Photo of Innovative Alternatives - Innovative Alternatives, Inc., MA, LPC, S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Innovative Alternatives, Inc.
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, S
Verified Verified
Friendswood, TX 77546
Victim Assistance Programs provide FREE counseling to crime victims regardless of when the crime happened and whether or not it was ever reported to the police.
Innovative Alternatives, Inc. has a mission of serving our community through mediation, counseling and training since 1989. We find solutions to life's most difficult people problems! Our agency serves clients from 4 y/o to elderly, and every issue except active substance abuse and active psychosis. Upon 30 days sobriety or 30 days stabilization on psychotropic medications, IA can see these clients as well. IA clients include these cultural specialties: 1) Spanish-speaking, 2) Clients seeking Christian-based services on request and definition of what this means to them, 3) Children in play therapy, and 4) the elderly.
Victim Assistance Programs provide FREE counseling to crime victims regardless of when the crime happened and whether or not it was ever reported to the police.
Innovative Alternatives, Inc. has a mission of serving our community through mediation, counseling and training since 1989. We find solutions to life's most difficult people problems! Our agency serves clients from 4 y/o to elderly, and every issue except active substance abuse and active psychosis. Upon 30 days sobriety or 30 days stabilization on psychotropic medications, IA can see these clients as well. IA clients include these cultural specialties: 1) Spanish-speaking, 2) Clients seeking Christian-based services on request and definition of what this means to them, 3) Children in play therapy, and 4) the elderly.
(281) 609-7690 View (281) 609-7690
Photo of Jacqueline Holt, MS, LPC-A
Jacqueline Holt
MS, LPC-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Galveston, TX 77551  (Online Only)
Most of my experience has involved supporting clients who've experienced traumas, abuse/neglect, crimes, loss, & relationship concerns or have disabilities.
Welcome! I'd like to commend you for taking this first step to improving your mental health, development, and/or relationship(s). The decision to attend counseling is not always easy to make, and it can also be difficult to find a therapist that is right for you. Research shows that the counseling relationship is the biggest determining factor of whether or not therapy will be successful, so it's crucial to find someone you can click with and build a connection with. I hope I can be that person for you and help you feel supported, cared for, and empowered to make any changes you'd like to make in your life.
Most of my experience has involved supporting clients who've experienced traumas, abuse/neglect, crimes, loss, & relationship concerns or have disabilities.
Welcome! I'd like to commend you for taking this first step to improving your mental health, development, and/or relationship(s). The decision to attend counseling is not always easy to make, and it can also be difficult to find a therapist that is right for you. Research shows that the counseling relationship is the biggest determining factor of whether or not therapy will be successful, so it's crucial to find someone you can click with and build a connection with. I hope I can be that person for you and help you feel supported, cared for, and empowered to make any changes you'd like to make in your life.
(346) 639-4745 View (346) 639-4745
Photo of Cindy Castillo, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cindy Castillo
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Friendswood, TX 77546
I have 20+ years of experience working in psychiatric hospitals, medical facilities, community health centers, pediatric clinics, schools, and residential treatment centers. I offered many years to working with children, adolescents, parents, and families through child protective services, rape crisis centers, shelters, neighborhood centers, and adoption centers. I am experienced in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders including PTSD, Depression, Trauma, Anxiety, & Psychosis including the management of other symptoms that stem from family/ relationship conflict, social difficulties, poor school performance, and violence/ abuse.
I have 20+ years of experience working in psychiatric hospitals, medical facilities, community health centers, pediatric clinics, schools, and residential treatment centers. I offered many years to working with children, adolescents, parents, and families through child protective services, rape crisis centers, shelters, neighborhood centers, and adoption centers. I am experienced in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders including PTSD, Depression, Trauma, Anxiety, & Psychosis including the management of other symptoms that stem from family/ relationship conflict, social difficulties, poor school performance, and violence/ abuse.
(346) 242-6663 View (346) 242-6663
Photo of Christopher Times, MA, CCC, LCDC-I, Counselor
Christopher Times
Counselor, MA, CCC, LCDC-I
Verified Verified
Galveston, TX 77550
My practice is designed to offer Life Coaching to clients of all ethnic backgrounds for the purpose of lifting, building, stimulating growth and progressive motion toward emotional well-being and personal actualization.
My practice is designed to offer Life Coaching to clients of all ethnic backgrounds for the purpose of lifting, building, stimulating growth and progressive motion toward emotional well-being and personal actualization.
(409) 752-6668 View (409) 752-6668
Photo of Jacquelyn E. Poteet, MA, LMFTS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jacquelyn E. Poteet
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFTS
Verified Verified
Friendswood, TX 77546
I chose the path of family therapist, most simply stated, because human beings do not live in a bubble. I believe that connectedness, feeling known and understood by others, has the potential to cultivate wellness despite one’s circumstances and/or history. My passion is grounded in partnering with clients in their journey to enhance their quality of life far beyond their expectations, which often begins with guided self-reflection. Through the utilization of a holistic lens, I work with clients to develop self-worth, to generate motivation to step outside of their "uncomfortable" comfort zones, and to assert healthy boundaries.
I chose the path of family therapist, most simply stated, because human beings do not live in a bubble. I believe that connectedness, feeling known and understood by others, has the potential to cultivate wellness despite one’s circumstances and/or history. My passion is grounded in partnering with clients in their journey to enhance their quality of life far beyond their expectations, which often begins with guided self-reflection. Through the utilization of a holistic lens, I work with clients to develop self-worth, to generate motivation to step outside of their "uncomfortable" comfort zones, and to assert healthy boundaries.
(281) 612-7435 View (281) 612-7435
Photo of Rachael Edelman, LPC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachael Edelman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
League City, TX 77573
My therapeutic style involves helping you to arrive at insight, strategies, and tools that you can begin using immediately to make positive change in your life. I want to be able to create a safe place for you where you do not feel judged. I want you to be able to share your concerns and thoughts openly and freely with me. I love to provide you with concrete tools wherever possible and help you to have a plan for the following days before our next session, if that is the pace you would like to move at Most importantly, we are going to make sure we are making progress on goals that you have for yourself. I will be there to guide you
My therapeutic style involves helping you to arrive at insight, strategies, and tools that you can begin using immediately to make positive change in your life. I want to be able to create a safe place for you where you do not feel judged. I want you to be able to share your concerns and thoughts openly and freely with me. I love to provide you with concrete tools wherever possible and help you to have a plan for the following days before our next session, if that is the pace you would like to move at Most importantly, we are going to make sure we are making progress on goals that you have for yourself. I will be there to guide you
View
Photo of Kristin Paige Thomson, MA, LPC-S, CART, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristin Paige Thomson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, CART
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Friendswood, TX 77546
I Provide individual and family therapy to ages 7-100, encompassing all presenting problems with a special interest in treating those with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, Bi-Polar disorder, and high-risk adolescents and families in crisis. I am skilled in numerous therapy modalities and create individualized treatment plans to meet specific client needs. I provide client-centered therapy, so that the client's goals are met and their personal success is long-term. Your relationship with your therapist is a major factor in the outcome of your therapy. I will do my best to foster a trusting and supportive relationship.
I Provide individual and family therapy to ages 7-100, encompassing all presenting problems with a special interest in treating those with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, Bi-Polar disorder, and high-risk adolescents and families in crisis. I am skilled in numerous therapy modalities and create individualized treatment plans to meet specific client needs. I provide client-centered therapy, so that the client's goals are met and their personal success is long-term. Your relationship with your therapist is a major factor in the outcome of your therapy. I will do my best to foster a trusting and supportive relationship.
(832) 481-7146 View (832) 481-7146
MYS Counseling & Assessment
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, EdD, CART
Verified Verified
Dickinson, TX 77539
Our team is focused on helping our clients and their families find peace and success in their home, work and relationships through our unique method. It is brief and solution-focused, enabling clients to reconnect with their authentic selves and be the person they know they can be. Our therapists, psychologists and psychiatrists are of one mind, that you are unique and valuable, and have the potential to succeed in life and relationships. Our brief therapy period focuses on helping you know how your brain is tripping you up and how it can heal you as well, know yourself better than ever, and reclaim lost self-esteem and freedom!
Our team is focused on helping our clients and their families find peace and success in their home, work and relationships through our unique method. It is brief and solution-focused, enabling clients to reconnect with their authentic selves and be the person they know they can be. Our therapists, psychologists and psychiatrists are of one mind, that you are unique and valuable, and have the potential to succeed in life and relationships. Our brief therapy period focuses on helping you know how your brain is tripping you up and how it can heal you as well, know yourself better than ever, and reclaim lost self-esteem and freedom!
(979) 428-2930 View (979) 428-2930
Photo of Dr. Vincent Ray Newman, MA, MEd, PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Vincent Ray Newman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MEd, PhD
Verified Verified
League City, TX 77573
Hi, Making the first move for help is always the most difficult. A little about myself, I have lived and learned multiculturalism from my stay in various cities and abroad. From my experiences combined with my training and education has helped me become very effective when helping those in need of intervention. I specialize in problems with children, adolescents, adults, marraige, relationships, and family problems, depression, dissociative, and behavioral disorders.
Hi, Making the first move for help is always the most difficult. A little about myself, I have lived and learned multiculturalism from my stay in various cities and abroad. From my experiences combined with my training and education has helped me become very effective when helping those in need of intervention. I specialize in problems with children, adolescents, adults, marraige, relationships, and family problems, depression, dissociative, and behavioral disorders.
(281) 394-1674 View (281) 394-1674
Photo of Cynthia Lincke, MSW, LCSW, CAGS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cynthia Lincke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CAGS
Verified Verified
Texas City, TX 77590
I am here to help you, individually, as a couple, as a family or within a group setting, through your unique challenges. Together, we will work to achieve all your goals. You will feel heard and understood.
I am here to help you, individually, as a couple, as a family or within a group setting, through your unique challenges. Together, we will work to achieve all your goals. You will feel heard and understood.
(224) 479-1304 View (224) 479-1304
Photo of Crystal Ridlon, LPC, LMHC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Crystal Ridlon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
League City, TX 77573
Life is a mix of joy and sorrow! Walking through the difficult times is tough emotionally, physically, and spiritually! There is no need to suffer through these hard times alone! God offers comfort and unconditional love in the midst of hardship! Thankfully, He equips His followers with guidance, wisdom, and love to help endure our hardships victoriously. God called me into the counseling field to walk with you through the painful areas of your life! I am well-trained in psychological techniques and approaches! In addition, I have a special love and compassion for people, and utilize a Biblical and Christ-centered approach.
Life is a mix of joy and sorrow! Walking through the difficult times is tough emotionally, physically, and spiritually! There is no need to suffer through these hard times alone! God offers comfort and unconditional love in the midst of hardship! Thankfully, He equips His followers with guidance, wisdom, and love to help endure our hardships victoriously. God called me into the counseling field to walk with you through the painful areas of your life! I am well-trained in psychological techniques and approaches! In addition, I have a special love and compassion for people, and utilize a Biblical and Christ-centered approach.
(430) 204-2119 View (430) 204-2119

Online Therapists

Photo of Krisztina Petho-Robertson, MEd, LPC, CIMHP, ICCP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Krisztina Petho-Robertson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CIMHP, ICCP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77098
Now accepting new clients! My primary therapeutic goal is to approach each individual in a unique way. While helping clients develop healthy coping strategies and achieve personal growth and positive change, I provide a safe and non-judgmental environment. As a therapist, I am passionate about helping clients in coping with depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, stress, relationship difficulties, divorce, parenting, grief and loss, abuse and neglect, domestic violence, addictions, bipolar disorders, and more. I see pre-teens, adolescents, families, and adults struggling with behavioral, emotional, or relational issues.
Now accepting new clients! My primary therapeutic goal is to approach each individual in a unique way. While helping clients develop healthy coping strategies and achieve personal growth and positive change, I provide a safe and non-judgmental environment. As a therapist, I am passionate about helping clients in coping with depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, stress, relationship difficulties, divorce, parenting, grief and loss, abuse and neglect, domestic violence, addictions, bipolar disorders, and more. I see pre-teens, adolescents, families, and adults struggling with behavioral, emotional, or relational issues.
(832) 981-4682 View (832) 981-4682
Photo of Danielle White, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Danielle White
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77005
If you're experiencing depression, low self-esteem, isolation, stress, anxiety, grief and loss, substance abuse, childhood trauma, PTSD, codependency, relational difficulties, abusive relationships, divorce, domestic violence, out-of -control anger, a child with behavioral problems, LBGTQ issues, or you work in entertainment, I am here for you.
Are you interested in living life to the fullest but struggle to achieve it? You've taken the first steps towards healing. I am dedicated to you! Regardless of what you're going through, I will strive to bring out the best in you. You're not alone. I can assist you in resolving your past pain, I will affirm your strengths and challenge you to use them. While promoting insight, healing and change in an environment full of warmth and genuineness. I am here to provide a safe, unbiased and non-judgmental environment.
If you're experiencing depression, low self-esteem, isolation, stress, anxiety, grief and loss, substance abuse, childhood trauma, PTSD, codependency, relational difficulties, abusive relationships, divorce, domestic violence, out-of -control anger, a child with behavioral problems, LBGTQ issues, or you work in entertainment, I am here for you.
Are you interested in living life to the fullest but struggle to achieve it? You've taken the first steps towards healing. I am dedicated to you! Regardless of what you're going through, I will strive to bring out the best in you. You're not alone. I can assist you in resolving your past pain, I will affirm your strengths and challenge you to use them. While promoting insight, healing and change in an environment full of warmth and genuineness. I am here to provide a safe, unbiased and non-judgmental environment.
(281) 378-5603 View (281) 378-5603
Photo of Erica Mares, MEd, CSC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erica Mares
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, CSC, LPC
Verified Verified
Pasadena, TX 77505
My passion is working with children, preteens, teens, & young adults as I have worked in education for 15 years, currently a Certified School Counselor for 6 years, work diligently to help guide & support those who have experienced trauma, abuse, divorce/separation, anxiety, depression, ADD/ADHD, aggression, behavior concerns, school issues, and grief/loss.
When we experience trauma or severe life stressors, it’s common to feel as though our life is unraveling and falling apart. My passion is to bring healing and hope to children, teens, and adults by helping guide you from your past, present, and hope for your future by becoming a better you through finding your strengths and learning how to problem solve.help,
My passion is working with children, preteens, teens, & young adults as I have worked in education for 15 years, currently a Certified School Counselor for 6 years, work diligently to help guide & support those who have experienced trauma, abuse, divorce/separation, anxiety, depression, ADD/ADHD, aggression, behavior concerns, school issues, and grief/loss.
When we experience trauma or severe life stressors, it’s common to feel as though our life is unraveling and falling apart. My passion is to bring healing and hope to children, teens, and adults by helping guide you from your past, present, and hope for your future by becoming a better you through finding your strengths and learning how to problem solve.help,
(346) 482-3219 View (346) 482-3219
Photo of Jamie Taylor, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jamie Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Rosenberg, TX 77469  (Online Only)
I started my career in mental health as a mental health technician for PEAK Behavioral Hospital in 2006. I then became a Qualified Mental Health Professional/Case Manager for Texana Center for 8 years in 2007. I then became a behavioral health counselor at Eating Recovery Center-Houston with clients struggling with various eating disorders, followed by becoming a therapist for two different PHP/IOP programs, one for adults and the other for adolescents. Finally, I have experience working for a private practice and now my own private practice with clients who struggle with stress, domestic violence, parenting, family conflict, etc.
I started my career in mental health as a mental health technician for PEAK Behavioral Hospital in 2006. I then became a Qualified Mental Health Professional/Case Manager for Texana Center for 8 years in 2007. I then became a behavioral health counselor at Eating Recovery Center-Houston with clients struggling with various eating disorders, followed by becoming a therapist for two different PHP/IOP programs, one for adults and the other for adolescents. Finally, I have experience working for a private practice and now my own private practice with clients who struggle with stress, domestic violence, parenting, family conflict, etc.
(915) 221-2597 View (915) 221-2597
Photo of Xue ( Sue ) Yang, LCSW, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Xue ( Sue ) Yang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77005
For those who have suffered abuse or trauma, there is a way to reclaim wholeness.
Were you abused, neglected, and traumatized? Were you raised by a tiger mom? Did you raise yourself and everyone else? Do you feel frozen, numb, and disconnected from your body? Do you feel like there's something wrong with you? Do you have a need to be perfect? Do you feel anxious even during downtime? Are you always running and doing and still feel it's not enough? Is food your only friend? Yet, on the outside, you look like the most put-together person. If only people knew what was on the inside.
For those who have suffered abuse or trauma, there is a way to reclaim wholeness.
Were you abused, neglected, and traumatized? Were you raised by a tiger mom? Did you raise yourself and everyone else? Do you feel frozen, numb, and disconnected from your body? Do you feel like there's something wrong with you? Do you have a need to be perfect? Do you feel anxious even during downtime? Are you always running and doing and still feel it's not enough? Is food your only friend? Yet, on the outside, you look like the most put-together person. If only people knew what was on the inside.
(713) 338-9158 View (713) 338-9158
Photo of John M Adams, MA, LPC, LCDC-I, Licensed Professional Counselor
John M Adams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCDC-I
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Katy, TX 77494
I work with individuals, couples, and groups whose lives have been disrupted by anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, traumatic events, substance abuse, and sexual addiction. My goal is to accept clients unconditionally, where they are, as they are. I provide a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere in which my clients can explore, process and find freedom from the issues that hinder them from fulfilling their God-given roles. To best meet the needs of my clients, I use a variety of modalities including EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), DBT, Somatic focused, and Mindfulness strategies.
I work with individuals, couples, and groups whose lives have been disrupted by anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, traumatic events, substance abuse, and sexual addiction. My goal is to accept clients unconditionally, where they are, as they are. I provide a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere in which my clients can explore, process and find freedom from the issues that hinder them from fulfilling their God-given roles. To best meet the needs of my clients, I use a variety of modalities including EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), DBT, Somatic focused, and Mindfulness strategies.
(832) 426-3963 View (832) 426-3963
Photo of Doris Gardner-Wilson - Gardner Counseling Services, LCSW, LCDC, CSAT, EMDR-II, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Gardner Counseling Services
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCSW, LCDC, CSAT, EMDR-II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77018
About the Facilitator - Doris Gardner-Wilson, LCSW, LCDC, CSAT is a professional speaker, educator, workshop facilitator, certified sex addiction therapist and trained EMDR therapist with years of experience in the field. She currently has private practices in Houston and Katy, Texas and specializes in helping reduce symptoms of panic attacks, past traumas, PTSD phobia, depression, grief, severe anxiety, substance additions, process addictions and other debilitating mental challenges. Previous experience includes Memorial Hermann Prevention & Recovery Center (PaRC), The Right Step, Fort Bend Council of Alcohol & Drug abuse,
About the Facilitator - Doris Gardner-Wilson, LCSW, LCDC, CSAT is a professional speaker, educator, workshop facilitator, certified sex addiction therapist and trained EMDR therapist with years of experience in the field. She currently has private practices in Houston and Katy, Texas and specializes in helping reduce symptoms of panic attacks, past traumas, PTSD phobia, depression, grief, severe anxiety, substance additions, process addictions and other debilitating mental challenges. Previous experience includes Memorial Hermann Prevention & Recovery Center (PaRC), The Right Step, Fort Bend Council of Alcohol & Drug abuse,
(832) 924-0432 View (832) 924-0432
Photo of Satoko Brigman, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Satoko Brigman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77098  (Online Only)
I have experience in outpatient, residential, inpatient psychiatric hospital, while providing individual, couples and family therapies. Over the 27 years, I have acquired keen assessment skills and clinical interventions to assist patients with multiple issues, ranging from childhood, adulthood, abuse, trauma, mood disorders, and anxiety. I have served my clients using mainly Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) from systemic perspective. I personally believe in CBT (and other tools, including ACT: Acceptance Commitment Therapy). When these tools are fully embraced, it is truly an eye-opening, life-changing experience.
I have experience in outpatient, residential, inpatient psychiatric hospital, while providing individual, couples and family therapies. Over the 27 years, I have acquired keen assessment skills and clinical interventions to assist patients with multiple issues, ranging from childhood, adulthood, abuse, trauma, mood disorders, and anxiety. I have served my clients using mainly Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) from systemic perspective. I personally believe in CBT (and other tools, including ACT: Acceptance Commitment Therapy). When these tools are fully embraced, it is truly an eye-opening, life-changing experience.
(415) 941-5416 View (415) 941-5416
Photo of John Michael Murray, JD, MS, LMFT, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
John Michael Murray
Marriage & Family Therapist, JD, MS, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Lake Jackson, TX 77566
I therefore specialize in individual as well as relationship counseling to address issues arrising out of: - Depression, anxiety, stress, grief and loss; divorce; parenting; stepfamiles; adolesents; self-esteem; abuse; bipolar; anger; ad/hd.
You are one-of-a-kind. And so, beginning with our first meeting, I will be sure that I clearly understand you and your unique needs. Then, as your therapist, I will work to help you establish and achieve the goals that are immportant to you. Effective psychotherapy supports the emotional healing that leads to wellbeing. My approach includes what I call "relational reflective listening and speaking". It's a process that developes and nurtures the deep respect I have for my patients. In our conversations you and I together will discover new possibilities, new hope that heals the heart.
I therefore specialize in individual as well as relationship counseling to address issues arrising out of: - Depression, anxiety, stress, grief and loss; divorce; parenting; stepfamiles; adolesents; self-esteem; abuse; bipolar; anger; ad/hd.
You are one-of-a-kind. And so, beginning with our first meeting, I will be sure that I clearly understand you and your unique needs. Then, as your therapist, I will work to help you establish and achieve the goals that are immportant to you. Effective psychotherapy supports the emotional healing that leads to wellbeing. My approach includes what I call "relational reflective listening and speaking". It's a process that developes and nurtures the deep respect I have for my patients. In our conversations you and I together will discover new possibilities, new hope that heals the heart.
(832) 463-5602 View (832) 463-5602

See more therapy options for Galveston County

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.