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  • Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners

    How do I keep myself safe in an abusive relationship?

  • Find a professional to answer your question

  • I have been working in Eltham, Melbourne as a relationship and family counsellor for over twelve years. I draw on current theory and research about … View Profile

    You've taken the first step towards creating safety by asking this question!

    It's important that you talk to someone about what is happening in your relationship - this can be done confidentially and without your partner's knowledge. If you are able to speak on the phone in more detail - call The National Sexual Assault, Family and Domestic Violence Counselling Service:- 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732).

    If you're able to go and see someone face to face - a counsellor can speak with you about ways to be safe in your particular situation. It is possible that you will not be able to keep yourself safe, depending on the severity and/or type of abuse. If this is the case, it may be important to develop a plan for how to leave the relationship without risking your safety.

    .For more information about what to do, and what supports are available, check out the Domestic Violence Resource Centre website at http://www.dvrcv.org.au/help-advice/

    all the best with your next steps.

    Vivienne Colegrove

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