Domestic Abuse Therapists in Miami, FL

Photo of Nally Fernandez, LMHC, Counselor
Nally Fernandez
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33169
Child, Adolescent or young adult behavioral issues, Family of origin conflict, PTSD, Sexual Abuse/ Trauma, Domestic Violence, Complex Trauma, Neglect, Attachment, Intergenerational trauma, Sexual concerns, Women's issues, Relationship difficulties dealing with intimacy, lifestyle changes (polyamory etc) and First responders with occupational stress.
Support for adolescents, adults, and families who need assistance with life challenges such as anxiety, family related generational trauma, sexual concerns, PTSD /Complex trauma ( sexual abuse, domestic violence, neglect, adoption trauma) attachment issues, occupational stress (first responders) EMDR Certified, trauma focused, Sex Therapy Certified. Adoption Competent and Kink/poly and sex work affirmative. As your therapist, your healing is my goal. I provide psychotherapy in English and Spanish both in person and via telehealth. Techniques include EMDR, Somatic treatment, psychodynamic client centered attachment based strategies.
Child, Adolescent or young adult behavioral issues, Family of origin conflict, PTSD, Sexual Abuse/ Trauma, Domestic Violence, Complex Trauma, Neglect, Attachment, Intergenerational trauma, Sexual concerns, Women's issues, Relationship difficulties dealing with intimacy, lifestyle changes (polyamory etc) and First responders with occupational stress.
Support for adolescents, adults, and families who need assistance with life challenges such as anxiety, family related generational trauma, sexual concerns, PTSD /Complex trauma ( sexual abuse, domestic violence, neglect, adoption trauma) attachment issues, occupational stress (first responders) EMDR Certified, trauma focused, Sex Therapy Certified. Adoption Competent and Kink/poly and sex work affirmative. As your therapist, your healing is my goal. I provide psychotherapy in English and Spanish both in person and via telehealth. Techniques include EMDR, Somatic treatment, psychodynamic client centered attachment based strategies.
(786) 707-2045 View (786) 707-2045
Photo of Larissa Duran, MS, RMHC-i, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Larissa Duran
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MS, RMHC-i
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33156
I specialize in relationships, domestic and sexual violence, narcissistic abuse, complex trauma, ptsd, adult ADHD in females, and neuro-linguistic programming (NLP). Recognizing the distinctiveness of each individual, I personalize interventions to meet their specific needs, ensuring a compassionate and tailored path to healing. My focus extends beyond addressing immediate concerns; it's about promoting transformative change and empowering clients with skills to navigate beyond our sessions. I invite you to embark on a personalized journey towards growth, self-discovery and transcendence.
I specialize in relationships, domestic and sexual violence, narcissistic abuse, complex trauma, ptsd, adult ADHD in females, and neuro-linguistic programming (NLP). Recognizing the distinctiveness of each individual, I personalize interventions to meet their specific needs, ensuring a compassionate and tailored path to healing. My focus extends beyond addressing immediate concerns; it's about promoting transformative change and empowering clients with skills to navigate beyond our sessions. I invite you to embark on a personalized journey towards growth, self-discovery and transcendence.
(786) 882-3424 View (786) 882-3424
Photo of Lisa Giebelhaus, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa Giebelhaus
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33101  (Online Only)
I holds a keen interest in assisting with women’s issues especially that of domestic and narcissistic abuse.
“Often when we are breaking down, we are really breaking open. It is my hope to hold space with you during your time of transformation and healing.” My approach is to create a safe, trusting, judgment-free therapeutic environment to bring your struggle into the therapy room real-time. I will work with you to create and shape an outcome that aligns with your life’s values, goals and direction. I hold an interest in existential, humanistic, person-centered, “here and now”, experiential and mindfulness-based therapy styles.
I holds a keen interest in assisting with women’s issues especially that of domestic and narcissistic abuse.
“Often when we are breaking down, we are really breaking open. It is my hope to hold space with you during your time of transformation and healing.” My approach is to create a safe, trusting, judgment-free therapeutic environment to bring your struggle into the therapy room real-time. I will work with you to create and shape an outcome that aligns with your life’s values, goals and direction. I hold an interest in existential, humanistic, person-centered, “here and now”, experiential and mindfulness-based therapy styles.
(678) 381-1687 View (678) 381-1687
Photo of Rebecca C Johnson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca C Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33110
I specialize in working with those struggling with substance abuse, trauma, domestic violence, children, and depression.
Hello! Welcome to my corner of the universe. I'm so glad you're here. Therapy can be scary and the first step to getting here is the hardest. My name is Rebecca. I am a licensed clinical social worker in Florida and Virginia. I have a masters in social work from Louisiana State University, and a bachelor’s in sociology from California State University and have been working in the social work field since 2018. I have an eclectic approach to therapy, using mediums such as mindfulness, motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, internal family systems, and dialectical behavior therapy.
I specialize in working with those struggling with substance abuse, trauma, domestic violence, children, and depression.
Hello! Welcome to my corner of the universe. I'm so glad you're here. Therapy can be scary and the first step to getting here is the hardest. My name is Rebecca. I am a licensed clinical social worker in Florida and Virginia. I have a masters in social work from Louisiana State University, and a bachelor’s in sociology from California State University and have been working in the social work field since 2018. I have an eclectic approach to therapy, using mediums such as mindfulness, motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, internal family systems, and dialectical behavior therapy.
(305) 699-2613 View (305) 699-2613
Photo of Stephanie Muffett, LMHC, MS, Counselor
Stephanie Muffett
Counselor, LMHC, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33173  (Online Only)
Adversity is an adventure to thrive from. There is growth and strength in this self-discovery journey, and the finish line is your full potential. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with a focus on teenagers and adults, ranging from 13 yrs. old to 60+ yrs. old. I specialize in eating disorders, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, and bipolar disorders. I have also worked with diverse populations such as victims of domestic violence, human trafficking, and LGBTQIA+. I provide a client-centered approach to psychotherapy, implementing integrative therapeutic techniques to match your needs and goals. Telehealth only.
Adversity is an adventure to thrive from. There is growth and strength in this self-discovery journey, and the finish line is your full potential. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with a focus on teenagers and adults, ranging from 13 yrs. old to 60+ yrs. old. I specialize in eating disorders, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, and bipolar disorders. I have also worked with diverse populations such as victims of domestic violence, human trafficking, and LGBTQIA+. I provide a client-centered approach to psychotherapy, implementing integrative therapeutic techniques to match your needs and goals. Telehealth only.
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Photo of Lourdes Barrios, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Lourdes Barrios
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33186  (Online Only)
Do you feel like the world is caving in on you? Are you tired but can't sleep or sleep too much? Is your relationship falling apart and you don't know how to stop it? Do you feel like running away and hiding from the world? Are you using drugs and/or alcohol to cope? If you answered yes to some of these question you may be suffering from depression and anxiety. Your relationship may need improved communication. You may have an alcohol or substance abuse problem.
Do you feel like the world is caving in on you? Are you tired but can't sleep or sleep too much? Is your relationship falling apart and you don't know how to stop it? Do you feel like running away and hiding from the world? Are you using drugs and/or alcohol to cope? If you answered yes to some of these question you may be suffering from depression and anxiety. Your relationship may need improved communication. You may have an alcohol or substance abuse problem.
(305) 680-1504 View (305) 680-1504
Photo of Luann Rodriguez, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Luann Rodriguez
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33157
We are one of the few locations in Southern Miami-Dade county that not only provides a wide range of mental health services including (adolescent, individual, couples,premarital, co-parenting, substance abuse treatment, DBT and family therapy) , but we also provide aromatherapy, nutritional counseling and life coaching.
Specializing in adolescents with familial conflicts and self-harming behaviors. Also extensive experience in pre-marital, marital difficulties, pre-divorce and co-parenting issues. Extensive eclectic therapeutic skills to facilitate coping skills regarding abuse, trauma, depression, anxiety and identity/ self esteem issues. Able to provide Christian counseling at the request of the client.
We are one of the few locations in Southern Miami-Dade county that not only provides a wide range of mental health services including (adolescent, individual, couples,premarital, co-parenting, substance abuse treatment, DBT and family therapy) , but we also provide aromatherapy, nutritional counseling and life coaching.
Specializing in adolescents with familial conflicts and self-harming behaviors. Also extensive experience in pre-marital, marital difficulties, pre-divorce and co-parenting issues. Extensive eclectic therapeutic skills to facilitate coping skills regarding abuse, trauma, depression, anxiety and identity/ self esteem issues. Able to provide Christian counseling at the request of the client.
(786) 574-6780 View (786) 574-6780
Photo of Safiyah Davis - Rosario, LCSW, MCAP, SAP, CRRA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Safiyah Davis - Rosario
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MCAP, SAP, CRRA
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33127  (Online Only)
I have specialized in substance- abuse and co-occurring disorders for my entire career.
My ideal client simply wants to be helped. I am able to work with any and all individuals despite the level of complexity as long as they have a willingness to thrive towards a better quality of life.
I have specialized in substance- abuse and co-occurring disorders for my entire career.
My ideal client simply wants to be helped. I am able to work with any and all individuals despite the level of complexity as long as they have a willingness to thrive towards a better quality of life.
(786) 590-2838 View (786) 590-2838
Photo of Grace Moran, LMHC, Counselor
Grace Moran
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33172
My name is Grace Moran and I am a Licensed Mental Health and Rehabilitation Counselor with 20 years of experience working with adults, children, couples and families with a wide variety of mental health concerns and needs. I also have specialized experience in treating trauma-based mental illnesses and injuries and have provided mental health and vocational rehabilitation services to many agencies including the local foster care system, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and domestic violence, and sexual violence agencies. My therapeutic approach matches specific diagnoses and gold standard treatments for those diagnoses.
My name is Grace Moran and I am a Licensed Mental Health and Rehabilitation Counselor with 20 years of experience working with adults, children, couples and families with a wide variety of mental health concerns and needs. I also have specialized experience in treating trauma-based mental illnesses and injuries and have provided mental health and vocational rehabilitation services to many agencies including the local foster care system, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and domestic violence, and sexual violence agencies. My therapeutic approach matches specific diagnoses and gold standard treatments for those diagnoses.
(904) 560-8764 View (904) 560-8764
Photo of Gloria Rodriguez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gloria Rodriguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33186
I am also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional helping many clients who have experienced different types of trauma including domestic violence, physical, emotional and sexual abuse.
Are you having difficulty coping with daily life stressors? Are you feeling stuck in your life? I am glad that you are taking the time to reach out for help. My name is Gloria Rodriguez. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of Florida with over 16 years of experience working in the Mental Heath field. I have worked with clients from as young as 5 years old to elderly. I have helped clients with a wide range of challenges including addiction, depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, behavioral issues, grief, relationship issues, court dependency cases, and difficulty coping with life changing situations.
I am also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional helping many clients who have experienced different types of trauma including domestic violence, physical, emotional and sexual abuse.
Are you having difficulty coping with daily life stressors? Are you feeling stuck in your life? I am glad that you are taking the time to reach out for help. My name is Gloria Rodriguez. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of Florida with over 16 years of experience working in the Mental Heath field. I have worked with clients from as young as 5 years old to elderly. I have helped clients with a wide range of challenges including addiction, depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, behavioral issues, grief, relationship issues, court dependency cases, and difficulty coping with life changing situations.
(786) 886-2033 View (786) 886-2033
Photo of Remy Gordon, LCSW, MSW, BEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Remy Gordon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, BEd
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33143
We all face moments in life in which we experience difficulties at home, school, work, or in relationships; seeking support for yourself and/or your children during these difficult times demonstrates a choice of strength. I provide therapy to ages three to forty. My experience includes but is not limited to working with issues such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, relationships, family conflicts, trauma, abuse, self-harm, suicidal ideation, school issues, stress, self-esteem, addiction, behavioral challenges and personality disorders. With a skilled, responsive and caring therapist at your side, life can become what you want it to be!
We all face moments in life in which we experience difficulties at home, school, work, or in relationships; seeking support for yourself and/or your children during these difficult times demonstrates a choice of strength. I provide therapy to ages three to forty. My experience includes but is not limited to working with issues such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, relationships, family conflicts, trauma, abuse, self-harm, suicidal ideation, school issues, stress, self-esteem, addiction, behavioral challenges and personality disorders. With a skilled, responsive and caring therapist at your side, life can become what you want it to be!
(786) 226-0565 View (786) 226-0565
Marie Demerville
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33144
I have experience in helping both children and adults with concerns about intellectual disabilities, developmental delays, anger management, autism, anxiety, parenting, domestic violence, and spiritual issues.
I am a licensed mental health counselor. I obtained my master's degree from Grand Canyon University. In addition to my formal education, I have two (2) postgraduate certifications in Christian Counseling and Play Therapy. I have experience in helping both children and adults with concerns about intellectual disabilities, developmental delays, anger management, autism, anxiety, parenting, domestic violence, and spiritual issues. Each individual is unique. Therefore, mental health treatment should be tailored to meet those unique needs in a safe and nurturing therapeutic environment.
I have experience in helping both children and adults with concerns about intellectual disabilities, developmental delays, anger management, autism, anxiety, parenting, domestic violence, and spiritual issues.
I am a licensed mental health counselor. I obtained my master's degree from Grand Canyon University. In addition to my formal education, I have two (2) postgraduate certifications in Christian Counseling and Play Therapy. I have experience in helping both children and adults with concerns about intellectual disabilities, developmental delays, anger management, autism, anxiety, parenting, domestic violence, and spiritual issues. Each individual is unique. Therefore, mental health treatment should be tailored to meet those unique needs in a safe and nurturing therapeutic environment.
(786) 791-5369 View (786) 791-5369
Photo of Claudia Garcia Ribbi - Ribbi Wellness Inc, LMHC, Counselor
Ribbi Wellness Inc
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33135
I've worked with a variety of populations, such as: Inmates, Substance Abuse, Outpatient, Psych Hospital clients and private practice.
Everyone needs assistance during their lifetime. Sometimes it's just a fine tuning event, and others it's a few sessions to clear unprocessed information.
I've worked with a variety of populations, such as: Inmates, Substance Abuse, Outpatient, Psych Hospital clients and private practice.
Everyone needs assistance during their lifetime. Sometimes it's just a fine tuning event, and others it's a few sessions to clear unprocessed information.
(305) 340-2095 View (305) 340-2095
Photo of Dr. Darlise Baron, PhD, LCSW-QS, CAP, CHT, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Darlise Baron
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW-QS, CAP, CHT, CST
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33169
Greetings! My name is Dr. Darlise Baron, I am the CEO of Baron Counseling Services LLC. I have been in the field of Social Work for over 23 years. I earned my doctorate degree in Sexology, Licensed clinical social worker, Certified Addiction Professional and a certified Hypnotherapist. In addition, I specialize in hypnosis, anger management, substance abuse, domestic violence, parenting, family issues, relationship concerns, grief counseling and struggles with everyday living. I provide services to Children, Adults, Families, Couples, Veterans, First Responders, LGBTQ+, and Celebrities.
Greetings! My name is Dr. Darlise Baron, I am the CEO of Baron Counseling Services LLC. I have been in the field of Social Work for over 23 years. I earned my doctorate degree in Sexology, Licensed clinical social worker, Certified Addiction Professional and a certified Hypnotherapist. In addition, I specialize in hypnosis, anger management, substance abuse, domestic violence, parenting, family issues, relationship concerns, grief counseling and struggles with everyday living. I provide services to Children, Adults, Families, Couples, Veterans, First Responders, LGBTQ+, and Celebrities.
(786) 574-3468 View (786) 574-3468
Photo of Yesenia Delgado, LMFT, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Yesenia Delgado
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33137
Available for In-Person sessions only for Miami clients. I am a licensed therapist in Florida and Nevada. Latinx open-minded, culturally sensitive, specializing in couples therapy. I also use EMDR and enjoy working with women in tapping into their power and healing from their wounds. I work with individuals to assist them in overcoming harmful behaviors, low self-esteem, social anxiety, eating difficulties, and phases of life changes. I am a trauma-focused certified therapist and can assist those in recovery from traumatic events such as abuse, racism, and discrimination, loss.
Available for In-Person sessions only for Miami clients. I am a licensed therapist in Florida and Nevada. Latinx open-minded, culturally sensitive, specializing in couples therapy. I also use EMDR and enjoy working with women in tapping into their power and healing from their wounds. I work with individuals to assist them in overcoming harmful behaviors, low self-esteem, social anxiety, eating difficulties, and phases of life changes. I am a trauma-focused certified therapist and can assist those in recovery from traumatic events such as abuse, racism, and discrimination, loss.
(305) 676-7074 View (305) 676-7074
Photo of Odalys J Waugh - Dr. Waugh, PhD, LMHC, MFT, CCS, Counselor
Dr. Waugh
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, MFT, CCS
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33186
Cognitive Behavioral, Narrative therapy, Positive Psychology, Clinical Sexuality, bipolar disorder, Domestic Violence, Depression, Anxiety.
A Licensed Mental Health Counselor(LMHC) practicing in Miami, Florida for over 21 years and is a Board-certified Qualified Supervisor. She has a Ph.D. in Clinical Sexology. Dr. Waugh was born in Cuba and raised in Spain for 20 years before finally making Miami her home. She has worked in private practice for over 10 years and specializes in working with individuals, families, and couples. Dr. Waugh has her expertise in the areas of domestic violence and Autism related disorders. She is fluent in English and Spanish and is the author of the book “Learning our life”.
Cognitive Behavioral, Narrative therapy, Positive Psychology, Clinical Sexuality, bipolar disorder, Domestic Violence, Depression, Anxiety.
A Licensed Mental Health Counselor(LMHC) practicing in Miami, Florida for over 21 years and is a Board-certified Qualified Supervisor. She has a Ph.D. in Clinical Sexology. Dr. Waugh was born in Cuba and raised in Spain for 20 years before finally making Miami her home. She has worked in private practice for over 10 years and specializes in working with individuals, families, and couples. Dr. Waugh has her expertise in the areas of domestic violence and Autism related disorders. She is fluent in English and Spanish and is the author of the book “Learning our life”.
(786) 471-2239 View (786) 471-2239
Photo of Elise James, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elise James
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33173  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
With over 20 years of experience in the mental health field, I continuously strive to assist people with thriving in their everyday lives. Empathy and sensitivity to life circumstances encompasses my practice as I specialize in trauma, domestic violence, infant mental health, and acute/chronic medical conditions. I continuously empower my clients to become the best version of themselves throughout the therapeutic process by integrating helpful coping skills to address various challenges that are faced on a day-to-day basis.
With over 20 years of experience in the mental health field, I continuously strive to assist people with thriving in their everyday lives. Empathy and sensitivity to life circumstances encompasses my practice as I specialize in trauma, domestic violence, infant mental health, and acute/chronic medical conditions. I continuously empower my clients to become the best version of themselves throughout the therapeutic process by integrating helpful coping skills to address various challenges that are faced on a day-to-day basis.
(786) 841-4308 View (786) 841-4308
Photo of Dr. Carol Quintana, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Carol Quintana
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33137
Dr. Quintana is dedicated to helping you find the keys to unlocking your highest potential. Whether anxiety, depression, or a history of childhood trauma and abuse are blocking your path, you will find your way through to attaining greater calm, becoming more empowered, and moving forward with your life.
Dr. Quintana is dedicated to helping you find the keys to unlocking your highest potential. Whether anxiety, depression, or a history of childhood trauma and abuse are blocking your path, you will find your way through to attaining greater calm, becoming more empowered, and moving forward with your life.
(305) 570-4010 x1 View (305) 570-4010 x1
Photo of Frona P Israel - Frona P. Israel, MSW, BBA, Inc., LCSW, DCFC, SAP, CISD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Frona P. Israel, MSW, BBA, Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DCFC, SAP, CISD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33180  (Online Only)
With over 29 years of experience, I provide hope to feel less stressed out over personal and work issues, anxious, worried, depressed, and financially strapped. I provide hope to reduce poor concentration, focus, sleepless nights, substance and medication abuse, panic attacks, phobias, or any other personal or professional situations. Have you tried other therapists who "ah ha" and "yes" you without results? Do you listen to Dr. Google, friends, and family who are not helpful? Are you ready to get some real professional help? Virtual counseling keeps everyone safe. Insurances accepted. Hablo Espanol, some Yiddish.
With over 29 years of experience, I provide hope to feel less stressed out over personal and work issues, anxious, worried, depressed, and financially strapped. I provide hope to reduce poor concentration, focus, sleepless nights, substance and medication abuse, panic attacks, phobias, or any other personal or professional situations. Have you tried other therapists who "ah ha" and "yes" you without results? Do you listen to Dr. Google, friends, and family who are not helpful? Are you ready to get some real professional help? Virtual counseling keeps everyone safe. Insurances accepted. Hablo Espanol, some Yiddish.
(954) 532-8691 View (954) 532-8691
Dade Family Counseling Inc/Josie Alcantara LMHC
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33144
Hi All! My name is Josie Alcantara, LMHC, and I am a bilingual Licensed Mental Health Counselor and National Certified Counselor (English and Spanish). I earned my Master of Science Degree from Nova Southeastern University in Mental Health Counseling and have extensive experience in the field of co-occurring disorders. I also provide substance use and mental health treatment to individuals that are currently working with substance misuse, domestic violence, parenting and co-occurring mental health concerns.
Hi All! My name is Josie Alcantara, LMHC, and I am a bilingual Licensed Mental Health Counselor and National Certified Counselor (English and Spanish). I earned my Master of Science Degree from Nova Southeastern University in Mental Health Counseling and have extensive experience in the field of co-occurring disorders. I also provide substance use and mental health treatment to individuals that are currently working with substance misuse, domestic violence, parenting and co-occurring mental health concerns.
(786) 839-3904 View (786) 839-3904
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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.