Domestic Abuse Therapists in Barrie, ON

Photo of Natalie Drever, MSc, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Natalie Drever
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4N
I am a registered psychotherapist with 20+ years experience supporting people and their loved ones impacted by addiction, violence, trauma, and serious mental illness.
Feeling isolated and misunderstood is a common result of the stress and emotional strain of coping; whether the concern is addiction (your own or that of someone close to you), domestic abuse, trauma, caring for a loved one with a chronic condition, depression, anxiety, or other challenges. I take an eclectic client centred, empathic approach to assist clients in the development of effective coping skills, making life style changes, strengthening relationships, and making new connections in their lives. Over the past 20+ years I have had the privilege of witnessing clients cope more effectively and thrive.
I am a registered psychotherapist with 20+ years experience supporting people and their loved ones impacted by addiction, violence, trauma, and serious mental illness.
Feeling isolated and misunderstood is a common result of the stress and emotional strain of coping; whether the concern is addiction (your own or that of someone close to you), domestic abuse, trauma, caring for a loved one with a chronic condition, depression, anxiety, or other challenges. I take an eclectic client centred, empathic approach to assist clients in the development of effective coping skills, making life style changes, strengthening relationships, and making new connections in their lives. Over the past 20+ years I have had the privilege of witnessing clients cope more effectively and thrive.
(705) 996-0559 View (705) 996-0559
Photo of Christina Lee, Registered Social Worker
Christina Lee
Registered Social Worker
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4N
Are you feeling burnt out or overwhelmed? Is anxiety impacting your day-today life? Do you need help healing from difficult past relationships, traumatic events, or abuse? Do you find yourself repeating unhelpful behaviors and not know how to stop them? In therapy, you can learn coping skills to manage the anxiety or feelings holding you back. You will better understand what powers your difficulties and get the tools that you need to feel and function better. You can build self-esteem and develop communication skills. Your past does not have to dictate your future. You can take the driver's seat of your life journey. Start t
Are you feeling burnt out or overwhelmed? Is anxiety impacting your day-today life? Do you need help healing from difficult past relationships, traumatic events, or abuse? Do you find yourself repeating unhelpful behaviors and not know how to stop them? In therapy, you can learn coping skills to manage the anxiety or feelings holding you back. You will better understand what powers your difficulties and get the tools that you need to feel and function better. You can build self-esteem and develop communication skills. Your past does not have to dictate your future. You can take the driver's seat of your life journey. Start t
(249) 490-8864 View (249) 490-8864
Photo of Sarah Hull, MSW, RSW
Sarah Hull
Registered Social Worker, Psychotherapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4N
Waitlist for new clients
I am a caring and compassionate therapist with over 15 years' experience in the areas of trauma, violence/ abuse, relationship issues and complex mental health concerns.
I offer a safe, non-judgemental, client centered therapeutic space for individuals and couples. I believe that a journey towards healing requires empathy, encouragement and supportive facilitation as we often haven't had the opportunity to learn ways to cope with traumatic experiences and life related stressors. This can result in dysregulation and feelings of anxiety, depression and overwhelm in our day to day lives and relationships. Let's work together to explore and address your concerns in an open minded, anti-oppressive, trauma-informed, sex/body positive, LGBTQ+ inclusive space.
I am a caring and compassionate therapist with over 15 years' experience in the areas of trauma, violence/ abuse, relationship issues and complex mental health concerns.
I offer a safe, non-judgemental, client centered therapeutic space for individuals and couples. I believe that a journey towards healing requires empathy, encouragement and supportive facilitation as we often haven't had the opportunity to learn ways to cope with traumatic experiences and life related stressors. This can result in dysregulation and feelings of anxiety, depression and overwhelm in our day to day lives and relationships. Let's work together to explore and address your concerns in an open minded, anti-oppressive, trauma-informed, sex/body positive, LGBTQ+ inclusive space.
(249) 505-0585 View (249) 505-0585
Photo of Kaitlin Baldwin - Therapy And Clinical Supervision, MA, BA, Registered Psychotherapist
Kaitlin Baldwin - Therapy And Clinical Supervision
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, BA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4N
Some of my favourite things to help you with are anger, sexual trauma, domestic violence, relationship issues, and anything that makes you feel "different" than the status quo.
Let’s get this clear from the start: you aren’t ill, disordered, or flawed. You’re a human living in a world that creates constant stress and demands perfection. SO, while we will work on improving your quality of life, we’re going to focus on UNlearning just as much as learning. I like to explore, challenge, and empower you to lean into the difficult stuff using a gentle yet firm approach. My goal is to help you be able to accept those uncomfortable thoughts and feelings without being overwhelmed by them, and to connect you with a sense of confidence, clarity, and courage to live the way you want to.
Some of my favourite things to help you with are anger, sexual trauma, domestic violence, relationship issues, and anything that makes you feel "different" than the status quo.
Let’s get this clear from the start: you aren’t ill, disordered, or flawed. You’re a human living in a world that creates constant stress and demands perfection. SO, while we will work on improving your quality of life, we’re going to focus on UNlearning just as much as learning. I like to explore, challenge, and empower you to lean into the difficult stuff using a gentle yet firm approach. My goal is to help you be able to accept those uncomfortable thoughts and feelings without being overwhelmed by them, and to connect you with a sense of confidence, clarity, and courage to live the way you want to.
(249) 493-6435 View (249) 493-6435
Photo of Emily Dunn - Bay View Therapy Centre, Registered Social Worker
Bay View Therapy Centre
Registered Social Worker
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4N
Welcome and thanks for stopping by! We are a team of Registered Social Workers and Psychotherapists with decades of experience working with individuals impacted by trauma, abuse, PTSD, anxiety, depression, addictions, relationship and self-esteem issues. We use a strengths-based, trauma-informed approach to guide our therapeutic interventions and empower people to reach their goals. We believe every individual has the power and strength to work through their adversities, and our role your therapist is to work collaboratively with you to help you acknowledge your strengths, build upon them & heal to live a happy and success.
Welcome and thanks for stopping by! We are a team of Registered Social Workers and Psychotherapists with decades of experience working with individuals impacted by trauma, abuse, PTSD, anxiety, depression, addictions, relationship and self-esteem issues. We use a strengths-based, trauma-informed approach to guide our therapeutic interventions and empower people to reach their goals. We believe every individual has the power and strength to work through their adversities, and our role your therapist is to work collaboratively with you to help you acknowledge your strengths, build upon them & heal to live a happy and success.
(249) 495-5383 View (249) 495-5383
Photo of Kim M Kitchen, MA, RP, OAMHP, Registered Psychotherapist
Kim M Kitchen
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, OAMHP
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4N
I worked for 17 years providing community based therapy/counselling as an Addictions Therapist with a premier mental health and addictions hospital. Recently I have been the Senior Clinician with a community based mental health services program. I offer personalized and confidential services with a non-judgemental, empathic, and supportive approach. Along with Addiction based services for individuals and their family members, I have worked extensively with parent-teen and family based conflict, relationships, domestic violence, trauma, anger management and conflict resolution, mental health (eg. anxiety, depression, grief/loss, OCD, stress, suicide) as well as school refusal and peer difficulties.
I worked for 17 years providing community based therapy/counselling as an Addictions Therapist with a premier mental health and addictions hospital. Recently I have been the Senior Clinician with a community based mental health services program. I offer personalized and confidential services with a non-judgemental, empathic, and supportive approach. Along with Addiction based services for individuals and their family members, I have worked extensively with parent-teen and family based conflict, relationships, domestic violence, trauma, anger management and conflict resolution, mental health (eg. anxiety, depression, grief/loss, OCD, stress, suicide) as well as school refusal and peer difficulties.
(844) 334-6624 View (844) 334-6624
Photo of Samantha Smyth, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Samantha Smyth
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4M
I am a registered clinical social worker at Smith Psychological who provides individual and family psychotherapy. I hold a Master of Social Work, specializing in individual and family therapy.I have worked in child welfare, hospitals, not-for-profit organizations and in the school board settings. I have extensive experience counselling both children and adults. I provide services through multiple modalities such as: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Attachment Focused Family Therapy and Navigating relationships, suicide prevention, anxiety & depression management, sexual violence & LGBTQ+ counselling.
I am a registered clinical social worker at Smith Psychological who provides individual and family psychotherapy. I hold a Master of Social Work, specializing in individual and family therapy.I have worked in child welfare, hospitals, not-for-profit organizations and in the school board settings. I have extensive experience counselling both children and adults. I provide services through multiple modalities such as: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Attachment Focused Family Therapy and Navigating relationships, suicide prevention, anxiety & depression management, sexual violence & LGBTQ+ counselling.
(249) 209-0262 View (249) 209-0262
Photo of Reflection Centre, RP, MSW, RSSW, Registered Psychotherapist
Reflection Centre
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MSW, RSSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M
We provide therapy for abuse, anxiety, depression & more.
Welcome to Reflection Centre, an integrative therapy network located on the beautiful lakeshore of Barrie, Ontario. We are a network of trained clinicians here to help, whether you are seeking individual or family therapy. We offer a comprehensive range of mental health services, providing a seamless experience to fulfill all your potential needs in one place. Our goal is to support individuals, couples, families, and children in overcoming the challenges that prevent them from living life to the fullest. We understand that each person is unique, and we customize our treatment plans to meet the specific needs of our clients.
We provide therapy for abuse, anxiety, depression & more.
Welcome to Reflection Centre, an integrative therapy network located on the beautiful lakeshore of Barrie, Ontario. We are a network of trained clinicians here to help, whether you are seeking individual or family therapy. We offer a comprehensive range of mental health services, providing a seamless experience to fulfill all your potential needs in one place. Our goal is to support individuals, couples, families, and children in overcoming the challenges that prevent them from living life to the fullest. We understand that each person is unique, and we customize our treatment plans to meet the specific needs of our clients.
(249) 496-2524 View (249) 496-2524
Photo of Bridgette J Kenny - Mindmatters Psychotherapy, RP, RSSW, BA, Registered Psychotherapist
Mindmatters Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, RSSW, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M  (Online Only)
I have over 18 years of experience working directly with individuals suffering from the effects of trauma, including: PTSD, BPD, addictions, marital breakdown, social isolation, criminal justice involvement, addictions, domestic abuse, self harm, anger management issues and low motivation.
Hi my name is Bridgette. Thank you for viewing my profile. My belief is that everyone has a story, that every story matters and that when we are in pain our story must be heard. When we are suffering and feel we are alone or unheard, it can result in feelings of hopelessness, inferiority and diminish our self esteem. It can impact our ability to cope with the demands of life, our ability to feel whole, to feel safe and can drain our physical and emotional energy. Therapy can help us move beyond this state. It is possible to find yourself...
I have over 18 years of experience working directly with individuals suffering from the effects of trauma, including: PTSD, BPD, addictions, marital breakdown, social isolation, criminal justice involvement, addictions, domestic abuse, self harm, anger management issues and low motivation.
Hi my name is Bridgette. Thank you for viewing my profile. My belief is that everyone has a story, that every story matters and that when we are in pain our story must be heard. When we are suffering and feel we are alone or unheard, it can result in feelings of hopelessness, inferiority and diminish our self esteem. It can impact our ability to cope with the demands of life, our ability to feel whole, to feel safe and can drain our physical and emotional energy. Therapy can help us move beyond this state. It is possible to find yourself...
(249) 502-0841 View (249) 502-0841
Photo of Crystal Vivian, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Crystal Vivian
Registered Social Worker, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4N
We will address destructive thinking patterns, self-defeating behaviours, unhealthy coping mechanisms and break cycles of abuse.
I have a passion for supporting others on their journey through life and personal wellbeing. I have faced many of my own adversities from childhood to adulthood which led me to my own healing journey that began over ten years ago. By utilizing my own lived experiences in addition to a higher level of education I am able to offer compassionate person-centred therapy. I value autonomy and self-determination for my clients as they are the experts of their own lives and we are equal partners working together in developing opportunities for growth and change.
We will address destructive thinking patterns, self-defeating behaviours, unhealthy coping mechanisms and break cycles of abuse.
I have a passion for supporting others on their journey through life and personal wellbeing. I have faced many of my own adversities from childhood to adulthood which led me to my own healing journey that began over ten years ago. By utilizing my own lived experiences in addition to a higher level of education I am able to offer compassionate person-centred therapy. I value autonomy and self-determination for my clients as they are the experts of their own lives and we are equal partners working together in developing opportunities for growth and change.
(249) 444-3228 View (249) 444-3228
Photo of Naomi Hoffenberg, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Naomi Hoffenberg
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4M
I am a registered social worker with over 15 years of work experience. I have helped people who experience issues such as: depression, anxiety, addiction, abuse, trauma, anger, LGBTQ-related issues, relationship issues, grief, and family conflict. My journey into social work began at age 14, when I lost my father to cancer. Because there were few supports available at the time, I felt alone and stuck. This prompted me to dedicate my life to assisting others during difficult times, and help them realize they are not alone.
I am a registered social worker with over 15 years of work experience. I have helped people who experience issues such as: depression, anxiety, addiction, abuse, trauma, anger, LGBTQ-related issues, relationship issues, grief, and family conflict. My journey into social work began at age 14, when I lost my father to cancer. Because there were few supports available at the time, I felt alone and stuck. This prompted me to dedicate my life to assisting others during difficult times, and help them realize they are not alone.
(844) 331-0434 View (844) 331-0434
Photo of Amanda Di Zio, HBSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Amanda Di Zio
Registered Social Worker, HBSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4M  (Online Only)
I specialize in gender-based violence with adults and children/youth who may be surviving and healing from trauma.
Hi There! My name is Amanda Di Zio, a Registered Social Worker with many years of experience in supporting folks with compassion and understanding. I provide support for people of all ages and identities who are navigating challenges related to gender-based violence, emotional regulation, grief and bereavement, self-esteem, shame and guilt, and anxiety. I not only address immediate crises, but also to build long-term coping skills and emotional resilience.
I specialize in gender-based violence with adults and children/youth who may be surviving and healing from trauma.
Hi There! My name is Amanda Di Zio, a Registered Social Worker with many years of experience in supporting folks with compassion and understanding. I provide support for people of all ages and identities who are navigating challenges related to gender-based violence, emotional regulation, grief and bereavement, self-esteem, shame and guilt, and anxiety. I not only address immediate crises, but also to build long-term coping skills and emotional resilience.
(365) 360-9087 View (365) 360-9087
Photo of Rebecca Crawford, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Rebecca Crawford
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4N
As a woman, it’s so SO hard to walk in those shoes (or steel toe boots, flip flops, heels, whatever they are). You’ve been trying to do it all and be so strong. You’re amazing. And at the same time, you don’t have to sort through it alone: the toxic and codependent relationships, the body image pressure and never feeling like you’re enough, the huge plate load of things you take on every single day, and the sexual trauma or abuse that you carry as you try and just…live. It’s A LOT. And you deserve to find some peace and relief with it all. So what if all it takes is some therapy sessions to get that relief?
As a woman, it’s so SO hard to walk in those shoes (or steel toe boots, flip flops, heels, whatever they are). You’ve been trying to do it all and be so strong. You’re amazing. And at the same time, you don’t have to sort through it alone: the toxic and codependent relationships, the body image pressure and never feeling like you’re enough, the huge plate load of things you take on every single day, and the sexual trauma or abuse that you carry as you try and just…live. It’s A LOT. And you deserve to find some peace and relief with it all. So what if all it takes is some therapy sessions to get that relief?
(705) 704-9066 View (705) 704-9066
Photo of Bettina J. Kealy, BA, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Bettina J. Kealy
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M
She works with victims of abuse and discrimination.
Bettina Kealy, B.A., M.A., R.P. is a Registered Psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience in the field, providing psychotherapy services to clients and also training/supervising other psychotherapists and mental health providers. Bettina obtained her B.A. in Psychology from Laurentian University in 2003 and then completed her Masters in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University in 2012. She is registered, and in good standing with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario. Bettina offers individual psychotherapy services as well as couples/marriage counselling and family psychotherapy.
She works with victims of abuse and discrimination.
Bettina Kealy, B.A., M.A., R.P. is a Registered Psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience in the field, providing psychotherapy services to clients and also training/supervising other psychotherapists and mental health providers. Bettina obtained her B.A. in Psychology from Laurentian University in 2003 and then completed her Masters in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University in 2012. She is registered, and in good standing with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario. Bettina offers individual psychotherapy services as well as couples/marriage counselling and family psychotherapy.
(249) 523-4778 View (249) 523-4778
Photo of Tanja Thani, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Tanja Thani
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M
We often believe we must suffer on our own, having learned to be fiercely independent. Our suffering can show up as lack of motivation, burn-out, isolation, unhelpful habits, abuse, anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, feeling stuck, or feeling like we just need to survive the day to day. We may even believe that we are meant to suffer. Perhaps we might believe that we cannot reach our potential or reach out for help, or we have forgotten who we are. When we receive the support that we need, we can all reach our full potential, regardless of what happened to us.
We often believe we must suffer on our own, having learned to be fiercely independent. Our suffering can show up as lack of motivation, burn-out, isolation, unhelpful habits, abuse, anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, feeling stuck, or feeling like we just need to survive the day to day. We may even believe that we are meant to suffer. Perhaps we might believe that we cannot reach our potential or reach out for help, or we have forgotten who we are. When we receive the support that we need, we can all reach our full potential, regardless of what happened to us.
(289) 797-3230 View (289) 797-3230
Photo of Amber Brown, MSW, BSW
Amber Brown
Registered Social Worker, Psychotherapist, MSW, BSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M  (Online Only)
Kwey (hello). I am an Indigenous therapist (Algonquin nation) with over 10 years experience providing mental health care to Indigenous individuals and families in Indigenous led community organizations. My passion is supporting Individuals to reach Mno Bimaadziwin- The Good Life. In my years of supporting Indigenous community members, I have specialized in trauma therapies to address lasting impacts of colonial harm such as anxiety, depression, abuse, addiction, and more.
Kwey (hello). I am an Indigenous therapist (Algonquin nation) with over 10 years experience providing mental health care to Indigenous individuals and families in Indigenous led community organizations. My passion is supporting Individuals to reach Mno Bimaadziwin- The Good Life. In my years of supporting Indigenous community members, I have specialized in trauma therapies to address lasting impacts of colonial harm such as anxiety, depression, abuse, addiction, and more.
(289) 272-8884 View (289) 272-8884
Photo of Tracy Frazer, MACP, RP, CCTS-F, Registered Psychotherapist
Tracy Frazer
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP, CCTS-F
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M  (Online Only)
Feeling stress, deflated, low or struggling with your inner critic? Seeking help is not easy. Tracy’s experience working with offenders and victims of crime and/or tragic circumstance provides her with an empathetic, supportive and nonjudgmental approach regardless of your situation or struggle. Whether it be, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, relational, grief, historical abuse, childhood or developmental trauma, or neuro-diversities. Despite one’s past, everyone can become their own best friend.
Feeling stress, deflated, low or struggling with your inner critic? Seeking help is not easy. Tracy’s experience working with offenders and victims of crime and/or tragic circumstance provides her with an empathetic, supportive and nonjudgmental approach regardless of your situation or struggle. Whether it be, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, relational, grief, historical abuse, childhood or developmental trauma, or neuro-diversities. Despite one’s past, everyone can become their own best friend.
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Photo of Brenda Brough, RSSW, ADS, Registered Social Worker
Brenda Brough
Registered Social Worker, RSSW, ADS
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4M
My goal as a Registered Social Service Worker (RSSW), Psychotherapist, is to offer assistance to those looking to heal, obtain self-acceptance & understanding things that have, or are happening in their lives. I have experience in substance use/addictions, coping skills, relapse prevention, mental health, trauma (informed), sexual assault/ abuse, as well as other areas. Covered by benefits under Registered Psychotherapist
My goal as a Registered Social Service Worker (RSSW), Psychotherapist, is to offer assistance to those looking to heal, obtain self-acceptance & understanding things that have, or are happening in their lives. I have experience in substance use/addictions, coping skills, relapse prevention, mental health, trauma (informed), sexual assault/ abuse, as well as other areas. Covered by benefits under Registered Psychotherapist
(647) 933-1020 View (647) 933-1020
Photo of Jay Sutton, MDiv, Registered Psychotherapist
Jay Sutton
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4N
While certainly open to journeying with any and all who may arrive at my door, I love helping create marriages and relationships that are enjoyed rather than endured. I love helping folks through the complexities of PTSD and Trauma; especially those having dedicated their own lives to serving others (Military, First Responders, Medical Personnel, Pastors, and other Therapists). I also have a strong desire to help men overcome the various stigmas surrounding their own reaching out for help in order to help reduce the number of those continuing to fall victim to suicide and self-harm.
While certainly open to journeying with any and all who may arrive at my door, I love helping create marriages and relationships that are enjoyed rather than endured. I love helping folks through the complexities of PTSD and Trauma; especially those having dedicated their own lives to serving others (Military, First Responders, Medical Personnel, Pastors, and other Therapists). I also have a strong desire to help men overcome the various stigmas surrounding their own reaching out for help in order to help reduce the number of those continuing to fall victim to suicide and self-harm.
(705) 333-8756 View (705) 333-8756
Photo of Sue Cook - Family TLC, MEd, Counsel, BAFN, CYC, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Family TLC
Registered Social Worker, MEd, Counsel, BAFN, CYC, RSW
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4N
Are life struggles causing you unhappiness? It can get better. We are a group of highly trained psychotherapists, social workers and mediators. Many with over 25 years of experience in the field. Hundreds of individuals, couples, families, children and adolescents have benefited from our services. At Family TLC we truly believe in you and that you are bigger than the concern. With our diversely experienced team we are confident that a potential client will find someone best suited to their concerns that will help them make positive changes in their life.
Are life struggles causing you unhappiness? It can get better. We are a group of highly trained psychotherapists, social workers and mediators. Many with over 25 years of experience in the field. Hundreds of individuals, couples, families, children and adolescents have benefited from our services. At Family TLC we truly believe in you and that you are bigger than the concern. With our diversely experienced team we are confident that a potential client will find someone best suited to their concerns that will help them make positive changes in their life.
(844) 332-2854 View (844) 332-2854
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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.