Domestic Abuse Therapists in Edgewater, Chicago, IL

Photo of Nick Karegeannes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Edgewater, Chicago, IL
Nick Karegeannes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Edgewater, Chicago, IL 60660
If you have experienced or witnessed traumatic events such as neglect, verbal, emotional, physical or sexual abuse, I can help you to ease the burden while finding calm and peace in your life.
I help my clients to find their way through challenging times and feelings so that they can have warmer, richer lives with more satisfying relationships. You may be feeling hopeless, angry, confused, overwhelmed, anxious or depressed; perhaps, you are going through major life-changes such as loss, new beginnings or relationship difficulties. From a strengths-based and collaborative approach, we can explore meaning and significance in your life and endeavor to help you achieve what you you wish to attain while dissolving obstacles Perhaps, you are stuck creatively or simply want to live more soulfully.
If you have experienced or witnessed traumatic events such as neglect, verbal, emotional, physical or sexual abuse, I can help you to ease the burden while finding calm and peace in your life.
I help my clients to find their way through challenging times and feelings so that they can have warmer, richer lives with more satisfying relationships. You may be feeling hopeless, angry, confused, overwhelmed, anxious or depressed; perhaps, you are going through major life-changes such as loss, new beginnings or relationship difficulties. From a strengths-based and collaborative approach, we can explore meaning and significance in your life and endeavor to help you achieve what you you wish to attain while dissolving obstacles Perhaps, you are stuck creatively or simply want to live more soulfully.
(773) 570-1503 View (773) 570-1503
Photo of Sheila D Hanrahan, Counselor in Edgewater, Chicago, IL
Sheila D Hanrahan
Counselor, MSW, LCPC
Verified Verified
Edgewater, Chicago, IL 60640
Some of the soul's issues that I work with include self-esteem, depression and mood disorders, grief, anxiety, addictions, abuse, relationship/intimacy issues, alternative lifestyles and major life transitions.
Having more than 25-years experience with issues most often brought to therapy, I see our work together as a healing process and sacred journey of the soul with my role being guide, witness and companion on the path towards wholeness, self-empowerment and self-realization. It's often a journey into the unconscious using dreams and one's creative process. This brings a deep commitment to my own growth as well. Beginning in the addictions field and continually striving to deepen my knowledge of the alchemy of healing I am also a Jungian analyst.
Some of the soul's issues that I work with include self-esteem, depression and mood disorders, grief, anxiety, addictions, abuse, relationship/intimacy issues, alternative lifestyles and major life transitions.
Having more than 25-years experience with issues most often brought to therapy, I see our work together as a healing process and sacred journey of the soul with my role being guide, witness and companion on the path towards wholeness, self-empowerment and self-realization. It's often a journey into the unconscious using dreams and one's creative process. This brings a deep commitment to my own growth as well. Beginning in the addictions field and continually striving to deepen my knowledge of the alchemy of healing I am also a Jungian analyst.
(773) 497-2324 View (773) 497-2324
Photo of Jenny Choi LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Edgewater, Chicago, IL
Jenny Choi LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Edgewater, Chicago, IL 60640
I have specific credentials and experiences relative to today's complicated situations, including; family genograms, marital/intimate and workplace relationships and conflicts, sexual identity, racial equality/intolerance, cross-cultural stigmas, abuse/battering, bullying, alcohol and substance abuse, legal/court intervention, play therapy, neurofeedback, adolescence/young adult guidance, and grief counseling.
I passionately and compassionately care for the emotional well-being and behavioral health of my individual, couple, family and group clients for over 20 years. I draw upon unique combinations of clinical principals and innovative methods to best support all people within our vastly diverse community. I draw upon my deep understanding of culture, age, gender, race, class, family structure, and the type of or the lack of a support system can have on most all situations. I always provide a totally non-judgmental, safe, and confidential space to help my clients deal with their problems, issues or crisis.
I have specific credentials and experiences relative to today's complicated situations, including; family genograms, marital/intimate and workplace relationships and conflicts, sexual identity, racial equality/intolerance, cross-cultural stigmas, abuse/battering, bullying, alcohol and substance abuse, legal/court intervention, play therapy, neurofeedback, adolescence/young adult guidance, and grief counseling.
I passionately and compassionately care for the emotional well-being and behavioral health of my individual, couple, family and group clients for over 20 years. I draw upon unique combinations of clinical principals and innovative methods to best support all people within our vastly diverse community. I draw upon my deep understanding of culture, age, gender, race, class, family structure, and the type of or the lack of a support system can have on most all situations. I always provide a totally non-judgmental, safe, and confidential space to help my clients deal with their problems, issues or crisis.
(917) 563-4037 View (917) 563-4037
Photo of Alison O'Hara, Psychologist in Edgewater, Chicago, IL
Alison O'Hara
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Edgewater, Chicago, IL 60660
I also have experience with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, trauma and substance abuse.
My therapeutic approach emphasizes how our perspectives on life and relationships are informed by past experiences, where we are in the present, and our future hopes. I strive to create an open environment allowing access to the meaning of these experiences and explore the impact this has on our lives.
I also have experience with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, trauma and substance abuse.
My therapeutic approach emphasizes how our perspectives on life and relationships are informed by past experiences, where we are in the present, and our future hopes. I strive to create an open environment allowing access to the meaning of these experiences and explore the impact this has on our lives.
(224) 214-5067 View (224) 214-5067
Photo of SFC Searching For Change, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Edgewater, Chicago, IL
SFC Searching For Change
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT-S, SE-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edgewater, Chicago, IL 60660
We specialize in Addiction and Trauma, particularly Sex Addiction and Sexual Abuse.
My practice works with a diverse population. I specialize in addiction, both Sex Addiction and a range of other addictions. I run groups for sex addicts and for the partners of sex addicts. I also specialize in trauma and work with adolescent and adult trauma survivors, both male and female. The practice also works with the LGBTQ community.
We specialize in Addiction and Trauma, particularly Sex Addiction and Sexual Abuse.
My practice works with a diverse population. I specialize in addiction, both Sex Addiction and a range of other addictions. I run groups for sex addicts and for the partners of sex addicts. I also specialize in trauma and work with adolescent and adult trauma survivors, both male and female. The practice also works with the LGBTQ community.
(917) 746-5114 View (917) 746-5114
Photo of Wendy Ortiz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Edgewater, Chicago, IL
Wendy Ortiz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edgewater, Chicago, IL 60660
Waitlist for new clients
Hi, my name is Wendy, and I use She/Her/Ella/La pronouns. I am a Bilingual (Spanish and English) Latinx, relational cultural therapist, and empowering clients is at the heart of my work. My focus centers around supporting folks respond to anxiety, depression, PTSD, intimate partner violence, trauma, generational trauma, spiritual abuse, immigration trauma, navigating gender and sexuality identity or grief felt when navigating chronic medical health conditions.
Hi, my name is Wendy, and I use She/Her/Ella/La pronouns. I am a Bilingual (Spanish and English) Latinx, relational cultural therapist, and empowering clients is at the heart of my work. My focus centers around supporting folks respond to anxiety, depression, PTSD, intimate partner violence, trauma, generational trauma, spiritual abuse, immigration trauma, navigating gender and sexuality identity or grief felt when navigating chronic medical health conditions.
(847) 472-0871 View (847) 472-0871
Photo of Jeff Zacharias, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Edgewater, Chicago, IL
Jeff Zacharias
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ACSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Edgewater, Chicago, IL 60660
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Certified Sex Addiction and Trauma Therapist (CSAT), Certified Advanced Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Counselor (CAADC) and BRI-I (Board Registered Interventionist) with several years of clinical experience in the mental health & addictions field.
There are numerous reasons why an individual makes a decision to seek therapy. From my perspective, the key factor in being able to examine your individual reasons is based upon the relationship between yourself and your therapist. I offer a safe, supportive, non-judgmental environment in order to explore your individual needs with a commitment to placing the highest priority on your care. We will work collaboratively to identify and address your concerns in order to foster meaningful change in your life. My clinical experience has included working not only with individuals but couples, families and groups.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Certified Sex Addiction and Trauma Therapist (CSAT), Certified Advanced Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Counselor (CAADC) and BRI-I (Board Registered Interventionist) with several years of clinical experience in the mental health & addictions field.
There are numerous reasons why an individual makes a decision to seek therapy. From my perspective, the key factor in being able to examine your individual reasons is based upon the relationship between yourself and your therapist. I offer a safe, supportive, non-judgmental environment in order to explore your individual needs with a commitment to placing the highest priority on your care. We will work collaboratively to identify and address your concerns in order to foster meaningful change in your life. My clinical experience has included working not only with individuals but couples, families and groups.
(773) 295-7727 View (773) 295-7727
Photo of Allison O'Neill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Edgewater, Chicago, IL
Allison O'Neill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edgewater, Chicago, IL 60660
My main treatment areas include: sexual trauma/abuse, complex trauma, LGBTQIA+ concerns, ADHD, anxiety, depression, neurodivergence, shame, and relationship difficulties.
Do you frequently feel anxious, unsafe, or frozen in certain situations? Do you struggle to connect with others or communicate your wants and needs? Are you not living your life in a way that fits your values and fulfills you? My priority as a therapist is to support you in your time of struggle, in a way that centers your needs, circumstances, goals, and concerns. I can provide a compassionate space to process your feelings, nurture existing strengths, and heal from trauma, pain, or loss. If you’re ready, I’d love to assist you in finding a path forward, feeling better, and reconnecting with your truest self.
My main treatment areas include: sexual trauma/abuse, complex trauma, LGBTQIA+ concerns, ADHD, anxiety, depression, neurodivergence, shame, and relationship difficulties.
Do you frequently feel anxious, unsafe, or frozen in certain situations? Do you struggle to connect with others or communicate your wants and needs? Are you not living your life in a way that fits your values and fulfills you? My priority as a therapist is to support you in your time of struggle, in a way that centers your needs, circumstances, goals, and concerns. I can provide a compassionate space to process your feelings, nurture existing strengths, and heal from trauma, pain, or loss. If you’re ready, I’d love to assist you in finding a path forward, feeling better, and reconnecting with your truest self.
(847) 868-0505 View (847) 868-0505
Photo of Jade Hull, Pre-Licensed Professional in Edgewater, Chicago, IL
Jade Hull
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edgewater, Chicago, IL 60660
I primarily work with those who have faced past or ongoing traumas, sexual assault or abuse, domestic or gender-based violence, college students, and the LGBTQ+ community.
Shopping around online for a human to trust and talk to can be a strange experience, and I understand that the beginning of this journey can feel overwhelming. I utilize humor, creativity, self-reflection, body-based interventions, and education to promote your growth. Your therapy will be individualized to who you are and your lived experiences. We’ll work as a team to explore, understand, and update the obstacles in your life. I believe knowledge is a transformative tool that can help us update how we relate to ourselves, others, and the world. Together, we'll look beyond diagnoses, and examine attachment and relationships.
I primarily work with those who have faced past or ongoing traumas, sexual assault or abuse, domestic or gender-based violence, college students, and the LGBTQ+ community.
Shopping around online for a human to trust and talk to can be a strange experience, and I understand that the beginning of this journey can feel overwhelming. I utilize humor, creativity, self-reflection, body-based interventions, and education to promote your growth. Your therapy will be individualized to who you are and your lived experiences. We’ll work as a team to explore, understand, and update the obstacles in your life. I believe knowledge is a transformative tool that can help us update how we relate to ourselves, others, and the world. Together, we'll look beyond diagnoses, and examine attachment and relationships.
(773) 207-2098 View (773) 207-2098
Photo of Ray White, Pre-Licensed Professional in Edgewater, Chicago, IL
Ray White
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edgewater, Chicago, IL 60640
I take a client-centered focus in therapy; meaning I believe you are the expert of your experience. As a trauma-informed therapist, I think it is important to meet you where you are with the recognition that healing and growth are not linear. I approach this by building a strong therapeutic relationship. This relationship develops into a trust where you and I can work collaboratively for you to make the desired change you’re seeking.
I take a client-centered focus in therapy; meaning I believe you are the expert of your experience. As a trauma-informed therapist, I think it is important to meet you where you are with the recognition that healing and growth are not linear. I approach this by building a strong therapeutic relationship. This relationship develops into a trust where you and I can work collaboratively for you to make the desired change you’re seeking.
(773) 906-7024 View (773) 906-7024
Photo of Lou Agosta, Counselor in Edgewater, Chicago, IL
Lou Agosta
Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Edgewater, Chicago, IL 60660
I offer you a safe zone with empathy in which you will get a good listening. Get the empathy - and empathic listening - you need to succeed - in relationships, career, and life. Within this safe zone, we work shifting you from stuckness to flourishing. My credentials: professor at Ross Medical University, author of 3 books on empathy, offer cognitive behavioral (CBT), dialectical behavioral (DBT), and psychodynamic existential humanistic therapy. Will give you a good listening with empathy. No need to for a Holiday Special: my rates are flexible in all seasons. Tell me what you can pay. Call for a complimentary consultation.
I offer you a safe zone with empathy in which you will get a good listening. Get the empathy - and empathic listening - you need to succeed - in relationships, career, and life. Within this safe zone, we work shifting you from stuckness to flourishing. My credentials: professor at Ross Medical University, author of 3 books on empathy, offer cognitive behavioral (CBT), dialectical behavioral (DBT), and psychodynamic existential humanistic therapy. Will give you a good listening with empathy. No need to for a Holiday Special: my rates are flexible in all seasons. Tell me what you can pay. Call for a complimentary consultation.
(773) 672-8611 View (773) 672-8611
Photo of Christopher Manvel, Licensed Professional Counselor in Edgewater, Chicago, IL
Christopher Manvel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edgewater, Chicago, IL 60640
I work with individuals and couples (straight, gay, lesbian, bisexual and trans) who are dealing with a range of issues in their lives. A meaningful, authentic client-therapist relationship is of utmost importance to me, and I strive to create safe and welcoming spaces for all by fostering an environment of empathy, openness and honesty. Clients who see me receive compassionate care without negative judgment, creating opportunities to make meaning of the events of their lives.
I work with individuals and couples (straight, gay, lesbian, bisexual and trans) who are dealing with a range of issues in their lives. A meaningful, authentic client-therapist relationship is of utmost importance to me, and I strive to create safe and welcoming spaces for all by fostering an environment of empathy, openness and honesty. Clients who see me receive compassionate care without negative judgment, creating opportunities to make meaning of the events of their lives.
(773) 923-1948 View (773) 923-1948
Photo of Debra Berth, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Edgewater, Chicago, IL
Debra Berth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA , LSW
Verified Verified
Edgewater, Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
Do you feel stuck? Do you wish your life was different but don’t know how or where to start making changes? You don’t have to figure it out all by yourself. I enjoy working with emerging adults, adults, and seniors on navigating the uncertainty of life transitions. Common issues I work with clients on are establishing life’s goals and identity, cultivating harmony in interpersonal relationships, coping with challenging mental and physical health issues, and processing loss, grief and trauma.
Do you feel stuck? Do you wish your life was different but don’t know how or where to start making changes? You don’t have to figure it out all by yourself. I enjoy working with emerging adults, adults, and seniors on navigating the uncertainty of life transitions. Common issues I work with clients on are establishing life’s goals and identity, cultivating harmony in interpersonal relationships, coping with challenging mental and physical health issues, and processing loss, grief and trauma.
(224) 268-1431 View (224) 268-1431
Photo of Aaron Testard, Marriage & Family Therapist in Edgewater, Chicago, IL
Aaron Testard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Edgewater, Chicago, IL 60640
Do you feel lost, questioning who you are or where you're going with no easy answers? Sometimes life takes an unexpected turn, we hit a bottom, or we just realize that something in us is different...or something must change. Such times of confusion and crisis are often the meeting point for our work together. They are also openings to self-discovery and real change. I listen deeply for what you want, develop a relationship of trust, and work WITH you to establish the clarity and direction you need.
Do you feel lost, questioning who you are or where you're going with no easy answers? Sometimes life takes an unexpected turn, we hit a bottom, or we just realize that something in us is different...or something must change. Such times of confusion and crisis are often the meeting point for our work together. They are also openings to self-discovery and real change. I listen deeply for what you want, develop a relationship of trust, and work WITH you to establish the clarity and direction you need.
(312) 467-7543 View (312) 467-7543
Photo of Ian Bonner, Psychologist in Edgewater, Chicago, IL
Ian Bonner
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edgewater, Chicago, IL 60640
I'm Dr. Ian Bonner, and I specialize in anxiety, depression, serving LGBTQ+ clients, substance use, and relationships. I also enjoy working with the kink community and supporting clients in open/poly relationships. As a counselor, I am challenging, collaborative, and compassionate in my approach to treatment. Clients who work with me understand from our first session that I work with more than just symptoms and problems; I treat the whole person. In sessions, I take great care to ensure that you feel understood, valued, and known and eagerly utilize your feedback about our work. I welcome you to contact me with any questions.
I'm Dr. Ian Bonner, and I specialize in anxiety, depression, serving LGBTQ+ clients, substance use, and relationships. I also enjoy working with the kink community and supporting clients in open/poly relationships. As a counselor, I am challenging, collaborative, and compassionate in my approach to treatment. Clients who work with me understand from our first session that I work with more than just symptoms and problems; I treat the whole person. In sessions, I take great care to ensure that you feel understood, valued, and known and eagerly utilize your feedback about our work. I welcome you to contact me with any questions.
(312) 779-6276 View (312) 779-6276
Photo of Eilis Fagan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Edgewater, Chicago, IL
Eilis Fagan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Edgewater, Chicago, IL 60640
Life's most challenging moments can cause uncertainty, discomfort, distress, and stagnation. However, with support, these challenges can also lead to self-reflection, growth, and change. I work with adolescents and adults that are seeking support while they navigate difficult life transitions, healing from trauma, identity exploration, depression, anxiety, and family conflict among other challenges. It is my hope that we can work together to identify patterns in your life that no longer serve you, develop values-guided and realistic coping skills, and foster deeper connections through self-exploration.
Life's most challenging moments can cause uncertainty, discomfort, distress, and stagnation. However, with support, these challenges can also lead to self-reflection, growth, and change. I work with adolescents and adults that are seeking support while they navigate difficult life transitions, healing from trauma, identity exploration, depression, anxiety, and family conflict among other challenges. It is my hope that we can work together to identify patterns in your life that no longer serve you, develop values-guided and realistic coping skills, and foster deeper connections through self-exploration.
(872) 246-7165 View (872) 246-7165
Photo of Jessica L. Hudson, PhD, PLLC, Psychologist in Edgewater, Chicago, IL
Jessica L. Hudson, PhD, PLLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edgewater, Chicago, IL 60660
I am a Clinical Psychologist in private practice in the Andersonville/Edgewater neighborhood of Chicago. I provide individual, family and/or couples therapy with adults, adolescents, and children age five and up. My style is warm, non-judgmental, compassionate, and direct. I believe a strong, trusting, collaborative relationship with one's therapist is vital to realizing change and experiencing growth. I take particular care in tailoring interventions to meet an individual's needs and emphasize their strengths. My approach is largely based on cognitive-behavioral and relational techniques.
I am a Clinical Psychologist in private practice in the Andersonville/Edgewater neighborhood of Chicago. I provide individual, family and/or couples therapy with adults, adolescents, and children age five and up. My style is warm, non-judgmental, compassionate, and direct. I believe a strong, trusting, collaborative relationship with one's therapist is vital to realizing change and experiencing growth. I take particular care in tailoring interventions to meet an individual's needs and emphasize their strengths. My approach is largely based on cognitive-behavioral and relational techniques.
(773) 657-4142 View (773) 657-4142
Photo of Kerstin O'Connor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Edgewater, Chicago, IL
Kerstin O'Connor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edgewater, Chicago, IL 60660  (Online Only)
Considering change, whether big or small, takes courage and hard work. My hope as we engage in a therapeutic relationship is to create a welcoming, open environment where you feel supported, valued, and safe. I work with adults identifying a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship challenges, and grief & loss. I provide a focus on relational dynamics in addition to the impacts of systems, environment, and trauma. Together we'll work to form a deep understanding of your most important relationships, emotions, and experiences while examining pathways for support and change.
Considering change, whether big or small, takes courage and hard work. My hope as we engage in a therapeutic relationship is to create a welcoming, open environment where you feel supported, valued, and safe. I work with adults identifying a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship challenges, and grief & loss. I provide a focus on relational dynamics in addition to the impacts of systems, environment, and trauma. Together we'll work to form a deep understanding of your most important relationships, emotions, and experiences while examining pathways for support and change.
(773) 900-5710 View (773) 900-5710
Photo of Melissa Mooney, Licensed Professional Counselor in Edgewater, Chicago, IL
Melissa Mooney
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edgewater, Chicago, IL 60660
My counseling approach is one focused on compassion and holding space, as well as validation of what is while leaving room for curiosity around what could be. I know some things are just too much for one person to hold on their own. I intend to honor your own immense capability, while also providing some of the support, connection, and compassion that is so necessary for all of us to thrive.
My counseling approach is one focused on compassion and holding space, as well as validation of what is while leaving room for curiosity around what could be. I know some things are just too much for one person to hold on their own. I intend to honor your own immense capability, while also providing some of the support, connection, and compassion that is so necessary for all of us to thrive.
(773) 912-0926 View (773) 912-0926
Photo of Adam W Fominaya, Psychologist in Edgewater, Chicago, IL
Adam W Fominaya
Psychologist, PhD, LCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edgewater, Chicago, IL 60660  (Online Only)
While there are many quick-fix therapies in the world of mental health treatment, I believe that depth-based work is essential to creating change that truly sticks. As such, I view it as important for us to develop a strong, trusting & meaningful working relationship early in our work together & for us to use our relationship as the foundation for our successful work together. One of the gifts that therapy offers is an opportunity to be truly heard & supported. That foundation of support can be a powerful addition to one’s life when it is effectively developed between a client & therapist. Every client is different.
While there are many quick-fix therapies in the world of mental health treatment, I believe that depth-based work is essential to creating change that truly sticks. As such, I view it as important for us to develop a strong, trusting & meaningful working relationship early in our work together & for us to use our relationship as the foundation for our successful work together. One of the gifts that therapy offers is an opportunity to be truly heard & supported. That foundation of support can be a powerful addition to one’s life when it is effectively developed between a client & therapist. Every client is different.
(872) 250-4033 View (872) 250-4033

See more therapy options for Edgewater, Chicago


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.