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Healing from Family Violence: Support and Treatment

Empowering survivors of family violence with compassionate care and effective therapeutic solutions.

Family Violence

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Wholesome Psychology, Alberta, CA
Author: wholesome
Date: November 30, 2024

Healing from Family Violence: Support and Treatment Options

Family violence is a deeply distressing issue that affects individuals across various relationships, including intimate partner abuse, child abuse, elder abuse, and even abuse between siblings or extended family members. It can manifest in many forms, including physical, emotional, psychological, economic, verbal, and sexual abuse. While family violence is a painful and often complex issue, it is important to know that help and support are available. Healing is possible, and there are treatments that can guide individuals toward recovery.

Understanding the Impact of Family Violence

Victims of family violence can experience a wide range of emotional, physical, and psychological effects. The trauma from such experiences can deeply affect one's well-being and quality of life. Common emotional symptoms include:

  • Frequent mood swings and feelings of sadness or depression
  • Low self-worth and diminished self-esteem
  • Constant anxiety and a persistent feeling of fear, especially towards the abuser
  • Difficulty attending work, school, or social events due to fear
  • Feelings of shame and withdrawing from loved ones
  • Misplaced aggression or difficulty controlling emotions
  • Problems trusting others or feeling emotionally numb
  • Thoughts of revenge or withdrawing from everyday life to avoid the abuser
  • Confusion, shock, and feelings of helplessness

Additionally, family violence can lead to physical symptoms such as:

  • Night terrors or difficulty sleeping
  • Physical injuries or chronic pain
  • Sleep disturbances, either sleeping too much or too little
  • Sexual dysfunction or difficulties with sexual identity
  • Trauma responses, including PTSD
  • Memory problems, flashbacks, or nightmares of the traumatic events

What To Do if You’re in Immediate Danger

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, please don’t hesitate to call 911. For ongoing support and help outside of our office hours, the following resources are available across Alberta:

  • Edmonton: The Crisis Centre at 780-482-HELP (4357)
  • Greater Edmonton region: Rural Distress Line at 1-800-232-7288
  • Calgary: 403-266-HELP (4357)
  • For more general support across Alberta, dial 211

Treatment Options for Abuse Survivors

Recovering from abuse requires both courage and the right therapeutic support. At Wholesome Psychology, we offer a range of effective treatment options tailored to meet the unique needs of those affected by family violence. These therapies help individuals process their trauma, rebuild their sense of self, and regain control over their lives. Some of the most commonly used therapeutic approaches include:

  • Narrative Therapy: This approach helps individuals reframe their personal stories by separating themselves from the problem, empowering them to see that "the problem is the problem, not the person."
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT focuses on understanding how thoughts, emotions, and beliefs influence behavior, helping individuals change negative thought patterns and develop healthier coping mechanisms.
  • Person-Centered Therapy: In this approach, clients are seen as the experts of their own experiences. Therapy centers on creating a safe, trusting environment where individuals can explore their feelings and find personal solutions to their struggles.
  • Reality Therapy: Reality therapy helps individuals recognize that they have control over their behavior and emotions, fostering self-reflection and the ability to make positive life changes with the support of a caring therapist.

What to Expect from Therapy at Wholesome Psychology

If you are currently in an abusive relationship, therapy can be an essential step in helping you break free and rebuild your life. For those who are survivors of abuse, therapy at Wholesome Psychology offers a compassionate space to process your trauma, gain emotional strength, and experience healthier relationships moving forward.

Our licensed therapists are experienced in providing support for both survivors of abuse and those who may have caused harm, helping individuals gain insight into their behaviors and make positive changes in their relationships. We offer both in-person and remote therapy options to ensure that help is accessible to you, no matter where you are in your healing journey.

We understand that finding the right therapist is crucial for your healing process. That's why we offer a “First Session 50% OFF” offer, giving you an opportunity to meet with a therapist who can best support your needs. This is part of our commitment to making therapy affordable and accessible as you explore the right fit for your path toward healing.

Take the First Step Toward Healing

We are here to walk alongside you on your journey to healing and recovery. If you or someone you know is experiencing family violence, don't wait to reach out for support. Therapy is a powerful tool for healing and reclaiming your life. Contact us today to begin the process of finding the right therapist for you.

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