Photo of Stacy Lee Rosas, MSW, LSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Stacy Lee Rosas
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563  (Online Only)
I look forward to all clients who are committed to making positive changes in their lives. I have experienced both domestic violence and sexual assault. I have trained specifically for those populations or anyone with TRAUMA. I I have an extensive medical background, so clients that need help navigating or understanding their diagnosis/options, I can help. I recognize that there are significant wait times for a therapist which can be discouraging. I am currently open and scheduling both in office and telehealth appointments. I want to positively impact every client I have the opportunity to serve.
I look forward to all clients who are committed to making positive changes in their lives. I have experienced both domestic violence and sexual assault. I have trained specifically for those populations or anyone with TRAUMA. I I have an extensive medical background, so clients that need help navigating or understanding their diagnosis/options, I can help. I recognize that there are significant wait times for a therapist which can be discouraging. I am currently open and scheduling both in office and telehealth appointments. I want to positively impact every client I have the opportunity to serve.
(630) 521-3395 View (630) 521-3395
Photo of Amber Burchett, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amber Burchett
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563  (Online Only)
Throughout her career, Amber Burchett, LPC, worked in outpatient and residential programs treating issues such as mood disorders, substance abuse, eating disorders, trauma, anger management, and more. She is also a volunteer at PAWWs, where dogs are trained to assist veterans struggling with PTSD and traumatic brain injuries. In therapy, Amber takes a holistic approach and uses whatever methods necessary to assist the client. She is skilled in CBT, DBT, ACT, Solution Focused / Positive Psychology, and more. No matter the method, Amber focuses on building rapport and offers an unbiased, non-judgmental stance to help
Throughout her career, Amber Burchett, LPC, worked in outpatient and residential programs treating issues such as mood disorders, substance abuse, eating disorders, trauma, anger management, and more. She is also a volunteer at PAWWs, where dogs are trained to assist veterans struggling with PTSD and traumatic brain injuries. In therapy, Amber takes a holistic approach and uses whatever methods necessary to assist the client. She is skilled in CBT, DBT, ACT, Solution Focused / Positive Psychology, and more. No matter the method, Amber focuses on building rapport and offers an unbiased, non-judgmental stance to help
(331) 210-9654 View (331) 210-9654
Photo of Cynthia A. Bill, LCSW, CRADC, CCTPII, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cynthia A. Bill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CRADC, CCTPII
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563  (Online Only)
Cindy Bill is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Virginia, Delaware and Illinois. Cindy received her Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration and Master of Social Work from Aurora University, Aurora, IL. Cindy came to the helping profession from a long career of leadership and consultancy in the petroleum industry. She has worked in many social service settings; Military Active Duty/Veterans and their families, Hospital/Medical, Addictions, Addictions Recovery, Domestic Violence/Sexual Assault survivors, Crisis Intervention and community mental health.
Cindy Bill is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Virginia, Delaware and Illinois. Cindy received her Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration and Master of Social Work from Aurora University, Aurora, IL. Cindy came to the helping profession from a long career of leadership and consultancy in the petroleum industry. She has worked in many social service settings; Military Active Duty/Veterans and their families, Hospital/Medical, Addictions, Addictions Recovery, Domestic Violence/Sexual Assault survivors, Crisis Intervention and community mental health.
(630) 454-9474 View (630) 454-9474
Photo of Wendy Pawelski, LCPC, CADC, EMDR, CISD, Counselor
Wendy Pawelski
Counselor, LCPC, CADC, EMDR, CISD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Wendy founded Ivy Lane Counseling, and personally hand selected therapists that collectively have over 50 years experience working with all ranges of ages and cases, including chronic addiction, suicidal ideation, trauma, abuse, executive functioning, and also reunification therapy.
Wendy understands that choosing to begin therapy can be a vulnerable time and respects that each person has a story that brought them to this point. She is skilled at encouraging each client to explore their individual journey of personal goals and tailors their treatment to what they are looking to accomplish. Wendy will meet you where you are and get you to where you want to be. Wendy is personable, and easy to relate to. She is passionate about empowering her clients, very optimistic, upbeat, direct, and a creative individual who strives to meet each client’s specific needs. Tired? Wendy will find the root of your issues.
Wendy founded Ivy Lane Counseling, and personally hand selected therapists that collectively have over 50 years experience working with all ranges of ages and cases, including chronic addiction, suicidal ideation, trauma, abuse, executive functioning, and also reunification therapy.
Wendy understands that choosing to begin therapy can be a vulnerable time and respects that each person has a story that brought them to this point. She is skilled at encouraging each client to explore their individual journey of personal goals and tailors their treatment to what they are looking to accomplish. Wendy will meet you where you are and get you to where you want to be. Wendy is personable, and easy to relate to. She is passionate about empowering her clients, very optimistic, upbeat, direct, and a creative individual who strives to meet each client’s specific needs. Tired? Wendy will find the root of your issues.
(331) 701-2989 View (331) 701-2989
Photo of Sharon L Heath, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Sharon L Heath
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
I have extensive experience working with sexual abuse/assault survivors.
We all need help at times - someone to talk to and/or someone to help us learn better ways to achieve the life we want, whether it's to cope with depression, anxiety or past traumas, or learn better ways to communicate. I will provide a safe, supportive environment in which you can talk about your thoughts and feelings, and also learn healthy skills to better manage your emotions and have better relationships. I will provide you with caring feedback and perspective. I will provide a non-judgmental, compassionate, caring relationship because I know that the relationship between the therapist and the client is an important one.
I have extensive experience working with sexual abuse/assault survivors.
We all need help at times - someone to talk to and/or someone to help us learn better ways to achieve the life we want, whether it's to cope with depression, anxiety or past traumas, or learn better ways to communicate. I will provide a safe, supportive environment in which you can talk about your thoughts and feelings, and also learn healthy skills to better manage your emotions and have better relationships. I will provide you with caring feedback and perspective. I will provide a non-judgmental, compassionate, caring relationship because I know that the relationship between the therapist and the client is an important one.
(331) 305-6682 View (331) 305-6682
Photo of Jennifer Jasso, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Jasso
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
I specialize in and help treat anxiety, depression, self-destructive behavior, abuse, trauma, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and other disorders.
I believe therapy to be collaborative and distinctive to every individual’s specific needs. My goal is to help you heal and become increasingly empowered to be a stronger, happier and more content human being. I utilize a variety of techniques, including mindfulness, solution-focused brief therapy, strengths-based and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
I specialize in and help treat anxiety, depression, self-destructive behavior, abuse, trauma, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and other disorders.
I believe therapy to be collaborative and distinctive to every individual’s specific needs. My goal is to help you heal and become increasingly empowered to be a stronger, happier and more content human being. I utilize a variety of techniques, including mindfulness, solution-focused brief therapy, strengths-based and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
(331) 241-6781 View (331) 241-6781
Photo of Rima Mickus, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Rima Mickus
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
I am a seasoned therapist specializing in helping women who are struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, weight loss, insomnia, trauma, narcissistic abuse, work and family concerns. As a wellness coach and licensed therapist my approach is integrative, addressing physical and emotional concerns. Common issues are separation, divorce, single parenting, dating, communication, emotional abuse, stress management and work/life balance.
I am a seasoned therapist specializing in helping women who are struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, weight loss, insomnia, trauma, narcissistic abuse, work and family concerns. As a wellness coach and licensed therapist my approach is integrative, addressing physical and emotional concerns. Common issues are separation, divorce, single parenting, dating, communication, emotional abuse, stress management and work/life balance.
(630) 812-0061 View (630) 812-0061
Photo of Michelle Mazurek, LCSW, ICDVP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Mazurek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ICDVP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
She also has experience working with domestic violence survivors in unhealthy relationships, obtaining Orders of Protection, and rebuilding stability after leaving an abusive relationship.
Michelle works with adults and adolescents ages 10+ on depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, self-injury behaviors, trauma, self-esteem, school anxiety, ADHD, eating disorders, LGBTQ, and emotional disregulation.
She also has experience working with domestic violence survivors in unhealthy relationships, obtaining Orders of Protection, and rebuilding stability after leaving an abusive relationship.
Michelle works with adults and adolescents ages 10+ on depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, self-injury behaviors, trauma, self-esteem, school anxiety, ADHD, eating disorders, LGBTQ, and emotional disregulation.
(630) 689-1022 View (630) 689-1022
Photo of Denika Shanta McMillen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Denika Shanta McMillen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
I specialize in working with adults and adolescents of color, LGBTQ+, and individuals confronted with a range of life challenges from depression, anxiety, bipolar, HIV/AIDS, homelessness, and substance abuse.
When people feel isolated or alone in their situation, they need someone else to help them gain a new perspective, feel differently, or at times escape the state at hand. My philosophy is to view therapy as if it were a "tune up" to help people keep operating through life. Just like cars need regular tune ups and oil changes to keep running smoothly, people also need regular check-ins and support for internal issues. This is especially important for people of color and minority populations because they face additional societal challenges (including microaggressions) that may or may not be overt but are often painful.
I specialize in working with adults and adolescents of color, LGBTQ+, and individuals confronted with a range of life challenges from depression, anxiety, bipolar, HIV/AIDS, homelessness, and substance abuse.
When people feel isolated or alone in their situation, they need someone else to help them gain a new perspective, feel differently, or at times escape the state at hand. My philosophy is to view therapy as if it were a "tune up" to help people keep operating through life. Just like cars need regular tune ups and oil changes to keep running smoothly, people also need regular check-ins and support for internal issues. This is especially important for people of color and minority populations because they face additional societal challenges (including microaggressions) that may or may not be overt but are often painful.
(331) 246-0805 View (331) 246-0805
Photo of undefined - Susan Pauna, MS, LCPC, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Susan Pauna, MS, LCPC
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
EMDR is a very powerful therapy that allows individuals to reprocess traumatic events (war, sexual abuse, bullying, grief).
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are suffering from anxiety, depression or PTSD? Are you ready to make a positive change in your life? What change would you like to see happen in yourself and your life and how would you feel different as a result? Life can sometimes feel overwhelming and counseling can help. We can discover long-standing patterns that may be holding you back from experiencing a more meaningful life. Whether you are looking for extra support and guidance through a difficult situation or you are just ready to move to a new direction in life, I look forward to working with you.
EMDR is a very powerful therapy that allows individuals to reprocess traumatic events (war, sexual abuse, bullying, grief).
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are suffering from anxiety, depression or PTSD? Are you ready to make a positive change in your life? What change would you like to see happen in yourself and your life and how would you feel different as a result? Life can sometimes feel overwhelming and counseling can help. We can discover long-standing patterns that may be holding you back from experiencing a more meaningful life. Whether you are looking for extra support and guidance through a difficult situation or you are just ready to move to a new direction in life, I look forward to working with you.
(630) 474-3172 View (630) 474-3172
Photo of Rachel Borsellino, JD, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Rachel Borsellino
Counselor, JD, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
My background includes exposure to areas including divorce, separation, custody, orders of protection, domestic violence, reunification counseling, parenting issues, alienation, abuse, teen pregnancy, relationship issues, conflict resolution, ADHD, sexual preferences, alcoholism, anxiety, and depression.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and owner of Grassroots Therapy Group, as well as a practicing divorce attorney and owner of Borsellino Law & Mediation. I provide services to individuals, couples, families, children, and court order services.
My background includes exposure to areas including divorce, separation, custody, orders of protection, domestic violence, reunification counseling, parenting issues, alienation, abuse, teen pregnancy, relationship issues, conflict resolution, ADHD, sexual preferences, alcoholism, anxiety, and depression.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and owner of Grassroots Therapy Group, as well as a practicing divorce attorney and owner of Borsellino Law & Mediation. I provide services to individuals, couples, families, children, and court order services.
(815) 857-8968 View (815) 857-8968
Photo of Jada Choate, LPC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jada Choate
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
She also hopes to help with those experiencing domestic violence, eating disorders, family conflict, grief and loss, identity issues, life transitions, school issues, self esteem issues and sexual abuse and intimacy issues.
Jada is a licensed social worker who earned her bachelor of arts and science in psychology with a minor in sociology from Quinnipiac University. Jada also holds a master’s of arts in social work from the University of Chicago. Prior to joining Willis Counseling and Consulting, Jada worked supervising a mental health support and suicide prevention text line for teens. At WCC, Jada hopes to work with those age seven and older who struggle with addiction, anger, anxiety, body dysmorphia (BDD), boundaries, dating and relationships, decision making, depression and domestic violence.
She also hopes to help with those experiencing domestic violence, eating disorders, family conflict, grief and loss, identity issues, life transitions, school issues, self esteem issues and sexual abuse and intimacy issues.
Jada is a licensed social worker who earned her bachelor of arts and science in psychology with a minor in sociology from Quinnipiac University. Jada also holds a master’s of arts in social work from the University of Chicago. Prior to joining Willis Counseling and Consulting, Jada worked supervising a mental health support and suicide prevention text line for teens. At WCC, Jada hopes to work with those age seven and older who struggle with addiction, anger, anxiety, body dysmorphia (BDD), boundaries, dating and relationships, decision making, depression and domestic violence.
(773) 207-6098 View (773) 207-6098
Photo of Gwen Clancy, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Gwen Clancy
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Gwen Clancy graduated with a B.S. in Sociology from Illinois State University & a masters from St. Xavier University. She’s worked in agency settings since graduating college & really enjoys helping folks make forward progress in their lives. Her experience ranges from working with substance abuse, domestic violence, runaway/homeless youth & supervised residential for youth & those who have severe mental illness & are trying to re-integrate into the community. She describes those times as having been challenging & rewarding, as each person she’s worked with has taught her something valuable as a therapist.
Gwen Clancy graduated with a B.S. in Sociology from Illinois State University & a masters from St. Xavier University. She’s worked in agency settings since graduating college & really enjoys helping folks make forward progress in their lives. Her experience ranges from working with substance abuse, domestic violence, runaway/homeless youth & supervised residential for youth & those who have severe mental illness & are trying to re-integrate into the community. She describes those times as having been challenging & rewarding, as each person she’s worked with has taught her something valuable as a therapist.
(872) 240-5803 View (872) 240-5803
Photo of Shannon Brooks-Rodgers, MA, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shannon Brooks-Rodgers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LSW
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
Do you need help navigating the complexities of divorce, processing emotional trauma, dealing with grief, rebuilding self-esteem, understanding relational and narcissistic abuse, managing anxiety and depression, and establishing healthy relational boundaries? Do your needs revolve around finding emotional support, developing coping strategies, fostering self compassion, rebuilding a sense of self-worth, managing stress and navigating new life transitions? Together, we will set goals and strive towards achieving emotional regulation and defining identity.
Do you need help navigating the complexities of divorce, processing emotional trauma, dealing with grief, rebuilding self-esteem, understanding relational and narcissistic abuse, managing anxiety and depression, and establishing healthy relational boundaries? Do your needs revolve around finding emotional support, developing coping strategies, fostering self compassion, rebuilding a sense of self-worth, managing stress and navigating new life transitions? Together, we will set goals and strive towards achieving emotional regulation and defining identity.
(847) 796-6788 View (847) 796-6788
Photo of Jessica Ceska, LCPC, CADC, Counselor
Jessica Ceska
Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor and certified alcohol and drug counselor. I have been practicing for 10 years helping individuals, couples, and families with a broad range of issues at the residential, partial hospitalization, and outpatient levels. I earned my Bachelor's of Science in Psychology from the University of Illinois and my Master's in Clinical Counseling from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. I work with adolescents and adults. I specialize in substance abuse, addictions, mood disorders, anxiety, eating disorders, PTSD/trauma, and self-harm behaviors.
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor and certified alcohol and drug counselor. I have been practicing for 10 years helping individuals, couples, and families with a broad range of issues at the residential, partial hospitalization, and outpatient levels. I earned my Bachelor's of Science in Psychology from the University of Illinois and my Master's in Clinical Counseling from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. I work with adolescents and adults. I specialize in substance abuse, addictions, mood disorders, anxiety, eating disorders, PTSD/trauma, and self-harm behaviors.
(331) 481-7507 View (331) 481-7507
Photo of Jenna Fash, LCPC, Counselor
Jenna Fash
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
She enjoys working with individuals who are dealing with trauma, abuse, depression, anxiety, body image, self-esteem issues, self-harm, and domestic violence.
Fash Counseling is accepting new clients! Jenna is passionate and dedicated to her role of walking alongside her clients in their journey towards growth. She views therapy as a collaborative process. This allows each person to identify and develop their own path in achieving their goals. Jenna creates a safe and empathic environment while she begins to build trust with her clients. She believes that each client brings their own, unique story to therapy and therefore her approach is tailored to meet each person's personality and goals.
She enjoys working with individuals who are dealing with trauma, abuse, depression, anxiety, body image, self-esteem issues, self-harm, and domestic violence.
Fash Counseling is accepting new clients! Jenna is passionate and dedicated to her role of walking alongside her clients in their journey towards growth. She views therapy as a collaborative process. This allows each person to identify and develop their own path in achieving their goals. Jenna creates a safe and empathic environment while she begins to build trust with her clients. She believes that each client brings their own, unique story to therapy and therefore her approach is tailored to meet each person's personality and goals.
(630) 521-3937 View (630) 521-3937
Photo of undefined - Donna Loza, Midwest Center for Hope & Healing, Ltd, LCPC, CADC, CODP I, Counselor
Donna Loza, Midwest Center for Hope & Healing, Ltd
Counselor, LCPC, CADC, CODP I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Donna aligns closely with Adlerian, Cognitive behavioral and Dialectical Behavioral therapy. Adlerian theory has been shown in research for treating multiple mental health conditions: anxiety, depression, grief, eating disorders, personality disorders, schizophrenic, and substance abuse disorders. Adlerian theory suggests that people are driven by a need to feel that they matter, and they belong. How do you want to grow as a person, what are your dreams and goals? Donna is passionate about offering a non-judgmental, supportive environment to men, women, couples and children; ages four and up.
Donna aligns closely with Adlerian, Cognitive behavioral and Dialectical Behavioral therapy. Adlerian theory has been shown in research for treating multiple mental health conditions: anxiety, depression, grief, eating disorders, personality disorders, schizophrenic, and substance abuse disorders. Adlerian theory suggests that people are driven by a need to feel that they matter, and they belong. How do you want to grow as a person, what are your dreams and goals? Donna is passionate about offering a non-judgmental, supportive environment to men, women, couples and children; ages four and up.
(630) 748-7709 View (630) 748-7709
Photo of Joselyn C Woodson, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Joselyn C Woodson
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
I use trauma-informed treatments including, EMDR and cognitive-behavioral therapies to help individuals recover from trauma, sexual abuse, child abuse, and anxiety issues.
Life presents challenges for all of us. As a highly skilled therapist, I help individuals, couples, and families who have become overwhelmed by life's challenges or feeling "stuck" in their situation. I help my clients build inner strength and find relief from disturbing emotional, behavioral, and physical symptoms. In a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, I offer a personalized treatment approach tailored to a client's needs. I work with clients to identify and overcome dysfunctional patterns that interfere with mental well-being, relationships and general life satisfaction.
I use trauma-informed treatments including, EMDR and cognitive-behavioral therapies to help individuals recover from trauma, sexual abuse, child abuse, and anxiety issues.
Life presents challenges for all of us. As a highly skilled therapist, I help individuals, couples, and families who have become overwhelmed by life's challenges or feeling "stuck" in their situation. I help my clients build inner strength and find relief from disturbing emotional, behavioral, and physical symptoms. In a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, I offer a personalized treatment approach tailored to a client's needs. I work with clients to identify and overcome dysfunctional patterns that interfere with mental well-being, relationships and general life satisfaction.
(630) 756-5119 View (630) 756-5119
Photo of Melissa Murillo, MSW, LSW, CDVP, CTP
Melissa Murillo
Licensed Social Worker, MSW, LSW, CDVP, CTP
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
Melissa Murillo is a bilingual Licensed Social Worker (LSW) in Illinois. Melissa attended the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, receiving her Bachelors of Social Work (BSW) and Masters of Social Worker (MSW) with a specialization in clinical mental health. Additionally, Melissa is a Certified Domestic Violence Professional(CDVP) and a Certified Trauma Professional (CTP).
Melissa Murillo is a bilingual Licensed Social Worker (LSW) in Illinois. Melissa attended the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, receiving her Bachelors of Social Work (BSW) and Masters of Social Worker (MSW) with a specialization in clinical mental health. Additionally, Melissa is a Certified Domestic Violence Professional(CDVP) and a Certified Trauma Professional (CTP).
(331) 260-0859 View (331) 260-0859
Photo of Sheila Harris-Fitzpatrick, MA, LCPC, NCC, DCC, PhD
Sheila Harris-Fitzpatrick
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC, DCC, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
I have experience with children and adults dealing with mental health disorders, substance abuse, parenting issues.
ONLINE COUNSELING AVAILABLE! Get counseling without going out. I specialized in remote online counseling. I have immediate openings for daytime, evening, and weekend appointments. My passion is working with individuals relating to grief and other life transitions; which include, employment exit strategies, career decisions while identifying gifts and talents, finding your life calling and coaching through life altering events. I am a excellent couples counselor and whether you are preparing for marriage or married, I can help you become better communicators and partners for life.
I have experience with children and adults dealing with mental health disorders, substance abuse, parenting issues.
ONLINE COUNSELING AVAILABLE! Get counseling without going out. I specialized in remote online counseling. I have immediate openings for daytime, evening, and weekend appointments. My passion is working with individuals relating to grief and other life transitions; which include, employment exit strategies, career decisions while identifying gifts and talents, finding your life calling and coaching through life altering events. I am a excellent couples counselor and whether you are preparing for marriage or married, I can help you become better communicators and partners for life.
(630) 491-4239 View (630) 491-4239
Domestic Abuse Therapists

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

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