Domestic Violence Counseling in South Tampa

How did this happen to me?

The first time you were hit, you made excuses. "It was just a one-time thing," "He/she is not normally like this," "He/she won't do it again." Then it happened again, and again, and again. And each time, you are able to rationalize the behavior and believe he/she will change.  Months or even years later, you don't know how you got here or how to make it stop. You are scared, confused, and angry. And since there is so much stigma surrounding domestic violence you are afraid to talk to anybody about it. People say things like "Why don't you just leave?" "I don't understand you, how can you just stay with him?" Most people don't understand the confusion and shame you feel.

What is domestic violence?

Domestic violence is a pattern of controlling, coercive behavior that is destructive to a relationship.  Domestic violence can take a number of forms including using coercion and threats, intimidation, isolation, emotional abuse, and economic abuse. Ultimately those behaviors can lead to physical and sexual violence. The violence is not only physically damaging but also psychologically damaging. Over time, it erodes your self-esteem and self-worth which makes it even harder to leave the toxic situation. 

Warning signs in relationships

If you see any of these signs, seek help:
  • Your partner doesn't let you have your own opinions or speak freely
  • Your partner keeps you from having your own friends or seeing your family
  • Your partner insults you or blames you for everything
  • Your partner tells you that you are not worthy or “not good enough” 
  • Your partner is overly jealous or possessive
  • Your partner doesn't allow you to have money or controls how much you can spend
  • Your partner threatens you
  • Your partner pushes, slaps, bites, grabs, kicks, or hits you
  • Your partner forces you to have sex when you don't want to
Unfortunately, couples counseling is not ever recommended when there is partner violence. It puts you at risk for further abuse and violence.

What to do

Your first priority is to keep yourself safe. Develop a safety plan for yourself (see Resources below for a template). The most dangerous period in a domestic violence situation is when you tell your partner you want to leave the relationship. They will likely get more violent and controlling when they feel betrayed or at risk of losing you. This is the time to find someone safe to guide you on your process. There are many counselors that have the training and expertise to assist you but the most important quality is that you feel safe and connected with them. 

Take the next step....

Learn more about me or call now to begin to move along your path to healing. ​

Domestic Violence resources

“We Are Lovable, even if the most important person in your world rejects you,
you are still real, and you are still okay.” 
​Melody Beattie