Domestic violence is not just physical abuse—it’s a devastating pattern of control, fear, and manipulation that can happen to anyone, regardless of gender, age, race, or background. In Joliet and beyond, survivors are reclaiming their voices, and the path to healing begins with awareness, support, and compassionate care.
If you or someone you know is facing domestic violence in Joliet, this guide offers education, encouragement, and resources that can help you take your next step safely.
What is Domestic Violence?
Domestic violence—also known as intimate partner violence (IPV)—involves any behavior used by one partner to control or harm the other in a personal relationship. It can take many forms, including:
- Physical abuse: Hitting, choking, pushing, restraining
- Emotional abuse: Gaslighting, constant criticism, isolation
- Verbal abuse: Threats, yelling, name-calling
- Sexual abuse: Coercion, rape, unwanted advances
- Financial abuse: Controlling finances, restricting access to money
- Digital abuse: Monitoring phone use, controlling social media
Domestic violence is about power—not anger. It’s a calculated pattern meant to diminish a person’s independence and identity.
Alarming Statistics in Illinois and Joliet
Fact | Source |
1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men in the U.S. experience some form of intimate partner violence. | CDC |
In 2022, the Illinois Domestic Violence Hotline received over 35,000 calls. | Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority (ICJIA) |
Will County (which includes Joliet) reports hundreds of domestic violence-related arrests each year. | Local Law Enforcement Reports |
These numbers represent real lives—people struggling behind closed doors, often afraid or unable to speak out.
Recognizing the Signs of Domestic Violence
Many survivors don’t realize they are in an abusive relationship because the signs can be subtle or gradually escalate over time. Here are red flags to look for:
- You feel afraid to express your thoughts or needs.
- Your partner monitors your phone, social life, or spending.
- They belittle or humiliate you in private or public.
- You’re blamed for everything that goes wrong.
- Physical aggression has occurred—even once.
- You’ve been isolated from family or friends.
- You feel “stuck” or like you’re walking on eggshells.
If something doesn’t feel right—it probably isn’t. Trust your instincts.
Why People Stay—and Why It’s Not That Simple
Leaving an abusive relationship is often dangerous, complicated, and emotional. Survivors may stay for many reasons, including:
- Fear of retaliation
- Lack of financial resources
- Children or custody concerns
- Cultural or religious pressures
- Guilt or shame
- Low self-esteem from years of abuse
- Hope that things will change
This is where support from trained professionals and community organizations becomes critical.
How Domestic Violence Affects Mental Health
Abuse takes a deep psychological toll. Survivors often experience:
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Depression and suicidal thoughts
- Anxiety and panic attacks
- Substance use to cope
- Sleep disturbances
- Loss of self-worth
Healing is possible—but it requires support that’s safe, confidential, and affirming.
At PS It’s Counseling in Joliet, we offer trauma-informed therapy that meets survivors where they are, helping them rebuild trust, regain confidence, and move forward on their terms.
The Role of Domestic Violence Counseling in Joliet
Counseling plays a vital role in recovery. Whether you’re still in the relationship or have already left, therapy helps you:
- Reprocess trauma in a safe, nonjudgmental space
- Reclaim personal boundaries and identity
- Understand patterns of abuse
- Develop safety plans and coping strategies
- Rebuild self-esteem and autonomy
- Address grief, shame, and complex emotions
Explore our trauma-informed therapy approach and how we empower survivors to move from surviving to thriving.
What a Safety Plan Looks Like
If you are still in a dangerous situation, a safety plan can protect you and your children. Key components include:
- Keep a go-bag ready with ID, medications, keys, money, documents
- Memorize important phone numbers
- Establish a code word to signal danger to trusted friends
- Know safe exit points in your home
- Have a list of emergency shelters or contacts
You don’t have to plan alone—local shelters and therapists can assist in creating a personalized safety plan.
Domestic Violence Resources in Joliet
Here are trusted support systems you can turn to locally and nationally:
🌟 Local Resources:
- Guardian Angel Community Services (Joliet)
https://www.guardianangelhome.org
24/7 Domestic Violence Hotline: (815) 729-1228 - Groundwork Shelter (Joliet)
Safe shelter, legal advocacy, counseling
Phone: (815) 729-0930 - Will County Legal Assistance
Help with orders of protection, custody, and divorce
https://www.willcountyillinois.com
🌎 National Resources:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline
1-800-799-SAFE (7233) | https://www.thehotline.org - Love is Respect
For young people in abusive dating relationships
Text LOVEIS to 22522
Online and Virtual Support Options
Abuse doesn’t stop because someone can’t make it to a physical office. That’s why online therapy is a critical lifeline for survivors who need discretion and safety.
Virtual sessions allow you to:
- Speak from a safe location
- Protect your privacy
- Access care when transportation is a barrier
- Continue progress if you relocate
Confidentiality and compassion are the foundation of every session.
You Are Not Alone: Real Stories of Resilience
“When I finally got help, I realized it wasn’t my fault. I wasn’t crazy—I was in danger. Counseling helped me rebuild my sense of self.”
— Samantha, Joliet Survivor
“The fear used to control me. Now I control my choices. I never thought I’d feel peace again, but therapy helped me unlock it.”
— Tasha, Joliet Client at PS It’s Counseling
How We Support Domestic Violence Survivors at PS It’s Counseling
Our therapists in Joliet offer:
- Confidential, trauma-informed sessions
- Support navigating legal and housing options
- Culturally sensitive care for BIPOC and LGBTQ+ clients
- Long-term healing strategies—not quick fixes
We also provide relationship counseling for survivors seeking to rebuild trust in future relationships.
Take Back Your Power
It’s not your fault. You didn’t deserve it. And you don’t have to face it alone.
We believe you. We support you. And when you’re ready, we’re here to walk with you—every step of the way.
Your healing starts today. Reach out for confidential counseling in Joliet that prioritizes your safety, your voice, and your freedom.