Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) is a deeply personal and painful experience that affects millions of people worldwide. It transcends gender, age, and socioeconomic status, leaving survivors with emotional, physical, and psychological scars that can feel overwhelming. At Strength in Heart Counselling in Victoria, BC, our counsellor Scarlet Jaxen specializes in supporting individuals who have experienced IPV, helping them find safety, healing, and empowerment.
What Is Intimate Partner Violence?
Intimate Partner Violence refers to abusive behaviors within a romantic or intimate relationship. It can take many forms, including:
Physical Abuse: Hitting, pushing, or any form of physical harm.
Emotional Abuse: Manipulation, gaslighting, or verbal attacks that erode self-worth.
Sexual Abuse: Coercion or unwanted sexual activity.
Financial Abuse: Controlling finances or restricting access to money.
Psychological Abuse: Threats, intimidation, or isolation from friends and family.
IPV often leaves survivors feeling trapped, powerless, and unsure of how to move forward. Scarlet’s approach is designed to help clients rebuild their sense of safety, self-worth, and autonomy. She brings over 15 years of experience in clinical social work to her practice, offering a safe and supportive environment for survivors of IPV. Her approach is compassionate, empowering, and tailored to meet each client’s unique needs.
Scarlet Jaxen, MSW, RSW
“I really liked my session with Scarlet, she was one of the most attentive and caring counsellors I have ever seen”
1. Creating a Safe Space
Scarlet understands the importance of safety in the healing process. She provides a non-judgmental, confidential space where clients can share their experiences without fear of blame or shame. Her empathetic and intuitive approach ensures that clients feel heard, validated, and supported.
2. Rebuilding Self-Worth
IPV may damage a survivor’s sense of self-worth. Scarlet works collaboratively with clients to help them reconnect with their inner strength and resilience. Using frameworks like Narrative Therapy and more, she helps clients reframe their experiences and rediscover their value and voice.
3. Addressing Trauma Holistically
The effects of IPV are not just emotional—they can manifest physically and psychologically as well. Scarlet’s holistic approach integrates therapeutic techniques like Somatic Experiencing and Internal Family Systems (IFS) to address the body’s response to trauma. By working through these layers, clients can release stored tension and begin to heal deeply.
4. Empowering Clients to Reclaim Control
One of the aspects of IPV is the loss of control over one’s life. Scarlet helps clients regain a sense of agency by exploring boundaries, building coping strategies, and fostering independence. Her work is grounded in the belief that every individual has the capacity to heal and thrive.
How Therapy Can Transform the Lives of IPV Survivors
Therapy is a powerful tool for survivors of IPV. It provides the space and support needed to process experiences, rebuild trust, and develop healthier relationships moving forward. Scarlet’s therapeutic approach focuses on:
Emotional Regulation: Helping clients manage feelings of fear, anger, and sadness.
Boundary Setting: Teaching clients how to establish and maintain healthy boundaries in relationships.
Reconnecting with Joy: Encouraging clients to rediscover activities, passions, and pleasures that bring them happiness.
Building a Support Network: Guiding clients to create connections with safe and supportive individuals.
Why Choose Scarlet for IPV Therapy?
Scarlet’s expertise in working with survivors of IPV sets her apart as a compassionate and skilled therapist. Her unique blend of evidence-based practices and holistic approaches ensures that every client’s journey is personalized and effective. Here’s why clients trust Scarlet:
Over 15 Years of Experience: Scarlet has supported countless individuals through their healing journeys.
Holistic Healing: Her integration of mind-body techniques addresses the full spectrum of trauma.
Empowerment-Focused: Scarlet helps clients rebuild their strength and confidence, empowering them to take control of their lives.
Non-Judgmental Support: She provides a safe, compassionate space where clients feel truly understood.
Take the First Step Toward Healing
If you or someone you know is experiencing Intimate Partner Violence, know that you are not alone and that help is available.
community resources in bc:
VictimLink BC
Phone: 1-800-563-0808
Text: 604-836-6381
Availability: 24/7, confidential, and multilingual.
Purpose: Provides support, information, and referrals to victims of family and sexual violence, including IPV.
BC Society of Transition Houses
Website: www.bcsth.ca
Purpose: Support and resources for women and children experiencing violence, including access to transition houses and safe shelters.
Ending Violence Association of BC (EVA BC)
Website: www.endingviolence.org
Purpose: Resources and support for survivors of IPV, sexual assault, and gender-based violence.
Women Against Violence Against Women (WAVAW) Rape Crisis Centre
Crisis Line: 1-877-392-7583
Availability: 24/7 support for survivors of sexualized violence, including IPV.