Domestic violence therapy is a specialized form of counseling that helps victims and their families heal from abusive relationships. It is a crucial component of the broader efforts to address and combat domestic violence, a pattern of abusive behaviors within intimate relationships that can encompass physical, emotional, psychological, sexual, or economic abuse.
In domestic violence therapy, therapists create a safe and supportive environment. Domestic violence therapy is often part of a broader support network that includes legal assistance, shelters, and community resources. Its aim is to break the cycle of abuse, promote safety, and foster healthier relationships.
Victims of Domestic Violence in Georgetown, TX-Counseling, Therapy, and Support
If your partner has harmed you or threatened to harm you, know that help is available at Thriveworks Georgetown. Our counselors know what it takes to help their clients find safety.
Short-Term and Long-Term Danger
Living in a home where violence occurs means that there is also the constant threat of violence. When the brain senses a threat, it releases stress hormones that allow people to respond appropriately with either fight or flight.
People who live in a violent environment, therefore, have the short-term danger of injuries and harm from the violence, but they also face the long-term detriment to their health from the stress.
A Recurrent, Escalating Cycle
Domestic violence follows a cycle, in nearly every case. This cycle can take moments to complete and begin again, but it can also take years. The cycle almost always escalates, with each iteration more caustic than the previous. The cycle is also recurrent: the violent partner may promise that “it will never happen again,” but it will repeat and repeat and repeat without significant intervention.
The Honeymoon Phase: Even the worst cases of domestic violence have times of peace. These seemingly good times often confuse victims into believing that things will change… It will be different next time or … they are very sorry for their actions. Unfortunately, these times are usually just the quiet before the storm.
The Tension Building Phase: At some point, the violent partner will demand more and more from the victim. Many victims describe the tension-building phase as walking on eggshells: they do everything in their power to prevent the impending violence. The violent partner leads them to believe that somehow the violence is their fault, and therefore, their actions can prevent it. However, violence is never the victim’s fault. Violence is always a choice.
The Abusive Phase: At some point, the violent partner will choose to act violently. This may be in the form of emotional, physical, or sexual violence. Many times, it is a combination of the three. The responsibility for the violence lies solely on the partner who chose to act violently. No one ever deserves violence.
Ending the Cycle and Recovering from Domestic Violence
Have you experienced the cycle of domestic violence? Know that the counselors at Thriveworks Georgetown understand the combat zone you have lived in. We know the risks of leaving and the path to recovery from the trauma. Our counselors have helped many people find the safety they deserve.
We want to make scheduling therapy as easy as possible so we work with many insurance providers. Our counselors offer convenient appointment times, and first-time clients often see their counselor within a week of their first call.
When you call our office, a person will answer and help you make your appointment. Know that the violence is not your fault. Help is available. Call or schedule online with Thriveworks Georgetown TX today.
