Ridge, MI 48069
My primary goal as an effective clinician is to work with compassion and drive to help individuals find solutions to life’s struggles while improving their interpersonal relationships and encouraging self-actualization. As a master’s level clinician, I work in a private practice where I specialize in trauma, anxiety, and depression.
My primary goal as an effective clinician is to work with compassion and drive to help individuals find solutions to life’s struggles while improving their interpersonal relationships and encouraging self-actualization. As a master’s level clinician, I work in a private practice where I specialize in trauma, anxiety, and depression.
(248) 292-3252 View (248) 292-3252

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Hillary Cartwright, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hillary Cartwright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Madison Heights, MI 48071
Additionally, I have over 15 years’ experience serving women, teens and children dealing with issues such as anxiety, depression, childhood trauma and domestic violence.
I strongly believe each person carries the power within to create a life in which they want to live—a life with hope and well-being. As a therapist, I offer a friendly, safe, and warm environment where individuals and families can discuss life’s challenges. Using a variety of treatment approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Strength-Based treatment and Family Systems Therapy, my goal is to help clients reach the place where they can thrive.
Additionally, I have over 15 years’ experience serving women, teens and children dealing with issues such as anxiety, depression, childhood trauma and domestic violence.
I strongly believe each person carries the power within to create a life in which they want to live—a life with hope and well-being. As a therapist, I offer a friendly, safe, and warm environment where individuals and families can discuss life’s challenges. Using a variety of treatment approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Strength-Based treatment and Family Systems Therapy, my goal is to help clients reach the place where they can thrive.
(586) 666-1955 View (586) 666-1955
Photo of Matthew Rosenberg - Rosenberg & Associates, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rosenberg & Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Detroit, MI 48220
With 27 years of experience we offer effective treatment for sexual abuse, sexual addiction, pornography addiction, paraphilias, childhood sexual behavioral problems, and psychosexual evaluations. We work with spouses, children, an other family members. We provide psychosexual evaluations for attorneys and courts including risk assessment and treatment planning. Matthew Rosenberg also can provide Restorative Justice therapy sessions between victims and his or her offender when appropriate. Rosenberg & Associates offers intensive outpatient programs for sexual addicts
With 27 years of experience we offer effective treatment for sexual abuse, sexual addiction, pornography addiction, paraphilias, childhood sexual behavioral problems, and psychosexual evaluations. We work with spouses, children, an other family members. We provide psychosexual evaluations for attorneys and courts including risk assessment and treatment planning. Matthew Rosenberg also can provide Restorative Justice therapy sessions between victims and his or her offender when appropriate. Rosenberg & Associates offers intensive outpatient programs for sexual addicts
(586) 218-3835 View (586) 218-3835
Photo of Caitlyn Witek, LMSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caitlyn Witek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Ferndale, MI 48220
If you are seeking a therapist that will take a genuine interest in you with a non-judgmental approach then I may be the therapist for you. My experience includes young adults, adults, couples, infidelity, first-episode psychosis, severe and persistent mental illness, trauma, domestic violence, sexual abuse, substance abuse, pregnancy and post-partum issues, divorce and relationship issues. I am culturally/sexuality sensitive and accepting of all lifestyles, religions, and backgrounds. Working as a therapist is my passion so I will be committed to helping you through whatever you are struggling with. *TELEHEALTH AVAILABLE*
If you are seeking a therapist that will take a genuine interest in you with a non-judgmental approach then I may be the therapist for you. My experience includes young adults, adults, couples, infidelity, first-episode psychosis, severe and persistent mental illness, trauma, domestic violence, sexual abuse, substance abuse, pregnancy and post-partum issues, divorce and relationship issues. I am culturally/sexuality sensitive and accepting of all lifestyles, religions, and backgrounds. Working as a therapist is my passion so I will be committed to helping you through whatever you are struggling with. *TELEHEALTH AVAILABLE*
(248) 534-1215 View (248) 534-1215
Photo of Terra Ginther, LMSW, CTRP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Terra Ginther
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CTRP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48073  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am incredibly passionate about helping others better understand themselves and get to the root of their issues. I'll provide a safe environment where you can explore your inner world with the intention of developing insight, understanding your needs, and meeting your goals. I specialize in helping adults address their childhood trauma and reduce their trauma reactions. Other issues I am experienced with includes: PTSD, C-PTSD, depression, anxiety, ADHD, attachment trauma, sexual assault + abuse, domestic violence, sex trafficking, grief + loss, relationship difficulties, life-transitions, low self-esteem, + personal growth.
I am incredibly passionate about helping others better understand themselves and get to the root of their issues. I'll provide a safe environment where you can explore your inner world with the intention of developing insight, understanding your needs, and meeting your goals. I specialize in helping adults address their childhood trauma and reduce their trauma reactions. Other issues I am experienced with includes: PTSD, C-PTSD, depression, anxiety, ADHD, attachment trauma, sexual assault + abuse, domestic violence, sex trafficking, grief + loss, relationship difficulties, life-transitions, low self-esteem, + personal growth.
(248) 949-2149 View (248) 949-2149
Photo of Bradley Allan Lake, LMSWC, BA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bradley Allan Lake
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSWC, BA
Verified Verified
Ferndale, MI 48220
I specialize in treating individuals and couples for anxiety, depression, grief and loss, addiction, self esteem issues, living with a chronic illness, relationship issues, domestic violence and post trauma.
"Outsidethebox Detroit Therapy" Learning to go outside of the habitual thinking patterns (the box) to create space for personal transformation. Wellness requires a holistic approach of maintenance of mind, body, and spirt all working in harmony. We become what we think about on a regular basis. If we love the planet we are also loving ourselves.
I specialize in treating individuals and couples for anxiety, depression, grief and loss, addiction, self esteem issues, living with a chronic illness, relationship issues, domestic violence and post trauma.
"Outsidethebox Detroit Therapy" Learning to go outside of the habitual thinking patterns (the box) to create space for personal transformation. Wellness requires a holistic approach of maintenance of mind, body, and spirt all working in harmony. We become what we think about on a regular basis. If we love the planet we are also loving ourselves.
(313) 254-6550 View (313) 254-6550
Photo of Stephanie DiPonio, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie DiPonio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ferndale, MI 48220  (Online Only)
I believe that therapy is a process for self-exploration and healing. My goal is to create an inclusive safe space for you to be your authentic self and we can work on your goals together. My knowledge and specialties include gender and sexuality, intuitive eating, sexual health, non-monogamy/polyamory, kink/BDSM, sexual and relationship violence, and attachment theory. I aim to affirm individual needs and experiences while maintaining an awareness of how structural issues, societal expectations, and community connections uniquely impact each person.
I believe that therapy is a process for self-exploration and healing. My goal is to create an inclusive safe space for you to be your authentic self and we can work on your goals together. My knowledge and specialties include gender and sexuality, intuitive eating, sexual health, non-monogamy/polyamory, kink/BDSM, sexual and relationship violence, and attachment theory. I aim to affirm individual needs and experiences while maintaining an awareness of how structural issues, societal expectations, and community connections uniquely impact each person.
(517) 300-3001 View (517) 300-3001
Photo of John Krisel, LMSW, ACSW, CAADC, CCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
John Krisel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, ACSW, CAADC, CCS
Verified Verified
Hazel Park, MI 48030
There has been intervention with the victims of abuse, neglect and other forms of violence.
I bring to those being served over 30 years of dedicated clinical experience from a variety of practice settings. Allow me to share practical and professional knowledge gleaned from well-known areas of service. Employment in the inpatient mental health treatment setting has provided me a good measure of expertise assisting those addressing a myriad of mental health challenges. I bring expertise in dual diagnosis treatment of multiple chemical abuse and dependence. I have provided mental health treatment of returning citizens from various states of incarceration who may require re-adjustment and re-integration into society.
There has been intervention with the victims of abuse, neglect and other forms of violence.
I bring to those being served over 30 years of dedicated clinical experience from a variety of practice settings. Allow me to share practical and professional knowledge gleaned from well-known areas of service. Employment in the inpatient mental health treatment setting has provided me a good measure of expertise assisting those addressing a myriad of mental health challenges. I bring expertise in dual diagnosis treatment of multiple chemical abuse and dependence. I have provided mental health treatment of returning citizens from various states of incarceration who may require re-adjustment and re-integration into society.
(586) 554-2285 View (586) 554-2285
Photo of Elizabeth Herring, LMSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Herring
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067
Not accepting new clients
During my career, I have specialized in working with survivors of childhood abuse from various ethnic, religious, and economic backgrounds.
You may find that life is not how you imagined, or how you would like it to be. Often when we have experienced difficulties in our lives, they stick around and make it hard for us to move on, whether in relationship, jobs, or in our emotional well-being. As a therapist, I offer an accepting and non-judgmental setting where, together, we can work to address depression, anxiety, relationship struggles, communication difficulties, job performance, and any other part of your life where you want improvement. I will help you with achieving the quality of life that you desire and deserve.
During my career, I have specialized in working with survivors of childhood abuse from various ethnic, religious, and economic backgrounds.
You may find that life is not how you imagined, or how you would like it to be. Often when we have experienced difficulties in our lives, they stick around and make it hard for us to move on, whether in relationship, jobs, or in our emotional well-being. As a therapist, I offer an accepting and non-judgmental setting where, together, we can work to address depression, anxiety, relationship struggles, communication difficulties, job performance, and any other part of your life where you want improvement. I will help you with achieving the quality of life that you desire and deserve.
(248) 504-0357 View (248) 504-0357
Photo of Wendy Croll - Bainbridge Center for Growth & Development , MA, LPC, LLC
Bainbridge Center for Growth & Development
MA, LPC, LLC
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067
Bainbridge Center therapists have many years of experience guiding you through the healing process specializing in: working with high achieving woman with perfectionism tendencies who are going through: anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, relationship concerns, career and life transitions, ADHD, body distortion, gender identity and substance abuse.
You have been sitting with your thoughts and seem to recycle your memories. You are excellent at suppressing your hurt and stay busy with work and life as a distraction. You no longer connect with others the way you used to and keep friends and family at a distance. The Pandemic may have increased your anxiety and depression and you are uncertain where to begin. Your worry and fear come out as; anger, sadness and controlling behaviors, due to questioning your worth and self esteem. Will I ever feel truly happy? Will I feel truly loved? Will I find my life path and the career that makes my soul soar? Will I learn to forgive?
Bainbridge Center therapists have many years of experience guiding you through the healing process specializing in: working with high achieving woman with perfectionism tendencies who are going through: anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, relationship concerns, career and life transitions, ADHD, body distortion, gender identity and substance abuse.
You have been sitting with your thoughts and seem to recycle your memories. You are excellent at suppressing your hurt and stay busy with work and life as a distraction. You no longer connect with others the way you used to and keep friends and family at a distance. The Pandemic may have increased your anxiety and depression and you are uncertain where to begin. Your worry and fear come out as; anger, sadness and controlling behaviors, due to questioning your worth and self esteem. Will I ever feel truly happy? Will I feel truly loved? Will I find my life path and the career that makes my soul soar? Will I learn to forgive?
(248) 265-3095 View (248) 265-3095
Photo of Diane Levy-Rubinstein, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diane Levy-Rubinstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067
I retired from CMH in 2013 after working 30 years with intensive mental health and substance abuse.
Are you tired of living in an emotional hell where your relationships are struggles instead of pleasurable meaningful experiences? Do you have trouble with interpersonal effectiveness as well as controlling your emotions? Do you find yourself battling with depression and anxiety? Are you frequently experiencing conflicts with you partner? Considered marriage or couples counseling ? Do you find that your communication skills are indirect and you are not getting what you want? Are you grieving the loss of a spouse, child or friend? Do you feel stuck and unable to move forward? Are you looking for your a life worth living?
I retired from CMH in 2013 after working 30 years with intensive mental health and substance abuse.
Are you tired of living in an emotional hell where your relationships are struggles instead of pleasurable meaningful experiences? Do you have trouble with interpersonal effectiveness as well as controlling your emotions? Do you find yourself battling with depression and anxiety? Are you frequently experiencing conflicts with you partner? Considered marriage or couples counseling ? Do you find that your communication skills are indirect and you are not getting what you want? Are you grieving the loss of a spouse, child or friend? Do you feel stuck and unable to move forward? Are you looking for your a life worth living?
(248) 826-2456 View (248) 826-2456
Rosemary A. Jozwiak, and Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LPC, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067
Rosemary A. Jozwiak and Associates have over 25 years of experience and specializations in the areas of: trauma, resulting from childhood sexual abuse, emotional and physical abuse. Struggles with depression, anxiety, addiction, anger management, grief and loss, life transitions, child and adolescent issues, parenting challenges, women’s issues, sexual identity, self esteem, relationship challenges, divorce or breakup recovery, health and wellness, chronic illness, learning disabilities, self-harming behavior, LGBTQIA life struggles, gender confusion, transgender transitioning plus relevant issues for their family members.
Rosemary A. Jozwiak and Associates have over 25 years of experience and specializations in the areas of: trauma, resulting from childhood sexual abuse, emotional and physical abuse. Struggles with depression, anxiety, addiction, anger management, grief and loss, life transitions, child and adolescent issues, parenting challenges, women’s issues, sexual identity, self esteem, relationship challenges, divorce or breakup recovery, health and wellness, chronic illness, learning disabilities, self-harming behavior, LGBTQIA life struggles, gender confusion, transgender transitioning plus relevant issues for their family members.
(248) 243-4655 View (248) 243-4655
Photo of Rita Clark, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rita Clark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067
I am trained in early childhood development, juvenile delinquency, prison re-entry, sexual health and education, individual, group, family counseling, training facilitation, substance abuse and HIV.
Are you or your partners sexual behaviors causing distress in your life and your relationship? Are you stuck in the power struggle and in a gridlock in communication with your partner? I can help you have both relational and sexual conversations with your partner whether you come in together or individually. I also work with depression and anxiety disorders. My treatment approaches are Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Reality Therapy (RT), Solution Focused-Brief Therapy, Behavioral and Humanistic Therapies with an emphasis of using integrative approaches to maximize positive client outcomes.
I am trained in early childhood development, juvenile delinquency, prison re-entry, sexual health and education, individual, group, family counseling, training facilitation, substance abuse and HIV.
Are you or your partners sexual behaviors causing distress in your life and your relationship? Are you stuck in the power struggle and in a gridlock in communication with your partner? I can help you have both relational and sexual conversations with your partner whether you come in together or individually. I also work with depression and anxiety disorders. My treatment approaches are Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Reality Therapy (RT), Solution Focused-Brief Therapy, Behavioral and Humanistic Therapies with an emphasis of using integrative approaches to maximize positive client outcomes.
(248) 292-3426 View (248) 292-3426
Photo of Helema Ballard, MA, LPC, Counselor
Helema Ballard
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Oak Park, MI 48237  (Online Only)
My goal is to work with people who struggle with depression, social issues, anxiety, self-esteem issues, anger, domestic violence's, and family related issues.
Often times the effects of old and new emotional wounds can become a person's way of life. This way of life tends to cause an individual to have feelings of loneliness, hopelessness/helplessness, thoughts leading to emotional pain, and ineffective actions that led to self-defeat. Are you dealing with emotional pain or after effects of a traumatic experience(s)? As a counselor I have aspirations to help empower you to overcome your inner battle and win! I am a licensed counselor who believes that inner healing is possible and understands the importance of having a quality of life.
My goal is to work with people who struggle with depression, social issues, anxiety, self-esteem issues, anger, domestic violence's, and family related issues.
Often times the effects of old and new emotional wounds can become a person's way of life. This way of life tends to cause an individual to have feelings of loneliness, hopelessness/helplessness, thoughts leading to emotional pain, and ineffective actions that led to self-defeat. Are you dealing with emotional pain or after effects of a traumatic experience(s)? As a counselor I have aspirations to help empower you to overcome your inner battle and win! I am a licensed counselor who believes that inner healing is possible and understands the importance of having a quality of life.
(248) 617-2397 View (248) 617-2397
Photo of Carla Y Jenkins, MA, L, P, C, Counselor
Carla Y Jenkins
Counselor, MA, L, P, C
Verified Verified
Detroit, MI 48228  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with survivors of sexual abuse and sexual assault as well.
When you have been hurting in silence for many years. It can be difficult to make that decision to seek therapy, but you've come to the end of the road and you are tired of hurting. You want the pain to stop. You want to feel whole, and you want to have a sense of joy and peace, that you have never experienced before. Well, I'm here for you, to assist you with the process of getting to a place of help, hope and healing.
I specialize in working with survivors of sexual abuse and sexual assault as well.
When you have been hurting in silence for many years. It can be difficult to make that decision to seek therapy, but you've come to the end of the road and you are tired of hurting. You want the pain to stop. You want to feel whole, and you want to have a sense of joy and peace, that you have never experienced before. Well, I'm here for you, to assist you with the process of getting to a place of help, hope and healing.
(248) 920-9996 View (248) 920-9996

See more therapy options for Pleasant Ridge

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.