Domestic Abuse
Domestic abuse, also known as domestic violence, can happen to anyone. Domestic violence can take many forms including emotional, verbal or physical abuse. An abusive relationship can have a huge impact on your life and may affect your self-esteem, cause depression or anxiety, and trigger feelings of guilt, stress or fear. Although it can be tough to admit that you are in an abusive situation, even to yourself, it’s important to recognize it and get help (if you are in immediate danger, call 911). Domestic abuse often becomes worse over time. A qualified mental health professional can help victims of domestic violence to make a plan to safely end the relationship and recover from the trauma they have experienced.
Local Experts in Domestic Abuse
I have been trained to assist survivors of domestic violence. I also have experience in this field.
For the past 5 years, I have worked with domestic violence (DV) survivors and completed trainings focused on the effects of DV, prevention and treatments. I have supported survivors as a hotline operator providing safety planning and crisis management and currently provide individual and group counseling to survivors. I help my clients overcome their daily struggles and the effects of abuse.
I have worked at the Gateway Center for Domestic Violence as a therapist for over two years now. This experience has allowed me to develop the unique ability to be sensitive to the unique needs of survivors of intimate partner violence, something that I am very passionate about. I enjoy helping survivors find their inner strength, and to become empowered to make new choices.
I worked for five years with victims of domestic violence. I have experience working in a shelter for women and children fleeing DV, as well as court advocacy and crisis care immediately following the arrest of a DV abuser.
I spent a number of years volunteering and working with SafePlace, an organization that provides advocacy and services to survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. I love working with survivors no matter what their relationship status is. It is important to me that people know that you don\'t need to be out of an abusive relationship to reach out for support.
I have an extensive background in domestic violence advocacy and have worked as a counselor in a domestic violence shelter setting. I have a knowledge base and aptitude for using a variety of techniques to help domestic violence survivors heal from the after-effects of trauma.
Domestic abuse is confusing and isolating. Whether you are currently in an abusive relationship or you have gotten out of one, I am here to offer a safe environment in which you can heal and grow.
I began working in domestic violence in 1985 with shelter and crisis experience as well as groups for empowerment. Safety planning, exit strategies, and building an understanding of power and control issues is provided as we walk together towards a life of peace.
I have completed internships with the Domestic Violence Resource Center & Portland Women's Crisis Line. I provided individual counseling and art therapy-based groups to those seeking assistance at the Gateway Center for Domestic Violence Services through the City of Portland. I have provided talks and have led a number of workshops regarding the topic to local community & govenmental agencies.
I have worked in the field of domestic violence and understand the system. I have counseled those who have sought help.