Domestic Abuse Therapists in Hawthorne, NJ

Photo of Life Focus Center, Pastoral Counselor
Life Focus Center
Pastoral Counselor
Verified Verified
Hawthorne, NJ 07506
Common issues are: depression, anxiety, stress, marital/relationships, addictions, codepedency, self-image & self-worth, abuse, spiritual concerns, loss of faith, etc.
At LFC our core values are described in the acronym of R.E.A.C.H. R = Relationships: building a healthy relationship with Jesus to have healthy relationship with others. E = Empathy & Compassion: all our counselors have experienced their own trials and tribulations in life. A = Acceptance: We believe God created us all uniquely and all individuals respond differently to their environment, others and situations. C = Confidentiality: confidentiality is of utmost importance. H = Healing: the ultimate goal in our counseling is to bring healing to mind, body and spirit.
Common issues are: depression, anxiety, stress, marital/relationships, addictions, codepedency, self-image & self-worth, abuse, spiritual concerns, loss of faith, etc.
At LFC our core values are described in the acronym of R.E.A.C.H. R = Relationships: building a healthy relationship with Jesus to have healthy relationship with others. E = Empathy & Compassion: all our counselors have experienced their own trials and tribulations in life. A = Acceptance: We believe God created us all uniquely and all individuals respond differently to their environment, others and situations. C = Confidentiality: confidentiality is of utmost importance. H = Healing: the ultimate goal in our counseling is to bring healing to mind, body and spirit.
(201) 788-4285 View (201) 788-4285
Photo of Rachel Antler, MEd, LAC, NCC, Counselor
Rachel Antler
Counselor, MEd, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hawthorne, NJ 07506
Navigating life’s more difficult challenges can feel overwhelming at times. There are many paths to achieving a more fulfilling life, and there is no “one size fits all” method for counseling. I believe in applying a variety of counseling theories and techniques to meet each client’s individual needs and goals. A strong therapeutic relationship built on trust, empathy and understanding is paramount in an effective counseling partnership, and I take great pride in creating an open and welcoming space for my clients.
Navigating life’s more difficult challenges can feel overwhelming at times. There are many paths to achieving a more fulfilling life, and there is no “one size fits all” method for counseling. I believe in applying a variety of counseling theories and techniques to meet each client’s individual needs and goals. A strong therapeutic relationship built on trust, empathy and understanding is paramount in an effective counseling partnership, and I take great pride in creating an open and welcoming space for my clients.
(862) 319-8567 View (862) 319-8567
Photo of Esther Denise Meza - Families and Communities United, LLC, JD, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Families and Communities United, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hawthorne, NJ 07506
Hello, we are a private practice group providing a number of services to our communities. We offer counseling services for adolescents, adults, and seniors. Whether you are dealing with a chronic mental illness or a temporary life challenge, we are here to partner with you to help you achieve your clinical goals. Additionally, we are CSOC provider and offer in-home/ community services to families and children experiencing challenges/crises in their lives. Lastly, we offer evaluations for various immigration petitions.
Hello, we are a private practice group providing a number of services to our communities. We offer counseling services for adolescents, adults, and seniors. Whether you are dealing with a chronic mental illness or a temporary life challenge, we are here to partner with you to help you achieve your clinical goals. Additionally, we are CSOC provider and offer in-home/ community services to families and children experiencing challenges/crises in their lives. Lastly, we offer evaluations for various immigration petitions.
(973) 791-8873 View (973) 791-8873
Photo of Matthew Baertschi, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matthew Baertschi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hawthorne, NJ 07506
Hello, and welcome to my page! Are you struggling with low mood, worry, or motivation? I know that the first step is always the hardest. I am a warm and empathetic Licensed Social Worker who works with adults, teenagers, depression and anxiety, current or historical family conflict, trauma, and relationship issues.
Hello, and welcome to my page! Are you struggling with low mood, worry, or motivation? I know that the first step is always the hardest. I am a warm and empathetic Licensed Social Worker who works with adults, teenagers, depression and anxiety, current or historical family conflict, trauma, and relationship issues.
(862) 259-6357 View (862) 259-6357

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Larisa Mezhiborsky, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Larisa Mezhiborsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fair Lawn, NJ 07410
Specializing in working with adults, I am dedicated to supporting those grappling with various challenges, including anxiety, depression, OCD, relationship issues, as well as experiences of abuse and trauma.
Starting from the stresses of everyday life, trauma, or relationship issues, I am committed to providing compassionate and effective therapy to individuals seeking support and healing. As a mental health professional, I understand the profound impact that life's challenges can have on one's well-being and sense of self. I'm here to help you navigate these emotions and provide you with the tools for a happier life. I believe in the humanistic approach and draw on empathy and compassion to establish a safe, nurturing, non-judgmental, and comfortable therapeutic environment.
Specializing in working with adults, I am dedicated to supporting those grappling with various challenges, including anxiety, depression, OCD, relationship issues, as well as experiences of abuse and trauma.
Starting from the stresses of everyday life, trauma, or relationship issues, I am committed to providing compassionate and effective therapy to individuals seeking support and healing. As a mental health professional, I understand the profound impact that life's challenges can have on one's well-being and sense of self. I'm here to help you navigate these emotions and provide you with the tools for a happier life. I believe in the humanistic approach and draw on empathy and compassion to establish a safe, nurturing, non-judgmental, and comfortable therapeutic environment.
(732) 629-9741 View (732) 629-9741
Photo of Lucia Fernandez, MS, LMFT, PPSC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lucia Fernandez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, PPSC
Verified Verified
Paterson, NJ 07501  (Online Only)
I specialize in grief and loss, depression, anxiety, abuse, identity, and relationship issues.
Life can be very difficult and is often accompanied by many challenges. The feelings accompanied by these challenging times can be felt very intensely often hindering us in other aspects of our life. By exploring the challenges together, I want to help you find ways to tackle them and guide you towards a path of enjoying life and experiencing joy. I want to help you explore difficult times and find meaning in life, to empower you, and feel a sense of control that you might be yearning for. I want to help you move in a positive direction to feel worthy of the life you deserve.
I specialize in grief and loss, depression, anxiety, abuse, identity, and relationship issues.
Life can be very difficult and is often accompanied by many challenges. The feelings accompanied by these challenging times can be felt very intensely often hindering us in other aspects of our life. By exploring the challenges together, I want to help you find ways to tackle them and guide you towards a path of enjoying life and experiencing joy. I want to help you explore difficult times and find meaning in life, to empower you, and feel a sense of control that you might be yearning for. I want to help you move in a positive direction to feel worthy of the life you deserve.
(626) 602-1501 View (626) 602-1501
Photo of Jessica Nick, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Nick
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Fair Lawn, NJ 07410  (Online Only)
I also provide therapeutic treatment for those who have been victims of sexual, physical, and/or emotional abuse.
People need solutions that work in real life. What I love most about the work I do, is that although I initially see people when they feel challenged or confused, as we work together they find courage, develop new skills, and feel more confident about themselves and in their lives. I have a passion for helping others, and with my insight and creative approach, I am able to help people to make profound, positive life changes. The purpose of my practice is to provide a trustworthy, non-judgmental space for exploration, and reflection.
I also provide therapeutic treatment for those who have been victims of sexual, physical, and/or emotional abuse.
People need solutions that work in real life. What I love most about the work I do, is that although I initially see people when they feel challenged or confused, as we work together they find courage, develop new skills, and feel more confident about themselves and in their lives. I have a passion for helping others, and with my insight and creative approach, I am able to help people to make profound, positive life changes. The purpose of my practice is to provide a trustworthy, non-judgmental space for exploration, and reflection.
(201) 512-8995 View (201) 512-8995
Photo of Cynthia Boucher, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cynthia Boucher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Paterson, NJ 07501
Specifically, I've worked with individuals possessing a history of trauma, abuse, domestic violence, anxiety, adjustment difficulties, relationship issues, and depression.
I believe that everyone should live their life without judgement, fear or distress. Developing trust with your therapist is the most important first step in a therapeutic relationship. Once trust and rapport has been established, I will work with you to develop the goals of therapy. If you are having difficulties with a past trauma, abuse, neglect, domestic violence, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and career or life transitions. I am here to help you build management and coping skills. A vast majority of my experience has been working with individuals that have an array of social and behavioral difficulties.
Specifically, I've worked with individuals possessing a history of trauma, abuse, domestic violence, anxiety, adjustment difficulties, relationship issues, and depression.
I believe that everyone should live their life without judgement, fear or distress. Developing trust with your therapist is the most important first step in a therapeutic relationship. Once trust and rapport has been established, I will work with you to develop the goals of therapy. If you are having difficulties with a past trauma, abuse, neglect, domestic violence, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and career or life transitions. I am here to help you build management and coping skills. A vast majority of my experience has been working with individuals that have an array of social and behavioral difficulties.
(646) 576-7843 View (646) 576-7843
Photo of Sally Attia, LCSW, EMDR, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sally Attia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR, SEP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Paterson, NJ 07504  (Online Only)
Specializing in working with individuals who have experienced trauma, my focus here is two fold: childhood abuse (victims) and coping problems.
Hello there brave one! My diverse background and experience enables me to be very comfortable counseling different groups of people. My passion is to help you restore your inner peace with your thoughts and feelings. I aim to strengthen you by building awareness and resiliency as you face life’s challenges. Providing meaningful and effective clinical interventions/treatments through individual and/ or group therapy will transform lives, empower, and instill hope in the lives of each individual.
Specializing in working with individuals who have experienced trauma, my focus here is two fold: childhood abuse (victims) and coping problems.
Hello there brave one! My diverse background and experience enables me to be very comfortable counseling different groups of people. My passion is to help you restore your inner peace with your thoughts and feelings. I aim to strengthen you by building awareness and resiliency as you face life’s challenges. Providing meaningful and effective clinical interventions/treatments through individual and/ or group therapy will transform lives, empower, and instill hope in the lives of each individual.
(732) 629-9663 View (732) 629-9663
Photo of Amal Elrafei, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amal Elrafei
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wayne, NJ 07470
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, by the State Board of Marriage and Family Therapy Examiners of the State of New Jersey. I hold a Master degree in Clinical Counseling from William Paterson University. Providing a supportive and safe space for the process of healing to occur is of the utmost importance to me as a therapist. I serve adults who may be struggling with mood and/or personality disorders. Those include but are not limited to: depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders including PTSD, substance use, grief and loss, self-growth, relationships and interpersonal stressors and domestic violence.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, by the State Board of Marriage and Family Therapy Examiners of the State of New Jersey. I hold a Master degree in Clinical Counseling from William Paterson University. Providing a supportive and safe space for the process of healing to occur is of the utmost importance to me as a therapist. I serve adults who may be struggling with mood and/or personality disorders. Those include but are not limited to: depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders including PTSD, substance use, grief and loss, self-growth, relationships and interpersonal stressors and domestic violence.
(862) 701-9344 View (862) 701-9344
Photo of Blerta Bena, LPC, LCADC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Blerta Bena
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC, NCC
Verified Verified
Glen Rock, NJ 07452  (Online Only)
I value working with clients from different age groups, gender, and cultural backgrounds. I am highly skilled in individual therapy. I possess extensive experience working with clients who have experienced severe trauma, abuse, and substance abuse dependence. In addition, I have had great success working with clients who are diagnosed with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and personality disorders. I find an integrative treatment approach works best. I like to explore how past experiences affect the clients' present lives. The goal is for clients to experience growth and more satisfying lives.
I value working with clients from different age groups, gender, and cultural backgrounds. I am highly skilled in individual therapy. I possess extensive experience working with clients who have experienced severe trauma, abuse, and substance abuse dependence. In addition, I have had great success working with clients who are diagnosed with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and personality disorders. I find an integrative treatment approach works best. I like to explore how past experiences affect the clients' present lives. The goal is for clients to experience growth and more satisfying lives.
(551) 266-5639 View (551) 266-5639
Photo of Deborah R Wagner, PhD, Psychologist
Deborah R Wagner
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fair Lawn, NJ 07410
I have served as a consultant for, advocated for and treated children in divorce and abuse situations-including legal, court, DCP&P and family issues.
In understanding that individuals in pain or having a particular challenge in life may make only one attempt at reaching out for help, I strive to welcome and set at ease every one who contacts me. Most therapy patients are ordinary people that have hit a bump in the road of life and cannot get past it on their own. My commitment, through goal directed therapy, is to help those people return to their optimal level of coping with the sometimes mild, sometimes severe challenges that life brings their way and guide them back to a sense of well being.
I have served as a consultant for, advocated for and treated children in divorce and abuse situations-including legal, court, DCP&P and family issues.
In understanding that individuals in pain or having a particular challenge in life may make only one attempt at reaching out for help, I strive to welcome and set at ease every one who contacts me. Most therapy patients are ordinary people that have hit a bump in the road of life and cannot get past it on their own. My commitment, through goal directed therapy, is to help those people return to their optimal level of coping with the sometimes mild, sometimes severe challenges that life brings their way and guide them back to a sense of well being.
(201) 875-3109 View (201) 875-3109
Photo of Susan Bergstol - Christian Counseling Center of NY & NJ, LLC. , MA, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christian Counseling Center of NY & NJ, LLC.
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Ridgewood, NJ 07451
Are you feeling stuck with ruminating intrusive thoughts and worries? Is anxiety or depression rearing its ugly head? Do you overthink and question yourself; you are not alone. Are you a victim of Sexual Abuse/Trauma? Or maybe you are unsure what the problem is, but you know you want and need help. Your peace and well-being are worth it.
Are you feeling stuck with ruminating intrusive thoughts and worries? Is anxiety or depression rearing its ugly head? Do you overthink and question yourself; you are not alone. Are you a victim of Sexual Abuse/Trauma? Or maybe you are unsure what the problem is, but you know you want and need help. Your peace and well-being are worth it.
(551) 366-8873 View (551) 366-8873
Photo of Elizabeth J Greenlee, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth J Greenlee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
Waitlist for new clients
I offer a healing environment in which to explore the difficult challenges presented by traumatic experiences; such as childhood abuse and neglect, domestic violence, divorce, sexual assault and grief and loss.
I help people access their potential. By empowering and supporting you, you will find freedom from the pain of old wounds, recovery from trauma and gain new ways of coping and relating. Central to this work will be the relationship between therapist and client, which evolves within a safe and compassionate space, within which you will find the courage to explore your concerns without feeling pushed or pathologized.
I offer a healing environment in which to explore the difficult challenges presented by traumatic experiences; such as childhood abuse and neglect, domestic violence, divorce, sexual assault and grief and loss.
I help people access their potential. By empowering and supporting you, you will find freedom from the pain of old wounds, recovery from trauma and gain new ways of coping and relating. Central to this work will be the relationship between therapist and client, which evolves within a safe and compassionate space, within which you will find the courage to explore your concerns without feeling pushed or pathologized.
(973) 529-8058 View (973) 529-8058
Photo of Jucelia Pitt, MSW, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jucelia Pitt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Glen Rock, NJ 07452
We will navigate the process together, trusting in your resilience and inner resources while maintaining the support you need as challenges arise, exploring and resolving your trauma history, especially survivors of neglect, physical and sexual abuse.
I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each individual's needs in a comfortable and supportive atmosphere. My training and experience includes individual, families and couples psychotherapy. If you're suffering from issues such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, low self-esteem, self-harm, loss, grief, couples issues, domestic abuse (male and female), divorce and addiction, you'll find a safe environment to uncover meaningful insights, move through challenging emotions, recover and flourish.
We will navigate the process together, trusting in your resilience and inner resources while maintaining the support you need as challenges arise, exploring and resolving your trauma history, especially survivors of neglect, physical and sexual abuse.
I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each individual's needs in a comfortable and supportive atmosphere. My training and experience includes individual, families and couples psychotherapy. If you're suffering from issues such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, low self-esteem, self-harm, loss, grief, couples issues, domestic abuse (male and female), divorce and addiction, you'll find a safe environment to uncover meaningful insights, move through challenging emotions, recover and flourish.
(201) 790-5235 View (201) 790-5235
Photo of Kristin Birchenough, LPC, LCADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristin Birchenough
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
Glen Rock, NJ 07452
I treat individuals with substance abuse issues, other addictions, anger, or trauma and those with loved ones who struggle with these.
Crisis is defined as a crucial stage or turning point, and my goal is to help you to effectively navigate this turning point in your life. Often people struggle to manage their intense emotions and have difficulty with relationships and managing life issues. I work with individuals, couples, and families to help reduce overall distress, develop more effective communication, and build or improve relationships. I am intensively trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) through Behavioral Tech, and identify targets and teach skills to reduce stress and intense emotions to maintain balance and build a life worth living, and use a DBT-informed approach to treatment.
I treat individuals with substance abuse issues, other addictions, anger, or trauma and those with loved ones who struggle with these.
Crisis is defined as a crucial stage or turning point, and my goal is to help you to effectively navigate this turning point in your life. Often people struggle to manage their intense emotions and have difficulty with relationships and managing life issues. I work with individuals, couples, and families to help reduce overall distress, develop more effective communication, and build or improve relationships. I am intensively trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) through Behavioral Tech, and identify targets and teach skills to reduce stress and intense emotions to maintain balance and build a life worth living, and use a DBT-informed approach to treatment.
(201) 383-6726 View (201) 383-6726
Photo of Dr. Melissa L Donahue, DSW, LCSW, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Melissa L Donahue
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Glen Rock, NJ 07452
Through her collective training from Rutgers University for her Doctorate and Boston University for her Master’s, coupled with over 25 years of clinical experience additionally in disabilities, geriatrics, maternal child health, oncology, & substance abuse, she can unveil the underlying issues and help you improve your life.
As a leader in sexual health and wellness, Dr. Donahue understands the complexities many people face in their lives and how it can impact their sexuality. All people are sexual beings, and their quality of life can suffer when experiencing challenges in this area. All ages, genders, ethnicities, and religious backgrounds can benefit from sex therapy. Dr. Donahue's broad spectrum of knowledge is advantageous when working with the whole patient, leaning into the body-mind connection.
Through her collective training from Rutgers University for her Doctorate and Boston University for her Master’s, coupled with over 25 years of clinical experience additionally in disabilities, geriatrics, maternal child health, oncology, & substance abuse, she can unveil the underlying issues and help you improve your life.
As a leader in sexual health and wellness, Dr. Donahue understands the complexities many people face in their lives and how it can impact their sexuality. All people are sexual beings, and their quality of life can suffer when experiencing challenges in this area. All ages, genders, ethnicities, and religious backgrounds can benefit from sex therapy. Dr. Donahue's broad spectrum of knowledge is advantageous when working with the whole patient, leaning into the body-mind connection.
(201) 688-7019 View (201) 688-7019
Photo of Julia Hochstadt, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julia Hochstadt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midland Park, NJ 07432
I have 20 years of expertise working with survivors of childhood sexual abuse, rape/sexual assault and domestic or family violence.
When people are considering therapy, often the hardest step is making a first phone call. I have deep respect for the process of choosing a therapist and value the steps one must undertake in order to find the perfect fit. My style of working is relational and psychodynamically informed and I believe that each therapeutic relationship is unique. This means that we will tailor your treatment to fit your needs and interests. The best outcomes are achieved when you feel comfortable with the person you are working with and together we will create a space that feels safe.
I have 20 years of expertise working with survivors of childhood sexual abuse, rape/sexual assault and domestic or family violence.
When people are considering therapy, often the hardest step is making a first phone call. I have deep respect for the process of choosing a therapist and value the steps one must undertake in order to find the perfect fit. My style of working is relational and psychodynamically informed and I believe that each therapeutic relationship is unique. This means that we will tailor your treatment to fit your needs and interests. The best outcomes are achieved when you feel comfortable with the person you are working with and together we will create a space that feels safe.
(201) 374-7444 View (201) 374-7444
Photo of Tanvi Mathew - Emerge- The Counseling & Coaching Center, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emerge- The Counseling & Coaching Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glen Rock, NJ 07452
At the center, clients can expect to learn how to live their best life. As a therapist and being involved in the field for 16 years, I've worked with adolescents, women and families through individual, family and group therapy. My expertise is working with individuals experiencing depression, self-esteem issues, history of abuse, generalized and social anxiety, anger management, stress management and trauma. I also provide coaching for women in their 20's -60's and help clients gain work/ life balance whether they're struggling in intimate or social relationship or in their careers. My approach is to not just to treat the symptoms, but get to the root of the problem.
At the center, clients can expect to learn how to live their best life. As a therapist and being involved in the field for 16 years, I've worked with adolescents, women and families through individual, family and group therapy. My expertise is working with individuals experiencing depression, self-esteem issues, history of abuse, generalized and social anxiety, anger management, stress management and trauma. I also provide coaching for women in their 20's -60's and help clients gain work/ life balance whether they're struggling in intimate or social relationship or in their careers. My approach is to not just to treat the symptoms, but get to the root of the problem.
(201) 345-1980 View (201) 345-1980
Photo of Kate Camisa, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kate Camisa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
Much of my work has been focused on working with survivors of domestic/interpersonal, family, and/or generational violence.
If we’ve lost hope for the future it can be difficult to see how to make lasting, positive changes. Experiencing a loss, a stressful/traumatic situation, or having difficulty managing intense emotion can lead to feeling defeated. We can also feel a sense of isolation when we are experiencing challenges with relationships, feeling unheard by the people closest to us, or feeling like we’re a burden to the ones we love.
Much of my work has been focused on working with survivors of domestic/interpersonal, family, and/or generational violence.
If we’ve lost hope for the future it can be difficult to see how to make lasting, positive changes. Experiencing a loss, a stressful/traumatic situation, or having difficulty managing intense emotion can lead to feeling defeated. We can also feel a sense of isolation when we are experiencing challenges with relationships, feeling unheard by the people closest to us, or feeling like we’re a burden to the ones we love.
(551) 282-9783 View (551) 282-9783

See more therapy options for Hawthorne

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.