Counselling can help free you from the effects of an abusive relationship
Domestic abuse takes many forms - physical, sexual, emotional, verbal, online, financial, yet it always involves feeling controlled, dependent on the person, isolated or scared.
If you're a survivor of domestic abuse, including being exposed to abuse and violence in your childhood or teenage years, and would like support in your healing journey, please get in touch.
Leaving or ending an abusive relationship takes real strength and resourcefulness - even if it doesn't feel like that, yet the effects of that relationship may remain with you today.
The effects of an abusive relationship can be wide-ranging, and while everyone is different, you may recognise some of the following experiences:
What you can expect from me as your counsellor
I will work to ensure you feel safe in my presence and that I'm someone you can trust. I have personal insight (I'm a survivor too) and professional knowledge of domestic abuse, and I can listen attentively to what you're thinking, feeling and experiencing without judgement.
I will trust in your ability to find your healing and inner peace, and I can support you in making sense of and coming to terms with your experience, rebuilding your confidence and self-esteem, and establishing healthy relationships in the future.
Healing can take time, yet I can work with you for as long as you need, and in a way that feels best for you, including using art materials in sessions.
Are you experiencing abuse in a current relationship or do you think you might be?
People who inflict domestic abuse are often partners - when you're dating, living together, married or in a civil partnership, ex-partners or parents, and sometimes grandparents, siblings or children, yet the abuse isn't always easy to acknowledge or recognise.
I can help if you want to understand if your relationship is abusive, come to terms with what is happening in your relationship, and explore your options for the future. My goal is to help you make any choices and changes you wish to make.
Sometimes, it's difficult to come for counselling when you're in an abusive relationship, or you might feel that you need practical advice and support first. Only you can decide if it's the right time for counselling.
I'm here if you want to talk through the possibility of counselling or arrange an introductory session. If it's not the right time, yet you're feeling confused, alone or scared, please contact one of the organisations below.
Women's Aid
T: 0808 2000 247 (24 hours)
www.womensaid.org.uk.
Men's Advice Line
T: 0808 801 0327
www.mensadviceline.org.uk.
Galop: The LGBT and Anti-Violence Charity
T: 0800 999 5428
www.galop.org.uk.
Please hold onto the fact that no one has a right to abuse you - no matter who they are, and you are not responsible or to blame for the abuse.
You can contact me to book an introductory session or to ask any questions you may have
If you feel that counselling with me might benefit you, please get in touch to arrange an introductory session. I'm also happy to answer any questions you may have. You can call 07729 193629 or submit the contact form on this website.
