Healing from domestic violence

Important Note:
At our agency, this therapy is for people who have left an unsafe relationship or are now safe. It is not for someone who is currently in danger. If you need help or resources right away, please scroll to the bottom of this page.

A woman sitting in a therapy session, beginning her healing journey after experiencing domestic violence, showing strength and hope through professional support.

Consequences of domestic violence

Emotional Effects of Domestic Violence
People who have been through domestic violence often feel overwhelmed or unsafe inside. Here are some common emotional signs:

  • Feeling anxious or worried all the time

  • Feeling very sad or hopeless

  • Not feeling good about yourself

  • Hard time trusting people

  • Feeling guilty, ashamed, or alone

  • Feeling numb or disconnected from your emotions

  • Flashbacks, nightmares, or feeling stuck in the past (PTSD symptoms)

Social Effects of Domestic Violence
Abuse can also make it hard to stay connected to others. Some social signs include:

  • Pulling away from family and friends

  • Trouble keeping close relationships

  • Having a hard time focusing at work or school

  • Losing support from people you used to count on

Behavioral Effects of Domestic Violence
Survivors often struggle with confidence and making choices. Some common behaviors include:

  • Trouble setting personal boundaries

  • Not speaking up for yourself

  • Feeling unsure when making decisions

Therapy to heal from Domestic Violence

No one enters a relationship expecting abuse. If you feel anxious, sad, on edge, or even frustrated, you're not alone. Many survivors share these emotions, and healing is possible.

Therapy gives you a safe space to:

  • Recognize Healthy vs. Unhealthy Relationships – Learn the signs of abuse so you can protect yourself in the future.

  • Rebuild Trust in Yourself – Abuse can make you doubt your instincts and therapy helps you listen to them again.

  • Find Your Voice – Practice setting boundaries and speaking up for your needs with confidence.

  • Rediscover Your Strength – Abuse doesn’t define you. Reconnect with the person you truly are or want to become.

  • Heal at Your Own Pace – There’s no "right" way to recover. Your journey is yours, and support is here when you're ready.

With time, care, and the right tools, you can feel safe, hopeful, and proud of yourself again.

domestic violence resources

National Resources (U.S.)

1. National Domestic Violence Hotline
📞 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) | 📱 Text “START” to 88788
🌐 www.thehotline.org
Confidential, 24/7 support in over 200 languages. Offers crisis intervention, safety planning, and referrals.

2. RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network)
📞 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)
🌐 www.rainn.org
Supports survivors of sexual violence and offers a national helpline and local referrals.

3. Love Is Respect (For Teens and Young Adults)
📞 1-866-331-9474 | 📱 Text “LOVEIS” to 22522
🌐 www.loveisrespect.org
Focuses on dating violence prevention and support for young people.

California-Specific Resources

1. California Partnership to End Domestic Violence
🌐 www.cpedv.org
Find local shelters and programs throughout California by searching via zip code.

2. Peace Over Violence (Los Angeles)
📞 213-626-3393 (24/7 hotline)
🌐 www.peaceoverviolence.org
Provides crisis counseling, advocacy, and prevention education.

3. LA County Domestic Violence Hotline
📞 1-800-978-3600 (24/7 multilingual support)
Offers access to shelters, legal help, and DV counselors in Los Angeles County.

Contact us

admin@drzuazo.com
(626) 214-5553