Find Domestic Abuse Therapy

Domestic abuse—also referred to as domestic violence—is a pattern of behavior used by one person to control or harm another within an intimate or family relationship. Abuse can be physical, but it also includes emotional, psychological, verbal, sexual, and financial forms of control.

Common signs you may be experiencing abuse include:

• Being constantly criticized, belittled, or made to feel worthless
• Feeling afraid to speak up or express your needs
• Having your access to money, transportation, or communication tightly controlled
• Being isolated from friends, family, or outside support
• Experiencing threats, intimidation, or violence
• Being forced into unwanted sexual activity
• Walking on eggshells to avoid triggering your partner

If you’re questioning whether your relationship is abusive, that in itself is a red flag. A domestic abuse therapist can help you sort through your experiences in a nonjudgmental space and validate what you’re going through.

Yes. Therapy for domestic violence is beneficial whether you're:

• Still in the relationship but unsure what to do
• Planning to leave and need support or a safety plan
• Have already left and are processing the aftermath

A domestic abuse therapist can help with:

• Recognizing the dynamics of power and control
• Addressing trauma responses like hypervigilance or emotional numbing
• Managing fear, guilt, shame, or grief
• Rebuilding a sense of self and personal autonomy
• Navigating legal, financial, or housing challenges

Therapy isn’t just about talking—it’s about regaining control over your story, and making choices that are safe, empowering, and informed.

Several therapeutic approaches are especially effective for survivors of abuse. These include:

Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)

Helps survivors recognize and change harmful thought patterns developed during or after abuse. Focuses on emotional regulation, safety, and resilience.

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)

Supports reprocessing of traumatic memories so they become less emotionally distressing. Many survivors of domestic violence find EMDR especially helpful for reducing PTSD symptoms.

Somatic Therapy

Focuses on how trauma lives in the body. Techniques may include grounding, breathwork, and movement to release physical tension and reconnect with safety.

Narrative Therapy

Helps survivors reframe their story from one of victimhood to one of survival and empowerment.

Psychoeducation

Empowers clients with knowledge about trauma, abuse cycles, and healing processes so they can understand and normalize their reactions.

The best domestic violence therapy often integrates several of these approaches, tailored to the client’s specific needs and history.

Safety is the top priority. If you're living with an abuser, seeking therapy can be difficult—but it’s still possible.

Steps to consider:

• Use safe devices—not shared phones or computers—to research or contact a domestic abuse therapist
• Schedule therapy sessions during times when your partner is not home
• Let your therapist know your situation during the first call or intake so they can help create a safety plan
• Know that therapy is confidential—your abuser does not have to know you’re receiving support
• If needed, reach out to a domestic violence hotline to explore shelter, legal, or safety resources

Therapists trained in domestic abuse therapy understand the risks and will work with you to keep you safe while offering emotional support.