Domestic Abuse Therapists in Abilene, TX

Each morning when I open my eyes, I say to myself: 'I, not events, have the power to make me happy or unhappy today. I can choose which it shall be. Yesterday is dead; tomorrow hasn't arrived yet. I have just one day, today, and I'm going to be happy in it.'" ~Groucho Marx. I decided long ago that life is too short to feel miserable or to live in fear. I have since been in recovery for over 10 years! Today, I live my life differently, and, I can tell you, it's worth it. If you're ready to join me on this journey, give me a call.

I work with adults, adolescents, couples, and families providing care for clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, marriage/family conflict (including domestic violence ), addiction, post-partum issues, and pre-marital counseling. I have also worked with parents whose children had been placed in the foster care system. Client goals included working through their own past trauma/ abuse , addiction issues, as well as protective parenting techniques

If you are looking for a therapist, you are hoping for something to change. Therapy can be a helpful resource for preventing emotional and relationship challenges from worsening, or it can help you find a way forward when you are fighting to find any hope for healing. If you are struggling internally with issues like anxiety, depression, or grief, or if you have experienced pain in your relationships from challenges like abuse , affairs, or conflict, therapy can be a path toward peace and healthy growth.

Hello! My name is Lisa Merchant and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Currently I am only accepting individuals and couples with issues related to aggression. My counseling style involves asking lots of questions, listening intently, and providing feedback that is unique to your situation, rather than offering one-size-fits all advice. I also facilitate the Batterer Intervention and Prevention Program (BIPP) at the Ministry of Counseling. This a 24-week group intervention for domestic violence . I also offer an 8-week Family Violence Education Course as a court-approved alternative to Anger Management.

Are you trying to regain control and self-confidence in your life? Do parts of your life feel difficult to open up about? Are there aspects of your life that you would like to improve, process, and/or find healing in? Seeking therapy can be an incredibly vulnerable and scary decision, which is why it is important for me to create a space for my clients to be their most authentic self. I strive to ensure trust and support is at the root of all sessions. Healing is a unique process for everyone, I work to find what healing can look like for you.

Life is about change and growth. I believe our ability to connect with self allows for deeper connection with the important people in one's life.

Taking the first step into therapy can bring upon many different thoughts and emotions. I understand this which is why I believe a genuine trust and relationship with your therapist can bring healing and peace. Whether you are faced with something that occurred 2 days ago or 20 years ago, allow me to provide you with a safe place to share your struggles, your stories and your strengths.

Working with you, my focus is on how you feel about your life and what would help you reach your goals in life - either individually or in a relationship. Your point of view, your values and your beliefs are what is important and what the focus should be. I want you to be comfortable in my space, and even have my dog, Mo, join us if you would like. This is your time to process life and think about what would work best for you and how you can achieve those goals.

Everyone has a story to tell, but sometimes the story is difficult and painful. I use narrative therapy to help clients become the hero of their stories guiding clients toward the bright moments in their lives and adding light to their darkness. I work with adolescents aged 13 and over, couples, and families. I also offer relational therapy for couples, families, and groups. Some of the areas that I regularly work with include depression, anxiety, PTSD, self-harm, suicidal ideation, marital issues, grief, relationship building, sexual trauma, and divorce.

Like a sail boat on the ocean, we are all on a journey where each one of us will encounter a mixture of calm seas, clear skies, storms and rainy days. We cannot control the weather, but we can join together to get through the storm until the sun shines again. I believe every individual has a unique story and a unique journey, and I have a desire to join with these individuals in helping them in their steps to achieve their unique goals towards healing, peace, and growth. We are all on that ocean, and riding out the storm is achievable with the right tools, encouragement, and support.

Let's Connect!!! The opposite of addiction is CONNECTION! I believe in helping others through a holistic and integrative approach. My motto is... "if you can "name-it, claim-it, you can feel-it, heal-it!" Recovery does not have to be intimidating, shaming or boring! With me there is a guarantee that I will hold space for you to unwind and be yourself. If you are not sure who that is, we will have fun exploring and creating endless possibilities together! Are you ready to change your story?

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Case manager. I received my Master’s degree in Social Work from New Mexico State University. I have provided mental health counseling for over 20 years, starting my mental health career in the United States Air force, having deployed several times as a social worker supporting troops at their deployed locations.

The Merriam Webster Dictionary defines turning point as, “a point at which a significant change occurs.” I am here to help encourage and join you along your journey of turning points, healing, and growth. My passion is people. I strive to provide a warm environment for individuals to feel valued and safe so they can overcome obstacles.

As humans, we will inevitably go through many life changes and events. Sometimes, those experiences can affect us in many different ways. You may experience moments of happiness, sadness, anger, or hopelessness. Some of these feelings, in turn, may impact how you view yourself as well as the world around you. Although you may be able to navigate through some of your emotions on your own, there may be times when you feel as if you need more assistance. It is okay to not be okay. It's also okay to seek help. I truly enjoy working with individuals and helping them cultivate peace within themselves and in their lives in general.

I'm a licensed clinical social worker specializing in addiction, trauma (PTSD), depression, anxiety, LBGTQIA+ issues, and marriage and relationship challenges. I have advanced training, clinical expertise, and 50+ years of life experience, I have an "organic" approach to therapy which means I use more than what I learned in any classroom or textbook.

My main forms of therapy tend to be solution focused, cognitive behavioral therapy and person centered with a priority in making changes in behavior and thinking. However, all forms of therapy are used in my practice including but not limited to narrative, reality, mindfulness, play therapy, some art therapy, and sand tray therapy to explore all facets of the self. I will use whatever works best for you. I believe that therapy is a place to explore uncomfortable emotions, issues, and trauma, as well as explore who you are, who you have been and what you want for your future with a focus on your strengths, resilience, and balance.