Therapy after an abusive relationship
It seems an obvious statement, but surviving an abusive relationship can be extremely difficult. I have been fortunate enough to work with RISE UK, a domestic abuse charity in Brighton, providing therapy for amazing clients who have survived these experiences.
How an abusive relationship can affect how we see ourselves
Whilst it would be wrong to try and predict how a person might be affected by an abusive relationship (each individual has their unique responses and experiences), there are some themes I have noticed appearing for many survivors, including:
Self-blame, and dealing with the judgments of others who don’t understand
A loss of self-trust
Fear of starting a new relationship, or not feeling good enough to be in another relationship
Trauma responses like panic attacks, flashbacks, fears
You might recognise some of these experiences, or you might have your own set of experiences to add to this list.
How can therapy help
Therapy can help you make sense of what you have been through, and rebuild a connection with yourself, your needs and your hopes for the future.
Therapy can also help with managing trauma responses. Whilst I don’t ‘prescribe’ clients tools or techniques to use, I create a space where clients might be able to understand what methods might work best for their unique needs, and sometimes clients use this space to design personalised coping methods, such as using therapy as a space to design their own affirmations and breathing exercises, or to identify physical objects which help ground them.
What therapy with me is like
Therapy should be a space for you to focus on you- in a world where having that space is all too rare. Sometimes it can be about being heard for the first time, or having an opportunity to say things you have never said before. My job is to create an environment that is safe enough for this to happen.
Locations, Fees and Getting Started
I offer therapy in Brighton & Hove, in the Fiveways and Kemptown areas, and online throughout the UK.
Sessions are 50 minutes and cost £55. A limited number of £30 low-cost spaces are available.
Get in touch if you have any questions, or to book in a free 30 minute introductory call.