Domestic Abuse Therapists in Burlington, ON

Photo of Madeleine Pryce Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist in Burlington, ON
Madeleine Pryce Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
Burlington, ON L7R  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with low self-esteem, anxiety or depression? Have you experienced sexual abuse or other forms of trauma? If so, I am here to help. It takes courage to reach out for help when life is challenging but we all have difficulties at one time or another. The good news is that you don’t have to go through these times alone. I provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment where you can discuss your issues openly and honestly while being treated with respect, compassion and sensitivity.
Are you struggling with low self-esteem, anxiety or depression? Have you experienced sexual abuse or other forms of trauma? If so, I am here to help. It takes courage to reach out for help when life is challenging but we all have difficulties at one time or another. The good news is that you don’t have to go through these times alone. I provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment where you can discuss your issues openly and honestly while being treated with respect, compassion and sensitivity.
(519) 400-6241 View (519) 400-6241
Photo of Kathy Bernard, Registered Psychotherapist in Burlington, ON
Kathy Bernard
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
Burlington, ON L7P  (Online Only)
Anxiety, depression, feeling stressed out or overwhelmed, boundaries, interpersonal relationships, past wounds, abuse, divorce, self-care, or other issues that surface, are areas that I would like to help you navigate.
Hi, I'm glad you're here. I know it's not easy reaching out, and the process to find a therapist who is right for you can feel almost overwhelming. Here is some information about me that you might find helpful - in my practice I offer client led psychotherapy, meaning, I have experience in many treatment options and will work with you to find the approach that works best to fit your goals and needs and allows you the space to feel comfortable and confident. I have more than 18 years of experiance, and provide an open, honest, safe environment to support you through the challenges you are facing.
Anxiety, depression, feeling stressed out or overwhelmed, boundaries, interpersonal relationships, past wounds, abuse, divorce, self-care, or other issues that surface, are areas that I would like to help you navigate.
Hi, I'm glad you're here. I know it's not easy reaching out, and the process to find a therapist who is right for you can feel almost overwhelming. Here is some information about me that you might find helpful - in my practice I offer client led psychotherapy, meaning, I have experience in many treatment options and will work with you to find the approach that works best to fit your goals and needs and allows you the space to feel comfortable and confident. I have more than 18 years of experiance, and provide an open, honest, safe environment to support you through the challenges you are facing.
(289) 207-5148 View (289) 207-5148
Photo of Chris Martin, Registered Psychotherapist in Burlington, ON
Chris Martin
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, Bsc, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlington, ON L7R
Working from the backdrop of Narrative Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, I have a strong background focusing on healthy relationships, including, addressing abuse, improving respect and communication and managing conflict. I am equally comfortable working individually or with couples and pride myself on my dynamic style of communication and versatility. In addition to my extensive background in relationship work, I am skilled at working with issues surrounding anger, trauma, anxiety, depression and addictions.
Working from the backdrop of Narrative Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, I have a strong background focusing on healthy relationships, including, addressing abuse, improving respect and communication and managing conflict. I am equally comfortable working individually or with couples and pride myself on my dynamic style of communication and versatility. In addition to my extensive background in relationship work, I am skilled at working with issues surrounding anger, trauma, anxiety, depression and addictions.
(289) 809-7030 View (289) 809-7030
Photo of Laura Lancia Counselling, Registered Social Worker in Burlington, ON
Laura Lancia Counselling
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Burlington, ON L7R  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Does it feel like you are stuck in the past and unable to truly enjoy what’s happening in your life now? Unresolved trauma can lead to problematic and distressing thoughts, feelings, and behaviours and impact your work and relationships. My primary area of experience is supporting first responders, frontline workers, helping professionals and adult survivors of relational and childhood abuse. My experience also includes supporting clients to address challenges due to a variety of other mental health and wellness concerns including depression, anxiety, panic, phobias, self-esteem, grief, addiction, stress and relationship dynamics.
Does it feel like you are stuck in the past and unable to truly enjoy what’s happening in your life now? Unresolved trauma can lead to problematic and distressing thoughts, feelings, and behaviours and impact your work and relationships. My primary area of experience is supporting first responders, frontline workers, helping professionals and adult survivors of relational and childhood abuse. My experience also includes supporting clients to address challenges due to a variety of other mental health and wellness concerns including depression, anxiety, panic, phobias, self-esteem, grief, addiction, stress and relationship dynamics.
(226) 796-9787 View (226) 796-9787
Photo of Mandira Aich, Registered Psychotherapist in Burlington, ON
Mandira Aich
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlington, ON L7L  (Online Only)
With 6+ years of working with intimate partner abuse, I advocate for men's mental health rights.
Are you seeking a therapist who respects your complex life experiences and does not ask you to fit in a box? As a psychotherapist and advocate for social justice, I bring a unique perspective shaped by my experiences as an immigrant person of colour from a collectivistic culture. Drawing from my personal encounters with racism, sexism, trauma, immigration, and acculturation, I strive to create a safe and inclusive space for all. My approach is person-centred and strength-based, aimed at breaking mental health stigmas. As a South Asian woman, I cherish the cultural values of storytelling, collaboration, and self-compassion.
With 6+ years of working with intimate partner abuse, I advocate for men's mental health rights.
Are you seeking a therapist who respects your complex life experiences and does not ask you to fit in a box? As a psychotherapist and advocate for social justice, I bring a unique perspective shaped by my experiences as an immigrant person of colour from a collectivistic culture. Drawing from my personal encounters with racism, sexism, trauma, immigration, and acculturation, I strive to create a safe and inclusive space for all. My approach is person-centred and strength-based, aimed at breaking mental health stigmas. As a South Asian woman, I cherish the cultural values of storytelling, collaboration, and self-compassion.
(289) 271-1027 View (289) 271-1027
Photo of Nandini Daljit, Registered Social Worker in Burlington, ON
Nandini Daljit
Registered Social Worker, BA/BSW, MSW, EdD
Verified Verified
Burlington, ON L7P
Over my 36 years of counselling I most enjoy working with clients who are committed and motivated to ‘do the work’. My expertise is focused in the areas of anxiety, depression, emotional abuse, trauma, PTSD, Complex-PTSD. Most of my clients have priorities that compete with the time they have for self care so my style is to focus on facilitating the achievement of your counselling goals in a patient but progressive pace. For me, counselling is not a ‘one off’ thing, and I enjoy building lasting relationships with my clients who often come back for support as needed intermittently over the years.
Over my 36 years of counselling I most enjoy working with clients who are committed and motivated to ‘do the work’. My expertise is focused in the areas of anxiety, depression, emotional abuse, trauma, PTSD, Complex-PTSD. Most of my clients have priorities that compete with the time they have for self care so my style is to focus on facilitating the achievement of your counselling goals in a patient but progressive pace. For me, counselling is not a ‘one off’ thing, and I enjoy building lasting relationships with my clients who often come back for support as needed intermittently over the years.
(289) 301-9532 View (289) 301-9532
Photo of Sarah Campbell | Relationship Therapy | Trauma Therapy, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Burlington, ON
Sarah Campbell | Relationship Therapy | Trauma Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlington, ON L7N
I specialize working with grief, trauma, relationship issues and narcissistic abuse recovery.
Are you struggling to form meaningful connections? Every argument, every misunderstanding, seems to reopen old wounds? You may be experiencing the pain of abandonment, betrayal, grief, and neglect. You may be feeling lost and disconnected and wonder if your relationship and family could ever be salvaged. I can be your external support, where you can be heard, seen, and understood. You probably have put up with a lot of unfairness and downplayed your emotions and now looking for strategies to end the hurt. Together, let's help you find a sense of peace, relief and figure out how to make changes in your relationship.
I specialize working with grief, trauma, relationship issues and narcissistic abuse recovery.
Are you struggling to form meaningful connections? Every argument, every misunderstanding, seems to reopen old wounds? You may be experiencing the pain of abandonment, betrayal, grief, and neglect. You may be feeling lost and disconnected and wonder if your relationship and family could ever be salvaged. I can be your external support, where you can be heard, seen, and understood. You probably have put up with a lot of unfairness and downplayed your emotions and now looking for strategies to end the hurt. Together, let's help you find a sense of peace, relief and figure out how to make changes in your relationship.
(289) 277-6926 View (289) 277-6926
Photo of Erin Coffell, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Burlington, ON
Erin Coffell
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q)
Verified Verified
Burlington, ON L7N  (Online Only)
I specialize working with those who are seeking relationship support, healing from trauma and PTSD, anxiety, narcissistic abuse recovery, and chronic pain and illness.
Are you in a relationship where it's on and off, unhealthy, or wondering how the compliments turned into criticisms? Do you feel like you and your loved ones are growing apart? Because of relationship struggles you are experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, maybe even chronic pain? You feel like you are constantly tensed, experiencing unknown pain, lack of sleep and ruminating. Maybe you are looking to heal from trauma and PTSD, and you feel your body is trapped in the past. If you are looking for a sense of peace and relief, both mentally and physically, I can support you.
I specialize working with those who are seeking relationship support, healing from trauma and PTSD, anxiety, narcissistic abuse recovery, and chronic pain and illness.
Are you in a relationship where it's on and off, unhealthy, or wondering how the compliments turned into criticisms? Do you feel like you and your loved ones are growing apart? Because of relationship struggles you are experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, maybe even chronic pain? You feel like you are constantly tensed, experiencing unknown pain, lack of sleep and ruminating. Maybe you are looking to heal from trauma and PTSD, and you feel your body is trapped in the past. If you are looking for a sense of peace and relief, both mentally and physically, I can support you.
(289) 670-3156 View (289) 670-3156
Photo of Deanna Brock, Registered Social Worker in Burlington, ON
Deanna Brock
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Burlington, ON L7R
I take great pride in inspiring and motivating children, adolescents, adults + families to live a more meaningful and balanced life. I enjoy teaching valuable coping skills to assist with reducing symptoms and improve overall quality of life. My specialty includes working with children + families who are being impacted by divorce & separation, domestic violence, interpersonal trauma, as well as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and more. In times of distress, it is important to have a positive support system to reduce feelings of discomfort. I would like to provide the support for you to become the best version of yourself.
I take great pride in inspiring and motivating children, adolescents, adults + families to live a more meaningful and balanced life. I enjoy teaching valuable coping skills to assist with reducing symptoms and improve overall quality of life. My specialty includes working with children + families who are being impacted by divorce & separation, domestic violence, interpersonal trauma, as well as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and more. In times of distress, it is important to have a positive support system to reduce feelings of discomfort. I would like to provide the support for you to become the best version of yourself.
(289) 217-9114 View (289) 217-9114
Photo of Dan Bloch, Registered Psychotherapist in Burlington, ON
Dan Bloch
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP, MBA, BSc, OAMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlington, ON L7R
In addition to the above areas, Dan has worked with clients who have experienced violence, abuse, sexual abuse, rape, violent death and suicidal ideation.
Serene Living provides therapeutic services to adults, couples and families across Mississauga, Milton, Burlington, and Oakville. Dan sees clients for a variety of reasons including divorce, relationships, grief, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, trauma/PTSD, life changes, etc.
In addition to the above areas, Dan has worked with clients who have experienced violence, abuse, sexual abuse, rape, violent death and suicidal ideation.
Serene Living provides therapeutic services to adults, couples and families across Mississauga, Milton, Burlington, and Oakville. Dan sees clients for a variety of reasons including divorce, relationships, grief, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, trauma/PTSD, life changes, etc.
(289) 806-5575 View (289) 806-5575
Photo of Victoria Kulchytska, Registered Social Worker in Burlington, ON
Victoria Kulchytska
Registered Social Worker, BSc, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlington, ON L7R
She provides services that accommodate a wide range of subject areas including trauma, relationship concerns, abuse, anxiety, depression, stress and burnout management, dysfunctional family dynamics, effective communication, conflict resolution, self-esteem, and neurodivergent support.
Victoria is a warm, caring, non-judgemental professional who offers her compassion, openness, and insight that enables her clients to reflect and draw on meaningful connections about themselves in a safe therapeutic environment. What she appreciates most in a client is their commitment to the therapeutic process, their willingness to be open to initiating change, and most importantly their personal self-reflection practice.
She provides services that accommodate a wide range of subject areas including trauma, relationship concerns, abuse, anxiety, depression, stress and burnout management, dysfunctional family dynamics, effective communication, conflict resolution, self-esteem, and neurodivergent support.
Victoria is a warm, caring, non-judgemental professional who offers her compassion, openness, and insight that enables her clients to reflect and draw on meaningful connections about themselves in a safe therapeutic environment. What she appreciates most in a client is their commitment to the therapeutic process, their willingness to be open to initiating change, and most importantly their personal self-reflection practice.
(365) 536-0834 View (365) 536-0834
Photo of Rebecca Zhang, Registered Psychotherapist in Burlington, ON
Rebecca Zhang
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MDiv, MEd
Verified Verified
Burlington, ON L7L  (Online Only)
Greetings! I am Rebecca, privileged to walk alongside people struggling and distressed psychologically, mentally, and relationally due to their life challenges, traumatic experiences, and difficulties in their life transitions. I have experience in clinical counselling with culturally diverse populations, aged from 20 to 60, individuals, and couples suffering from depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, anger issue, abuse, suicidal thought, relational conflict, family crisis, and stress of life transitioning. I am passionate to help you restore your authentic self, connect with your intrinsic values, move on, and thrive.
Greetings! I am Rebecca, privileged to walk alongside people struggling and distressed psychologically, mentally, and relationally due to their life challenges, traumatic experiences, and difficulties in their life transitions. I have experience in clinical counselling with culturally diverse populations, aged from 20 to 60, individuals, and couples suffering from depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, anger issue, abuse, suicidal thought, relational conflict, family crisis, and stress of life transitioning. I am passionate to help you restore your authentic self, connect with your intrinsic values, move on, and thrive.
(289) 512-0506 View (289) 512-0506
Photo of Rabail Awan, Registered Social Worker in Burlington, ON
Rabail Awan
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlington, ON L7M
With 10 years of experience, my involvement in community advocacy, particularly with survivors of violence and parents of neurodiverse children, has equipped me to offer individualized support.
As a Registered Social Worker and a Therapist, I'm deeply committed to assisting individuals throughout their journey of pregnancy, postpartum, and parenthood. My passion lies in supporting women as they navigate life transitions, evolving relationships, and self-discovery. Additionally, I work with those feeling isolated and seeking to better understand themselves and their emotions. Fluency in Urdu and Punjabi equips me to provide inclusive counselling services tailored to diverse South Asian populations.
With 10 years of experience, my involvement in community advocacy, particularly with survivors of violence and parents of neurodiverse children, has equipped me to offer individualized support.
As a Registered Social Worker and a Therapist, I'm deeply committed to assisting individuals throughout their journey of pregnancy, postpartum, and parenthood. My passion lies in supporting women as they navigate life transitions, evolving relationships, and self-discovery. Additionally, I work with those feeling isolated and seeking to better understand themselves and their emotions. Fluency in Urdu and Punjabi equips me to provide inclusive counselling services tailored to diverse South Asian populations.
(289) 276-1358 View (289) 276-1358
Photo of Kim Lawrence, Registered Social Worker in Burlington, ON
Kim Lawrence
Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Burlington, ON L7L
I have over 30 years of experience in the field of social work and 20 years of experience as a family mediator. My professional expertise includes a background in psychiatry and management. I counsel individuals, couples and families. I work with clients experiencing stress and trauma, anxiety and depression, relationship and family conflict including neglect, abuse, anger management and gender identity issues. I help couples with relationship conflict, communication, sexuality and parenting challenges, separation and divorce. I have experience in working with individuals struggling with addictions, making career decisions grief and day to day challenges.
I have over 30 years of experience in the field of social work and 20 years of experience as a family mediator. My professional expertise includes a background in psychiatry and management. I counsel individuals, couples and families. I work with clients experiencing stress and trauma, anxiety and depression, relationship and family conflict including neglect, abuse, anger management and gender identity issues. I help couples with relationship conflict, communication, sexuality and parenting challenges, separation and divorce. I have experience in working with individuals struggling with addictions, making career decisions grief and day to day challenges.
(289) 768-7742 View (289) 768-7742
Photo of Kristina Coda, Registered Psychotherapist in Burlington, ON
Kristina Coda
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burlington, ON L7L  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
In addition to stress, anxiety, depression, abuse, and relationships, I also specialize in identity issues, and religious trauma.
I provide a non-judgmental, confidential, responsive space to process, gain insight, knowledge and strategies, and work towards resolution. Using an integrative, client-centered approach, with elements of Narrative Therapy, CBT, EFT, etc., I primarily work through the exploration of relationship dynamics and patterns, addressing attachment wounds, and using a focus on emotions and cognition. Perhaps you are dissatisfied with your relationships, or are not getting along with a family member or co-worker, are feeling alone or stressed? Compassion and empathy based, I encourage self-compassion, self-acceptance and authentic self-expression.
In addition to stress, anxiety, depression, abuse, and relationships, I also specialize in identity issues, and religious trauma.
I provide a non-judgmental, confidential, responsive space to process, gain insight, knowledge and strategies, and work towards resolution. Using an integrative, client-centered approach, with elements of Narrative Therapy, CBT, EFT, etc., I primarily work through the exploration of relationship dynamics and patterns, addressing attachment wounds, and using a focus on emotions and cognition. Perhaps you are dissatisfied with your relationships, or are not getting along with a family member or co-worker, are feeling alone or stressed? Compassion and empathy based, I encourage self-compassion, self-acceptance and authentic self-expression.
(365) 598-5830 View (365) 598-5830
Photo of David Edgar, Social Work/Psychotherapy Services, Registered Social Worker in Burlington, ON
David Edgar, Social Work/Psychotherapy Services
Registered Social Worker, MA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlington, ON L7L  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients. Are you underachieving in your relationships, with your partner, children, parents, or coworkers? Do you find yourself overwhelmed with stress, panic, anxiety, depression, or addiction? Do past traumatic events (abuse, neglect, family dysfunction), hurt you today? Even though it's normal for everyone to experience emotional pain, stress, and worry sometimes, do you feel your life becoming unmanageable and out of control? Therapy is a chance to take care of yourself, with someone attuned to your needs, and make progress on your individual goals. Learn tools for grounding and connecting to your values.
Accepting New Clients. Are you underachieving in your relationships, with your partner, children, parents, or coworkers? Do you find yourself overwhelmed with stress, panic, anxiety, depression, or addiction? Do past traumatic events (abuse, neglect, family dysfunction), hurt you today? Even though it's normal for everyone to experience emotional pain, stress, and worry sometimes, do you feel your life becoming unmanageable and out of control? Therapy is a chance to take care of yourself, with someone attuned to your needs, and make progress on your individual goals. Learn tools for grounding and connecting to your values.
(289) 207-7529 View (289) 207-7529
Photo of Beata Sims, Registered Psychotherapist in Burlington, ON
Beata Sims
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, CCC, TICT-CT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Burlington, ON L7L
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Registered Psychotherapist, Canadian Certified Counsellor, and a Certified Clinical Traumatologist. I welcome clients who experience psychosocial challenges, trauma, sexual abuse, PTSD, addictions, chronic pain and disability. I also work with clients experiencing complex issues including social exclusion and involvement in the criminal justice system. I believe that key to happiness begins with embracing challenges, accepting what is and building resources that help us move towards the valued driven direction. Together we can explore the problems and barriers that may stand in the way of your emotional wellbeing.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist, Canadian Certified Counsellor, and a Certified Clinical Traumatologist. I welcome clients who experience psychosocial challenges, trauma, sexual abuse, PTSD, addictions, chronic pain and disability. I also work with clients experiencing complex issues including social exclusion and involvement in the criminal justice system. I believe that key to happiness begins with embracing challenges, accepting what is and building resources that help us move towards the valued driven direction. Together we can explore the problems and barriers that may stand in the way of your emotional wellbeing.
(647) 370-9694 View (647) 370-9694
Photo of Rebecca Burrows, Registered Psychotherapist in Burlington, ON
Rebecca Burrows
Registered Psychotherapist, RP , MACP
Verified Verified
Burlington, ON L7R
I have specialized experience related to sexual violence and complex trauma.
I am Psychotherapist, registered with the College of Registered Psychotherapists (CRPO). I work with individuals, couples and families to address their concerns and guide you through life’s most complex and difficult matters. I can help you explore a wide range of concerns such as sexual trauma, complex PTSD, anxiety and depression. My skills emphasis the importance of listening and creating a compassionate and respectful environment for my clients to discuss their concerns.
I have specialized experience related to sexual violence and complex trauma.
I am Psychotherapist, registered with the College of Registered Psychotherapists (CRPO). I work with individuals, couples and families to address their concerns and guide you through life’s most complex and difficult matters. I can help you explore a wide range of concerns such as sexual trauma, complex PTSD, anxiety and depression. My skills emphasis the importance of listening and creating a compassionate and respectful environment for my clients to discuss their concerns.
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Photo of Kellie Thomas, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Burlington, ON
Kellie Thomas
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, RP(Q), CCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Burlington, ON L7L  (Online Only)
I have experience working with clients who have experienced trauma, abuse, difficult life transitions, and general mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and symptoms of other mental health struggles.
It's no secret that life's challenges can be overwhelming. Support from family and friends is important, but support from a mental health professional is unique and without the bias that often comes with a pre-existing relationship. I seek to support my clients during their life challenges and stressors while increasing resiliency and focusing on strengths. Our work together will be reflective, supportive, and collaborative.
I have experience working with clients who have experienced trauma, abuse, difficult life transitions, and general mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and symptoms of other mental health struggles.
It's no secret that life's challenges can be overwhelming. Support from family and friends is important, but support from a mental health professional is unique and without the bias that often comes with a pre-existing relationship. I seek to support my clients during their life challenges and stressors while increasing resiliency and focusing on strengths. Our work together will be reflective, supportive, and collaborative.
(365) 601-3986 View (365) 601-3986
Photo of Sasha Pivarnyik (Therapist And Clinical Supervisor), Registered Social Worker in Burlington, ON
Sasha Pivarnyik (Therapist And Clinical Supervisor)
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlington, ON L7T
Specialized training/areas of focus include childhood abuse/neglect, sexual abuse/trauma, and postpartum depression.
I provide therapy to those who feel that past difficulties and traumatic events are affecting their lives now. My work helps clients to understand how and why the past affects them, and to ensure positive change going forward. Most importantly, I offer a safe, compassionate and comfortable space for you to tell your story.
Specialized training/areas of focus include childhood abuse/neglect, sexual abuse/trauma, and postpartum depression.
I provide therapy to those who feel that past difficulties and traumatic events are affecting their lives now. My work helps clients to understand how and why the past affects them, and to ensure positive change going forward. Most importantly, I offer a safe, compassionate and comfortable space for you to tell your story.
(365) 300-8329 View (365) 300-8329

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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.