Domestic Abuse Therapists in Seattle, WA

Photo of Kelsey Kennedy, PsyD, Psychologist
Kelsey Kennedy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
I specialized in multicultural psychology, with a special focus with Native Americans, and have extensive experience with complex trauma particularly from interpersonal, historical and collective abuse.
I specialize in working with individuals who are experiencing distressing reactions following traumatic events like dissociation, anxiety and depression. These experiences can lead to painful thoughts like you are unsafe or worthlessness and lead to feelings of emptiness and withdrawal. This frame of mind may be getting get in the way of the relationships you want with your friends, kids, or partner. My goal is to help you grow and change to live your life more fully. I believe in increasing our inherent strengths, as well as teaching new skills and techniques to be more effective.
I specialized in multicultural psychology, with a special focus with Native Americans, and have extensive experience with complex trauma particularly from interpersonal, historical and collective abuse.
I specialize in working with individuals who are experiencing distressing reactions following traumatic events like dissociation, anxiety and depression. These experiences can lead to painful thoughts like you are unsafe or worthlessness and lead to feelings of emptiness and withdrawal. This frame of mind may be getting get in the way of the relationships you want with your friends, kids, or partner. My goal is to help you grow and change to live your life more fully. I believe in increasing our inherent strengths, as well as teaching new skills and techniques to be more effective.
(425) 214-4876 View (425) 214-4876
Photo of Grace Joy T. Perea, MS, LMHCA, Counselor
Grace Joy T. Perea
Counselor, MS, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101  (Online Only)
I treat ranges of psychological concerns including, but not limited to domestic abuse/violence, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation/harm.
Welcome! If you are struggling with your life, we can overcome it together. If you simply want someone to listen and talk to, I am here for you. You are not alone. Together, we will determine why you are experiencing life challenges, develop goals, and guidance to resolve issues. I provide life changing support to overcome outstanding life situations, collaborate assessments, and maintain treatment.
I treat ranges of psychological concerns including, but not limited to domestic abuse/violence, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation/harm.
Welcome! If you are struggling with your life, we can overcome it together. If you simply want someone to listen and talk to, I am here for you. You are not alone. Together, we will determine why you are experiencing life challenges, develop goals, and guidance to resolve issues. I provide life changing support to overcome outstanding life situations, collaborate assessments, and maintain treatment.
(253) 785-4264 View (253) 785-4264
Photo of Susan Anderson, MA, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Susan Anderson
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
Are you seeking help going through the hard times in life? Whether you are having relational/marital issues, have been a victim of domestic violence or abuse, struggle with anxiety or depression, or one of many other life issues there can be peace again. I have had more than 15 years experience in the mental health field and love to help clients find to tools to grow strong again. There is hope and you can feel normal again.
Are you seeking help going through the hard times in life? Whether you are having relational/marital issues, have been a victim of domestic violence or abuse, struggle with anxiety or depression, or one of many other life issues there can be peace again. I have had more than 15 years experience in the mental health field and love to help clients find to tools to grow strong again. There is hope and you can feel normal again.
(660) 227-4120 View (660) 227-4120
Photo of Dan Woodard, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Dan Woodard
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98109
If you are browsing through this website then you're most likely trying to find help with something in your life that you've been struggling with for for years. Maybe it's depression or anxiety and you need help trying to manage it, someone to hold it with you. Perhaps you have a hard time staying in a relationship for any length of time? Or maybe you're holding onto the secret of sexual abuse as a child or teen and have never told anyone. Sometimes things shatter and we don't know why, but it does. Life shatters us. I would love the privilege of walking with you. We can do it together. You don't have to do it alone anymore.
If you are browsing through this website then you're most likely trying to find help with something in your life that you've been struggling with for for years. Maybe it's depression or anxiety and you need help trying to manage it, someone to hold it with you. Perhaps you have a hard time staying in a relationship for any length of time? Or maybe you're holding onto the secret of sexual abuse as a child or teen and have never told anyone. Sometimes things shatter and we don't know why, but it does. Life shatters us. I would love the privilege of walking with you. We can do it together. You don't have to do it alone anymore.
(206) 557-3989 View (206) 557-3989
Photo of Elizabeth Speranza, MA, LMHC
Elizabeth Speranza
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
I also have a great deal of experience working with survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault and trauma.
Creating change in your life can be exciting, scary, hopeful, and challenging. Whether you are experiencing relational distress, going through a crisis or significant life change, or simply feel that you are not living the life you would like to be living, my goal is to create a supportive, non-judgmental and collaborative client/therapist relationship in which you can begin to effect real change. My hope is that you will find more peace, joy, and balance in life — and greater fulfillment and connection in your relationships.
I also have a great deal of experience working with survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault and trauma.
Creating change in your life can be exciting, scary, hopeful, and challenging. Whether you are experiencing relational distress, going through a crisis or significant life change, or simply feel that you are not living the life you would like to be living, my goal is to create a supportive, non-judgmental and collaborative client/therapist relationship in which you can begin to effect real change. My hope is that you will find more peace, joy, and balance in life — and greater fulfillment and connection in your relationships.
(425) 440-3179 View (425) 440-3179
Photo of Christy Forrester, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christy Forrester
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98109  (Online Only)
I specialize in couples and individuals with concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma recovery, PTSD, grief, loss, miscarriage, food/body issues, anger, self-harm, mood disorders, life transitions, relationship issues, sex life, teen issues, parenting, domestic violence, sexual abuse and assault.
Are you wishing for better relationships? Feeling anxious, down, lost, or wondering about the meaning of life? Would you like to feel more confident? Hoping to heal after trauma? Going through loss or life transition? We need lots of self-compassion so we can heal and find a better approach to our lives and relationships. I offer a non-judgmental space to be open about your struggles and explore what it means to live in your values. It is through our common humanity that I relate to my clients. I believe the struggles we face also occur in the systems of race, class, gender, sexuality, age, ability, religion, and national identity.
I specialize in couples and individuals with concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma recovery, PTSD, grief, loss, miscarriage, food/body issues, anger, self-harm, mood disorders, life transitions, relationship issues, sex life, teen issues, parenting, domestic violence, sexual abuse and assault.
Are you wishing for better relationships? Feeling anxious, down, lost, or wondering about the meaning of life? Would you like to feel more confident? Hoping to heal after trauma? Going through loss or life transition? We need lots of self-compassion so we can heal and find a better approach to our lives and relationships. I offer a non-judgmental space to be open about your struggles and explore what it means to live in your values. It is through our common humanity that I relate to my clients. I believe the struggles we face also occur in the systems of race, class, gender, sexuality, age, ability, religion, and national identity.
(206) 207-6684 View (206) 207-6684
Photo of Rachel Kennedy, MA, LMHC
Rachel Kennedy
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98108
My clients are often looking to unpack anxiety, grief, loneliness, traumatic experiences, past abuse, compulsive behavior, or issues of identity; however, I work with people experiencing a variety of concerns from any background.
Therapy is about asking yourself the fundamental question: What hurts and why? Together, we will spend time with this question - gently, slowly, carefully. Therapy is not only for those with "capital T" trauma or a mental health diagnosis, but for anyone who would like to get to know themselves, perhaps for the first time. To listen to what emerges when you pay kind, careful attention to yourself. You may be seeking more fulfilling relationships, relief from challenging feelings/behaviors, or deeper self-understanding.
My clients are often looking to unpack anxiety, grief, loneliness, traumatic experiences, past abuse, compulsive behavior, or issues of identity; however, I work with people experiencing a variety of concerns from any background.
Therapy is about asking yourself the fundamental question: What hurts and why? Together, we will spend time with this question - gently, slowly, carefully. Therapy is not only for those with "capital T" trauma or a mental health diagnosis, but for anyone who would like to get to know themselves, perhaps for the first time. To listen to what emerges when you pay kind, careful attention to yourself. You may be seeking more fulfilling relationships, relief from challenging feelings/behaviors, or deeper self-understanding.
(425) 629-0904 View (425) 629-0904
Photo of Heather Robinson, LMHC, SUDP, Counselor
Heather Robinson
Counselor, LMHC, SUDP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107
Waitlist for new clients
Though my clear specialty is in substance abuse, my clients certainly do not have to have a substance abuse issue to gain benefit from our work together.
I invite you to begin working towards a more fulfilling future. I take my time, work at a pace that you find comfortable, and maintain an open and collaborative environment, with an emphasis on shared trust. Using multiple modalities, including hypnotherapy, I am competent to treat most issues. I have over 15 years of experience in the field and love my job! Taking the leap into therapy is an exceptional gift that you deserve! To schedule, visit https://heather-robinsonlmhc.clientsecure.me/
Though my clear specialty is in substance abuse, my clients certainly do not have to have a substance abuse issue to gain benefit from our work together.
I invite you to begin working towards a more fulfilling future. I take my time, work at a pace that you find comfortable, and maintain an open and collaborative environment, with an emphasis on shared trust. Using multiple modalities, including hypnotherapy, I am competent to treat most issues. I have over 15 years of experience in the field and love my job! Taking the leap into therapy is an exceptional gift that you deserve! To schedule, visit https://heather-robinsonlmhc.clientsecure.me/
(206) 800-7633 View (206) 800-7633
Photo of Jeffery J Goff, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Jeffery J Goff
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
I also work with individuals who struggle with relationship issues due to anger, domestic violence, or sexual addiction.
I work with those who struggle with anger. Often times the anger is brought on by unmet expectations and merely a symptom of deeper issues under the surface. It's my job to metaphorically stand in a place you can not see, and point you in the right direction as to the cause of what is contributing to the anger. By doing so, you can receive insight that will enrich your life and change it for the better.
I also work with individuals who struggle with relationship issues due to anger, domestic violence, or sexual addiction.
I work with those who struggle with anger. Often times the anger is brought on by unmet expectations and merely a symptom of deeper issues under the surface. It's my job to metaphorically stand in a place you can not see, and point you in the right direction as to the cause of what is contributing to the anger. By doing so, you can receive insight that will enrich your life and change it for the better.
(206) 673-5349 View (206) 673-5349
Photo of Emily Steen -  The PTSD Institute, BCN, MD
The PTSD Institute
BCN, MD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101
Whether you are a combat veteran, a victim of sexual assault or an individual dealing with traumatic-incident-related injuries such as concussions, our staff here at The PTSD Institute is here to support you.
The PTSD Institute is here to assist individuals in addressing their symptoms related to Trauma. Overcoming difficult emotions after a traumatic incident or life long trauma
Whether you are a combat veteran, a victim of sexual assault or an individual dealing with traumatic-incident-related injuries such as concussions, our staff here at The PTSD Institute is here to support you.
The PTSD Institute is here to assist individuals in addressing their symptoms related to Trauma. Overcoming difficult emotions after a traumatic incident or life long trauma
(206) 825-6477 View (206) 825-6477
Photo of Karen E. Clark, PhD, Psychologist
Karen E. Clark
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with children experiencing anxiety, depression, self-injury, ADHD, divorce, family conflict, physical and sexual abuse.
Welcome. In my practice I see individual adults as well as children and families. The essential elements of therapy are compassion and deep understanding. As your therapist, my intention is to meet you where you are and go with you on your journey. My hope is that you will feel safe to express all of what you're feeling, that we can explore these feelings with compassion, and discover what can be understood. I will use my knowledge, training, and all that I've learned from my patients to help you negotiate the crossroads and crisis points in your life.
I specialize in working with children experiencing anxiety, depression, self-injury, ADHD, divorce, family conflict, physical and sexual abuse.
Welcome. In my practice I see individual adults as well as children and families. The essential elements of therapy are compassion and deep understanding. As your therapist, my intention is to meet you where you are and go with you on your journey. My hope is that you will feel safe to express all of what you're feeling, that we can explore these feelings with compassion, and discover what can be understood. I will use my knowledge, training, and all that I've learned from my patients to help you negotiate the crossroads and crisis points in your life.
(206) 673-2197 View (206) 673-2197
Photo of Nancy Haver, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Nancy Haver
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98122  (Online Only)
We'll address the pain and havoc that substance abuse creates.
From all appearances, you've got it so good. Lying in wait, just under the surface, are the life traumas that wounded you deeply but were never addressed. And those secrets have you turning to substances more and more. One weekly drink becomes a daily bottle, and you're making excuses to your boss, your friends, your family. Do you want to quit but you don't know how? I can help you find your way out of this despair and into the life you want. You can do this. Let's talk.
We'll address the pain and havoc that substance abuse creates.
From all appearances, you've got it so good. Lying in wait, just under the surface, are the life traumas that wounded you deeply but were never addressed. And those secrets have you turning to substances more and more. One weekly drink becomes a daily bottle, and you're making excuses to your boss, your friends, your family. Do you want to quit but you don't know how? I can help you find your way out of this despair and into the life you want. You can do this. Let's talk.
(206) 258-7825 View (206) 258-7825
Photo of Lynsey Isaacs, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Lynsey Isaacs
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98109  (Online Only)
I specialize in desensitizing unresolved trauma, including emotional abuse.
Even when you check all the right boxes in life, it can be overwhelming and feel like your emotions are in control. Maybe you feel "stuck" or hopeless that real change is possible. There are a multitude of reasons why we seek treatment. Regardless of the why, your pain is real and you deserve support. With your willingness to do the work, I will show up and meet you wherever you are at on your journey. If you are ready to invest in yourself, feel free to reach out for a consultation.
I specialize in desensitizing unresolved trauma, including emotional abuse.
Even when you check all the right boxes in life, it can be overwhelming and feel like your emotions are in control. Maybe you feel "stuck" or hopeless that real change is possible. There are a multitude of reasons why we seek treatment. Regardless of the why, your pain is real and you deserve support. With your willingness to do the work, I will show up and meet you wherever you are at on your journey. If you are ready to invest in yourself, feel free to reach out for a consultation.
(425) 977-9501 View (425) 977-9501
Photo of Carl Allen Tippins, PhD, LMHC, Counselor
Carl Allen Tippins
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98109
Waitlist for new clients
"What is the most important consideration when looking for a therapist? " The fit, the feel, the vibe you have with the therapist really is best way to decide if this is a good match. A good fit, you will work well together. We will work with the issues that you are currently experiencing, noticing the internal roots of conflict, and finding ways to make meaningful and purposeful shifts or changes in your life. Experiencing difficulties from depression, relationship endings, truama, abuse, addictions, let's talk. - I am now only taking cash, checks of credit card patients. Not accepting new insurance patients. Not taking couples.
"What is the most important consideration when looking for a therapist? " The fit, the feel, the vibe you have with the therapist really is best way to decide if this is a good match. A good fit, you will work well together. We will work with the issues that you are currently experiencing, noticing the internal roots of conflict, and finding ways to make meaningful and purposeful shifts or changes in your life. Experiencing difficulties from depression, relationship endings, truama, abuse, addictions, let's talk. - I am now only taking cash, checks of credit card patients. Not accepting new insurance patients. Not taking couples.
(253) 214-9352 View (253) 214-9352
Photo of Laura Zucker - Laura Zucker Counseling, LICSW, CMHS, MHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Zucker Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CMHS, MHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
I have worked with an extensive spectrum of issues including ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Adoption, Divorce, Obsessive Compulsive behaviors, Oppositional & defiant youth, Abuse, & Academic underachievement.
I currently have had to pause on accepting new patients. I will update my profile when that changes. Everyone experiences difficult times in their lives. Whether it's struggling with a difficult relationship, work or school, anxiety, depression, or problems in your family or social life, you're making an effort now to change. We will work together on ways to resolve the thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors that have prevented you from being who you want and attaining the things in life you really want for yourself. I offer a warm, safe, and confidential setting where we determine what your therapy needs are and how to achieve them.
I have worked with an extensive spectrum of issues including ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Adoption, Divorce, Obsessive Compulsive behaviors, Oppositional & defiant youth, Abuse, & Academic underachievement.
I currently have had to pause on accepting new patients. I will update my profile when that changes. Everyone experiences difficult times in their lives. Whether it's struggling with a difficult relationship, work or school, anxiety, depression, or problems in your family or social life, you're making an effort now to change. We will work together on ways to resolve the thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors that have prevented you from being who you want and attaining the things in life you really want for yourself. I offer a warm, safe, and confidential setting where we determine what your therapy needs are and how to achieve them.
(206) 535-1755 View (206) 535-1755
Photo of Austen Case - Austen Case, MA, LMHC, MHP, Counselor
Austen Case
Counselor, MA, LMHC, MHP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98122  (Online Only)
I am a Seattle-based therapist who believes that healing our internal worlds leads us to freedom. Freedom from shame cycles, from abusive patterns, and toxic relationships. I believe that you are the best expert on your own life and am here to help unravel maladaptive thoughts and behaviors that have helped you survive life up until now, to access your inner expert. I work collaboratively to create an individualized treatment plan that works for your specific needs. Training: Trauma-informed Psychotherapy, EMDR, Attachment Theory, Psilocybin Microdosing. Specialties: healing from Sexual Harm, Domestic Violence, PTSD, PMDD & Anxiety.
I am a Seattle-based therapist who believes that healing our internal worlds leads us to freedom. Freedom from shame cycles, from abusive patterns, and toxic relationships. I believe that you are the best expert on your own life and am here to help unravel maladaptive thoughts and behaviors that have helped you survive life up until now, to access your inner expert. I work collaboratively to create an individualized treatment plan that works for your specific needs. Training: Trauma-informed Psychotherapy, EMDR, Attachment Theory, Psilocybin Microdosing. Specialties: healing from Sexual Harm, Domestic Violence, PTSD, PMDD & Anxiety.
(206) 736-3824 View (206) 736-3824
Photo of Anna Kosaly-Meyer, MA, PhD, Psychologist
Anna Kosaly-Meyer
Psychologist, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98115
I have also worked extensively in the field of Domestic Violence, providing treatment for perpetrators and victims for 30 years.
Are you tired of mistreating the people you love? Don't you wish you could change? - Do you often find yourself irritable and angry at the people around you? - Ready to lash out and get upset even at the smallest reason? You are not alone! Many people are in similar shoes. There is hope! Anger management, learning to respond differently to situations that make you upset don't have to be difficult. It can be eye-opening; you will learn a great deal about yourself and it can be fun. I offer individual therapy for issues regarding relationships and anger.
I have also worked extensively in the field of Domestic Violence, providing treatment for perpetrators and victims for 30 years.
Are you tired of mistreating the people you love? Don't you wish you could change? - Do you often find yourself irritable and angry at the people around you? - Ready to lash out and get upset even at the smallest reason? You are not alone! Many people are in similar shoes. There is hope! Anger management, learning to respond differently to situations that make you upset don't have to be difficult. It can be eye-opening; you will learn a great deal about yourself and it can be fun. I offer individual therapy for issues regarding relationships and anger.
(206) 442-2001 View (206) 442-2001
Photo of Victoria Coen, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Victoria Coen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115
With 30+ years of clinical experience, I enjoy supporting and inspiring adults to overcome depression, anxiety, relationship and career issues, PTSD, childhood or adult abuse and trauma, codependence, grief, addiction and major life transitions.
My clients' holistic healing and my passion for my work both come from the co-creative process of building a caring, supportive and trusting relationship. Therapy is an amazing transformational journey of exploring your concerns with care, compassion and curiosity. By learning to know and trust yourself, you can heal stuck emotions, access inner strength and wisdom, and gain positive self-acceptance. Let's work together to break old patterns that distance you from those you love and from yourself, realizing that you are already OK, enough and lovable. See how making more empowered choices brings greater clarity, happiness and peace.
With 30+ years of clinical experience, I enjoy supporting and inspiring adults to overcome depression, anxiety, relationship and career issues, PTSD, childhood or adult abuse and trauma, codependence, grief, addiction and major life transitions.
My clients' holistic healing and my passion for my work both come from the co-creative process of building a caring, supportive and trusting relationship. Therapy is an amazing transformational journey of exploring your concerns with care, compassion and curiosity. By learning to know and trust yourself, you can heal stuck emotions, access inner strength and wisdom, and gain positive self-acceptance. Let's work together to break old patterns that distance you from those you love and from yourself, realizing that you are already OK, enough and lovable. See how making more empowered choices brings greater clarity, happiness and peace.
(206) 922-8205 View (206) 922-8205
Photo of Monique Brown, PsyD, Psychologist
Monique Brown
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
Sometimes feelings and behaviors become obstacles to accessing your strength. If you don't accept yourself as you are, you can't change--a paradox, but true. Self-acceptance can be difficult, especially with history of abuse, trauma, or opression in which shame/guilt become integral to your sense of self. Destructive behavior, in whatever form, has its own logic, but is understandable given your history. We cope in ways that serve to protect ourselves in childhood--serving a useful purpose back then. But now, they prevent you from having stable, close relationships and feeling an empowered sense of self.
Sometimes feelings and behaviors become obstacles to accessing your strength. If you don't accept yourself as you are, you can't change--a paradox, but true. Self-acceptance can be difficult, especially with history of abuse, trauma, or opression in which shame/guilt become integral to your sense of self. Destructive behavior, in whatever form, has its own logic, but is understandable given your history. We cope in ways that serve to protect ourselves in childhood--serving a useful purpose back then. But now, they prevent you from having stable, close relationships and feeling an empowered sense of self.
(206) 538-2876 View (206) 538-2876
Photo of Steph Tigert, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Steph Tigert
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98119
My clinical experience includes: relational struggles, depression and loneliness, stress and anxiety, grief and loss, body image issues, questions of meaning, abuse, motherhood, and parenting concerns.
As human beings, we are prone to intense joy, deep sorrow and a wide spectrum of emotions in between. Therapy is a place to learn how to navigate these changing terrains of life. As a therapist, I will come alongside you to listen, reflect, speak to, and bear witness to your particular experiences in life. I believe many personal struggles are relational and that we experience healing through genuine connection with ourselves and others. I'm passionate about helping people move from a life of fear and feeling stuck to a life of freedom, feeling grounded, and developing a growing trust in yourself and others.
My clinical experience includes: relational struggles, depression and loneliness, stress and anxiety, grief and loss, body image issues, questions of meaning, abuse, motherhood, and parenting concerns.
As human beings, we are prone to intense joy, deep sorrow and a wide spectrum of emotions in between. Therapy is a place to learn how to navigate these changing terrains of life. As a therapist, I will come alongside you to listen, reflect, speak to, and bear witness to your particular experiences in life. I believe many personal struggles are relational and that we experience healing through genuine connection with ourselves and others. I'm passionate about helping people move from a life of fear and feeling stuck to a life of freedom, feeling grounded, and developing a growing trust in yourself and others.
(206) 457-1701 View (206) 457-1701
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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.