AboutKriss Mitchell, M.Ed, LPC, CRC, CNHP Expertise I am able to answer questions with regard to problems that result from emotional abuse or physical abuse in both dating and marriage relationships. Having been in an abusive relationship for many years, I know first hand the feelings, the questions and the doubts we go through as we try to make decisions about our lives. Often victims of abuse have deep faith based concerns regarding staying in these kinds of relationships which I am able to address as well.
Experience My background started as a victim of an emotionally abusive relationship as well as having family members who were victims of violence and physical abuse. I have gone on to become a professional counselor and I work with abused women.
Organizations American Mental Health Counselors Association,
American Association of Christian Counselors,
International Association of Prayer Counselors
Publications The Good News Northwest and the North Idaho Business Journal
Education/Credentials Licensed Professional Counselor,
Board Certified Professional Christian Counselor,
Certified Rehabilitation Counselor,
Certified Natural Health Professional
I contacted you because of your statement about faith-based decisions. My faith is what kept me with my abusive husband for six years. He was physically, emotionally, and verbally abusive as was his mother with whom we lived and took care of. Now, I have left, and I have nothing. No home. No car. Nothing. I have had to apply for food stamps and am living in my childhood home, away from my career as a VP.
I am not coping well. When I have visited with social services counselors, they have suggested that I apply for disability through Social Security. One counselor said that I am suffering from post traumatic stress disorder. I am unable to do complex tasks and suffer from severe anxiety. Further, my husband has cut me off our health insurance.
Please advise me on what I can do to help myself right now and whether or not to seek relief through a disability avenue.
Thank you. I am sorry for the length of this message. I am needing help.
Sincerely,
Melanie
Answer Dear Melanie,
I'm so sorry to hear about your situation and hope that you can benefit from the advice you are seeking.
In all honesty, most individuals who have been the victims of an abusive relationship suffer from PTSD so the counselors are pointing you in the right direction. If the disability route is the door the Lord has open for you right now, follow it and see what happens. This is a legitimate disability and can be quite debilitating.
You didn't mention whether you are divorced, but if you haven't already, please consult with a divorce attorney to find out what your rights are and what the courts can do to make sure your husband is not being overly difficult. Once you know what your rights are and what can be done, it will help you to make further decisions.
I would also contact your local women's center and seek out the services of an abuse counselor who can help you with the PTSD. Someone who is proficient in EMDR therapy would be a good resource for you. EMDR is one of the best therapies for trauma and would help you in a relatively short time.
This is a tremendously difficult path to follow, but one good thing that comes out of it is a sense of empowerment when you start taking your life back. I wish you well Melanie and if I can be of any further assistance, please feel free to contact me.
