Domestic Abuse Counselling & Support
Supporting individuals and families affected by domestic abuse
Domestic abuse can take many forms — physical, emotional, psychological, financial, or coercive control. Experiencing abuse can be isolating, confusing, and deeply distressing. At Poole Therapies, we offer specialist counselling for people affected by domestic abuse, providing a safe, confidential, and non-judgemental space to explore your experiences and begin to regain emotional strength.
Identifying Domestic Abuse
Domestic abuse is not always visible or physical. It may include:
- Emotional or psychological abuse
- Coercive or controlling behaviour
- Financial control or exploitation
- Physical violence or threats
- Abuse during pregnancy or around fertility challenges
Every person’s experience is unique, and abuse can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, sexual orientation, or background. Therapy can help you recognise patterns, process trauma, and rebuild confidence.
How Counselling Can Help
Domestic abuse counselling at Poole Therapies focuses on:
- Supporting emotional recovery and self-esteem
- Understanding and processing trauma and its effects
- Developing coping strategies for anxiety, fear, or low mood
- Exploring the impact on relationships and family dynamics
- Strengthening decision-making and personal boundaries
Sessions are guided by your needs and move at a pace that feels safe and manageable.
Support for Expectant Parents
For parents or co-parents experiencing domestic abuse during pregnancy, support can be particularly important.
For Baby’s Sake Trust offers a trauma-informed programme for expectant co-parents affected by domestic abuse, supporting safer relationships and healthier family environments from pregnancy to a child’s second birthday. This programme can complement counselling, providing specialist guidance and practical support.
Safety & Confidentiality
Your safety and wellbeing are our priority. Counselling sessions are confidential, and therapists can help you explore options if you feel unsafe.
If you are in immediate danger, call 999.
For non-emergency support, consider contacting:
- Refuge – support for women and children experiencing domestic abuse
- National Domestic Abuse Helpline (UK) – 0808 2000 247
Who We Support
We provide domestic abuse counselling for:
- Individuals experiencing abuse
- Family members affected by abuse
- People at any stage of the abuse experience — recent or historical
- Those navigating complex situations, including pregnancy, children, or co-parenting
Sessions are available online or in person, with flexibility to suit your circumstances.
Interested in a counsellor with this specialty?
Click to find out more about each of our counsellors with domestic abuse specialism.
Still unsure who might be the best fit for your needs? Contact us, and we’ll help match you with the right professional.
Don’t worry — sometimes the best match may be outside of Poole Therapies. In those cases, we’re happy to recommend trusted services that could be the ideal fit for you.