Domestic Abuse Therapists in Port Perry, ON

Photo of Janna Wilks, Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP
Janna Wilks
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I have special interest and experience supporting women through trauma and abuse, others with issues of self-acceptance, relationship difficulties, cross cultural adjustment and the impacts of working in aid and development, as well as issues of faith, spirituality (including religious trauma), and supporting those surviving through grief and loss.
Are you looking for a safe space to share your story and reflect on what you want for your future? Do you wish for freedom from fear, and increasing joy in your life? I have needed these very things at different times in my own life, and the courage it takes to reach out has been worth it every time. With specialized training in CBT for anxiety I work from an anti-oppressive framework, using a strengths-based, individually tailored approach to each client’s experience and interest. I love working with individuals, families and youth, and I am passionate about supporting people in their desire to grow, to heal and to create change.
I have special interest and experience supporting women through trauma and abuse, others with issues of self-acceptance, relationship difficulties, cross cultural adjustment and the impacts of working in aid and development, as well as issues of faith, spirituality (including religious trauma), and supporting those surviving through grief and loss.
Are you looking for a safe space to share your story and reflect on what you want for your future? Do you wish for freedom from fear, and increasing joy in your life? I have needed these very things at different times in my own life, and the courage it takes to reach out has been worth it every time. With specialized training in CBT for anxiety I work from an anti-oppressive framework, using a strengths-based, individually tailored approach to each client’s experience and interest. I love working with individuals, families and youth, and I am passionate about supporting people in their desire to grow, to heal and to create change.
(289) 206-3345 View (289) 206-3345
Photo of Debbie G Knight - Mind Health Connect, Registered Social Worker, RSW
Mind Health Connect
Registered Social Worker, RSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcoming New Clients- Feeling stuck in fear, is Fight Flight or Freeze consuming you. Overwhelmed by life challenges, toxic relationship, child, parenting, family conflict or financial issues or feeling dissatisfied with life. As a retired police officer I understand the what emergency responders live through. I am trauma-informed practice that supports awareness between the connection of mind and body. I emphasize the importance of emotions and how this understanding can give us the power to move forward. What ever the issue together we can find the tools that provide the best solution for you.
Welcoming New Clients- Feeling stuck in fear, is Fight Flight or Freeze consuming you. Overwhelmed by life challenges, toxic relationship, child, parenting, family conflict or financial issues or feeling dissatisfied with life. As a retired police officer I understand the what emergency responders live through. I am trauma-informed practice that supports awareness between the connection of mind and body. I emphasize the importance of emotions and how this understanding can give us the power to move forward. What ever the issue together we can find the tools that provide the best solution for you.
(289) 276-1324 View (289) 276-1324
Photo of Shannon Mossip - New Beginnings Ont - Shannon Mossip Psychology, Psychologist
New Beginnings Ont - Shannon Mossip Psychology
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Port Perry, ON L9L
At New Beginnings, clients have the opportunity to explore their strengths and limitations in a safe, confidential, and accepting environment. We provide assessment, intervention, and treatment services to children, adolescents, and adults who exhibit symptoms of inattention, concentration difficulty, memory impairment, hyperactivity, poor academic performance, and learning disabilities. We offer group therapy programs for children diagnosed with Autism, Oppositional Defiant Disorder and Anxiety. In addition, we offer therapy and assessments through WSIB.
At New Beginnings, clients have the opportunity to explore their strengths and limitations in a safe, confidential, and accepting environment. We provide assessment, intervention, and treatment services to children, adolescents, and adults who exhibit symptoms of inattention, concentration difficulty, memory impairment, hyperactivity, poor academic performance, and learning disabilities. We offer group therapy programs for children diagnosed with Autism, Oppositional Defiant Disorder and Anxiety. In addition, we offer therapy and assessments through WSIB.
(844) 332-2404 View (844) 332-2404
Photo of Amanda Harper, Registered Psychotherapist, MSW, RSW, RP
Amanda Harper
Registered Psychotherapist, MSW, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am passionate about helping others to begin to find balance in their lives. I truly believe that reaching out for help takes a great deal of courage. I am committed to providing a safe, non-judgmental and supportive virtual counselling environment where you can begin to explore the emotions, thoughts and behaviours that may be getting in the way of you living your best life. Whether it be mental health, trauma, substance use, impulsive behaviours, emotion dysregulation, grief/loss or relationship challenges, I will be there to work collaboratively with you to fulfill your personal therapy goals.
I am passionate about helping others to begin to find balance in their lives. I truly believe that reaching out for help takes a great deal of courage. I am committed to providing a safe, non-judgmental and supportive virtual counselling environment where you can begin to explore the emotions, thoughts and behaviours that may be getting in the way of you living your best life. Whether it be mental health, trauma, substance use, impulsive behaviours, emotion dysregulation, grief/loss or relationship challenges, I will be there to work collaboratively with you to fulfill your personal therapy goals.
(289) 312-1707 View (289) 312-1707
Photo of Chloe Anderson - Anxiety ADHD Trauma | Chloe Anderson, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MA
Anxiety ADHD Trauma | Chloe Anderson
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting NEW clients! Are your insecurities holding you back from living the life you want? Has your anxiety made you not even recognize yourself anymore? Or maybe your thoughts are constantly racing, and everything feels overwhelming. You’re not alone, and it doesn’t have to stay this way. I know how exhausting it can be to feel stuck in survival mode. Together, we can work on healing from the past, challenging those negative beliefs about yourself, and building the confidence to set healthy boundaries. Whether you’re seeking coping tools and strategies or to heal from past trauma, let’s work together to help you get "unstuck".
Accepting NEW clients! Are your insecurities holding you back from living the life you want? Has your anxiety made you not even recognize yourself anymore? Or maybe your thoughts are constantly racing, and everything feels overwhelming. You’re not alone, and it doesn’t have to stay this way. I know how exhausting it can be to feel stuck in survival mode. Together, we can work on healing from the past, challenging those negative beliefs about yourself, and building the confidence to set healthy boundaries. Whether you’re seeking coping tools and strategies or to heal from past trauma, let’s work together to help you get "unstuck".
(289) 278-9655 View (289) 278-9655

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Julia Vanderheul, Registered Social Worker, RSSW
Julia Vanderheul
Registered Social Worker, RSSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
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.
My treatment approach draws upon over 20 year’s experience as well as training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Narrative Therapy and Somatic approaches to Trauma. Integrating these evidence-based approaches together has fostered innovative, intelligent and intuitive treatment that meets my client’s individual needs.
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.
My treatment approach draws upon over 20 year’s experience as well as training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Narrative Therapy and Somatic approaches to Trauma. Integrating these evidence-based approaches together has fostered innovative, intelligent and intuitive treatment that meets my client’s individual needs.
(647) 692-2356 View (647) 692-2356
Photo of Kendra Wassink, Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW
Kendra Wassink
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
She has extensive experience supporting survivors of trauma, especially survivors of sexual abuse or domestic violence.
With a passion for the human capacity to heal, Kendra is down to earth as she meets each client where they’re at in life. She takes a holistic approach to incorporate every aspect of her clients’ lives and stays focused on inclusivity and safety — with a dash of humour for good measure. Kendra earned her Master’s degree in Social Work, and completed further training in Trauma Counselling, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Couples Counselling, and Sex Therapy.
She has extensive experience supporting survivors of trauma, especially survivors of sexual abuse or domestic violence.
With a passion for the human capacity to heal, Kendra is down to earth as she meets each client where they’re at in life. She takes a holistic approach to incorporate every aspect of her clients’ lives and stays focused on inclusivity and safety — with a dash of humour for good measure. Kendra earned her Master’s degree in Social Work, and completed further training in Trauma Counselling, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Couples Counselling, and Sex Therapy.
(548) 488-2397 View (548) 488-2397
Photo of Sarah Lo, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Sarah Lo
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Whitby, ON L1N
Specializing in the complexities of toxic relationships, dynamics of coercive control, manipulation, violence, suicidal ideation, personality disorders and trauma.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, confused, or emotionally drained from a relationship that’s left you questioning yourself—you're not alone. Whether you've experienced emotional highs and lows, blurred boundaries, manipulation, or patterns of coercive control, I’m here to help you make sense of it all. Together, we’ll gently explore the impact of these dynamics—including trauma and the emotional toll of antagonistic relationships—and begin the process of healing with compassion and care. Our work together is about more than just coping—it’s about creating lasting change.
Specializing in the complexities of toxic relationships, dynamics of coercive control, manipulation, violence, suicidal ideation, personality disorders and trauma.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, confused, or emotionally drained from a relationship that’s left you questioning yourself—you're not alone. Whether you've experienced emotional highs and lows, blurred boundaries, manipulation, or patterns of coercive control, I’m here to help you make sense of it all. Together, we’ll gently explore the impact of these dynamics—including trauma and the emotional toll of antagonistic relationships—and begin the process of healing with compassion and care. Our work together is about more than just coping—it’s about creating lasting change.
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Photo of Nicole Saltsman, Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Nicole Saltsman
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Women seek support in coping with challenging life problems like stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, violence, discrimination, and assault.
There are times in life, especially when you are feeling most vulnerable, that you need to share your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Though friends and family are great and have good intentions, what do you do when their support and advice do not result in relief or the lasting change you desire? My primary purpose as a therapist is to be a safe and reliable person for you to explore emotions, motivations and behaviours; to help you improve self-understanding and relationships with others; to process grief and trauma; and to find healthy ways to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, and experience desired personal growth.
Women seek support in coping with challenging life problems like stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, violence, discrimination, and assault.
There are times in life, especially when you are feeling most vulnerable, that you need to share your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Though friends and family are great and have good intentions, what do you do when their support and advice do not result in relief or the lasting change you desire? My primary purpose as a therapist is to be a safe and reliable person for you to explore emotions, motivations and behaviours; to help you improve self-understanding and relationships with others; to process grief and trauma; and to find healthy ways to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, and experience desired personal growth.
(249) 209-5186 View (249) 209-5186
Photo of Deanna Hart, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Deanna Hart
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have worked with individuals navigating challenges, including trauma, anxiety, depression, addictions, eating disorders, ADHD, grief, PTSD, domestic abuse & sexual assault
Grounded in the belief that every individual is capable of growth and healing, I am committed to creating a positive, empowering therapeutic experience. I meet clients where they are, standing alongside them on their journey toward well-being and self-discovery.
I have worked with individuals navigating challenges, including trauma, anxiety, depression, addictions, eating disorders, ADHD, grief, PTSD, domestic abuse & sexual assault
Grounded in the belief that every individual is capable of growth and healing, I am committed to creating a positive, empowering therapeutic experience. I meet clients where they are, standing alongside them on their journey toward well-being and self-discovery.
(289) 205-0331 View (289) 205-0331
Photo of Kelly Scott, Registered Social Worker, RSW, CCDP
Kelly Scott
Registered Social Worker, RSW, CCDP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have supported individuals in sectors such as housing, homelessness, domestic violence survivors and their children, Indigenous women and their children, and those struggling with mental wellness.
Life can be challenging at times; I am here to help navigate some of those obstacles. I support individuals experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and life changes using a trauma-informed approach. While I have a personal interest in working with women aged 18 and older, I also have experience supporting men and gender-diverse individuals. As a Registered Social Worker with the OCSWSSW, I provide support from a client-centered perspective, walking alongside individuals on their journey to address specific concerns and life challenges using strengths-based and solution-focused approaches.
I have supported individuals in sectors such as housing, homelessness, domestic violence survivors and their children, Indigenous women and their children, and those struggling with mental wellness.
Life can be challenging at times; I am here to help navigate some of those obstacles. I support individuals experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and life changes using a trauma-informed approach. While I have a personal interest in working with women aged 18 and older, I also have experience supporting men and gender-diverse individuals. As a Registered Social Worker with the OCSWSSW, I provide support from a client-centered perspective, walking alongside individuals on their journey to address specific concerns and life challenges using strengths-based and solution-focused approaches.
(705) 809-5619 View (705) 809-5619
Photo of Nancy Ann Poirier - GLOW Up Psychology Inc., Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RNBN
GLOW Up Psychology Inc.
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RNBN
Verified Verified
Online Only
Within Canada and the US, Nancy has a proven track record of helping clients transform issues in relationships; anxiety; depression; addictions; gambling; OCD; eating disorders; PTSD from traumatic incidents such as accidents; war; domestic violence; sexual, physical and emotional abuse.
She has assisted many refugees, holocaust and genocide survivors. Blessed with many gifted teachers, Nancy attended the world-renowned Sofia University (formerly “Institute of Transpersonal Psychology”) in Palo Alto, California, where she earned a “Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology” degree.
Within Canada and the US, Nancy has a proven track record of helping clients transform issues in relationships; anxiety; depression; addictions; gambling; OCD; eating disorders; PTSD from traumatic incidents such as accidents; war; domestic violence; sexual, physical and emotional abuse.
She has assisted many refugees, holocaust and genocide survivors. Blessed with many gifted teachers, Nancy attended the world-renowned Sofia University (formerly “Institute of Transpersonal Psychology”) in Palo Alto, California, where she earned a “Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology” degree.
(438) 797-2369 View (438) 797-2369
Photo of Giselle R Edwards, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, BSc, CCPA
Giselle R Edwards
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, BSc, CCPA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
If you're working through past abuse, compulsive behaviors, or experiences tied to the sex trade or sexual offending, we will work together at your own pace.
I help you make sense of your experiences and the patterns that keep showing up in your life. Trauma—especially when it’s tied to sex, relationships, or past harm—can leave you feeling stuck, disconnected, or ashamed. Whether you're struggling with intimacy, desire, or the weight of past experiences, we’ll work together to untangle the impact of trauma.
If you're working through past abuse, compulsive behaviors, or experiences tied to the sex trade or sexual offending, we will work together at your own pace.
I help you make sense of your experiences and the patterns that keep showing up in your life. Trauma—especially when it’s tied to sex, relationships, or past harm—can leave you feeling stuck, disconnected, or ashamed. Whether you're struggling with intimacy, desire, or the weight of past experiences, we’ll work together to untangle the impact of trauma.
(365) 364-1302 View (365) 364-1302
Photo of Rhonda Hazel Andall, Registered Social Worker, RSW, BSW, MSW
Rhonda Hazel Andall
Registered Social Worker, RSW, BSW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oshawa, ON L1G
, 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 Nikki Ward, Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Nikki Ward
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
I specialize in addictions, anxiety/depression, domestic violence, ADHD and life transitions.
Often in life you face barriers and challenges that can leave you feeling overwhelmed, uninspired, anxious or stressed. Whether you are in need of support to help you work through specific challenges, or you want to explore your values, goals, and inner truth to live a more fulfilling life in general, I am here to help. I understand first-hand the positive impact that counselling can have, and I'm passionate about providing others with the same opportunities for wellness that have made such a difference for me in my life.
I specialize in addictions, anxiety/depression, domestic violence, ADHD and life transitions.
Often in life you face barriers and challenges that can leave you feeling overwhelmed, uninspired, anxious or stressed. Whether you are in need of support to help you work through specific challenges, or you want to explore your values, goals, and inner truth to live a more fulfilling life in general, I am here to help. I understand first-hand the positive impact that counselling can have, and I'm passionate about providing others with the same opportunities for wellness that have made such a difference for me in my life.
(365) 544-4304 View (365) 544-4304
Cathy Kaptyn
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Richmond Hill, ON L4B
Having experience working with mental health challenges, partner abuse issues and addiction I look forward to addressing your specific needs and goals.
I have worked for over 25 years in the social service field having extensive experience as a clinical supervisor at Family Services York Region and Coordinator of the Partner Abuse Response Program. I also worked at Addiction Services York Region, Southlake Regional Health Centre, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre and York Support Network Services.
Having experience working with mental health challenges, partner abuse issues and addiction I look forward to addressing your specific needs and goals.
I have worked for over 25 years in the social service field having extensive experience as a clinical supervisor at Family Services York Region and Coordinator of the Partner Abuse Response Program. I also worked at Addiction Services York Region, Southlake Regional Health Centre, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre and York Support Network Services.
(365) 659-0705 View (365) 659-0705
Photo of Sara Smith - Sara's Place Counselling, Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Sara's Place Counselling
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
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.
My style of practice integrates a variety of evidenced-based trauma approaches that will be tailored specifically to your needs in order to support you on your mental health & wellness journey. My intention is to support you in rebuilding a sense of safety in your body, so that you can show up in your life more authentically, honoring all that you are.
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.
My style of practice integrates a variety of evidenced-based trauma approaches that will be tailored specifically to your needs in order to support you on your mental health & wellness journey. My intention is to support you in rebuilding a sense of safety in your body, so that you can show up in your life more authentically, honoring all that you are.
(289) 274-8089 View (289) 274-8089
Photo of Shannon Jervis - Shannon Jervis @ Psychotherapy for You, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Shannon Jervis @ Psychotherapy for You
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Throughout my career, I have provided unwavering support to clients affected by neglect, child abuse, domestic violence, and various mental health challenges.
As a therapist, I use a strength-based, client-focused approach. I bring many qualities to the organization such as empathy, collaboration, and communication. These qualities form the foundation of my approach to working with people, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of their needs, and healing.
Throughout my career, I have provided unwavering support to clients affected by neglect, child abuse, domestic violence, and various mental health challenges.
As a therapist, I use a strength-based, client-focused approach. I bring many qualities to the organization such as empathy, collaboration, and communication. These qualities form the foundation of my approach to working with people, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of their needs, and healing.
(289) 903-1272 View (289) 903-1272
Photo of Jai L Mills, Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Jai L Mills
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Oshawa, ON L1H
I am a clinically trained social worker with particular expertise in working with people who have issues with their mental health, intimate partner violence, disability and intense emotions.
Everyone faces challenging life issues. I believe in addressing these issues with compassion, sensitivity and skill. I focus on the strengths of the people I work with. Everyone knows what their Best Life is, and everyone can attain it. I will work with you to achieve your goals and aspirations. I will focus on the outcomes you want for yourself while supporting you in developing and using the skills you need to achieve these outcomes. I really enjoy working with people who have a mental health diagnosis, and have particular skills in this area. I also enjoy working with Indigenous People in a safe and respectful way.
I am a clinically trained social worker with particular expertise in working with people who have issues with their mental health, intimate partner violence, disability and intense emotions.
Everyone faces challenging life issues. I believe in addressing these issues with compassion, sensitivity and skill. I focus on the strengths of the people I work with. Everyone knows what their Best Life is, and everyone can attain it. I will work with you to achieve your goals and aspirations. I will focus on the outcomes you want for yourself while supporting you in developing and using the skills you need to achieve these outcomes. I really enjoy working with people who have a mental health diagnosis, and have particular skills in this area. I also enjoy working with Indigenous People in a safe and respectful way.
(289) 401-8766 View (289) 401-8766
Photo of Pamella Seaton-Brissett, Registered Social Worker, BSW, BA, MSW, RSW
Pamella Seaton-Brissett
Registered Social Worker, BSW, BA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scarborough, ON M1B
I will work with you on any of the following life, career and relationship issues: work-life balance, career counselling, lacks of motivation, depression, anxiety, self-harm, suicide tendencies, teen violence, trauma, domestic violence, women/female issues and interpersonal issues such as relationship, communication, and intimacy.
I enjoy and have experience working with people of all ages and diverse background. I have a particular passion for adolescent/young adults, as life can be so challenging and confusing particularly at this age. I consider myself to be genuine, compassionate and nonjudgmental. Hence, my clients should be in safe, nurturing, warm and professional environment.
I will work with you on any of the following life, career and relationship issues: work-life balance, career counselling, lacks of motivation, depression, anxiety, self-harm, suicide tendencies, teen violence, trauma, domestic violence, women/female issues and interpersonal issues such as relationship, communication, and intimacy.
I enjoy and have experience working with people of all ages and diverse background. I have a particular passion for adolescent/young adults, as life can be so challenging and confusing particularly at this age. I consider myself to be genuine, compassionate and nonjudgmental. Hence, my clients should be in safe, nurturing, warm and professional environment.
(855) 972-9502 View (855) 972-9502

See more therapy options for Port Perry

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.