Domestic violence counselling and mental health support services for people experiencing abuse

Seeking domestic violence counselling and mental health support is a significant step, and it is natural to feel uncertain. At Escape to Better Foundation, we believe in the power of counselling to help people experiencing family and domestic violence heal from trauma and begin to rebuild their lives.

We also want you to feel empowered to choose the practitioner who is right for you. We offer a range of counsellor options so it is easier to find someone who suits your needs and circumstances. Who you speak to, and when, is always your choice.

Meet our counsellors

When should people experiencing domestic violence seek counselling support?

There is no “right” time to ask for help. Counselling can support you whether you are still in the relationship, preparing to leave or rebuilding your life afterwards. We highly recommend seeking domestic violence counselling support if you are:

Undecided about whether to stay or leave an abusive relationship

Finding it challenging to rebuild your life after domestic or family violence

Feeling haunted by the trauma you experienced and wanting a safe place to talk

Struggling with anxiety, depression or low self-worth

At any point where you feel you could benefit from additional emotional support

How Escape to Better Foundation can help

Escape to Better Foundation partners with independent counsellors and practitioners who
provide fee-for-service support to people experiencing domestic and family violence. This
service is designed to help if you:

  • Don’t fit the criteria for free counselling or government funded services
  • Want to choose the counsellor you work with, rather than being assigned someone
  • Need appointment times that fit your work, parenting and safety needs
  • Want to avoid long wait times before receiving help

Our role is to make it easier for you to find domestic violence counselling that feels safe,
respectful and tailored to your situation.

Counselling and mental health support for people experiencing domestic violence or abuse

The counsellors in our directory are qualified, trauma informed practitioners with experience supporting people impacted by family and domestic violence. Their services are available for both male and female victim-survivors of abuse. They offer:

  • One-to-one counselling to help you process what has happened and how you feel
  • Support with safety planning and navigating major life decisions
  • Space to explore grief, loss, anger, shame and fear in a non-judgemental way
  • Guidance as you rebuild your confidence, identity and independence

Support is available online across Australia, and in-person where counsellors are locally based.

Recognising
Abuse

Planning your
Escape

Rebuilding your
Life

Support for Family
& Friends

Support for workplaces