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7108 Calumet Ave — 46324

HAMMOND, IN
(219) 933-7990

Hammond Directions

3490 W 81st Ave — 46410

MERRILLVILLE, IN
(219) 736-5990
Munster Directions

1552 W Lincolnway — 46385

VALPARAISO, IN
(219) 548-9400
Valparasio Directions

Domestic and Family Violence

Domest Family Violence Picture

Your abuser’s apologies and loving gestures in between the episodes of abuse can make it difficult to leave. The abuser may make you believe that you are the only person who can help, that things will be different this time, and that s/he truly loves you. However, the dangers of staying are very real.

Domestic violence and abuse can happen to anyone, yet the problem is often overlooked, excused, or denied. This is especially true when the abuse is psychological, rather than physical. Emotional abuse is often minimized, yet it can leave deep and lasting scars.
Noticing and acknowledging the warning signs and symptoms of domestic violence and abuse is the first step to ending it. No one should live in fear of the person they love. If you recognize yourself or someone you know in the following warning signs and descriptions of abuse, don’t hesitate to reach out. There is help available.

Domestic abuse, also known as spousal abuse, occurs when one person in an intimate relationship or marriage tries to dominate and control the other person. Domestic abuse that includes physical violence is called domestic violence.

Domestic violence and abuse are used for one purpose and one purpose only: to gain and maintain total control over you. An abuser doesn’t “play fair.” Abusers use fear, guilt, shame, and intimidation to wear you down and keep you under his or her thumb. Your abuser may also threaten you, hurt you, or hurt those around you.

Domestic violence and abuse does not discriminate. It happens among heterosexual couples and in same-sex partnerships. It occurs within all age ranges, ethnic backgrounds, and economic levels. And while women are more commonly victimized, men are also abused—especially verbally and emotionally, although sometimes even physically as well. The bottom line is that abusive behavior is never acceptable, whether it’s coming from a man, a woman, a teenager, or an older adult. You deserve to feel valued, respected, and safe.

Domestic abuse often escalates from threats and verbal abuse to violence. And while physical injury may be the most obvious danger, the emotional and psychological consequences of domestic abuse are also severe. Emotionally abusive relationships can destroy your self-worth, lead to anxiety and depression, and make you feel helpless and alone. No one should have to endure this kind of pain—and your first step to breaking free is recognizing that your situation is abusive. Once you acknowledge the reality of the abusive situation, then you can get the help you need.

There are many signs of an abusive relationship. The most telling sign is fear of your partner. If you feel like you have to walk on eggshells around your partner—constantly watching what you say and do in order to avoid a blow-up—chances are your relationship is unhealthy and abusive. Other signs that you may be in an abusive relationship include a partner who belittles you or tries to control you, and feelings of self-loathing, helplessness, and desperation.

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To determine whether your relationship is abusive, answer the questions below. The more “yes” answers, the more likely it is that you’re in an abusive relationship.

Do you:

  • feel afraid of your partner much of the time?
  • avoid certain topics out of fear of angering your partner?
  • feel that you can’t do anything right for your partner?
  • believe that you deserve to be hurt or mistreated?
  • wonder if you’re the one who is crazy?
  • feel emotionally numb or helpless? 
BREAK THE SILENCE

domestic family violence

Violence comes in many shapes and sizes.  Don’t be a victim.  Speaking up and getting help is the beginning of a peaceful home.

Getting help was the best thing that my husband and I ever did.  It helped us learn how to respect one another.

Richard and Susan Hope

COUNSELING SERVICES

Welcome to our counseling services page. Here you can find a variety of counseling services that are tailored to meet your particular needs. While we are primarily focused on the services listed below a comprehensive list can be found by clicking on the learn more link below.

OUR PHILOSOPHY

A dual paradigm approach that fosters group interaction and personalized care.

We believe in follow up and follow through; client convenience; planning, and caring. We believe in connecting, building, and maintaining clear communication. Supporting your needs and values; we work through your worldview, your lens for viewing the world. This allows us to provide a supportive and familiar environment. This is just one of the ways in which we provide you with personalized care.

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Contact Us

We would love to hear from you.  If you have any questions or concerns, or just want to talk.  Get in contact with us today.