Counselling for Domestic and Family Violence
in Menai and 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 therapy when they are trying to understand the impact of an unsafe relationship or rebuild a sense of safety after leaving.

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At Evolving Minds Counselling and Psychology in Menai, our psychologists and counsellors provide trauma-informed, evidence-based therapy for individuals and families affected by domestic and family violence across the Sutherland Shire and southern Sydney. 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 safe. Therapy provides a confidential space to explore options at your own pace.

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Understanding the impact

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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 often overlaps with experiences such as trauma, anxiety, 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 Menai and the Sutherland Shire

Our psychologists and counsellors have experience in trauma-informed approaches, including postgraduate training in developmental trauma. 

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

Approaches may include EMDR, trauma-focused cognitive behavioural therapy (TF-CBT), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), schema therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and body-based approaches where appropriate.

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

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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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