Domestic Abuse Therapists in Tigard, OR
![Photo of Christine Mermilliod, MS, LPC, LMFT, NCC, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f6c7b7a5-3ebb-47bd-bb16-d5440e8b7d9f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christine Mermilliod
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LPC, LMFT, NCC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Tigard, OR 97224 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked extensively with adult trauma survivors, focusing primarily on domestic violence, sexual assault, and childhood abuse, and I strongly believe that it is possible to recover from traumatic experiences.
**PLEASE NOTE: I am not accepting new clients at this time.** I see clients virtually in New Mexico and Oregon. I work in: trauma recovery for survivors/witnesses of crime, domestic violence, childhood abuse, sexual assault, & traumatic death * Depression * Anxiety * Grief & loss * Women's issues * Assertiveness * Low self-esteem * Divorce & other life transitions * Meaning, fulfillment, mindfulness * Military service/family issues * Trans/Non-Binary/Gender Queer/Gender Non-Conforming * Adult Autism * Clients with non-mainstream family & social arrangements (LGBTQ, BDSM, Poly) & religions (e.g. Wicca) * Kink Aware Professional
I have worked extensively with adult trauma survivors, focusing primarily on domestic violence, sexual assault, and childhood abuse, and I strongly believe that it is possible to recover from traumatic experiences.
**PLEASE NOTE: I am not accepting new clients at this time.** I see clients virtually in New Mexico and Oregon. I work in: trauma recovery for survivors/witnesses of crime, domestic violence, childhood abuse, sexual assault, & traumatic death * Depression * Anxiety * Grief & loss * Women's issues * Assertiveness * Low self-esteem * Divorce & other life transitions * Meaning, fulfillment, mindfulness * Military service/family issues * Trans/Non-Binary/Gender Queer/Gender Non-Conforming * Adult Autism * Clients with non-mainstream family & social arrangements (LGBTQ, BDSM, Poly) & religions (e.g. Wicca) * Kink Aware Professional
![Photo of Hannah Fleckenstein, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/92435029-3539-4865-a5e8-3cf3dc9dcf5a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hannah Fleckenstein
Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97223
I come into the counseling field with over a decade of experience as a victim advocate.
I am passionate to work with those who have a strong desire to seek freedom from the negative impacts in the cycle of abuse and trauma. Many of my clients describe themselves as those who live with complex trauma, meaning they have experienced a number of compounding traumas throughout their lives. My goal is to create safety for my clients as they process their story while being met with compassion and strength to move forward into healing. Due to my previous career in crisis response I also find honor in supporting those who have experienced secondary trauma by way of first responder, service provider, or helper.
I come into the counseling field with over a decade of experience as a victim advocate.
I am passionate to work with those who have a strong desire to seek freedom from the negative impacts in the cycle of abuse and trauma. Many of my clients describe themselves as those who live with complex trauma, meaning they have experienced a number of compounding traumas throughout their lives. My goal is to create safety for my clients as they process their story while being met with compassion and strength to move forward into healing. Due to my previous career in crisis response I also find honor in supporting those who have experienced secondary trauma by way of first responder, service provider, or helper.
![Photo of Heleen Woest, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/131ab437-cbeb-4c08-af82-8966d8cde436/3/320x400.jpeg)
Heleen Woest
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97223
Waitlist for new clients
I am certified to meet the needs of clients who are survivors of domestic and intimate partner violence.
A strong connection with a therapist is crucial on your journey to healing, so I encourage you to look for a therapist that you like and can relate to. Please contact me for a free 15-minute phone consultation to find out if you and I are a good fit and to see if I can help you with the things that are hurting you or holding you back, Below are some of the concerns I often assist clients with.
I am certified to meet the needs of clients who are survivors of domestic and intimate partner violence.
A strong connection with a therapist is crucial on your journey to healing, so I encourage you to look for a therapist that you like and can relate to. Please contact me for a free 15-minute phone consultation to find out if you and I are a good fit and to see if I can help you with the things that are hurting you or holding you back, Below are some of the concerns I often assist clients with.
![Photo of Xiomara Raquel Sanchez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cbdc560-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Xiomara Raquel Sanchez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tigard, OR 97223
Waitlist for new clients
También tengo experiencia con casos de inmigración y violencia domestica.
I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) and bi-cultural licensed clinical social worker in Tigard, Oregon. I have many years of experience working with children and families. My areas of expertise include: sexual abuse cases, early childhood mental health, working with children and families exposed to traumatic events and family therapy. I like to facilitate groups for trauma survivors and also to work with adult survivors of sexual abuse. I particularly enjoy working with Latino families. I am very interested in reunification cases particularly working with children and families involved in the child welfare system.
También tengo experiencia con casos de inmigración y violencia domestica.
I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) and bi-cultural licensed clinical social worker in Tigard, Oregon. I have many years of experience working with children and families. My areas of expertise include: sexual abuse cases, early childhood mental health, working with children and families exposed to traumatic events and family therapy. I like to facilitate groups for trauma survivors and also to work with adult survivors of sexual abuse. I particularly enjoy working with Latino families. I am very interested in reunification cases particularly working with children and families involved in the child welfare system.
![Photo of Bekah Stines - Heartafire Counseling Services/Bekah Stines, LPC, MSPC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e3bfe447-14bf-4873-b66e-2c6d308df181/1/320x400.jpeg)
Heartafire Counseling Services/Bekah Stines, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSPC, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97223
We are a trauma clinic specializing in all types of abuse/trauma treatment, crime victims, and treatment of first responders.
At Heartafire, we realize that taking the first step to reach out for help can be a daunting one. If you find yourself struggling to manage life's challenges, the past keeps intruding into the present, or you feel yourself trying to manage your symptoms, but it isn't working - therapy can help! Together, we will collaborate on a plan to incorporate a variety of therapy modalities using evidence + strength-based approaches in order to individually meet your needs.
We are a trauma clinic specializing in all types of abuse/trauma treatment, crime victims, and treatment of first responders.
At Heartafire, we realize that taking the first step to reach out for help can be a daunting one. If you find yourself struggling to manage life's challenges, the past keeps intruding into the present, or you feel yourself trying to manage your symptoms, but it isn't working - therapy can help! Together, we will collaborate on a plan to incorporate a variety of therapy modalities using evidence + strength-based approaches in order to individually meet your needs.
![Photo of Kelsey McVeigh, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50ade60c-143b-44bd-9bf7-b540854ce983/2/320x400.png)
In my opinion, we all need a little therapy now and again! Just like our bodies need regular care and upkeep, and some extra support from a medical professional sometimes, our minds and internal selves need regular attention and support, as well. Therapy has a place for the proactive mental health seekers and those who have pain and vulnerabilities. I enjoy working with people who need support with depression, anxiety, stressful life circumstances and relationship issues, severe mental illness, childhood trauma, sexual abuse, and chronic pain. These are all areas where I've been able to help clients move forward in their lives.
In my opinion, we all need a little therapy now and again! Just like our bodies need regular care and upkeep, and some extra support from a medical professional sometimes, our minds and internal selves need regular attention and support, as well. Therapy has a place for the proactive mental health seekers and those who have pain and vulnerabilities. I enjoy working with people who need support with depression, anxiety, stressful life circumstances and relationship issues, severe mental illness, childhood trauma, sexual abuse, and chronic pain. These are all areas where I've been able to help clients move forward in their lives.
![Photo of Pamela Self, LCSW, CADCI, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/39d06bdb-39aa-46e5-a246-5b1fdda75831/1/320x400.jpeg)
Pamela Self
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADCI
Verified Verified
Tigard, OR 97223
Waitlist for new clients
I work with a variety of unique and extraordinary adults experiencing mental health challenges, including: Trauma/PTSD, Psychosis/Schizophrenia, Bipolar disorder, sexual abuse, first responders, aging, anxiety, anger management, attachment issues, behavioral issues, cognitive challenges, depression, domestic abuse, suicidal ideation, and self-harm.
In my experience as a mental health therapist, I have had the honor and privilege to be a part of a person’s life who is struggling with mental health. At a young age, I always had an interest and curiosity in the people I encountered in my life, and this continues to hold true to this day. I am continually amazed and inspired by the courage and resiliency of people. We are all in this beautiful life together and sometimes we just need additional support to help us navigate our complicated world. I am a “think outside the box” kind of therapist and will build treatment plans based upon your needs and what works for you.
I work with a variety of unique and extraordinary adults experiencing mental health challenges, including: Trauma/PTSD, Psychosis/Schizophrenia, Bipolar disorder, sexual abuse, first responders, aging, anxiety, anger management, attachment issues, behavioral issues, cognitive challenges, depression, domestic abuse, suicidal ideation, and self-harm.
In my experience as a mental health therapist, I have had the honor and privilege to be a part of a person’s life who is struggling with mental health. At a young age, I always had an interest and curiosity in the people I encountered in my life, and this continues to hold true to this day. I am continually amazed and inspired by the courage and resiliency of people. We are all in this beautiful life together and sometimes we just need additional support to help us navigate our complicated world. I am a “think outside the box” kind of therapist and will build treatment plans based upon your needs and what works for you.
![Photo of Robert B Anderson, LPC, CADCIII, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a3f493e1-2b1e-4a5b-8dfc-4bc54af35091/3/320x400.jpeg)
Robert B Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CADCIII, MA
Verified Verified
Tigard, OR 97223
My specialties include anxiety, depression, grief, loss, trauma and complex PTSD, life transitions, substance abuse and dependency, as well as adoption and attachment issues.
I enjoy working with people who seek both short term solution-focused therapy and those who choose to pursue longer term goals of personality change in the context of depth psychology. There are truly many paths to achieving significant relief from symptoms of loss, depression, and anxiety or a change in one's personal situation.
I view the therapeutic journey as Herodotus understood the original meaning of the word history (historous): not as a noun (i.e. a fixed thing) but a verb: literally to go and find out for one's self.
My specialties include anxiety, depression, grief, loss, trauma and complex PTSD, life transitions, substance abuse and dependency, as well as adoption and attachment issues.
I enjoy working with people who seek both short term solution-focused therapy and those who choose to pursue longer term goals of personality change in the context of depth psychology. There are truly many paths to achieving significant relief from symptoms of loss, depression, and anxiety or a change in one's personal situation.
I view the therapeutic journey as Herodotus understood the original meaning of the word history (historous): not as a noun (i.e. a fixed thing) but a verb: literally to go and find out for one's self.
![Photo of Deborah Lynn Harrison, MA, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c00a73bc-61cb-4d8f-b87a-51682363abe1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Deborah Lynn Harrison
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97224
I provide therapy for men and women around life transitions, grief, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, guilt and shame, recovering from physical or sexual abuse, trauma and PTSD, identity and self image, spiritual development and spiritual abuse. I personally and professionally understand the dynamics that accompany many of these life challenges. The art of counseling is in the sensitivity, presence, attunement and humility that a counselor demonstrates when building a relationship with a client.
I provide therapy for men and women around life transitions, grief, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, guilt and shame, recovering from physical or sexual abuse, trauma and PTSD, identity and self image, spiritual development and spiritual abuse. I personally and professionally understand the dynamics that accompany many of these life challenges. The art of counseling is in the sensitivity, presence, attunement and humility that a counselor demonstrates when building a relationship with a client.
![Photo of Florence Cripe, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b04952de-bec6-4a08-bffc-c0a7c74c71e1/1/320x400.jpeg)
My mission is to connect with individuals, couples, & families to assist them in transforming & harmonizing their lives. Most of my clients are dealing with some type of trauma or hurdle in their lives and their goals are to be able to overcome this challenge. I believe my clients already have the skills and self knowledge to deal with the challenges, my job is to assist them in seeing how their skill set can be used in this specific situation.
My mission is to connect with individuals, couples, & families to assist them in transforming & harmonizing their lives. Most of my clients are dealing with some type of trauma or hurdle in their lives and their goals are to be able to overcome this challenge. I believe my clients already have the skills and self knowledge to deal with the challenges, my job is to assist them in seeing how their skill set can be used in this specific situation.
![Photo of Heather Baucum, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/32d300a3-f7af-44eb-95a9-4fb59a707c27/1/320x400.jpeg)
Heather Baucum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97281
Waitlist for new clients
The therapy I offer focuses on making gentle contact with powerful thoughts, emotions, or memories that consciously or unconsciously knock us on our ass. Even the way we talk to ourselves can perpetuate struggle and hurt. Lets work to offer care and compassion to the self who has been harmed, strengthen a kinder relationship with this self, and develop insight into why we do the things we do. Lets explore new ways of staying connected and engaged in the here and now. All of my work is infused with Compassion (karuna) and Loving Kindness (metta).
The therapy I offer focuses on making gentle contact with powerful thoughts, emotions, or memories that consciously or unconsciously knock us on our ass. Even the way we talk to ourselves can perpetuate struggle and hurt. Lets work to offer care and compassion to the self who has been harmed, strengthen a kinder relationship with this self, and develop insight into why we do the things we do. Lets explore new ways of staying connected and engaged in the here and now. All of my work is infused with Compassion (karuna) and Loving Kindness (metta).
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![Photo of Ana Cupp, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e4e56d8-e9fc-4d80-ba63-43c01de92c1f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you on a lifelong journey of self-discovery and growth? Have you experienced adversity and trauma in your life that you are working to overcome/want to learn more about how those experiences influence you today? I am here to help guide you through this extremely personal journey. To help you heal from and embrace the hurt, pain and suffering of the past. My passion is working with individuals who have experienced trauma, to help empower them to take back their power and create a life they want to live. To help people learn to focus their energy on what truly matters in life and trust in themselves.
Are you on a lifelong journey of self-discovery and growth? Have you experienced adversity and trauma in your life that you are working to overcome/want to learn more about how those experiences influence you today? I am here to help guide you through this extremely personal journey. To help you heal from and embrace the hurt, pain and suffering of the past. My passion is working with individuals who have experienced trauma, to help empower them to take back their power and create a life they want to live. To help people learn to focus their energy on what truly matters in life and trust in themselves.
![Photo of Erica Martin - Compassionate Therapy LLC, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e70994a7-2ecf-4ef4-8f79-3595c9693ba4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Compassionate Therapy LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Tigard, OR 97223
My clients are motivated to live life to their fullest potential, and I feel privileged to support them in exploring the life struggles that are inhibiting their positive growth and teach them the coping skills that can help them progress to the best of their ability. I offer compassionate professional counseling to individuals utilizing an eclectic approach which draws on multiple theoretical orientations and techniques which are personally tailored to each client.
My clients are motivated to live life to their fullest potential, and I feel privileged to support them in exploring the life struggles that are inhibiting their positive growth and teach them the coping skills that can help them progress to the best of their ability. I offer compassionate professional counseling to individuals utilizing an eclectic approach which draws on multiple theoretical orientations and techniques which are personally tailored to each client.
![Photo of Abagail Cole, MSW, CSWA, CADC II](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6920df9d-621a-4ae7-bc52-2b2519e9b423/2/320x400.jpeg)
Abagail Cole
Clinical Social Work Associate, MSW, CSWA, CADC II
Verified Verified
Tigard, OR 97223 (Online Only)
Please, make yourself comfortable with a cozy blanket or a hot cup of tea. Then, let’s talk about you. About how life keeps wearing you out because it’s always one thing after another. But you keep going. Trying so hard to keep everything running smoothly or everyone happy. Meanwhile, you plaster on a smile, barely masking the irritability and emptiness. On really tough days, you begin to wonder if something is wrong with you. It’s a brutal cycle of spirals! Let me help you manage and heal from this!
Please, make yourself comfortable with a cozy blanket or a hot cup of tea. Then, let’s talk about you. About how life keeps wearing you out because it’s always one thing after another. But you keep going. Trying so hard to keep everything running smoothly or everyone happy. Meanwhile, you plaster on a smile, barely masking the irritability and emptiness. On really tough days, you begin to wonder if something is wrong with you. It’s a brutal cycle of spirals! Let me help you manage and heal from this!
![Photo of Madeleine Moreland, CSWA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/acd26f69-0800-48b1-a205-fab4f0004774/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of where to turn next? Have you been carrying the weight of trauma, grief, or identity struggles? Maybe you’re dealing with addiction, conflict in your relationships, or trying to make sense of a spiritual awakening. It would be an honor to join you on your journey of discovery, transformation, and healing. I work with youth, teens, and queer individuals across the lifespan, offering a compassionate, nonjudgmental space where you can be yourself.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of where to turn next? Have you been carrying the weight of trauma, grief, or identity struggles? Maybe you’re dealing with addiction, conflict in your relationships, or trying to make sense of a spiritual awakening. It would be an honor to join you on your journey of discovery, transformation, and healing. I work with youth, teens, and queer individuals across the lifespan, offering a compassionate, nonjudgmental space where you can be yourself.
![Photo of Angelie Karabatsos, LPC, NCC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e22adc87-cbba-46bf-9719-de6157c059ed/1/320x400.jpeg)
Angelie Karabatsos
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97223
Does life feel overwhelming like being trapped in a never-ending maze? Having these feelings are perfectly normal. Talking through the life concerns or worries can help but it’s hard to share deep personal concerns with family or friends. The pressure of family, work, or past trauma's can cause anxiety, stress, even depression. Whether dealing with a difficult relationship, career, or life challenges talking with a trained professional, who is caring and compassionate can help you find freedom and start enjoying life. Think about how great it would be living life instead of just making it through each day.
Does life feel overwhelming like being trapped in a never-ending maze? Having these feelings are perfectly normal. Talking through the life concerns or worries can help but it’s hard to share deep personal concerns with family or friends. The pressure of family, work, or past trauma's can cause anxiety, stress, even depression. Whether dealing with a difficult relationship, career, or life challenges talking with a trained professional, who is caring and compassionate can help you find freedom and start enjoying life. Think about how great it would be living life instead of just making it through each day.
![Photo of Mary Cameron, LPC, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c3a660e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Life is about relationships, with self, family, friends, co-workers and God. When we experience difficulties in one or more of these relationships it is helpful to seek counsel. I enjoy counseling with individuals or families to facilitate healthy relationships. I use Solution Focused/Strength Based and Cognitive Behavioral and draw from other theories to create the best course of counseling for each client.
Life is about relationships, with self, family, friends, co-workers and God. When we experience difficulties in one or more of these relationships it is helpful to seek counsel. I enjoy counseling with individuals or families to facilitate healthy relationships. I use Solution Focused/Strength Based and Cognitive Behavioral and draw from other theories to create the best course of counseling for each client.
![Photo of Robert L Marrs, LCSW, PC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3db57d83-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Robert L Marrs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97223
Since you are reading this profile, you are likely feeling a need for change. Fortunately, it is unnecessary to live life with fear, confusion, or loneliness. Just because you can't see how to get there doesn't mean it can't be done. I would be honored to walk this path of healing with you. Borrow from my hope and experience that things CAN be different. Whatever block you may be experiencing is simply a signal that your body and mind wants to heal. Together we can interpret those signals and create a healing dialogue.
Since you are reading this profile, you are likely feeling a need for change. Fortunately, it is unnecessary to live life with fear, confusion, or loneliness. Just because you can't see how to get there doesn't mean it can't be done. I would be honored to walk this path of healing with you. Borrow from my hope and experience that things CAN be different. Whatever block you may be experiencing is simply a signal that your body and mind wants to heal. Together we can interpret those signals and create a healing dialogue.
![Photo of Emily Brems - Living Well Counseling-Center, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7911f47c-d181-444b-8fb5-05c9a391e39c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Living Well Counseling-Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97224
We are centered on helping you build skills to love and live well. Living Well Counseling Center provides personalized care for each individual, couple, and family. Our work is focused on empowering you to achieve a high level of emotional regulation and mindfulness to produce meaningful and lasting change in your life and relationships.
We are centered on helping you build skills to love and live well. Living Well Counseling Center provides personalized care for each individual, couple, and family. Our work is focused on empowering you to achieve a high level of emotional regulation and mindfulness to produce meaningful and lasting change in your life and relationships.
![Photo of Deborah Hadley, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d6704e8-ff05-4234-ba42-20a64573fc2f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Deborah Hadley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97224 (Online Only)
I believe each of us were designed for deep relationship and long for a sense of acceptance and belonging. So often however, we seem unable to experience authentic connection or intimacy with others. Though we reach out, we may feel unseen and unheard, eventually withdrawing, questioning our worth, and losing our ability to know and share our true self. The loneliness at times may feel overwhelming, as if there is no one to help us carry our confusion, hurts, or fears. It is in these times we may need someone with whom we can share our burdens, someone who will hear our brokenness and accept us as we are.
I believe each of us were designed for deep relationship and long for a sense of acceptance and belonging. So often however, we seem unable to experience authentic connection or intimacy with others. Though we reach out, we may feel unseen and unheard, eventually withdrawing, questioning our worth, and losing our ability to know and share our true self. The loneliness at times may feel overwhelming, as if there is no one to help us carry our confusion, hurts, or fears. It is in these times we may need someone with whom we can share our burdens, someone who will hear our brokenness and accept us as we are.
See more therapy options for Tigard
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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.