Domestic Abuse Therapists in High Ridge, MO

Photo of Tammy Delbruegge, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tammy Delbruegge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
High Ridge, MO 63049
Are you overwhelmed with parenting responsibilities or job stress? Is depression or anxiety keeping you from enjoying life? Are relationships or grief keeping you from moving forward? Are you eating or injuring yourself to cope with life's challenges? If so, I can offer a safe place to process these experiences and increase your ability to cope. I prefer a practical approach and frequently use solution focused brief therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and rational emotive behavioral therapy. I use homework assignments and psycho-educational techniques when appropriate.
Are you overwhelmed with parenting responsibilities or job stress? Is depression or anxiety keeping you from enjoying life? Are relationships or grief keeping you from moving forward? Are you eating or injuring yourself to cope with life's challenges? If so, I can offer a safe place to process these experiences and increase your ability to cope. I prefer a practical approach and frequently use solution focused brief therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and rational emotive behavioral therapy. I use homework assignments and psycho-educational techniques when appropriate.
(636) 329-4061 View (636) 329-4061
Photo of Steven Charles May, LPC , MA MFT, CJP, APP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Steven Charles May
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC , MA MFT, CJP, APP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
High Ridge, MO 63049
Change does not occur by magic but through courage. You may want to change by tomorrow or you just may want to window shop what change might look like in your life. Wherever you are at in process of change I can collaborate with you on the goals that you wish to achieve. With almost 20 years of experience in psychotherapy practice as well as post-graduate certified training and supervision in a multitude of therapeutic modalities, I would be honored to serve you in the empathic, and collaborative process of change.
Change does not occur by magic but through courage. You may want to change by tomorrow or you just may want to window shop what change might look like in your life. Wherever you are at in process of change I can collaborate with you on the goals that you wish to achieve. With almost 20 years of experience in psychotherapy practice as well as post-graduate certified training and supervision in a multitude of therapeutic modalities, I would be honored to serve you in the empathic, and collaborative process of change.
(314) 347-8250 View (314) 347-8250
Photo of Mark Mandell, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mark Mandell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
High Ridge, MO 63049
I focus my practice on working exclusively with couples. Are you resentful, angry, bitter or confused by interactions with your significant other or do you want to learn how to better communicate and improve the quality of your relationship? If you are tired of the insecurity, fighting, carelessness or living in the "roommate zone", then I invite you to participate in my program. My positive strength based method uses a warm, safe, empowering and collaborative approach that is highly educational and nonjudgmental. Together lets break that toxic spiral of doubt, anxiety, sadness and resentment and start rebuilding something real.
I focus my practice on working exclusively with couples. Are you resentful, angry, bitter or confused by interactions with your significant other or do you want to learn how to better communicate and improve the quality of your relationship? If you are tired of the insecurity, fighting, carelessness or living in the "roommate zone", then I invite you to participate in my program. My positive strength based method uses a warm, safe, empowering and collaborative approach that is highly educational and nonjudgmental. Together lets break that toxic spiral of doubt, anxiety, sadness and resentment and start rebuilding something real.
(636) 431-5299 View (636) 431-5299
Photo of Ashley Nagel, MA, PLPC, CRC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ashley Nagel
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PLPC, CRC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
High Ridge, MO 63049
Not accepting new clients
Ashley Nagel, MA, PLPC, CRC, is a dedicated trauma clinician specializing in supporting Veterans and First Responders. Ashley utilizes trauma-informed care to create a safe and healing space for this community and their families. One of the unique aspects that set Ashley apart as a therapist is her specialized education as a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor. Her expertise lies in providing exceptional support and advocacy to individuals living with disabilities, empowering them to embrace their abilities and recognize their strengths, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling life.
Ashley Nagel, MA, PLPC, CRC, is a dedicated trauma clinician specializing in supporting Veterans and First Responders. Ashley utilizes trauma-informed care to create a safe and healing space for this community and their families. One of the unique aspects that set Ashley apart as a therapist is her specialized education as a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor. Her expertise lies in providing exceptional support and advocacy to individuals living with disabilities, empowering them to embrace their abilities and recognize their strengths, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling life.
(636) 264-8735 View (636) 264-8735

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Melissa Weber, MS, NCC, PLPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Melissa Weber
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC, PLPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Fenton, MO 63026
My clients often describe me as having a warm and calming presence. I work with individuals navigating the difficulties and complexities in life, clients managing depression, anxiety, and significant life transitions such as divorce, grief, career changes, and relationship challenges. My background includes extensive work in domestic and sexual abuse and I value a compassionate focus on trauma work.
My clients often describe me as having a warm and calming presence. I work with individuals navigating the difficulties and complexities in life, clients managing depression, anxiety, and significant life transitions such as divorce, grief, career changes, and relationship challenges. My background includes extensive work in domestic and sexual abuse and I value a compassionate focus on trauma work.
(314) 710-2870 View (314) 710-2870
Photo of Gina Rivera Sokolich Emdr Brainspotting Narcissist Abuse, MA, LPC, CTP, BCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gina Rivera Sokolich Emdr Brainspotting Narcissist Abuse
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CTP, BCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ballwin, MO 63011
Go ahead and make the call, let's get started on you feeling complete! I see adults from age 18 and over that suffer from grief of a significant loss, or complex trauma and those that are victims of narcissist abuse.
Let’s talk about why you're attracted to specific types people, why you sometimes find yourself stuck in repetitive relationship patterns, and why you often hesitate to build connections even with well-intentioned people. With my help, you don't have to remain trapped in these relentless patterns. Join me for an EMDR or Brainspotting Intensive This means we have a longer session time and can do more work to get you feeling better sooner. Get so much more done in a shorter amount of time! It's time for you to feel better! Don't wait any longer, call now!
Go ahead and make the call, let's get started on you feeling complete! I see adults from age 18 and over that suffer from grief of a significant loss, or complex trauma and those that are victims of narcissist abuse.
Let’s talk about why you're attracted to specific types people, why you sometimes find yourself stuck in repetitive relationship patterns, and why you often hesitate to build connections even with well-intentioned people. With my help, you don't have to remain trapped in these relentless patterns. Join me for an EMDR or Brainspotting Intensive This means we have a longer session time and can do more work to get you feeling better sooner. Get so much more done in a shorter amount of time! It's time for you to feel better! Don't wait any longer, call now!
(314) 207-4172 View (314) 207-4172
Photo of Maryanne Fowler, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maryanne Fowler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Fenton, MO 63026
My clients have seen positive, long-lasting results with such issues as anxiety, stress, depression, codependency, relationships, abuse, traumatic events, childhood issues, grief and loss, self-worth, women's issues, and marriage and family dynamics.
It is my passion to help clients experience restoration and refreshment for empowerment of spirit, soul, and body. Let your journey to healing and wholeness be guided by a counselor with wisdom and compassion. I have extensive experience working with individuals, couples, families, and groups in a variety of counseling specialties.
My clients have seen positive, long-lasting results with such issues as anxiety, stress, depression, codependency, relationships, abuse, traumatic events, childhood issues, grief and loss, self-worth, women's issues, and marriage and family dynamics.
It is my passion to help clients experience restoration and refreshment for empowerment of spirit, soul, and body. Let your journey to healing and wholeness be guided by a counselor with wisdom and compassion. I have extensive experience working with individuals, couples, families, and groups in a variety of counseling specialties.
(314) 400-7036 View (314) 400-7036
Photo of Norinee Thomas, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Norinee Thomas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ballwin, MO 63011
I have provided individual and group counseling for varies populations such as, the homeless, substance abuse, domestic violence, sexual assault and LGBTQIA+ communities.
My Ideal client is you! I work well with varies populations to ensure understanding, empathy and process in all my sessions.
I have provided individual and group counseling for varies populations such as, the homeless, substance abuse, domestic violence, sexual assault and LGBTQIA+ communities.
My Ideal client is you! I work well with varies populations to ensure understanding, empathy and process in all my sessions.
(314) 742-7544 View (314) 742-7544
Photo of Christine Rothrock, MA, LPC
Christine Rothrock
MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arnold, MO 63010
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, who does individual counseling working with adults. I work with clients struggling with domestic violence with an emphasis on narcissistic abuse, trauma, PTSD, relationship issues, adjustment issues, and attachment issues. I am eclectic in my approach depending on what the client's needs are. Some of the approaches I use are CBT, TF-CBT, Psychoanalytic theory, Art Therapy, Inner Child Work, and attachment based therapy. It's important to me offer clients a nonjudgmental space to be able to heal and meet their goals.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, who does individual counseling working with adults. I work with clients struggling with domestic violence with an emphasis on narcissistic abuse, trauma, PTSD, relationship issues, adjustment issues, and attachment issues. I am eclectic in my approach depending on what the client's needs are. Some of the approaches I use are CBT, TF-CBT, Psychoanalytic theory, Art Therapy, Inner Child Work, and attachment based therapy. It's important to me offer clients a nonjudgmental space to be able to heal and meet their goals.
(636) 389-4955 View (636) 389-4955
Photo of Alicia Seidler, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alicia Seidler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63128
I have worked in a variety of settings: Saint Louis County court, assisting victims of crime and those in domestic violence situations, Saint Louis City as the director of a psychiatric group home, serving those with addictions, severe mental illness, and homelessness, and now as the founder of a thriving business.
I seek to do whatever possible to help you feel safe in counseling. The relationship between you and I needs to be one that feels warm, inviting, non-judgmental, and encouraging. From the safety of this relationship, you can then feel supported enough to grieve what has been lost and push to fight for the things that have been taken from your life.
I have worked in a variety of settings: Saint Louis County court, assisting victims of crime and those in domestic violence situations, Saint Louis City as the director of a psychiatric group home, serving those with addictions, severe mental illness, and homelessness, and now as the founder of a thriving business.
I seek to do whatever possible to help you feel safe in counseling. The relationship between you and I needs to be one that feels warm, inviting, non-judgmental, and encouraging. From the safety of this relationship, you can then feel supported enough to grieve what has been lost and push to fight for the things that have been taken from your life.
(314) 696-6125 View (314) 696-6125
Photo of Daniel J Christy, LPC, CEAP, SAP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Daniel J Christy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CEAP, SAP
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63122
I am also CEAP (Certified Employee Assistance Professional) certified and SAP (substance abuse professional) certified.
I take a compassionate approach to counseling focusing on your needs and assisting you with attaining your goals. I practice an eclectic approach utilizing various techniques to best fit you. I enjoy helping you find your inner strength and resiliency that can help you overcome life's problems. I have experience working with people to overcome anxiety issues, substance abuse, and work-life balance. If you want to get the most out of life, overcome your difficulties and reframe negative thoughts so that you can see the positive, I would love to help you.
I am also CEAP (Certified Employee Assistance Professional) certified and SAP (substance abuse professional) certified.
I take a compassionate approach to counseling focusing on your needs and assisting you with attaining your goals. I practice an eclectic approach utilizing various techniques to best fit you. I enjoy helping you find your inner strength and resiliency that can help you overcome life's problems. I have experience working with people to overcome anxiety issues, substance abuse, and work-life balance. If you want to get the most out of life, overcome your difficulties and reframe negative thoughts so that you can see the positive, I would love to help you.
(314) 526-3693 View (314) 526-3693
Photo of Sameera Malik, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sameera Malik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kirkwood, MO 63122
I am also trained specifically to work with survivors of all types of abuse.
Are you working really hard at life without the outcomes you want? It can feel exhausting. Without the ability to effectively manage and cope with life's demands, a person's world can become a place filled with missed opportunities and experiences; a place of unrelenting anxiety, suffering and feelings of isolation. Change is hard and change is possibIe. It's about learning skills to do differently to live differently in a manner of your choosing. I'm a therapist who uses behavior-focused, outcome-driven treatments to address the symptoms of ADHD, OCD, PTSD, anorexia, abuse, anxiety and depression to increase quality in your life.
I am also trained specifically to work with survivors of all types of abuse.
Are you working really hard at life without the outcomes you want? It can feel exhausting. Without the ability to effectively manage and cope with life's demands, a person's world can become a place filled with missed opportunities and experiences; a place of unrelenting anxiety, suffering and feelings of isolation. Change is hard and change is possibIe. It's about learning skills to do differently to live differently in a manner of your choosing. I'm a therapist who uses behavior-focused, outcome-driven treatments to address the symptoms of ADHD, OCD, PTSD, anorexia, abuse, anxiety and depression to increase quality in your life.
(314) 254-9288 View (314) 254-9288
Photo of Tommy Nolan, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tommy Nolan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63127
Welcome, fellow Travelers---on the journey to your new beginnings! I enjoy working with clients from a wide variety of backgrounds and have experience in both hospital and school settings, in addition to private practice. My background includes working with survivors of abuse, those dealing with depression and anxiety, individuals working through grief and other life transitions. If you are ready to explore the next destination on your life journey, please contact me!
Welcome, fellow Travelers---on the journey to your new beginnings! I enjoy working with clients from a wide variety of backgrounds and have experience in both hospital and school settings, in addition to private practice. My background includes working with survivors of abuse, those dealing with depression and anxiety, individuals working through grief and other life transitions. If you are ready to explore the next destination on your life journey, please contact me!
(314) 300-0335 View (314) 300-0335
Photo of Jennifer Morgan, MA, LPC, BCPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Morgan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, BCPCC
Verified Verified
Sappington, MO 63128
I consider divorce, emotional/psychological abuse, and anxiety my specialties.
My focus is developing a relationship with my clients that becomes the foundation for transformation. My work is guided by the belief that much in life is related to the core need of knowing and being known. After addressing physical needs & causes, I often lean into the idea that our thoughts are part of what cause our feelings and behaviors. If we are able to change the way we think about the world, we will be able to change the way we feel and act. Most importantly, having someone who cares walk along side you can make all the difference in the world. Change isn't easy, but seeking help means you don't have to do it alone.
I consider divorce, emotional/psychological abuse, and anxiety my specialties.
My focus is developing a relationship with my clients that becomes the foundation for transformation. My work is guided by the belief that much in life is related to the core need of knowing and being known. After addressing physical needs & causes, I often lean into the idea that our thoughts are part of what cause our feelings and behaviors. If we are able to change the way we think about the world, we will be able to change the way we feel and act. Most importantly, having someone who cares walk along side you can make all the difference in the world. Change isn't easy, but seeking help means you don't have to do it alone.
(314) 828-1408 View (314) 828-1408
Photo of Jessica Street, MSW, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Street
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Manchester, MO 63021
Whether you are struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, or relationship issues, I provide a compassionate space for self-discovery, growth, and healing. I work with adults and teens to help them overcome obstacles to find freedom from symptoms that keep them from meeting their full potential. I often work with individuals who have experienced trauma, grief and loss, and abuse. In addition, I work with those experiencing anxiety, depression, parenting problems, and issues with self-worth. Together, we will work to build your unique path to wellness.
Whether you are struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, or relationship issues, I provide a compassionate space for self-discovery, growth, and healing. I work with adults and teens to help them overcome obstacles to find freedom from symptoms that keep them from meeting their full potential. I often work with individuals who have experienced trauma, grief and loss, and abuse. In addition, I work with those experiencing anxiety, depression, parenting problems, and issues with self-worth. Together, we will work to build your unique path to wellness.
(636) 452-5662 View (636) 452-5662
Photo of Carey DeLargy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carey DeLargy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ballwin, MO 63011
I always provide trauma-informed care and have specialized in the area of intimate partner violence for most of my career.
I believe we all deserve to feel safe and fulfilled in life, and I strive to help you achieve this through your therapeutic journey. Together we will explore your unique history, challenges and goals so that you can ultimately be the best version of yourself. I help clients who struggle with Depression, Anxiety, Relationship Issues or Trauma. I want to create a space for you that is compassionate, free of judgment and inspires change. I consider you the expert on your life and want to use the therapeutic process to help you overcome life's challenges, both big and small.
I always provide trauma-informed care and have specialized in the area of intimate partner violence for most of my career.
I believe we all deserve to feel safe and fulfilled in life, and I strive to help you achieve this through your therapeutic journey. Together we will explore your unique history, challenges and goals so that you can ultimately be the best version of yourself. I help clients who struggle with Depression, Anxiety, Relationship Issues or Trauma. I want to create a space for you that is compassionate, free of judgment and inspires change. I consider you the expert on your life and want to use the therapeutic process to help you overcome life's challenges, both big and small.
(636) 597-6583 View (636) 597-6583
Photo of Melissa Timmermann, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Timmermann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ballwin, MO 63011
I provide virtual and in-person sessions for adults, teens & children struggling with anxiety, depression, low self esteem, stress, addiction/substance abuse, life transitions, and trauma.
You are allowed to take care of yourself and be your first priority. You don't have to wait until you're struggling, exhausted or burnt out to tend to your wellbeing. Self care is a prevention strategy. If you struggle with anxiety, depression, shame, anger or trauma that effects your health or relationships. Lets spark change in a safe space by healing wounds, uncovering patterns that no longer serve you, and explore how history impacts the present. You have the ability to adjust the lens through which you view the world and yourself. Your life challenges are opportunities for growth and learning.
I provide virtual and in-person sessions for adults, teens & children struggling with anxiety, depression, low self esteem, stress, addiction/substance abuse, life transitions, and trauma.
You are allowed to take care of yourself and be your first priority. You don't have to wait until you're struggling, exhausted or burnt out to tend to your wellbeing. Self care is a prevention strategy. If you struggle with anxiety, depression, shame, anger or trauma that effects your health or relationships. Lets spark change in a safe space by healing wounds, uncovering patterns that no longer serve you, and explore how history impacts the present. You have the ability to adjust the lens through which you view the world and yourself. Your life challenges are opportunities for growth and learning.
(636) 442-1814 View (636) 442-1814
Photo of Heather Gargis, MA, LPC, SEP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heather Gargis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ellisville, MO 63011
I work with adults 23+ to help with issues such as: Trauma, PTSD, Survivors of Sexual Abuse, Assault, & Rape, Dissociative Disorders, Anxiety, Depression etc.
Heather (she/her) practices a holistic approach when working with clients. She desires for every client to know they have a voice, and their story is important. Heather offers a safe place where clients can find authentic healing by engaging with their story and helping their mind and body to recognize that the old threat has passed. It is safe to live in the present reality. Heather walks with clients to help them understand, experience, and accept the reality of life – with all of its desires and sorrows – and leads them to a life of healing and flourishing.
I work with adults 23+ to help with issues such as: Trauma, PTSD, Survivors of Sexual Abuse, Assault, & Rape, Dissociative Disorders, Anxiety, Depression etc.
Heather (she/her) practices a holistic approach when working with clients. She desires for every client to know they have a voice, and their story is important. Heather offers a safe place where clients can find authentic healing by engaging with their story and helping their mind and body to recognize that the old threat has passed. It is safe to live in the present reality. Heather walks with clients to help them understand, experience, and accept the reality of life – with all of its desires and sorrows – and leads them to a life of healing and flourishing.
(540) 518-0157 View (540) 518-0157
Photo of Kelly S Diller, LPC, MAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelly S Diller
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MAC
Verified Verified
Ballwin, MO 63021
Waitlist for new clients
Healing through EMDR has provided relief from symptoms of disturbing memories, sudden accidents and deaths, panic attacks, abuse, anxieties, pain disorders, and more.
Kelly brings deep compassion and understanding to the counseling experience and walks with her clients through changes that are meaningful and long-lasting. She is passionate about helping women heal from abuse and betrayal, and she recognizes the importance of instilling hope for desired change with regard to relationships and other goals. She loves to work with relationships, anxiety, self-esteem, family counseling, adolescents, identity issues, grief, trauma, depression, anger, and spiritual struggles. Kelly assists her clients in understanding the full context of their situations and she speaks truth in love.
Healing through EMDR has provided relief from symptoms of disturbing memories, sudden accidents and deaths, panic attacks, abuse, anxieties, pain disorders, and more.
Kelly brings deep compassion and understanding to the counseling experience and walks with her clients through changes that are meaningful and long-lasting. She is passionate about helping women heal from abuse and betrayal, and she recognizes the importance of instilling hope for desired change with regard to relationships and other goals. She loves to work with relationships, anxiety, self-esteem, family counseling, adolescents, identity issues, grief, trauma, depression, anger, and spiritual struggles. Kelly assists her clients in understanding the full context of their situations and she speaks truth in love.
(314) 219-1724 View (314) 219-1724
Photo of Monica Uthlaut, LCSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Monica Uthlaut
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kirkwood, MO 63122
*My specialties include: healing trauma through neuroscience; Somatic EMDR; Natural Processing (somatic/body work - a "bottom up" strategy for effectively healing a dysregulated nervous system and trauma, which often presents like "anxiety/depression/mood symptoms"); holistic and integrative nutritional wellness; narcissistic abuse; domestic violence.
Unbeknownst to many, the stigma associated with therapy is lifting. Society is learning and realizing overall health needs to be a non-negotiable. My passion lies in supporting/educating clients on what trauma actually is (and is not) and how to effectively heal. My ideal client is ready to do some hard work and is willing to be challenged. You are curious and brave enough to look inside and identify road blocks, get honest with self, work on vulnerability, improve awareness, and face your fears. Together, we will identify and dig out the roots that no longer serve you and cultivate a healthier and more fulfilling path.
*My specialties include: healing trauma through neuroscience; Somatic EMDR; Natural Processing (somatic/body work - a "bottom up" strategy for effectively healing a dysregulated nervous system and trauma, which often presents like "anxiety/depression/mood symptoms"); holistic and integrative nutritional wellness; narcissistic abuse; domestic violence.
Unbeknownst to many, the stigma associated with therapy is lifting. Society is learning and realizing overall health needs to be a non-negotiable. My passion lies in supporting/educating clients on what trauma actually is (and is not) and how to effectively heal. My ideal client is ready to do some hard work and is willing to be challenged. You are curious and brave enough to look inside and identify road blocks, get honest with self, work on vulnerability, improve awareness, and face your fears. Together, we will identify and dig out the roots that no longer serve you and cultivate a healthier and more fulfilling path.
(314) 310-3429 View (314) 310-3429

See more therapy options for High 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.