Domestic Abuse Therapists in Mount Scott, Portland, OR

Photo of Jessica Tolleson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mount Scott, Portland, OR
Jessica Tolleson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mount Scott, Portland, OR 97206
I specialize in effective therapy for individuals who witnessed and/or survived interpersonal violence and individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, low self-esteem and assertiveness issues.
Are you feeling down? Anxious? Stuck? Maybe negative thoughts or worries are impacting your work or even your relationships? At times it can feel like these patterns will never change and yet therapy provides a safe space to process thoughts, feelings and patterns. I create a safe environment through mutual trust and understanding. This opens a space for self-exploration, growth and development. I believe that, in working collaboratively, we can identify problems and personalize your treatment direction. With the right skills, each individual has the capacity to accomplish their goals.
I specialize in effective therapy for individuals who witnessed and/or survived interpersonal violence and individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, low self-esteem and assertiveness issues.
Are you feeling down? Anxious? Stuck? Maybe negative thoughts or worries are impacting your work or even your relationships? At times it can feel like these patterns will never change and yet therapy provides a safe space to process thoughts, feelings and patterns. I create a safe environment through mutual trust and understanding. This opens a space for self-exploration, growth and development. I believe that, in working collaboratively, we can identify problems and personalize your treatment direction. With the right skills, each individual has the capacity to accomplish their goals.
(503) 536-1225 View (503) 536-1225
Photo of Elsa Tzintzun, Pre-Licensed Professional in Mount Scott, Portland, OR
Elsa Tzintzun
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, CSWA
Verified Verified
Mount Scott, Portland, OR 97206
¡Hablo Español! I specialize in working with Latinx, immigrants, and BIPOC clients, but I am open to anyone! I work with adults and children with trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD, racial identity, and life transitions. I use a holistic approach to healing using theory based and intuition along with EMDR. I work with survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. I understand the Latino culture and beliefs. Understanding these beliefs can be part of the healing process. Healing is a journey which can be achieved with professional help and support. I help my client develop copping skills to reduce stress and achieve their goals.
¡Hablo Español! I specialize in working with Latinx, immigrants, and BIPOC clients, but I am open to anyone! I work with adults and children with trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD, racial identity, and life transitions. I use a holistic approach to healing using theory based and intuition along with EMDR. I work with survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. I understand the Latino culture and beliefs. Understanding these beliefs can be part of the healing process. Healing is a journey which can be achieved with professional help and support. I help my client develop copping skills to reduce stress and achieve their goals.
(503) 616-2188 View (503) 616-2188
Photo of Olivia Raccuglia, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mount Scott, Portland, OR
Olivia Raccuglia
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
Mount Scott, Portland, OR 97206
I have additional training in issues such as intimate partner violence, sexual assault, and trauma.
Hello and welcome! Sometimes life's challenges can leave us feeling overwhelmed and vulnerable. I offer a safe and supportive space for individuals seeking help with anxiety, depression, complex trauma, loss, relationship issues, and/or those looking to deepen their own self understanding. We'll delve into your unique experiences, emotions, and relationships, gaining insight into the root causes of your struggles, and the ways in which your past may be impacting the present. Together, we’ll find connections, build skills, and give you the support that you need to move you towards a more authentic and fulfilling life.
I have additional training in issues such as intimate partner violence, sexual assault, and trauma.
Hello and welcome! Sometimes life's challenges can leave us feeling overwhelmed and vulnerable. I offer a safe and supportive space for individuals seeking help with anxiety, depression, complex trauma, loss, relationship issues, and/or those looking to deepen their own self understanding. We'll delve into your unique experiences, emotions, and relationships, gaining insight into the root causes of your struggles, and the ways in which your past may be impacting the present. Together, we’ll find connections, build skills, and give you the support that you need to move you towards a more authentic and fulfilling life.
(503) 461-7204 View (503) 461-7204
Photo of Kelsey Papadatos, Pre-Licensed Professional in Mount Scott, Portland, OR
Kelsey Papadatos
Pre-Licensed Professional, CSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Scott, Portland, OR 97206
Through training and past work positions, I have experience working with family systems, survivors of traumatic experiences, child abuse and neglect, anxiety, depression, relationship conflict, experiences that you may experience in your life.
Are you struggling? Experienced Trauma? Wondering why this is still happening? Maybe I can help! With the belief that every person enters therapy with strengths, we will work together to build upon that foundation and learn about strengths that you might not be aware of just yet. I understand how difficult it is to feel comfortable with a new therapist while discussing past traumatic experiences, so I place a lot of importance in building up a rapport and therapeutic alliance.
Through training and past work positions, I have experience working with family systems, survivors of traumatic experiences, child abuse and neglect, anxiety, depression, relationship conflict, experiences that you may experience in your life.
Are you struggling? Experienced Trauma? Wondering why this is still happening? Maybe I can help! With the belief that every person enters therapy with strengths, we will work together to build upon that foundation and learn about strengths that you might not be aware of just yet. I understand how difficult it is to feel comfortable with a new therapist while discussing past traumatic experiences, so I place a lot of importance in building up a rapport and therapeutic alliance.
(503) 486-4399 View (503) 486-4399
Photo of Joey Ellen Kramer O'Connell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mount Scott, Portland, OR
Joey Ellen Kramer O'Connell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Scott, Portland, OR 97206
All families experience transitions, and even positive change can cause stress. I employ an eclectic approach with a strong emphasis on attachment, structural, and solution-focused family therapies. I work with young children and their caregivers to form secure attachments early on. This leads to more effective communication and problem solving patterns and a higher level of resilience down the road. My work tends to be short term and builds on the existing strengths of your family. My work with couples is attachment informed as we look at past and current relationships to elucidate our most fulfilling ways of connecting.
All families experience transitions, and even positive change can cause stress. I employ an eclectic approach with a strong emphasis on attachment, structural, and solution-focused family therapies. I work with young children and their caregivers to form secure attachments early on. This leads to more effective communication and problem solving patterns and a higher level of resilience down the road. My work tends to be short term and builds on the existing strengths of your family. My work with couples is attachment informed as we look at past and current relationships to elucidate our most fulfilling ways of connecting.
(503) 766-5894 View (503) 766-5894
Photo of Sabrina Ullmann Mathews, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mount Scott, Portland, OR
Sabrina Ullmann Mathews
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mount Scott, Portland, OR 97206
Regretfully, I am not accepting new clients. After 40 years of practice, I find that while theoretical frameworks are useful, much more significant is the relationship that the client and therapist develop. It is in this relational container that the most important relationship is forged and manifested; that of the client to themself. My style is dynamic, directive, and intuitive.My sense of humor is pretty good too. I have great respect for my clients' intelligence, time and resources and don't want to waste them.
Regretfully, I am not accepting new clients. After 40 years of practice, I find that while theoretical frameworks are useful, much more significant is the relationship that the client and therapist develop. It is in this relational container that the most important relationship is forged and manifested; that of the client to themself. My style is dynamic, directive, and intuitive.My sense of humor is pretty good too. I have great respect for my clients' intelligence, time and resources and don't want to waste them.
(503) 406-3620 View (503) 406-3620
Photo of Amanda Best, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Mount Scott, Portland, OR
Amanda Best
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Mount Scott, Portland, OR 97206  (Online Only)
If you’ve ever felt stuck in your relationship, alone in your sexual exploration, incapable of overcoming your triggers, or just unsupported, you’re in the right place. As a the founder of Bold Growth Therapy, I offer a direct and challenging yet nurturing presence to not only reach your therapeutic goals but to generate a deep internal belief system that speaks to your capability of being loved and deserving of connection. Whether it be navigating relationship injuries, betrayals, sexual concerns, life transitions, family issues, or trauma triggers; managing anxiety, or deepening your relationship, I'm here to facilitate change!
If you’ve ever felt stuck in your relationship, alone in your sexual exploration, incapable of overcoming your triggers, or just unsupported, you’re in the right place. As a the founder of Bold Growth Therapy, I offer a direct and challenging yet nurturing presence to not only reach your therapeutic goals but to generate a deep internal belief system that speaks to your capability of being loved and deserving of connection. Whether it be navigating relationship injuries, betrayals, sexual concerns, life transitions, family issues, or trauma triggers; managing anxiety, or deepening your relationship, I'm here to facilitate change!
(503) 506-4941 View (503) 506-4941
Photo of J.C. Stewart, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mount Scott, Portland, OR
J.C. Stewart
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Scott, Portland, OR 97206
I have done some of my best work therapeutically with clients who have a hard time being kind to themselves. I've found that patterns of self-criticism or even self-harm often, though not always, originate in dynamics that were present at home growing up. Challenges from childhood, adolescence and young adulthood can continue to affect your daily life, including your functioning and relationships, and I'm here to help. I'm proud to work with members of the LGBTQ+ communities.
I have done some of my best work therapeutically with clients who have a hard time being kind to themselves. I've found that patterns of self-criticism or even self-harm often, though not always, originate in dynamics that were present at home growing up. Challenges from childhood, adolescence and young adulthood can continue to affect your daily life, including your functioning and relationships, and I'm here to help. I'm proud to work with members of the LGBTQ+ communities.
(503) 741-2801 View (503) 741-2801
Photo of Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) for PTSD in Seattle in Mount Scott, Portland, OR
Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) for PTSD in Seattle
Verified Verified
Mount Scott, Portland, OR 97206
Offering Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) to treat PTSD in Seattle and Bellevue, Washington. SGB is successful in approximately 85% of patients who see an almost immediate 50% reduction in PTSD symptoms on average (mean reduction in the PCL-5 (PTSD) score of 30 points). The stellate ganglion is a control center for the sympathetic nervous system and a conduit for PTSD triggers. SGB is a low risk injection which stops the sympathetic nervous system overdrive in PTSD patients, so triggers can be reduced or even eliminated. Patients are then better able to engage in the psychological work related to trauma events and PTSD.
Offering Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) to treat PTSD in Seattle and Bellevue, Washington. SGB is successful in approximately 85% of patients who see an almost immediate 50% reduction in PTSD symptoms on average (mean reduction in the PCL-5 (PTSD) score of 30 points). The stellate ganglion is a control center for the sympathetic nervous system and a conduit for PTSD triggers. SGB is a low risk injection which stops the sympathetic nervous system overdrive in PTSD patients, so triggers can be reduced or even eliminated. Patients are then better able to engage in the psychological work related to trauma events and PTSD.
(425) 230-4264 View (425) 230-4264
Photo of Kim E Lucey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mount Scott, Portland, OR
Kim E Lucey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mount Scott, Portland, OR 97206
Not accepting new clients
Everyone deserves to be treated as an individual with respect for their own beliefs, goals and definition of success. It is on this strong belief that I base my work with children, adults, couples and families. For over 17 years, I have been supporting growth and healing of children, adults, couples and families with multi-layered struggles. These include; mood struggles, communication and relational conflicts, history of acute trauma, behavioral struggles, family conflicts, and identity struggles and substance use/abuse. I also have long term experience working with families who have come together through foster care or adoption.
Everyone deserves to be treated as an individual with respect for their own beliefs, goals and definition of success. It is on this strong belief that I base my work with children, adults, couples and families. For over 17 years, I have been supporting growth and healing of children, adults, couples and families with multi-layered struggles. These include; mood struggles, communication and relational conflicts, history of acute trauma, behavioral struggles, family conflicts, and identity struggles and substance use/abuse. I also have long term experience working with families who have come together through foster care or adoption.
(971) 225-0105 View (971) 225-0105
Photo of Kent Heyward, Marriage & Family Therapist in Mount Scott, Portland, OR
Kent Heyward
Marriage & Family Therapist, ACSW, MSW, LMFT, SAP
Verified Verified
Mount Scott, Portland, OR 97206
Not accepting new clients
I am a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Social Worker and a Oregon Department of Transportation Substance Abuse Professional (SAP). My 25+ years of clinical experience have been focused on serving patients dealing with parenting issues, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, dual diagnoses, grief and loss, marital conflict, adjustment issues, and career/life transitions. My private practice utilizes a brief solution-focused modality, providing therapy to individuals, couples, families, and children. I am also founder and senior counselor with the Upper Rogue Wellness Center in Southern Oregon.
I am a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Social Worker and a Oregon Department of Transportation Substance Abuse Professional (SAP). My 25+ years of clinical experience have been focused on serving patients dealing with parenting issues, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, dual diagnoses, grief and loss, marital conflict, adjustment issues, and career/life transitions. My private practice utilizes a brief solution-focused modality, providing therapy to individuals, couples, families, and children. I am also founder and senior counselor with the Upper Rogue Wellness Center in Southern Oregon.
(541) 279-2183 View (541) 279-2183
Photo of Erin Fanshier, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mount Scott, Portland, OR
Erin Fanshier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Not Verified Not Verified
Mount Scott, Portland, OR 97206
Not accepting new clients
I work with domestic violence, sexual abuse, past child abuse, grief and loss, insomnia, chronic pain, and anxiety.
We are in some unprecedented, challenging times, which may be presenting new challenges, or opening up old wounds. If you are feeling lost, anxious, stressed, or unable to break free of painful memories and experiences of the past, you have made the right first step! Whatever has brought you to therapy, I offer you a nonjudgmental space for calm, grounded healing. I believe everyone has the capacity for healing within themselves, and that everyone deserves to tell their story, and to find safety. All of my services are currently offered via secure video platform.
I work with domestic violence, sexual abuse, past child abuse, grief and loss, insomnia, chronic pain, and anxiety.
We are in some unprecedented, challenging times, which may be presenting new challenges, or opening up old wounds. If you are feeling lost, anxious, stressed, or unable to break free of painful memories and experiences of the past, you have made the right first step! Whatever has brought you to therapy, I offer you a nonjudgmental space for calm, grounded healing. I believe everyone has the capacity for healing within themselves, and that everyone deserves to tell their story, and to find safety. All of my services are currently offered via secure video platform.
(503) 213-9285 View (503) 213-9285
Photo of Janz Consulting, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mount Scott, Portland, OR
Janz Consulting
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CADC1
Verified Verified
Mount Scott, Portland, OR 97206
Not accepting new clients
Sorry, not taking new clients at this time. If you are reading this you have found the courage to consider trusting someone you have never met with your fears, frustrations and hopes. I honor this trust and the individual needs that each person brings to counseling. My practice is focused on assisting those who have met a challenge in life such as the loss of a loved one, chronic or acute illness, relationship conflict, job stress or traumatic events. Although these may be common experiences that many of us share they can also cause symptoms of depression, anxiety, anger or PTSD if lived in isolation.
Sorry, not taking new clients at this time. If you are reading this you have found the courage to consider trusting someone you have never met with your fears, frustrations and hopes. I honor this trust and the individual needs that each person brings to counseling. My practice is focused on assisting those who have met a challenge in life such as the loss of a loved one, chronic or acute illness, relationship conflict, job stress or traumatic events. Although these may be common experiences that many of us share they can also cause symptoms of depression, anxiety, anger or PTSD if lived in isolation.
(971) 297-3288 View (971) 297-3288
Photo of Laurel D. Oziel, MSW, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mount Scott, Portland, OR
Laurel D. Oziel, MSW, LCSW, ACSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Scott, Portland, OR 97206
Not accepting new clients
Please feel free to look me up on past patient rating/review sites like healthgrades.com, kudzu.com, OregonLive.com, EverydayHealth.com, Alltherapist.com, bestoftheweb.com, superpages.com. My focus is on direct, short term therapy that helps you resolve the problems you bring in as quickly but thoroughly as possible. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety disorders, panics, depression, PTSD, relationship and sexual problems and gender specific problems.50% of my patient referrals come from past patients, 40% come from physicians and other therapists and 10% come from online reviews from past patients.
Please feel free to look me up on past patient rating/review sites like healthgrades.com, kudzu.com, OregonLive.com, EverydayHealth.com, Alltherapist.com, bestoftheweb.com, superpages.com. My focus is on direct, short term therapy that helps you resolve the problems you bring in as quickly but thoroughly as possible. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety disorders, panics, depression, PTSD, relationship and sexual problems and gender specific problems.50% of my patient referrals come from past patients, 40% come from physicians and other therapists and 10% come from online reviews from past patients.
(503) 928-3842 View (503) 928-3842

Online Therapists

Photo of Deborah Lyda High, Marriage & Family Therapist in Mount Scott, Portland, OR
Deborah Lyda High
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97217  (Online Only)
My area of specialty is working with individuals who are survivors of abuse and incest, domestic violence and grief & loss.
The act of doing therapy is a bit like tending to a garden; it takes diligence and care to achieve growth! It sounds challenging I know, but the outcomes and successes of working on yourself and your relationships far outweigh the negatives. We all have gardens that need occasional weeding and replanting, and when we are not taking care of ourselves, we can experience feelings of depression, anxiety, restlessness and frustration. In choosing to work with me, I will guide and encourage you by providing the necessary tools and resources that allow you to create a healthy and bountiful garden of your own.
My area of specialty is working with individuals who are survivors of abuse and incest, domestic violence and grief & loss.
The act of doing therapy is a bit like tending to a garden; it takes diligence and care to achieve growth! It sounds challenging I know, but the outcomes and successes of working on yourself and your relationships far outweigh the negatives. We all have gardens that need occasional weeding and replanting, and when we are not taking care of ourselves, we can experience feelings of depression, anxiety, restlessness and frustration. In choosing to work with me, I will guide and encourage you by providing the necessary tools and resources that allow you to create a healthy and bountiful garden of your own.
(503) 564-1904 View (503) 564-1904
Photo of Kim Randle, Pre-Licensed Professional in Mount Scott, Portland, OR
Kim Randle
Pre-Licensed Professional, CSWA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
I am passionate about the work I do and have almost a decade of experience working with children, adolescents, families and adults experiencing trauma and mental illness. I found my passion for helping people through experiencing my own hardships in life and seek to share not only my professional expertise but my empathy for what it means to overcome adversity. My expertise includes helping people overcome issues around childhood trauma, sexual and domestic violence, military and first responder trauma, and more.
I am passionate about the work I do and have almost a decade of experience working with children, adolescents, families and adults experiencing trauma and mental illness. I found my passion for helping people through experiencing my own hardships in life and seek to share not only my professional expertise but my empathy for what it means to overcome adversity. My expertise includes helping people overcome issues around childhood trauma, sexual and domestic violence, military and first responder trauma, and more.
(503) 445-8536 View (503) 445-8536
Photo of Elizabeth Fisher, Marriage & Family Therapist in Mount Scott, Portland, OR
Elizabeth Fisher
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97219
Have you been through a difficult experience? I specialize in emotional and relational disorders arising from trauma, sexual abuse, attachment disruptions, and less-than-optimal early childhood experiences. These types of experiences can create life-long distress and difficulty with relationships. Finding the right therapist is an important first step in healing from trauma. My orientation integrates modern neuroscience with relational psychotherapy. In addition to traditional methods, I utilize expressive approaches such as sandtray, play therapy, psychodrama, movement, and art therapy in my practice. I will tailor your sessions to meet your unique needs and ways of expressing yourself.
Have you been through a difficult experience? I specialize in emotional and relational disorders arising from trauma, sexual abuse, attachment disruptions, and less-than-optimal early childhood experiences. These types of experiences can create life-long distress and difficulty with relationships. Finding the right therapist is an important first step in healing from trauma. My orientation integrates modern neuroscience with relational psychotherapy. In addition to traditional methods, I utilize expressive approaches such as sandtray, play therapy, psychodrama, movement, and art therapy in my practice. I will tailor your sessions to meet your unique needs and ways of expressing yourself.
(541) 526-7218 View (541) 526-7218
Photo of Lori Platt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mount Scott, Portland, OR
Lori Platt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, QMHP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97223
The road of life isn't always smooth and easy... and it's a road you don't have to navigate alone. Are you struggling with depression or anxiety? Do you defeat yourself with self-critical thinking? Does stress get in the way of accomplishing your goals in life? I enjoy working with clients who are ready to seek the road to recovery - from trauma, abuse, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, and the stress of life.
The road of life isn't always smooth and easy... and it's a road you don't have to navigate alone. Are you struggling with depression or anxiety? Do you defeat yourself with self-critical thinking? Does stress get in the way of accomplishing your goals in life? I enjoy working with clients who are ready to seek the road to recovery - from trauma, abuse, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, and the stress of life.
(503) 486-8580 View (503) 486-8580
Photo of Eleni Lazarou, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mount Scott, Portland, OR
Eleni Lazarou
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97209
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize a holistic, trauma-sensitive approach to support the healing of those who have experienced various forms of abuse, interpersonal violence and trauma. I use Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to help clients understand, appreciate and heal the emotional and physiological responses that can come with trauma and PTSD.
I utilize a holistic, trauma-sensitive approach to support the healing of those who have experienced various forms of abuse, interpersonal violence and trauma. I use Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to help clients understand, appreciate and heal the emotional and physiological responses that can come with trauma and PTSD.
(503) 714-3390 View (503) 714-3390
Photo of Sarah Dunnings-Smith, Clinical Social Work Associate in Mount Scott, Portland, OR
Sarah Dunnings-Smith
Clinical Social Work Associate, MSW, CSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with individuals who’ve experienced physical discipline, sexual abuse and assault, as well as other forms of abuse and trauma in any stage of life.
Finding a therapist you can identify with can be difficult. I offer lived experience as a BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ identifying person, a parent, and serve a diverse, and often marginalized, population of beautifully resilient humans. Addressing holistic health is my passion. Whether you are working through identity, trauma, family of origin issues, LGBTQIA concerns, parenting, grief and loss, suicidal thoughts, anxiety or self care, come join me in this safe space as we use a variety of tools to help you live a more full and fulfilled life.
I specialize in working with individuals who’ve experienced physical discipline, sexual abuse and assault, as well as other forms of abuse and trauma in any stage of life.
Finding a therapist you can identify with can be difficult. I offer lived experience as a BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ identifying person, a parent, and serve a diverse, and often marginalized, population of beautifully resilient humans. Addressing holistic health is my passion. Whether you are working through identity, trauma, family of origin issues, LGBTQIA concerns, parenting, grief and loss, suicidal thoughts, anxiety or self care, come join me in this safe space as we use a variety of tools to help you live a more full and fulfilled life.
(971) 260-3472 View (971) 260-3472

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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.