Abusive Behaviors

Woman in a green dress sits on a gray sofa with colorful pillows, a black dog beside her. Guitar and books in the background, calm mood.

Rebuilding Safety After Leaving an Abusive Relationship

Leaving an abusive relationship is often described as the hardest step and in many ways, it is. But what many survivors are unprepared for is that re-establishing emotional safety after leaving can feel even harder than becoming physically safe.

Melissa Londry, LPC

Jan 283 min read

Person in a blue coat stands in a dense forest, surrounded by tall trees, conveying a sense of solitude and tranquility.

A Letter to the Woman Who is in an Abusive Relationship and Deciding Whether or Not to Leave

A Letter to the Woman Who is in an Abusive Relationship and Deciding Whether or Not to Leave... I’m writing to you with tenderness, truth, and zero judgment. Research shows that the average survivor leaves an abusive relationship 7–8 times before leaving for good. That’s not because they are weak. It’s because trauma bonds are real, coercive control is powerful, and abusers know exactly how to cycle between harm and “honeymoon” apologies to maintain control.

Melissa Londry, LPC

Nov 16, 20254 min read

A person with long hair sits on a rock, facing a misty landscape at sunrise. Grass and branches frame the serene, monochrome scene.

Recognizing the Signs of Domestic Violence and How to Get Help

Domestic violence involves a pattern of behavior used by one person to gain power and control over another in an intimate relationship. It can take many forms, including physical, emotional, psychological, sexual, and financial abuse. The effects of domestic violence are far-reaching, impacting not only the victim but also families and communities.

Melissa Londry, LPC

Oct 10, 20253 min read

Two people stand close, with one arm wrapped around the other. Both wear earth-toned jackets. The setting is minimal and neutral-toned.

When Forgiveness Isn’t Enough: Navigating an Unhealthy Relationship

Relationships are built on trust, respect, and mutual care. When these foundations are shaken, especially by physical aggression, it can leave you feeling conflicted, hurt, and uncertain about what to do next. If you’re in this situation or an unhealthy relationship, know that you’re not alone, and your feelings are valid.

Melissa Londry, LPC

Oct 7, 20253 min read

Empty abandoned living room with an empty chair

Recognizing and Addressing Domestic Violence

Domestic violence is a pervasive issue that affects millions of individuals and families around the world. Often hidden behind closed doors, it transcends demographics impacting people of all genders, ages, races, sexual orientations, and socioeconomic backgrounds.

Melissa Londry, LPC

Oct 1, 20254 min read

Two people in a counseling session. One is writing in a notebook with a pen. The other sits across in casual clothing on a black couch.

The Unfair Stigma of PTSD: Why Survivors Are Diagnosed While Perpetrators Often Go Unchecked

Survivors are labeled as "disordered" for their understandable reactions to harm, while the individuals responsible for their trauma, the perpetrators, are far less likely to receive scrutiny or diagnoses for their actions. This disparity not only compounds the burden on survivors but also overlooks the significant damage caused by those who perpetuate abuse and trauma.

Melissa Londry, LPC

May 16, 20253 min read