From the Research
For women in Calgary experiencing domestic violence, recommended counseling interventions include immediate crisis counseling and individual trauma-informed therapy, with a focus on safety planning, emotional processing, and rebuilding self-esteem, as supported by the most recent study 1.
Key Interventions
- Immediate crisis counseling through the Calgary Women's Emergency Shelter (403-234-7233) or the Family Violence Helpline (403-234-SAFE)
- Individual trauma-informed therapy focusing on safety planning, emotional processing, and rebuilding self-esteem
- Group counseling for valuable peer support and reducing isolation
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to address negative thought patterns resulting from abuse
- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for effective trauma processing
Importance of Cultural Sensitivity and Practical Support
- Cultural sensitivity is crucial, with organizations like Awo Taan Healing Lodge offering Indigenous-focused services
- Practical support should include safety planning, legal advocacy, and connection to housing resources
- The Calgary Counselling Centre and Sagesse offer sliding-scale fees to make services more accessible, and many programs include childcare options to remove barriers to participation
Evidence-Based Recommendations
The recommendation for trauma-focused cognitive-behavioral therapy is based on the study by 1, which found medium to large effects in reducing PTSD symptoms in individuals with ongoing threat of reexposure, including those experiencing domestic violence. While the evidence is promising, it is essential to consider the limitations and mixed findings, particularly in the context of domestic violence 1. However, given the potential benefits and the importance of addressing trauma symptoms, trauma-focused cognitive-behavioral therapy is a recommended intervention for women in Calgary experiencing domestic violence.