Photo of Julia Vanderheul, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Julia Vanderheul
Registered Social Worker, RSSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6S
Hi I am Julia, (she/her pronouns) and the fact you are looking for therapy is an incredible first step. I have dedicated my career to helping adults and youth find there way back to themselves and out of really difficult, harrowing and challenging circumstances in their life. My career began supporting youth who were sex trafficked and has since organically evolved into supporting young people and adults living with the effects of trauma, sexual abuse, sexual assault, gender violence, depression anxiety, as well as a full spectrum of mental health concerns. I work with individuals of all genders and sexuality.
Hi I am Julia, (she/her pronouns) and the fact you are looking for therapy is an incredible first step. I have dedicated my career to helping adults and youth find there way back to themselves and out of really difficult, harrowing and challenging circumstances in their life. My career began supporting youth who were sex trafficked and has since organically evolved into supporting young people and adults living with the effects of trauma, sexual abuse, sexual assault, gender violence, depression anxiety, as well as a full spectrum of mental health concerns. I work with individuals of all genders and sexuality.
(647) 692-2356 View (647) 692-2356
Photo of Paul Gemmell, Registered Psychotherapist in Toronto, ON
Paul Gemmell
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, CCC, RP
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4K
My main area of focus is helping eliminate abuse in interpersonal relationships, from as seemingly "light" as bickering to more escalated confrontations. I've worked with perpetrators (males and females) of domestic violence for nine years, helping people to re-establish healthier relationships with partners and family members again. Much of this is developing communication and empathy skills, all in the context of understanding yourself better and, often, the early life experiences you've had that have brought you to this point.
My main area of focus is helping eliminate abuse in interpersonal relationships, from as seemingly "light" as bickering to more escalated confrontations. I've worked with perpetrators (males and females) of domestic violence for nine years, helping people to re-establish healthier relationships with partners and family members again. Much of this is developing communication and empathy skills, all in the context of understanding yourself better and, often, the early life experiences you've had that have brought you to this point.
View
Photo of Sara's Place Counselling, Registered Psychotherapist in Toronto, ON
Sara's Place Counselling
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M1T  (Online Only)
Welcome to Sara's Place Counselling. Congratulations to you for choosing to embark on this vulnerability journey towards healing. Sara's Place is a space where you can show up authentically to be seen, heard, and accepted. I am a registered Psychotherapist who specializes in supporting adults in working through the far-reaching impacts of abuse-specific trauma on the mind and body. Trauma can manifest itself in many different ways including but not limited to symptoms of Anxiety or Depression. My intention is to encourage, educate, empower and validate your experiences as we work together to explore and process your trauma.
Welcome to Sara's Place Counselling. Congratulations to you for choosing to embark on this vulnerability journey towards healing. Sara's Place is a space where you can show up authentically to be seen, heard, and accepted. I am a registered Psychotherapist who specializes in supporting adults in working through the far-reaching impacts of abuse-specific trauma on the mind and body. Trauma can manifest itself in many different ways including but not limited to symptoms of Anxiety or Depression. My intention is to encourage, educate, empower and validate your experiences as we work together to explore and process your trauma.
(289) 274-8089 View (289) 274-8089
Photo of Rhonda Hazel Andall, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Rhonda Hazel Andall
Registered Social Worker, RSW, BSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M1T
, Black identified cisgender women, I am a survivor of physical abuse/domestic violence and believe that Black individuals often deter from seeking therapy due to cultural stereotypes.
You have everything, yet nothing. You try to make meaning of your life, but deep down a feeling of emptiness lingers. You deeply want to feel a genuine sense of happiness, but sadness overwhelms you. The deep wound of your past has you in a state of depression, anxiety, anger, and chronic stress. You have uncontrollable thoughts you try to ignore but cannot. Living with a sense of peace is hard to gain and you are exhausted. These feelings are affecting your relationships, your employment, academic pursuits or just your ability to manage day to day activities. If this sounds familiar, I am here to help.
, Black identified cisgender women, I am a survivor of physical abuse/domestic violence and believe that Black individuals often deter from seeking therapy due to cultural stereotypes.
You have everything, yet nothing. You try to make meaning of your life, but deep down a feeling of emptiness lingers. You deeply want to feel a genuine sense of happiness, but sadness overwhelms you. The deep wound of your past has you in a state of depression, anxiety, anger, and chronic stress. You have uncontrollable thoughts you try to ignore but cannot. Living with a sense of peace is hard to gain and you are exhausted. These feelings are affecting your relationships, your employment, academic pursuits or just your ability to manage day to day activities. If this sounds familiar, I am here to help.
(365) 536-0041 View (365) 536-0041
Photo of Celina Lucarelli, Pre-Licensed Professional in Toronto, ON
Celina Lucarelli
Pre-Licensed Professional, EXA
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6J  (Online Only)
They specialize in working with individuals and couples navigating polyamory and relational constellations, as well as those who have experienced abuse resulting in CPTSD, PTSD or BPD.
Celina is a neurodivergent queer Expressive Arts Therapist with a focus on somatic, earthbased and relational modalities. Their work is client centred and grounded in trauma-informed approaches to healing as an artform. Human nervous systems are wired entirely towards connection, belonging and coregulation, like all beings that exist upon this earth. In times of struggle, we reach out towards others. Yet many of us have learned that vulnerability is dangerous, and have developed coping mechanisms that protect us from connection. The therapeutic relationship is a safe enough space to begin identifying, shifting & reshaping our lives.
They specialize in working with individuals and couples navigating polyamory and relational constellations, as well as those who have experienced abuse resulting in CPTSD, PTSD or BPD.
Celina is a neurodivergent queer Expressive Arts Therapist with a focus on somatic, earthbased and relational modalities. Their work is client centred and grounded in trauma-informed approaches to healing as an artform. Human nervous systems are wired entirely towards connection, belonging and coregulation, like all beings that exist upon this earth. In times of struggle, we reach out towards others. Yet many of us have learned that vulnerability is dangerous, and have developed coping mechanisms that protect us from connection. The therapeutic relationship is a safe enough space to begin identifying, shifting & reshaping our lives.
(437) 372-5513 View (437) 372-5513
Photo of Susan Monteith, Registered Psychotherapist in Toronto, ON
Susan Monteith
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, BEd, MEd, RP
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4G
Are you struggling with an emotional problem? Or are you looking for help in your relationship? I have been working for 21 years with people who are struggling with depression, anxiety, anger, loss, abuse, self-esteem, divorce, and other issues that are negatively affecting their lives and their relationships. Often we don't know why we stay in unhealthy relationships, behave inappropriately, say something we don't intend to say, or act in a shameful way. In the safe, non-judgmental therapy setting that I offer, you will be able to explore, come to understand and change these ways that are causing you distress
Are you struggling with an emotional problem? Or are you looking for help in your relationship? I have been working for 21 years with people who are struggling with depression, anxiety, anger, loss, abuse, self-esteem, divorce, and other issues that are negatively affecting their lives and their relationships. Often we don't know why we stay in unhealthy relationships, behave inappropriately, say something we don't intend to say, or act in a shameful way. In the safe, non-judgmental therapy setting that I offer, you will be able to explore, come to understand and change these ways that are causing you distress
(647) 372-5044 View (647) 372-5044
Photo of Eunice Chau, Registered Psychotherapist in Toronto, ON
Eunice Chau
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5T  (Online Only)
I specialize in supporting clients with trauma and PTSD, grief, anger management, anxiety, depression, phobias, OCD, domestic violence, stress management, abuse, relationship issues and life transitions.
Do you feel pressured to be perfect and live up to others high expectations? Do you feel angry, stuck, overwhelmed, or powerless? Do you consistently experience intrusive thoughts and engage in repetitive behaviours that affect your daily life? Are you trying to make sense of your feelings after a difficult transition, traumatic event, or painful loss, and seeking healthier ways of coping? I am here to support you.
I specialize in supporting clients with trauma and PTSD, grief, anger management, anxiety, depression, phobias, OCD, domestic violence, stress management, abuse, relationship issues and life transitions.
Do you feel pressured to be perfect and live up to others high expectations? Do you feel angry, stuck, overwhelmed, or powerless? Do you consistently experience intrusive thoughts and engage in repetitive behaviours that affect your daily life? Are you trying to make sense of your feelings after a difficult transition, traumatic event, or painful loss, and seeking healthier ways of coping? I am here to support you.
(289) 723-1949 View (289) 723-1949
Photo of The Giving Tree Centre Ltd, Psychologist in Toronto, ON
The Giving Tree Centre Ltd
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4W
In children and youth under 18 years of age, the common issues we support include anxiety, depression, grief/loss, trauma, behaviour problems, divorce/family separation, drug and alcohol abuse, body image / food issues, screen addiction, learning difficulties, developmental delays, temper tantrums, separation anxiety and more. For parents, we help with unresolved childhood trauma, perinatal and postpartum depression and anxiety, positive discipline skills, stress reduction/mindfulness training, and parent-child bonding and attachment. For adults we deal with a wide spectrum of issues including depression, relationship issues & more.
In children and youth under 18 years of age, the common issues we support include anxiety, depression, grief/loss, trauma, behaviour problems, divorce/family separation, drug and alcohol abuse, body image / food issues, screen addiction, learning difficulties, developmental delays, temper tantrums, separation anxiety and more. For parents, we help with unresolved childhood trauma, perinatal and postpartum depression and anxiety, positive discipline skills, stress reduction/mindfulness training, and parent-child bonding and attachment. For adults we deal with a wide spectrum of issues including depression, relationship issues & more.
(437) 747-8878 View (437) 747-8878
Photo of Nafilia Sachedina, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Nafilia Sachedina
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5A  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have a particular background in working with individuals who have past trauma and are survivors of abuse.
I have a profound respect for the therapeutic process. I acknowledge that every human being has a story, some parts painful, and other parts hopeful. I hope to draw on that hope with you, help you discover your existing resilience, strength, and ability to cope through the hard times and discomfort. I use a tailored approach for all people, because each individual is unique and deserves to be seen as such. Your feelings are valid and I can help you tap into them in a safe space where you will be heard and not judged.
I have a particular background in working with individuals who have past trauma and are survivors of abuse.
I have a profound respect for the therapeutic process. I acknowledge that every human being has a story, some parts painful, and other parts hopeful. I hope to draw on that hope with you, help you discover your existing resilience, strength, and ability to cope through the hard times and discomfort. I use a tailored approach for all people, because each individual is unique and deserves to be seen as such. Your feelings are valid and I can help you tap into them in a safe space where you will be heard and not judged.
(647) 696-8325 View (647) 696-8325
Photo of Gabriela Dinca | Relationships | Couples | Individuals 18+ | Seniors, Registered Psychotherapist in Toronto, ON
Gabriela Dinca | Relationships | Couples | Individuals 18+ | Seniors
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M2R  (Online Only)
Accepting NEW clients! Are you searching for ways to maintain health and love in your life and relationships? Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, stress, grief, loneliness, anger, communication, low self-esteem, or aging issues? Have you experienced infidelity, trauma, betrayal, loss, and abuse, and you may feel like your life is falling apart? There is hope beyond the worry, hopelessness, and other distressing symptoms you may experience. I am passionate about guiding you towards healing to find hope, strength, resilience, & the courage to face life's challenges through nurturing, compassionate, & non-judgmental approaches.
Accepting NEW clients! Are you searching for ways to maintain health and love in your life and relationships? Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, stress, grief, loneliness, anger, communication, low self-esteem, or aging issues? Have you experienced infidelity, trauma, betrayal, loss, and abuse, and you may feel like your life is falling apart? There is hope beyond the worry, hopelessness, and other distressing symptoms you may experience. I am passionate about guiding you towards healing to find hope, strength, resilience, & the courage to face life's challenges through nurturing, compassionate, & non-judgmental approaches.
(289) 274-4797 View (289) 274-4797
Photo of Stephanie Swayne, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Stephanie Swayne
Registered Social Worker, BSc, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5V
Waitlist for new clients
Has sexual behaviour, anger, or drug/alcohol abuse caused problems in your life, or in the life of your loved one? Do you have thoughts or feelings in these areas that seem overwhelming to you, and you don't know where to turn? Are you having difficulty in your relationships, your job, or in other important areas of your life because of your thoughts or behaviours in any of these areas? Have you, or has your loved one, been charged with a criminal offence? I might be able to help...
Has sexual behaviour, anger, or drug/alcohol abuse caused problems in your life, or in the life of your loved one? Do you have thoughts or feelings in these areas that seem overwhelming to you, and you don't know where to turn? Are you having difficulty in your relationships, your job, or in other important areas of your life because of your thoughts or behaviours in any of these areas? Have you, or has your loved one, been charged with a criminal offence? I might be able to help...
(855) 906-5455 View (855) 906-5455
Photo of Azin Heydari, Registered Psychotherapist in Toronto, ON
Azin Heydari
Registered Psychotherapist, HBA, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5S
Offering In-Person and Virtual Sessions- Individuals who have experienced traumatic events or abuse often tend to invalidate or even deny their own experiences. While therapy aims to empower survivors to move past these adverse events, I believe we must cultivate a strong sense of self-compassion and curiosity about how these experiences have influenced our lives and experience of the world.
Offering In-Person and Virtual Sessions- Individuals who have experienced traumatic events or abuse often tend to invalidate or even deny their own experiences. While therapy aims to empower survivors to move past these adverse events, I believe we must cultivate a strong sense of self-compassion and curiosity about how these experiences have influenced our lives and experience of the world.
View
Photo of Laura Williams, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Laura Williams
Registered Social Worker, MSW , RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6K  (Online Only)
I am a compassionate and experienced Registered Social Worker with over two decades of dedicated service. My specialization revolves around attachment work, relationships, and trauma healing. In my practice, I focus on providing support to individuals and couples navigating the complexities of trauma, attachment issues, anger management, family conflict, domestic violence, parenting, anxiety, depression, addictions, and emotion regulation. Together, we embark on a transformative journey, unlocking the potential for lasting positive change in both internal and external relationships.
I am a compassionate and experienced Registered Social Worker with over two decades of dedicated service. My specialization revolves around attachment work, relationships, and trauma healing. In my practice, I focus on providing support to individuals and couples navigating the complexities of trauma, attachment issues, anger management, family conflict, domestic violence, parenting, anxiety, depression, addictions, and emotion regulation. Together, we embark on a transformative journey, unlocking the potential for lasting positive change in both internal and external relationships.
(289) 273-6767 View (289) 273-6767
Photo of Siobhan Cassidy, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Siobhan Cassidy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6H  (Online Only)
My previous counselling roles have been in the field of rape crisis, intimate partner violence, mental health and substance use for people living in poverty and homelessness.
I work with you to create a safe space for us to explore some of the areas in your life you are struggling with. I believe in naming the strengths in ourselves that resist, or push back against, hardship as points of transformation into a more fulfilling and joyful life.
My previous counselling roles have been in the field of rape crisis, intimate partner violence, mental health and substance use for people living in poverty and homelessness.
I work with you to create a safe space for us to explore some of the areas in your life you are struggling with. I believe in naming the strengths in ourselves that resist, or push back against, hardship as points of transformation into a more fulfilling and joyful life.
(647) 277-4971 View (647) 277-4971
Photo of Crystal Soares, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Crystal Soares
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M2N  (Online Only)
With over 10 years of experience, I specialize in supporting adults processing challenging childhoods, trauma, relationships, grief, anxiety, self-esteem, and intimate partner violence.
Do you ever feel overwhelmed by your emotions? Or perhaps you find yourself distanced and numb from them? It's common to view them as obstacles, but what if we could shift that narrative and view these emotions as valuable guides to self-discovery? Welcome to a therapeutic journey where your emotions are not only accepted but also valued, validated, and processed in a safe and inclusive space. Whether you are experiencing an emotional overload or having difficulty connecting with your feelings, this is a place where you are not judged but understood.
With over 10 years of experience, I specialize in supporting adults processing challenging childhoods, trauma, relationships, grief, anxiety, self-esteem, and intimate partner violence.
Do you ever feel overwhelmed by your emotions? Or perhaps you find yourself distanced and numb from them? It's common to view them as obstacles, but what if we could shift that narrative and view these emotions as valuable guides to self-discovery? Welcome to a therapeutic journey where your emotions are not only accepted but also valued, validated, and processed in a safe and inclusive space. Whether you are experiencing an emotional overload or having difficulty connecting with your feelings, this is a place where you are not judged but understood.
(365) 602-1052 View (365) 602-1052
Photo of Farnoush Mozafari Ph.D. (c), Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Farnoush Mozafari Ph.D. (c)
Registered Social Worker, PhD, (c), RSSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5R
I specialize in the following symptoms: Psycho-somatic conditions, Obsessional behavior, Phobias, Underlying feelings of depression or anxiety, Difficulties in concentrating, Dissatisfaction at work, Inability to form satisfactory relationships, School or work phobias, Sleeping disorders, Trauma, and Sexual abuse.
I strive to provide a comforting, educational, and private environment for all my clients. Sessions are devoted to assisting clients in identifying patterns and, in becoming conscious of them, developing the capacity to understand and change them.
I specialize in the following symptoms: Psycho-somatic conditions, Obsessional behavior, Phobias, Underlying feelings of depression or anxiety, Difficulties in concentrating, Dissatisfaction at work, Inability to form satisfactory relationships, School or work phobias, Sleeping disorders, Trauma, and Sexual abuse.
I strive to provide a comforting, educational, and private environment for all my clients. Sessions are devoted to assisting clients in identifying patterns and, in becoming conscious of them, developing the capacity to understand and change them.
(647) 492-7130 View (647) 492-7130
Photo of Kathryn Jackson, Registered Psychotherapist in Toronto, ON
Kathryn Jackson
Registered Psychotherapist, AdvDip , MA, PhD, RP
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4Y
Warmth, engagement, attunement and compassion - these are some of the characteristics that support the relational work I offer clients. I'm an attachment-based, trauma-focused therapist, trained to integrate many other therapeutic approaches - for example, mindfulness, body-based approaches, stress reduction, psycho-education. I am particularly experienced in working with emotional neglect and abuse, physical/sexual trauma and dissociation, mood disorders, low self-esteem, self-harm (including eating disorders and addiction), identity issues (gender, sexuality and culture) and relationship difficulties (personal and professional).
Warmth, engagement, attunement and compassion - these are some of the characteristics that support the relational work I offer clients. I'm an attachment-based, trauma-focused therapist, trained to integrate many other therapeutic approaches - for example, mindfulness, body-based approaches, stress reduction, psycho-education. I am particularly experienced in working with emotional neglect and abuse, physical/sexual trauma and dissociation, mood disorders, low self-esteem, self-harm (including eating disorders and addiction), identity issues (gender, sexuality and culture) and relationship difficulties (personal and professional).
(647) 496-0916 View (647) 496-0916
Photo of Silva Redigonda, Registered Psychotherapist in Toronto, ON
Silva Redigonda
Registered Psychotherapist, MAMS, RP, RMFT
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6E  (Online Only)
I also have internship experience working with women suffering from domestic abuse.
It is my belief that for healing and growth to occur for someone seeking help, acceptance without judgement is crucial, recognizing and acknowledging the woundedness and unmet needs within the client. This perspective encompasses and acknowledges the entire person with whom I am working, including the physical, intellectual, emotional, interpersonal and spiritual well being of the client. No one seeking help is turned away due to the condition from which they are suffering. My goal for each client is to provide a safe, trusting space so that healing and growth can be experienced.
I also have internship experience working with women suffering from domestic abuse.
It is my belief that for healing and growth to occur for someone seeking help, acceptance without judgement is crucial, recognizing and acknowledging the woundedness and unmet needs within the client. This perspective encompasses and acknowledges the entire person with whom I am working, including the physical, intellectual, emotional, interpersonal and spiritual well being of the client. No one seeking help is turned away due to the condition from which they are suffering. My goal for each client is to provide a safe, trusting space so that healing and growth can be experienced.
(844) 332-2202 View (844) 332-2202
Photo of Tracey Jastinder Mann, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Tracey Jastinder Mann
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6P  (Online Only)
I have experience in the following: supporting survivors of sexual/interpersonal/structural violence; harm reduction and substance use; grief and loss; anxiety and depression; PTSD; healing from racial trauma; navigating interpersonal relationships; workplace bullying; LGBTQAA identities; exploring kink; poly relationships; sex work; & migrant justice.
I am a queer femme of colour who is working to support collective healing and liberation by offering individual counselling. My work is centred in an intersectional feminist approach to therapy drawing from somatics, narrative and evidence based practices. My approach is to support individuals to build upon existing strengths and daily practices to ensure that they have the tools to live their life in alignment with their own values and desires. I see my role as creating a container to support a person in developing deeper accountability and consent in their relationship with themselves and with others.
I have experience in the following: supporting survivors of sexual/interpersonal/structural violence; harm reduction and substance use; grief and loss; anxiety and depression; PTSD; healing from racial trauma; navigating interpersonal relationships; workplace bullying; LGBTQAA identities; exploring kink; poly relationships; sex work; & migrant justice.
I am a queer femme of colour who is working to support collective healing and liberation by offering individual counselling. My work is centred in an intersectional feminist approach to therapy drawing from somatics, narrative and evidence based practices. My approach is to support individuals to build upon existing strengths and daily practices to ensure that they have the tools to live their life in alignment with their own values and desires. I see my role as creating a container to support a person in developing deeper accountability and consent in their relationship with themselves and with others.
View
Photo of Siegi A Schuler, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Siegi A Schuler
Registered Social Worker, PhD, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5P
For more than 30-years, I have specialized in the assessment and treatment of children, adolescents, and adults who have experienced various mental health concerns. In addition, I provide assessment and counselling in the area of parent-child/adolescent issues; father-son conflict; youth addictions (sexual and substance abuse), court involved/at risk youth; and issues related to adolescent depression, disordered eating, and self-injury. I also work in the area of men's health, addressing such issues as depression and anger management; trauma; addictions; fatherhood; and martial/relationship counselling.
For more than 30-years, I have specialized in the assessment and treatment of children, adolescents, and adults who have experienced various mental health concerns. In addition, I provide assessment and counselling in the area of parent-child/adolescent issues; father-son conflict; youth addictions (sexual and substance abuse), court involved/at risk youth; and issues related to adolescent depression, disordered eating, and self-injury. I also work in the area of men's health, addressing such issues as depression and anger management; trauma; addictions; fatherhood; and martial/relationship counselling.
(416) 362-7472 View (416) 362-7472

See more therapy options for Toronto

Domestic Abuse Counsellors

What are the most effective ways to recover from domestic abuse?

Leaving an abusive relationship requires tremendous courage, so survivors in treatment should recognise 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.