Domestic Abuse Therapists in Ladue, MO
![Photo of Laila Merz, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/437e11ce-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Some of my specialty areas are Attachment- Based Issues, Anxiety and Depressive/ Mood Disorders, Addictions/Substance Abuse, Post Traumatic Disorders, Trauma, Obsessive Compulsive Disorders, Couples Therapy, Divorce, Women's Health Issues, Chronic Pain, Yoga, Somatic based Therapies, and Spirituality.
I went into the field of psychology because I love helping people transform to the best version of themselves. We all need a safe place to understand ourselves and how we relate to others/self. I often say "We need to be Mindful of our Total-Well Being and that our minds and our bodies are an inter-connected systems. Where the mind goes, so does the man or woman in their actions and body states. We go to the physician for our physical health, so how much healthier would we be if we went to our psychologist for our mental health?" At heart, I am a holistic practitioner and love seeing my clients Thrive.
Some of my specialty areas are Attachment- Based Issues, Anxiety and Depressive/ Mood Disorders, Addictions/Substance Abuse, Post Traumatic Disorders, Trauma, Obsessive Compulsive Disorders, Couples Therapy, Divorce, Women's Health Issues, Chronic Pain, Yoga, Somatic based Therapies, and Spirituality.
I went into the field of psychology because I love helping people transform to the best version of themselves. We all need a safe place to understand ourselves and how we relate to others/self. I often say "We need to be Mindful of our Total-Well Being and that our minds and our bodies are an inter-connected systems. Where the mind goes, so does the man or woman in their actions and body states. We go to the physician for our physical health, so how much healthier would we be if we went to our psychologist for our mental health?" At heart, I am a holistic practitioner and love seeing my clients Thrive.
![Photo of Amy Ziegler, LPC, JD, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/730ceba1-93e1-4b6c-980f-6f99b5e85c96/4/320x400.jpeg)
From my legal experience in domestic violence, divorce, and child custody, I can offer informed support.
My clients are experiencing conflict, emotional abuse, anxiety, addiction, depression, or grief. I see individuals and couples who are ready to change or are looking for help sorting out what to do. Some have been hurt deeply by a breach of trust. Others are dealing with devastating adult or childhood trauma. Through my training and professional background as an attorney and counselor, I help them find a path to recovery. Clients gain clarity and insight, and learn to manage anxiety, depression, grief, fear and traumatic memories. I am formally trained in CBT, EMDR, DBT and have taught couples counseling at the graduate level.
From my legal experience in domestic violence, divorce, and child custody, I can offer informed support.
My clients are experiencing conflict, emotional abuse, anxiety, addiction, depression, or grief. I see individuals and couples who are ready to change or are looking for help sorting out what to do. Some have been hurt deeply by a breach of trust. Others are dealing with devastating adult or childhood trauma. Through my training and professional background as an attorney and counselor, I help them find a path to recovery. Clients gain clarity and insight, and learn to manage anxiety, depression, grief, fear and traumatic memories. I am formally trained in CBT, EMDR, DBT and have taught couples counseling at the graduate level.
![Photo of Karen Lynn Becker, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c5a88e8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
I've worked with foreign and domestic adoptions and am experienced with the issues that arise.
Are you feeling alone, overwhelmed, or just trying hard to maintain? Are you struggling in a relationship? Are you frustrated by the day to day conflict with your teenager? Do unresolved painful memories keep you from the happy fulfilled life you were meant to live? Let's work together to find the answers you need. Counseling is the first step in regaining control of your life. As a therapist, I love working with people, finding out what is unique about them personally, and seeing how that can be used to work through difficult circumstances. .
I've worked with foreign and domestic adoptions and am experienced with the issues that arise.
Are you feeling alone, overwhelmed, or just trying hard to maintain? Are you struggling in a relationship? Are you frustrated by the day to day conflict with your teenager? Do unresolved painful memories keep you from the happy fulfilled life you were meant to live? Let's work together to find the answers you need. Counseling is the first step in regaining control of your life. As a therapist, I love working with people, finding out what is unique about them personally, and seeing how that can be used to work through difficult circumstances. .
![Photo of Ashley Rickert, MA, LCPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/70f7c9a7-bc97-4281-b0c2-6457c4f46468/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Rickert
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ladue, MO 63124
I believe that all clients deserve an open, safe, and non-judgmental space where they can explore stressors and other life situations. My goal is to foster a collaborative environment where clients can feel empowered and supported in their journey to healing. I use a variety of counseling techniques but I am very person-centered. While I have a wide range of experience working with people of all ages and needs, my expertise stressed working with children, ages 5 and up, teens, adults, and families with specializations in; anxiety, bullying, behavioral issues, depression, domestic violence, relational issues, and stress.
I believe that all clients deserve an open, safe, and non-judgmental space where they can explore stressors and other life situations. My goal is to foster a collaborative environment where clients can feel empowered and supported in their journey to healing. I use a variety of counseling techniques but I am very person-centered. While I have a wide range of experience working with people of all ages and needs, my expertise stressed working with children, ages 5 and up, teens, adults, and families with specializations in; anxiety, bullying, behavioral issues, depression, domestic violence, relational issues, and stress.
![Photo of Michael Deal, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bf0945d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
When working with individuals, I aim to help them through a collaborative process to understand the underlying issues that are causing them to not live up to their potential. The model which I employ assumes that many of our struggles are connected to conflicts within us of which we are not completely aware. I feel that therapy is most effective when the entire person's personality and history are considered instead of just focusing on current problematic behaviors. My work focuses on recognizing long standing relationship patterns that are troublesome as well as developing a more emotionally stable and adaptive personality.
When working with individuals, I aim to help them through a collaborative process to understand the underlying issues that are causing them to not live up to their potential. The model which I employ assumes that many of our struggles are connected to conflicts within us of which we are not completely aware. I feel that therapy is most effective when the entire person's personality and history are considered instead of just focusing on current problematic behaviors. My work focuses on recognizing long standing relationship patterns that are troublesome as well as developing a more emotionally stable and adaptive personality.
![Photo of Casey Limmer - St. Louis DBT, LLC, MSW, LCSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fa377e0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Many of the people who work with us are trying to find ways of controlling the emotions swirling around them, but it just feels like trying to grasp at sand in a sandstorm - the particles smacking them in the face, blurring their vision of the world, and causing them to flail about in futile attempts to stop the storm. Emotions similarly can cloud judgment and lead us to lash out in futile attempts to stop the pain. The more we try to control the whipping winds, the more energy we waste. We believe the key to surviving the storm is to accept its existence and skillfully cope with it.
Many of the people who work with us are trying to find ways of controlling the emotions swirling around them, but it just feels like trying to grasp at sand in a sandstorm - the particles smacking them in the face, blurring their vision of the world, and causing them to flail about in futile attempts to stop the storm. Emotions similarly can cloud judgment and lead us to lash out in futile attempts to stop the pain. The more we try to control the whipping winds, the more energy we waste. We believe the key to surviving the storm is to accept its existence and skillfully cope with it.
![Photo of Bayla M. Myer, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bf5262a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have over thirty-five years of experience treating individuals, couples, and families dealing with depression, anxiety disorders, marital discord, and family dysfunction. Changing oneself, therefore changing others around you, can lead to happier relationships. Understanding and insight can raise self-esteem. I provide a safe, confidential, and trusting environment to explore one's feelings and consider options to produce different and improved results. Video and telehealth sessions have been added to accommodate the COVID-19 safety protocols.
I have over thirty-five years of experience treating individuals, couples, and families dealing with depression, anxiety disorders, marital discord, and family dysfunction. Changing oneself, therefore changing others around you, can lead to happier relationships. Understanding and insight can raise self-esteem. I provide a safe, confidential, and trusting environment to explore one's feelings and consider options to produce different and improved results. Video and telehealth sessions have been added to accommodate the COVID-19 safety protocols.
![Photo of Cristina Marie Smugala, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bf466f05-3b04-46d8-99eb-72dd36ac744f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cristina Marie Smugala
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ladue, MO 63124 (Online Only)
My passion is to empathetically guide and support transformation of traumatic experience. I will empower you to face your fears, unburden toxic shame, heal traumatic wounds and help you reclaim the courage that you know is inside of you. The ability to have love, compassion and acceptance for yourself are powerful healing forces that I strive to ignite, recover and unlock in my clients. Through EMDR and Somatic Experiencing I focus on restoring a sense of calm, centered connectedness within the brain and body. I work to inspire courage, promote healing so you can embody radical acceptance, release fear and embrace authenticity.
My passion is to empathetically guide and support transformation of traumatic experience. I will empower you to face your fears, unburden toxic shame, heal traumatic wounds and help you reclaim the courage that you know is inside of you. The ability to have love, compassion and acceptance for yourself are powerful healing forces that I strive to ignite, recover and unlock in my clients. Through EMDR and Somatic Experiencing I focus on restoring a sense of calm, centered connectedness within the brain and body. I work to inspire courage, promote healing so you can embody radical acceptance, release fear and embrace authenticity.
![Photo of Peggy Levinson, LCSW, LMFT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f455229-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
With a professional style that blends warmth and caring, Peggy brings in-depth treatment skills and 40 years of experience to her work . A family systems and psychodynamically trained therapist, she devises systems of treatment based on the individual needs of her patients. Peggy has offered workshops at universities and hospitals across the Midwest, including Washington University and the United Way. From her initial work at a New York hospital to her current private practice, Peggy has shown genuine commitment to helping her clients reach their full potential, emphasizing the connection between body, mind, and spirit.
With a professional style that blends warmth and caring, Peggy brings in-depth treatment skills and 40 years of experience to her work . A family systems and psychodynamically trained therapist, she devises systems of treatment based on the individual needs of her patients. Peggy has offered workshops at universities and hospitals across the Midwest, including Washington University and the United Way. From her initial work at a New York hospital to her current private practice, Peggy has shown genuine commitment to helping her clients reach their full potential, emphasizing the connection between body, mind, and spirit.
![Photo of Larry E Shapiro Ph.d., PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52546fdb-38c9-4aea-8e3c-c084801eb105/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in the cognitive-behavioral treatment of anxiety and anxiety-related disorders, depression, trauma, combat trauma, PTSD, and life-cycle challenges like divorce and job/career change. Ideally, patients are interested in a direct, focused, and assertive approach to therapy and are willing to put in the time and effort between sessions to achieve their goals. I believe the goal in therapy must be to resolve the problem, not cope with it. If you've been frustrated by just talking and not doing, I may be able to help you make the changes you're wanting. I prefer to think of my work as psychological rehab rather than therapy.
I specialize in the cognitive-behavioral treatment of anxiety and anxiety-related disorders, depression, trauma, combat trauma, PTSD, and life-cycle challenges like divorce and job/career change. Ideally, patients are interested in a direct, focused, and assertive approach to therapy and are willing to put in the time and effort between sessions to achieve their goals. I believe the goal in therapy must be to resolve the problem, not cope with it. If you've been frustrated by just talking and not doing, I may be able to help you make the changes you're wanting. I prefer to think of my work as psychological rehab rather than therapy.
![Photo of Susan Wise, PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c88af67e-90a2-4115-a634-1726f9940c59/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you feel like you are fighting life’s stressors alone? Maybe you feel like you keep having the same drama and problems over and over. You have probably already listened to podcasts, read books, and talked to people about it. And you still feel lost and are unsure about how to get out of this cycle. Let me be your ally. I have over 30 years of experience helping people understand and overcome conditions like depression, anxiety, adhd, and eating disorders. In therapy, we will identify the underlying issues that are causing your stress and pain. And together, we will create a clear path towards your future.
Do you feel like you are fighting life’s stressors alone? Maybe you feel like you keep having the same drama and problems over and over. You have probably already listened to podcasts, read books, and talked to people about it. And you still feel lost and are unsure about how to get out of this cycle. Let me be your ally. I have over 30 years of experience helping people understand and overcome conditions like depression, anxiety, adhd, and eating disorders. In therapy, we will identify the underlying issues that are causing your stress and pain. And together, we will create a clear path towards your future.
![Photo of Erin Elking, PLPC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/19019db2-9634-4ab5-84d9-f5a73aecb45b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! I'm glad you found your way here! I'm a dedicated therapist with a passion for helping individuals live a life worth living. I hold a PLPC license and am supervised by an LPC. I have been endorsed by the National Board for Certified Counselors. My therapeutic approach is centered around creating a strong therapeutic alliance, practicing unconditional positive regard, empathy, and creating a space where you can feel vulnerable and validated as you work through challenges. I have developed a niche for working with self-harm, mood disorders, personality disorders, and trauma.
Welcome! I'm glad you found your way here! I'm a dedicated therapist with a passion for helping individuals live a life worth living. I hold a PLPC license and am supervised by an LPC. I have been endorsed by the National Board for Certified Counselors. My therapeutic approach is centered around creating a strong therapeutic alliance, practicing unconditional positive regard, empathy, and creating a space where you can feel vulnerable and validated as you work through challenges. I have developed a niche for working with self-harm, mood disorders, personality disorders, and trauma.
![Photo of Kris Wilson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ddf83897-e3bf-419c-922a-c675853de42a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Many of my clients have had previous experiences in therapy before reaching my office. They feel at the end of their rope as traditional talk therapy hasn't facilitated the changes they need. They often hear how resilient or insightful they are but struggle to feel closeness and safety in relationships or to access positive emotions. Or, they might have been told that the intensity of their emotions is too much for their therapist or loved ones to handle. Overall, they are looking for a therapist with an in-depth approach for their specific concerns, and are ready connect with a clinician who is invested in doing just that.
Many of my clients have had previous experiences in therapy before reaching my office. They feel at the end of their rope as traditional talk therapy hasn't facilitated the changes they need. They often hear how resilient or insightful they are but struggle to feel closeness and safety in relationships or to access positive emotions. Or, they might have been told that the intensity of their emotions is too much for their therapist or loved ones to handle. Overall, they are looking for a therapist with an in-depth approach for their specific concerns, and are ready connect with a clinician who is invested in doing just that.
![Photo of Jennifer Van Luven - West County Behavioral Health & Psychiatry, MSW, LCSW, CM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc6cf219-725f-46c1-a583-aa06a65e25bf/1/320x400.jpeg)
West County Behavioral Health & Psychiatry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CM
Verified Verified
Ladue, MO 63124
West County Behavioral Health offers comprehensive mental health services in a centrally located, welcoming Setting. Located off Olive Blvd (near 270 and 141), we are easily accessible from both St. Louis and St. Charles counties. Our therapists are well known as top-tier clinicians within the St. Louis metro area, and have exceptional reputations in the therapy community.
West County Behavioral Health offers comprehensive mental health services in a centrally located, welcoming Setting. Located off Olive Blvd (near 270 and 141), we are easily accessible from both St. Louis and St. Charles counties. Our therapists are well known as top-tier clinicians within the St. Louis metro area, and have exceptional reputations in the therapy community.
![Photo of Susan S Wolfe, MA, LPC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e220602-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Susan S Wolfe
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ladue, MO 63124
Not accepting new clients
I consider it a privilege to come alongside courageous clients in the areas of depression, anxiety, abuse, PTSD, as well as strained & broken relationships. I integrate Christian spirituality with IFS (Internal Family Systems), DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), EMDR, and attachment-based models of psychotherapy. I help clients connect what they "know" about God and living that knowledge out with the goal of a "head-heart" connection. Through this process, clients experience long-lasting healing as they learn to live in the freedom of authenticity.
I consider it a privilege to come alongside courageous clients in the areas of depression, anxiety, abuse, PTSD, as well as strained & broken relationships. I integrate Christian spirituality with IFS (Internal Family Systems), DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), EMDR, and attachment-based models of psychotherapy. I help clients connect what they "know" about God and living that knowledge out with the goal of a "head-heart" connection. Through this process, clients experience long-lasting healing as they learn to live in the freedom of authenticity.
![Photo of Kathy Dobbs, MSW, LCSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bfb981a5-ed0f-4de3-ba2b-2133635559fb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kathy Dobbs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ladue, MO 63124
Not accepting new clients
Therapy is a tool that has the potential to help you better manage a range of issues. Maybe you find yourself feeling so sad or anxious that it's taking the fun out of your life. Maybe your best just never feels good enough. Or you’re feeling depressed, lonely or angry and using a substance to cope. Maybe you've experienced trauma or abuse and you're struggling to move beyond the anger and pain. Or maybe you just feel like you need to talk to someone. If any of these describes you, let’s talk. I understand that seeking a consultation can feel overwhelming but while therapy can be hard work, it can also be very rewarding!
Therapy is a tool that has the potential to help you better manage a range of issues. Maybe you find yourself feeling so sad or anxious that it's taking the fun out of your life. Maybe your best just never feels good enough. Or you’re feeling depressed, lonely or angry and using a substance to cope. Maybe you've experienced trauma or abuse and you're struggling to move beyond the anger and pain. Or maybe you just feel like you need to talk to someone. If any of these describes you, let’s talk. I understand that seeking a consultation can feel overwhelming but while therapy can be hard work, it can also be very rewarding!
![Photo of Kyla Hadenfeldt, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/616143d4-9b95-491f-bec9-719adb4fdf49/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kyla Hadenfeldt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ladue, MO 63124 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Welcome! I'm glad you're here. Are you struggling with painful thoughts and emotions? Maybe the pandemic has created some new problems for you, or brought up old stuff. Or perhaps, you're doing okay in your day-to-day life, but have been wondering if therapy could help you do some deeper work. In any case, I'm here to help. I support folks in learning more effective ways to work through their emotional struggles, and creating a life of meaning, pleasure, and authenticity. I also enjoy working with folks on identity, life transitions, personal growth, and sexual self-empowerment.
Welcome! I'm glad you're here. Are you struggling with painful thoughts and emotions? Maybe the pandemic has created some new problems for you, or brought up old stuff. Or perhaps, you're doing okay in your day-to-day life, but have been wondering if therapy could help you do some deeper work. In any case, I'm here to help. I support folks in learning more effective ways to work through their emotional struggles, and creating a life of meaning, pleasure, and authenticity. I also enjoy working with folks on identity, life transitions, personal growth, and sexual self-empowerment.
More Therapists Nearby
Jean Stanton Caine, LCSW, LMFT, a Menninger trained family therapist, specializes in many issues affecting individuals and families i.e.: grief, illness, sexual and physical abuse, marital stress, child and adolescent problems. She has an eclectic researched approach in her family practice using both short term and long-term therapy.
Jean has been in practice for 25 years. She has been past president on St. Louis MAMFT board and the Missouri board of Family Therapy. She has taught for 20 years at Washington University. Jean does accept most insurance plans.
Jean Stanton Caine, LCSW, LMFT, a Menninger trained family therapist, specializes in many issues affecting individuals and families i.e.: grief, illness, sexual and physical abuse, marital stress, child and adolescent problems. She has an eclectic researched approach in her family practice using both short term and long-term therapy.
Jean has been in practice for 25 years. She has been past president on St. Louis MAMFT board and the Missouri board of Family Therapy. She has taught for 20 years at Washington University. Jean does accept most insurance plans.
![Photo of Julia Lee, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53b15830-f74f-4239-a851-7d261ffe5fa2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Areas of focus: LGBT, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Grief, Intimacy-related issues, Parenting issues, Depression, Compassion fatigue, ADHD, Attachment Issues, Autism, Codependency, Domestic Violence, Forgiveness, Guilt and Shame, Military and Veterans Issues, Narcissistic abuse, PTSD, Sexuality, Social Anxiety and more.
I am licensed in Missouri with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Areas of focus: LGBT, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Grief, Intimacy-related issues, Parenting issues, Depression, Compassion fatigue, ADHD, Attachment Issues, Autism, Codependency, Domestic Violence, Forgiveness, Guilt and Shame, Military and Veterans Issues, Narcissistic abuse, PTSD, Sexuality, Social Anxiety and more.
I am licensed in Missouri with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
![Photo of Kristie M Tyson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52112478-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
My commitment is to facilitate health and wellness as you deal with your life's situation or circumstance (anxiety, depression, trauma, abuse, life transitions, grief, and relationships).
During the human experience, we will have struggles along the way. There are times we don't understand our own actions. We decide to take one approach to solve our problems and find ourselves doing something opposite of what we intended on doing. It is in those moments that we ask ourselves "How did I get here?" As a counselor for over 16 years, I partner with people to find their answers and to unlock their solutions. I have a solution-focused approach that assists clients in reestablishing balance, developing coping skills, and educating them on techniques and strategies to improve their capabilities.
My commitment is to facilitate health and wellness as you deal with your life's situation or circumstance (anxiety, depression, trauma, abuse, life transitions, grief, and relationships).
During the human experience, we will have struggles along the way. There are times we don't understand our own actions. We decide to take one approach to solve our problems and find ourselves doing something opposite of what we intended on doing. It is in those moments that we ask ourselves "How did I get here?" As a counselor for over 16 years, I partner with people to find their answers and to unlock their solutions. I have a solution-focused approach that assists clients in reestablishing balance, developing coping skills, and educating them on techniques and strategies to improve their capabilities.
See more therapy options for Ladue
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Domestic Abuse Therapists
What are the most effective ways to recover from domestic abuse?
Leaving an abusive relationship requires tremendous courage, so survivors in treatment should recognize that they have already completed the most important step. Still, the trauma of physical or emotional abuse can be difficult to process and overcome. Therapy can help survivors process trauma, grief, and difficult emotions, treat relevant mental health symptoms, and create a new framework for boundaries and relationships in the future. For some, support groups can also be an invaluable outlet for healing.
When should an individual seek help for domestic abuse?
Victims of intimate partner violence should seek help immediately. It can take substantial time, planning, energy, and courage to leave an abusive relationship, but starting the process—by seeking therapy, calling the domestic violence hotline, or simply confiding in a loved one—will help them get there. Those who have left abusive relationships but haven’t sought treatment can also greatly benefit from therapy to process and heal from the experience.
What are the consequences of staying in an abusive relationship?
Remaining in an abusive relationship has serious repercussions. In addition to the ongoing threat of physical danger and emotional abuse, research shows that intimate partner violence is associated with a range of mental health disorders including depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and substance abuse. Therefore it’s important for individuals in an abusive relationship to seek help as soon as possible.
How can you get domestic abuse treatment for someone else?
It can be very complicated to identify and leave an abusive relationship; barriers include the threat of violence, financial instability, and family pressures. Those concerned about a loved one in an abusive relationship should talk to them about the situation, provide them with resources such as the domestic violence hotline, and introduce the idea of seeing a therapist due to their concern for the person’s safety and well-being.