Abuse can take many forms; domestic violence can include; physical, emotional, psychological, verbal, financial, economic abuse. Beyond this we can also have other types of abuse including; modern slavery, organisational or institutional abuse, neglect by others of of ourselves, discrimination as well as historical child sexual abuse, abusive working relationships can include, bullying, intimidating managers or colleagues.

Beyond the pain and suffering of being abused, feelings of fear, anxiety, shame, depression, anger vulnerability and guilt can be a heavy burden to carry.  In therapy we understand how difficult it can be to share with others what is either taking place now or has taken place in the past. Speaking to a psychotherapist /counsellor can give you a supportive place, without judgement, where you can take your time to discuss your current situation or allow you the space to reflect on difficult memories. This can provide an opportunity to review experiences so that they no longer impinge on your every day life and relationships and to be taught how to manage the emotions associated with those experiences. For many the fear of being overwhelmed by their feelings can prevent them from looking at these experiences and so processing events. Counselling/ therapy can support you throughout this process.

Understanding that you are or have been the subject of abuse or that you are in an abusive relationship, and making the decision to seek support, is a big step. Therapy can help you to explore your situation, to process that experience so that you are able to move forward in your life. It can enable you to develop strategies to manage any symptoms you may get more effectively and to engage in meaningful relationships. In this way your daily life may function better as the impact of the abuse lessens its grip on you.   

Symptoms can include:

• Flashbacks
• Nightmares
• Depression
• Anxiety and panic attacks
• Anger / irritability
• Avoidance
• Difficulty in forming or retaining healthy relationships
• Sleep difficulties
• Self-medicating with alcohol, drugs, food etc.
• Poor self care
• Low self-esteem
• Social isolation
• Trust issues

Remember: In therapy you are not made to open up about anything you are not ready to discuss until a secure therapeutic relationship is established.That means we will only discuss your situation in more detail when YOU are ready to talk about it. The therapy goes at your pace so you do not need to fear being overwhelmed and being left vulnerable.

It may also be helpful to speak to your GP so that they can support you.

Useful contacts:

• Call 999 if you are in immediate danger
• Contact your local police station to report child abuse (present or historical) or to report current domestic abuse – they are crimes – the police will be supportive   
• Domestic Violence Helpline:
  • England – 0808 2000247 – www.nationaldomesticviolencehelpline.org.uk
  • Wales – 0808 80 10 800 – www.allwaleshelpline.org.uk
• Women’s Aid – www.womensaid.org.uk
  • Scottish Women’s Aid – 0800 027 1234 www.scottishwomensaid.org.uk
  • Northern Ireland – Women’s Aid Federation – 0800 9171414  – www.womensaidni.org.uk
• Men’s Advice Line – 0808 801 0327 – www.mensadviceline.org.uk
• Forced Marriage Unit – 020 7008 015 – www.gov..uk/forced-marriage

Please contact me to discuss how I can best support you on:

07428 595132