Expert: David Simonsen - 4/8/2008

Question
My sister is repeatedly going back to her abusive boyfriend, and I have
accepted that there is nothing else I can do to help her until she is ready to
acknowledge that she needs that help.  My question is concerning her
daughter.  The thought of my niece being in the house and witnessing this
abuse makes me physically ill.  Even though she is only 5 months old she is
taking everything in and I'm worried about her safety.  In the past the
boyfriend/father has made remarks about killing the baby, and I am just
wondering what I can do to ensure my nieces safety.

Answer
Sarah,
If I as a therapist heard this information while in the home I would report it. I would suggest anytime you hear anything like this that you report it. It can done anonymously. It would be better to err on the side of safety with this issue. Find the number and call.
David
www.help4life.net