Counselling for Domestic and Family Violence
in the Sutherland Shire

Domestic and family violence is not limited to physical harm. It may include emotional, psychological, financial, sexual, social or spiritual abuse. These patterns can occur within intimate relationships, between family members, or in situations of elder abuse.

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Many people seek counselling when they are trying to understand the impact of an unsafe relationship or begin to make sense of their experiences after leaving.

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At Evolving Minds Counselling and Psychology in Menai, our psychologists and counsellors provide domestic and family violence counselling and trauma-informed therapy in Menai and across the Sutherland Shire. Sessions are available in person at our Menai practice and via secure online appointments across Australia.

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Safety Information

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If you are currently in immediate danger, please call 000.

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If you need confidential support or advice about domestic or family violence, you can contact 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) or visit 1800respect.org.au. This service provides 24-hour support across Australia.

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Common responses to domestic and family violence

People may experience:​

• Anxiety or persistent fear

• Hypervigilance or feeling constantly on edge

• Flashbacks or intrusive memories

• Difficulty trusting others

• Sleep disturbance or nightmares

• Feelings of shame, guilt or self-doubt

• Withdrawal from friends or family

• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions

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Some people seek counselling while still in the relationship or while deciding what feels manageable. Counselling provides a confidential space to explore experiences and options at your own pace.

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Understanding the impact of domestic and family violence

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Domestic and family violence often involves patterns of coercion and control that develop over time. These patterns can create confusion, fear and dependency, making it difficult to seek help or leave safely.

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The impact may overlap with experiences such as trauma counselling, anxiety counselling, or difficulties with emotional regulation.

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Children and adolescents who witness or experience family violence may also be affected, with changes in behaviour, emotional regulation or relationships.

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When to consider counselling

You may wish to consider counselling if you are:

• Feeling unsafe or uncertain in a relationship

• Experiencing ongoing fear, anxiety or distress

• Finding it difficult to trust others

• Struggling with the impact of past or current experiences

• Noticing changes in your wellbeing, relationships or daily life

Domestic and family violence counselling in the Sutherland Shire

Our psychologists and counsellors provide evidence-based domestic and family violence counselling in Menai and across the Sutherland Shire, including Miranda, Caringbah, Engadine, and surrounding suburbs.

Counselling focuses on understanding patterns of control or harm, supporting emotional regulation, and rebuilding a sense of autonomy over time. Sessions are collaborative and paced according to each person’s readiness.

Our clinicians draw on evidence based therapies, including EMDR therapy, trauma-focused cognitive behavioural therapy, dialectical behaviour therapy, schema therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy where appropriate.

For children and adolescents, counselling is adapted to developmental needs and may involve caregivers where appropriate.

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Getting started

Appointments are available in person at our Menai practice and via secure online appointments across Australia.

If you’re unsure where to begin, our Client Care Team can assist.  Call 02 8519 4197 or use the button below to request an appointment.

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