Green flags when going to therapy
Creating a safe environment in psychotherapy for victims of domestic violence involves providing a predictable, non-judgmental space where the victim feels listened to and respected. The therapist must be empathetic, validate the victim’s experiences, and avoid any pressure or revictimization. The therapeutic relationship becomes an essential factor in healing, based on trust, transparency, and emotional support, to help the victim regain autonomy and a sense of control.
The safety and well-being of the victim must always come first. The psychotherapist must be alert to any signs of danger and prioritize emotional and practical support for the affected person. A victim-centered approach means that the therapist understands the trauma and needs of the person who has suffered abuse and offers support so that they can regain control of their own life.
Integrative, trauma-informed approach: Victims of domestic violence often suffer from deep trauma. Therapy should include elements that heal the trauma, such as trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), or other similar methods that help process and reduce the impact of the trauma.
Focus on restoring autonomy and safety: For victims of abuse, it is important for the therapist to work on restoring a sense of control and autonomy. This may include safety plans and developing an external support system (friends, family, authorities). In parallel, therapists can help victims rebuild their self-confidence and overcome fear of repercussions.
Providing social support: The psychotherapist can play an important role in directing the victim to external resources, such as shelters for victims of domestic violence, legal advice, or the intervention of authorities to ensure the necessary protection.
Constant monitoring of safety: At any point in the therapeutic process, the victim’s safety must be reassessed. If during therapy there are signs that the violence is continuing or escalating, the psychotherapist has a role in informing the victim about the protection order, but also about other measures to keep her safe.
Look for a psychotherapist who has the following skills:
Specific training in the field of domestic violence: The psychotherapist should have formal training and practical experience in working with victims and perpetrators of abusive relationships. Domestic abuse has unique dynamics, different from other relationship problems, and a lack of expertise can lead to harmful recommendations.
Awareness of power imbalance: The psychotherapist must recognize the power imbalance in abusive relationships and know how to address it. Therapy should not place victims in a position of greater vulnerability or leave the impression that they are equally responsible for the abuse.
Ability to create a safe and protected environment: In an abusive relationship, the victim may feel afraid or intimidated even in the therapeutic setting. The therapist must create an environment where the victim feels protected and can express themselves without fear of repercussions.
Individual work before couples therapy: In cases of violence, it can be dangerous to start directly with couples therapy. The therapist should first assess the safety of the victim and provide individual support to both parties before recommending couples sessions, if deemed appropriate.
This material was produced by A.L.E.G. (www.aleg-romania.eu) with the support of Vital Voices. The opinions and information expressed do not necessarily reflect the official views of the Vital Voices group.