Domestic Abuse Counselling in Darwen

Photo of Uzma Ahmed, Psychotherapist in Darwen, England
Uzma Ahmed
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Darwen BB3
I provide counselling to individuals with complex requirements as a fully qualified integrative psychotherapist. I have expertise working with clients who have a variety of issues, including self-harm, depression, anxiety and loss, relationship issues and breakups, PTSD, Autism, attachment issues, and child abuse. I have experience working with people who are also recovering addicts. Providing counselling in Urdu and Punjabi to clients has been my area of expertise, as I am a multilingual therapist.
I provide counselling to individuals with complex requirements as a fully qualified integrative psychotherapist. I have expertise working with clients who have a variety of issues, including self-harm, depression, anxiety and loss, relationship issues and breakups, PTSD, Autism, attachment issues, and child abuse. I have experience working with people who are also recovering addicts. Providing counselling in Urdu and Punjabi to clients has been my area of expertise, as I am a multilingual therapist.
01254 964028 View 01254 964028
Photo of Olivia Rose Counselling and Therapy, Counsellor in Darwen, England
Olivia Rose Counselling and Therapy
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Darwen BB3  (Online Only)
I have previous experience of working with many different issues, some examples are; anxiety and depression, addiction, relationship troubles, anger issues, trauma, bereavement, self harm and abuse.
Hello, welcome to my page and thank you for looking. My name is Rebecca Bullen. I am a fully qualified integrative Counsellor with over 13 years experience of working with Children, Young people and adults who have faced many different mental health difficulties. In our lifetime, we will all experience difficult and challenging times where we feel we need that extra support, and sometimes do not feel comfortable to share our feelings with those closest to us. It can often be difficult to share our thoughts and feelings with our loved ones and that's where I, as a therapist can help.
I have previous experience of working with many different issues, some examples are; anxiety and depression, addiction, relationship troubles, anger issues, trauma, bereavement, self harm and abuse.
Hello, welcome to my page and thank you for looking. My name is Rebecca Bullen. I am a fully qualified integrative Counsellor with over 13 years experience of working with Children, Young people and adults who have faced many different mental health difficulties. In our lifetime, we will all experience difficult and challenging times where we feel we need that extra support, and sometimes do not feel comfortable to share our feelings with those closest to us. It can often be difficult to share our thoughts and feelings with our loved ones and that's where I, as a therapist can help.
01254 786718 View 01254 786718
Photo of Imogen Hg-Johnson, Psychotherapist in Darwen, England
Imogen Hg-Johnson
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Darwen BB3
I work with a trusted methodology removing all blind spots, fear, anxiety, and self-doubt. Allowing my clients to make accurate decisions, smarter, so they maximise their own personal results in less time....My expertise is in Self-harm, Substance misuse, Depression, Anxiety, Attention Deficit Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Sexuality / Identity Crisis & Shame around Learning Difficulties (which may have led to isolation, inability to stay focused and deviance) and more recently within the area of 'interpersonal trauma within relational dynamics'.
I work with a trusted methodology removing all blind spots, fear, anxiety, and self-doubt. Allowing my clients to make accurate decisions, smarter, so they maximise their own personal results in less time....My expertise is in Self-harm, Substance misuse, Depression, Anxiety, Attention Deficit Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Sexuality / Identity Crisis & Shame around Learning Difficulties (which may have led to isolation, inability to stay focused and deviance) and more recently within the area of 'interpersonal trauma within relational dynamics'.
01254 790413 View 01254 790413
Photo of Patrick Doyle, Psychotherapist in Darwen, England
Patrick Doyle
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Darwen BB3
I am a highly qualified and experienced consultant psychotherapist and supervisor with 20 years experience and recognised clinical expertise in the treatment and assessment of a wide range of mental health problems (including: depression, anxiety, personality disorders and psychosis), problematic behaviours and addictions. My guiding aim is to help each client to the point where they no longer require therapy or medication, and can cope skilfully and independently with life’s challenges, and understand how the past can impede our ability to cope with the present.
I am a highly qualified and experienced consultant psychotherapist and supervisor with 20 years experience and recognised clinical expertise in the treatment and assessment of a wide range of mental health problems (including: depression, anxiety, personality disorders and psychosis), problematic behaviours and addictions. My guiding aim is to help each client to the point where they no longer require therapy or medication, and can cope skilfully and independently with life’s challenges, and understand how the past can impede our ability to cope with the present.
01282 526728 View 01282 526728

More Therapists Nearby

Abida Haroon
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Blackburn BB1  (Online Only)
I have supported women who have experienced domestic abuse and supported them in their journey.
Sometimes life can be tough and talking about the challenges and struggles we go through with our loved ones can be even more difficult and it can leave us feeling isolated and lonely. Asking for help is not easy and if you have not experienced counselling before you may find your self asking the question, do i need counselling? If you feel the need to gain insight and self awareness than counselling is a safe place for you to start your journey of self healing. We are living in the time of uncertainty and many of us are feeling stressed and anxious.It can be helpful to talk to a professional who can provide an outside perspective.
I have supported women who have experienced domestic abuse and supported them in their journey.
Sometimes life can be tough and talking about the challenges and struggles we go through with our loved ones can be even more difficult and it can leave us feeling isolated and lonely. Asking for help is not easy and if you have not experienced counselling before you may find your self asking the question, do i need counselling? If you feel the need to gain insight and self awareness than counselling is a safe place for you to start your journey of self healing. We are living in the time of uncertainty and many of us are feeling stressed and anxious.It can be helpful to talk to a professional who can provide an outside perspective.
01254 786538 View 01254 786538
Photo of Khafayah Agbeke Abdulsalam, Counsellor in Darwen, England
Khafayah Agbeke Abdulsalam
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Blackburn BB1  (Online Only)
As a person-centred counsellor, I have experience in many areas, such as depression, anxiety, domestic abuse & violence.
Do you find it difficult to talk to family and friends about challenges or life struggles you are going through? Do you experience feelings of overwhelm, depression, abuse, trauma, grief, bereavement etc.? Do you wish you could speak to a qualified counsellor in a safe, confidential, non-judgemental space? I will help you look inside out and build your self-esteem, self-awareness, boldness, and confidence? As you begin your journey of self-healing and self-awareness. As a qualified registered counsellor, working together, I will support having a more profound understanding & renewed relationship with yourself.
As a person-centred counsellor, I have experience in many areas, such as depression, anxiety, domestic abuse & violence.
Do you find it difficult to talk to family and friends about challenges or life struggles you are going through? Do you experience feelings of overwhelm, depression, abuse, trauma, grief, bereavement etc.? Do you wish you could speak to a qualified counsellor in a safe, confidential, non-judgemental space? I will help you look inside out and build your self-esteem, self-awareness, boldness, and confidence? As you begin your journey of self-healing and self-awareness. As a qualified registered counsellor, working together, I will support having a more profound understanding & renewed relationship with yourself.
01254 964304 View 01254 964304
Photo of Anita Thorne Mbacp, Psychotherapist in Darwen, England
Anita Thorne Mbacp
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bolton BL2
I am a fully qualified and registered psychotherapist, practising in Person Centred, Integrative and CBT therapies. I offer face to face sessions in a therapeutic, safe, confidential setting. Alongside this I also use both online and telephone counselling platforms. I have experience within many areas including issues such as domestic violence, sexual abuse, mental abuse, mental health, anxiety, work related stress, addiction & family issues
I am a fully qualified and registered psychotherapist, practising in Person Centred, Integrative and CBT therapies. I offer face to face sessions in a therapeutic, safe, confidential setting. Alongside this I also use both online and telephone counselling platforms. I have experience within many areas including issues such as domestic violence, sexual abuse, mental abuse, mental health, anxiety, work related stress, addiction & family issues
0161 524 0923 View 0161 524 0923
Photo of Virginia Messina, Counsellor in Darwen, England
Virginia Messina
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bolton BL1  (Online Only)
Welcome to this page, I am Virginia, an experienced counsellor and psychotherapist. I have a profound passion for working with clients who have experienced Narcisisstic abuse, either romantic or parental, and loss. Recognizing the presence of a narcissistic individual can be subtle yet deeply impactful. In the case of a parent, telltale signs include enduring harsh criticism, feeling perpetually inadequate no matter your efforts, and facing attempts at control through guilt-tripping or excessive demands for attention. Their lack of empathy leaves you feeling unheard and invalidated, and their mood swings keep you un edge and unsure
Welcome to this page, I am Virginia, an experienced counsellor and psychotherapist. I have a profound passion for working with clients who have experienced Narcisisstic abuse, either romantic or parental, and loss. Recognizing the presence of a narcissistic individual can be subtle yet deeply impactful. In the case of a parent, telltale signs include enduring harsh criticism, feeling perpetually inadequate no matter your efforts, and facing attempts at control through guilt-tripping or excessive demands for attention. Their lack of empathy leaves you feeling unheard and invalidated, and their mood swings keep you un edge and unsure
01453 702647 View 01453 702647
Photo of Jacqueline Zelda Gordon, Counsellor in Darwen, England
Jacqueline Zelda Gordon
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bolton BL1  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialise in: Addiction, Dependency, Anxiety, Stress, Depression, Self-Esteem, Self-confidence, Relationship Problems, Domestic Abuse, Negative Behaviours, Obsessive Compulsive Thoughts, Trauma & PTSD.
I'm Jacqueline, I offer a safe, warm non-judgemental conditions where you can reach your fullest potential and be your true self. I offer an intergrative approach & I am a registered CBT & Addictions Practitioner, with AP (Addictions Professionals) & MBACP. My journey of recovery from trauma began in 2016 after a serious traffic collision. Counselling helped me to discover the value of self-worth & I passionately help clients discover what helps them. I work with clients who are experiencing stress & anxiety, reducing the impact that trauma, relationship & family conflicts & abuse, addiction & dependancy are having in their lives.
I specialise in: Addiction, Dependency, Anxiety, Stress, Depression, Self-Esteem, Self-confidence, Relationship Problems, Domestic Abuse, Negative Behaviours, Obsessive Compulsive Thoughts, Trauma & PTSD.
I'm Jacqueline, I offer a safe, warm non-judgemental conditions where you can reach your fullest potential and be your true self. I offer an intergrative approach & I am a registered CBT & Addictions Practitioner, with AP (Addictions Professionals) & MBACP. My journey of recovery from trauma began in 2016 after a serious traffic collision. Counselling helped me to discover the value of self-worth & I passionately help clients discover what helps them. I work with clients who are experiencing stress & anxiety, reducing the impact that trauma, relationship & family conflicts & abuse, addiction & dependancy are having in their lives.
01942 559638 View 01942 559638
Photo of Euxton Counselling Service - Lisa Meakin, Counsellor in Darwen, England
Euxton Counselling Service - Lisa Meakin
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chorley PR7
* Anxiety/Stress* Depression* Bereavement* Sex Addiction* All forms of Abuse*Trauma *Relationship issues* Drug Abuse* Alcoholism* Baby an Birth issues* Food Addiction/ Eating Disorders* Family issues* Sexually issues* Suicidal thoughts* Anger Management* Phobias* OCD* Workplace Issues* Sadness* PTSD* Loneliness* Diagnosis* LGBTQ* Gender Issues* Self Harm*.
I offer warm, respectful, non-judgemental space in which you can freely explore your thoughts and feelings, develop a greater understanding of yourself and start to move towards personal growth and an increased sense of well-being. ​ I am a qualified BACP, and work to a strict code of ethics. I believe you deserve to be happy and fulfilled in your life and that you have the ability to make that happen. Life can be challenging and difficult and i am trained to help you through your troubles and to support you making changes in you life.
* Anxiety/Stress* Depression* Bereavement* Sex Addiction* All forms of Abuse*Trauma *Relationship issues* Drug Abuse* Alcoholism* Baby an Birth issues* Food Addiction/ Eating Disorders* Family issues* Sexually issues* Suicidal thoughts* Anger Management* Phobias* OCD* Workplace Issues* Sadness* PTSD* Loneliness* Diagnosis* LGBTQ* Gender Issues* Self Harm*.
I offer warm, respectful, non-judgemental space in which you can freely explore your thoughts and feelings, develop a greater understanding of yourself and start to move towards personal growth and an increased sense of well-being. ​ I am a qualified BACP, and work to a strict code of ethics. I believe you deserve to be happy and fulfilled in your life and that you have the ability to make that happen. Life can be challenging and difficult and i am trained to help you through your troubles and to support you making changes in you life.
01257 443774 View 01257 443774
Photo of Helen Hyland, Counsellor in Darwen, England
Helen Hyland
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bolton BL1
I have many years experience supporting & working therapeutically with adults, young people and children who have experienced domestic abuse/violence, trauma, ill-health, anxiety, stress, loss, low mood, relationship issues, self-esteem, or school/work-related issues.
I am a qualified therapeutic Integrative Counsellor supporting children, adolescents & adults, either face to face, by telephone, online or home visits. Are you or your child finding it difficult to cope or manage with everyday situations and find life a struggle. Many of us can feel overwhelmed and unsure of how to deal with these thoughts, feelings and our behaviour. You may be feeling anxious or low about life in general. There may be physical health symptoms that are causing you concern. I would like to help and support you through this difficult time.
I have many years experience supporting & working therapeutically with adults, young people and children who have experienced domestic abuse/violence, trauma, ill-health, anxiety, stress, loss, low mood, relationship issues, self-esteem, or school/work-related issues.
I am a qualified therapeutic Integrative Counsellor supporting children, adolescents & adults, either face to face, by telephone, online or home visits. Are you or your child finding it difficult to cope or manage with everyday situations and find life a struggle. Many of us can feel overwhelmed and unsure of how to deal with these thoughts, feelings and our behaviour. You may be feeling anxious or low about life in general. There may be physical health symptoms that are causing you concern. I would like to help and support you through this difficult time.
01204 803181 View 01204 803181
Photo of Thriving Young Minds, Counsellor in Darwen, England
Thriving Young Minds
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Bury BL0
I'm Adele and I'm the founder of Thriving Young Minds in Ramsbottom, Bury. We are a team of therapists offering Counselling and Play Therapy for children, teenagers and young adults aged 4-25 years. This means that we can provide the most appropriate support for your needs. If you are impacted by autism, anxiety, panic, low mood, depression, relationship difficulties, bereavement, school issues, trauma and abuse, and if you're unsure of how to move forward, we can work with you to achieve your goals in a strengths-focused way, to help you develop the confidence to thrive rather than just survive.
I'm Adele and I'm the founder of Thriving Young Minds in Ramsbottom, Bury. We are a team of therapists offering Counselling and Play Therapy for children, teenagers and young adults aged 4-25 years. This means that we can provide the most appropriate support for your needs. If you are impacted by autism, anxiety, panic, low mood, depression, relationship difficulties, bereavement, school issues, trauma and abuse, and if you're unsure of how to move forward, we can work with you to achieve your goals in a strengths-focused way, to help you develop the confidence to thrive rather than just survive.
07429 186569 View 07429 186569
Photo of Peace and Serenity person centred Counselling, Counsellor in Darwen, England
Peace and Serenity person centred Counselling
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Burnley BB12
I specialize in many different areas. Addiction, domestic abuse, depression and many more. Never be nervous I'm very open-minded I have experienced many issues in my life so through personnel experience I decided to take this direction and to become a counsellor. I'm empathic, transparent none judgemental and very understanding, If you need to find your strength, or it is a rehaul of your life Im here to listen and to guide you if this is what you want and need. If its just a listener you need I'm also here to listen to you. Im looking forward to hearing from you soon. Lets talk.
I specialize in many different areas. Addiction, domestic abuse, depression and many more. Never be nervous I'm very open-minded I have experienced many issues in my life so through personnel experience I decided to take this direction and to become a counsellor. I'm empathic, transparent none judgemental and very understanding, If you need to find your strength, or it is a rehaul of your life Im here to listen and to guide you if this is what you want and need. If its just a listener you need I'm also here to listen to you. Im looking forward to hearing from you soon. Lets talk.
01282 967148 View 01282 967148
Photo of Mohammed Yassar Ali, Counsellor in Darwen, England
Mohammed Yassar Ali
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bolton BL1
As well as my numerous counselling qualifications, I am a trained family mediator, domestic abuse perpetrator program facilitator, parenting specialist and child protection consultant.
I qualified as a Counsellor in 2001 and have worked within the private, public and voluntary sectors. I trained as an integrative therapist in 2000 at St John's University in York and completed my Masters at the University of Manchester in Counselling Studies thereafter progressing on to the Professional Doctoral Program in Counselling Studies. I have many additional qualfications and certificates of competence in a range of areas and I aim to help my clients with a competent, compassionate and empathic approach.
As well as my numerous counselling qualifications, I am a trained family mediator, domestic abuse perpetrator program facilitator, parenting specialist and child protection consultant.
I qualified as a Counsellor in 2001 and have worked within the private, public and voluntary sectors. I trained as an integrative therapist in 2000 at St John's University in York and completed my Masters at the University of Manchester in Counselling Studies thereafter progressing on to the Professional Doctoral Program in Counselling Studies. I have many additional qualfications and certificates of competence in a range of areas and I aim to help my clients with a competent, compassionate and empathic approach.
01282 953405 View 01282 953405
Photo of Carla Edge, Counsellor in Darwen, England
Carla Edge
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Bury BL0
I work with a range of common issues such as depression, anxiety, stress, loss, trauma, relationship issues, domestic abuse and violence, age related issues, developing self-esteem, breaking unhelpful habits and phobias amongst many others.
I am a down-to-earth counsellor, psychotherapist and hypnotherapist. I work with these therapies in an integrative way. You will be warmly welcomed and sincerely heard. You may want a life where it is easier to deal with painful events from your past or where you can cope with the difficulties of day-to-day life more effectively. Or perhaps, feel less daunted by the future. I want to help you move forwards and feel happier.
I work with a range of common issues such as depression, anxiety, stress, loss, trauma, relationship issues, domestic abuse and violence, age related issues, developing self-esteem, breaking unhelpful habits and phobias amongst many others.
I am a down-to-earth counsellor, psychotherapist and hypnotherapist. I work with these therapies in an integrative way. You will be warmly welcomed and sincerely heard. You may want a life where it is easier to deal with painful events from your past or where you can cope with the difficulties of day-to-day life more effectively. Or perhaps, feel less daunted by the future. I want to help you move forwards and feel happier.
01204 238753 View 01204 238753
Photo of Julie O'Keeffe, Counsellor in Darwen, England
Julie O'Keeffe
Counsellor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bolton BL6
My areas of expertise include domestic abuse and violence, sexual abuse and trauma.
Hi I’m Julie If you are struggling, I have a passion for understanding and empowering individuals on their journey towards mental well-being. My therapeutic approach is rooted in empathy, evidence-based practices, and a genuine commitment to fostering positive change. I integrate a blend of person centred, cognitive-behavioural approaches to tailor therapy to your individual unique needs. I prioritize creating a warm, supportive, non judgmental environment where you can feel heard and understood.
My areas of expertise include domestic abuse and violence, sexual abuse and trauma.
Hi I’m Julie If you are struggling, I have a passion for understanding and empowering individuals on their journey towards mental well-being. My therapeutic approach is rooted in empathy, evidence-based practices, and a genuine commitment to fostering positive change. I integrate a blend of person centred, cognitive-behavioural approaches to tailor therapy to your individual unique needs. I prioritize creating a warm, supportive, non judgmental environment where you can feel heard and understood.
01204 952897 View 01204 952897
Photo of Joanne Webb, Counsellor in Darwen, England
Joanne Webb
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bury BL0
As a BACP accredited counsellor with over 16 years experience, I support people through depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, abuse, loss amongst many other issues. Having a confidential space to talk, a space just for you, can start you on the path to making positive changes. Each person's journey differs so I aim to explore it with you, adapting my skills to fit your needs. I believe each of us have the ability to enhance our lives, sometimes we just need a little help along the way. Taking that first step to meet a counsellor requires courage; I understand this and aim to make it as easy as possible.
As a BACP accredited counsellor with over 16 years experience, I support people through depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, abuse, loss amongst many other issues. Having a confidential space to talk, a space just for you, can start you on the path to making positive changes. Each person's journey differs so I aim to explore it with you, adapting my skills to fit your needs. I believe each of us have the ability to enhance our lives, sometimes we just need a little help along the way. Taking that first step to meet a counsellor requires courage; I understand this and aim to make it as easy as possible.
01204 952933 View 01204 952933
Photo of Donna Taylor, Psychotherapist in Darwen, England
Donna Taylor
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Chorley PR7  (Online Only)
Specialist CBT therapist working with children and adults with Neurodiversity including ADHD. Currently working towards becoming an accredited ADHD treatment provider following a 35 hour specialist course. Recently attended Kings College London and achieved a certificate in ADHD assessment. My other specialties include working with victims of abuse. I also offer support for clients experiencing: depression, various anxiety disorder and PTSD. Previous experience working as a therapist in the NHS in both adult psychological therapies, children's services and CAMHS.
Specialist CBT therapist working with children and adults with Neurodiversity including ADHD. Currently working towards becoming an accredited ADHD treatment provider following a 35 hour specialist course. Recently attended Kings College London and achieved a certificate in ADHD assessment. My other specialties include working with victims of abuse. I also offer support for clients experiencing: depression, various anxiety disorder and PTSD. Previous experience working as a therapist in the NHS in both adult psychological therapies, children's services and CAMHS.
01942 914540 View 01942 914540
Photo of Vanessa Mount, Counsellor in Darwen, England
Vanessa Mount
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
Verified Verified
Chorley PR7
Ex Royal Military Police Officer, now multi skilled therapist! I supported others for years through issues such as trauma, suicide, abuse, domestic violence, depression and the impacts of bereavement that when my army career came to a natural end, I chose to continue supporting others, through counselling. Life can be tough and filled with challenges which have helped to build your character. However, such experiences may have also led you to seek therapy today. Your life, cultural background and upbringing are some of the reasons that make you unique! therapy will be specifically tailored to your individual needs and goals.
Ex Royal Military Police Officer, now multi skilled therapist! I supported others for years through issues such as trauma, suicide, abuse, domestic violence, depression and the impacts of bereavement that when my army career came to a natural end, I chose to continue supporting others, through counselling. Life can be tough and filled with challenges which have helped to build your character. However, such experiences may have also led you to seek therapy today. Your life, cultural background and upbringing are some of the reasons that make you unique! therapy will be specifically tailored to your individual needs and goals.
01704 338319 View 01704 338319
Photo of Affinity Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist in Darwen, England
Affinity Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Chorley PR6
I have experience of working with trauma which includes domestic violence and sexual violence, depression and anxiety.
Are you feeling overwhelmed or unable to cope with things that normally weren't an issue. Maybe you have experienced a trauma that still impacts your everyday life, or changes in circumstances for any number of reasons, financial, ill health or divorce. Many things can impact our mental health and each one of us experiences it differently. We all want to be listened to and understood and yet there may be things we can't even share with those closest to us. Therapy can help to unburden you, see solutions and gain a better understanding of yourself and what is best for you.
I have experience of working with trauma which includes domestic violence and sexual violence, depression and anxiety.
Are you feeling overwhelmed or unable to cope with things that normally weren't an issue. Maybe you have experienced a trauma that still impacts your everyday life, or changes in circumstances for any number of reasons, financial, ill health or divorce. Many things can impact our mental health and each one of us experiences it differently. We all want to be listened to and understood and yet there may be things we can't even share with those closest to us. Therapy can help to unburden you, see solutions and gain a better understanding of yourself and what is best for you.
01772 963433 View 01772 963433

See more therapy options for Darwen

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.