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Clinical Considerations

Information to help clinicians treating families experiencing absue and violence after separation. 

Common Misperceptions about  PSV&A 

Misperception 1

IPV is caused by problems with anger management or impulse control.

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IPV is caused by the desire of one person to have power and control  over another person
Hover to debunk
Misperception 2

If the violence was really bad she would have left early.

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There are numerous 

barriers and challenges

which may make it

difficult

to leave an abusive

relationship.

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Misperception 3

Even if there was abuse, the children will be safe when the relationship ends.

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Danger often increases are separation because children are often used to punish or control the abused parent.

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What Clinicians Need to Know About PSV&A

Recognizing Signs of Abusive Behavior

While physical violence is a common sign of IPV, many abusive relationships do not result in visible harm. Abusers frequently use emotional and psychological tactics, to exert power and maintain control by using intimidation, humiliation, and fear. 

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People who use abuse often appear to be charming and engaging. It is important for mental health providers to recognize the signs so that they do not mistake IPV for martial conflict or problems with anger management.

 

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Click here to learn more about the signs.

Understanding the Impact of PSV&A 

Individuals experiencing PSV&A may seem hesitant or unwilling to engage in therapy because they are fearful that they will not be believed. It is important to be aware of the misconceptions about IPV in order to create a safe therapeutic space where survivors can feel supported, and validated. ​

Because of their trauma history, survivors of IPV may:

 

  • be mistrustful of themselves and everyone around them

  • be depleted emotionally and physically

  • experience feelings of guilt and shame

  • appear overwhelmed with every day tasks

  • be fearful for their children's safety

  • feel misunderstood by family and friends

  • have difficulty making decisions

  • demonstrate signs of depression and/or anxiety

Strength and Resilience

Although IPV has negative physical and psychological consequences; many individuals experiencing violence are able to thrive after leaving.  Research has shown that protective factors (e.g.employment, family support, children, spirituality, culture, and community involvement) can serve to increase resiliency for individuals that experienced IPV (Anderson et.al, 2012).
Click here for additional information on protective factors for IPV. 

Therapeutic services for clients impacted by PSV&A should:​

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  • focus on creating and maintaining personal safety

  • be free from criticism and judgement

  • address past/current trauma and abuse

  • increase healthy coping strategies

  • rebuild self-esteem

  • provide education

  • support autonomy and self-determination

Image by Nik

Best Practices for PSV&A

Respect the right to
self-determination

Remember that the client is the expert! Allow the client to determine what is best for them. Believe them when they say, “he will kill me or the kids”.

Check your biases

Avoid judgment, criticism, and “victim-blaming” statements.

Each person’s trauma history is unique. Offer support and options not personal opinions.

Validate the client's
experiences

Believe the person experiencing abuse. Validate their history. Do not minimize their fear or concern about future violence.

Remember to safety plan

Make sure to discuss plans for safety with your client. Express concern if you believe they may be in danger. Collaborate with a DV advocate or legal professional when needed.

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