Domestic and Family Violence Support – Melbourne Psychologist
If you are experiencing domestic or family violence, you are not alone. Support is available, and help can be accessed safely and confidentially.
At Ishma Alvi Psychology, we provide trauma-informed psychological support for individuals affected by domestic and family violence, including emotional abuse, verbal abuse, financial abuse, coercive control, relationship violence, sexual violence, and complex trauma.
If you are in immediate danger, please call 000.
Victorian Domestic and Family Violence Support Services
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If you need urgent support or are at risk of harm, contact:
Emergency Services – 000
For immediate danger or medical emergencies.1800RESPECT (1800 737 732)
24/7 national sexual assault, domestic and family violence counselling service
Phone and online chat available.Lifeline – 13 11 14
24/7 crisis and emotional support.Suicide Call Back Service – 1300 659 467
24/7 trauma-informed counselling and crisis support. -
If you are in Victoria, the following services provide specialised assistance:
Safe Steps Family Violence Response Centre
24/7 crisis line: 1800 015 188
Support with safety planning, crisis accommodation and referrals.The Orange Door (Victoria)
Local family violence intake and support services for adults and children.Victims of Crime Helpline (Victoria)
1800 819 817
Support with financial assistance, counselling and legal referrals.Men’s Referral Service
1300 766 491
Support for men seeking help to change violent or controlling behaviours.
Coercive Control and Non-Physical Abuse
In Victoria, coercive control is recognised as a serious form of family violence.
This may include:
Monitoring movements or communications
Restricting access to money or social supports
Threats toward children, pets or immigration status
Gaslighting and persistent emotional manipulation
Creating fear through intimidation rather than physical force
These behaviours can have significant psychological and long-term mental health impacts.
What Is Domestic
and Family
Violence?
Domestic and family violence includes a range of behaviours used to control, dominate or harm another person within a relationship or family context.
It may involve:
Physical violence
Sexual violence
Emotional and psychological abuse
Coercive control and intimidation
Financial abuse
Social isolation
Technology-facilitated abuse (monitoring, tracking, online harassment)
Threats or manipulation
Reproductive coercion
Cultural or spiritual abuse
Violence is not limited to physical harm. Patterns of control and fear are equally serious and damaging.
Safety and Privacy While Seeking Help
If you are accessing this page from a shared or monitored device, consider:
Using private or incognito browsing
Clearing browser history after viewing
Using a trusted device where possible
Keeping important contacts saved under neutral names
Many support services can help you develop personalised safety plans.
Domestic and Family Violence Laws in Victoria (General Information)
In Victoria, family violence is governed by the Family Violence Protection Act 2008 (VIC). This legislation allows individuals to apply for Family Violence Intervention Orders (IVO), which may include:
No-contact conditions
Distance or location restrictions
Removal of a perpetrator from the family home
Protection for children and other family members
Court support workers are available to assist individuals navigating these processes.
Confidentiality and Mandatory Reporting
Psychological services are confidential. However, there are legal and ethical limits to confidentiality.
At Ishma Alvi Psychology, we are required to disclose (such as to emergency and crises response services) if:
There is serious and imminent risk of harm to you or another person
A child is at risk of abuse or neglect
Disclosure is required by law
Where possible, these steps are discussed collaboratively and transparently with clients.
Psychological Support at Ishma Alvi Psychology
Therapy can provide a safe, confidential space to:
Process trauma and abuse experiences
Rebuild a sense of safety and autonomy
Address anxiety, PTSD and complex trauma symptoms that may be present
Strengthen boundaries and self-worth if and where needed
Develop coping strategies and emotional regulation skills
Support recovery and post-traumatic growth
At Ishma Alvi Psychology, our work is evidence-based and trauma-informed tailored to each client’s needs and circumstances. Please note: Ishma Alvi Psychology is not a crisis service. If you are in immediate danger, contact emergency services or call 000.
Frequently asked questions
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Many people question their experiences. If you feel unsafe, controlled, fearful, or emotionally distressed within a relationship, it is valid to seek support and explore what is happening with a professional.
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No. You can access therapy and support without making a police report. Reporting decisions remain yours, unless there is a serious legal duty of care concern.
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No. Therapy is client-centred and respects your autonomy. Support focuses on safety, wellbeing and informed decision-making rather than pressure or directives.
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Yes, with limited legal exceptions related to serious risk or mandatory reporting obligations. These limits are explained clearly in the Terms of Service Forms and during informed consent part of the first session
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Children exposed to family violence may experience emotional, behavioural and developmental impacts. Support services are available for both parents and children, and appropriate referrals can be discussed.
The resources listed on this page are provided for general informational purposes only and do not replace professional psychological assessment or treatment. Ishma Alvi Psychology does not control external services and is not responsible for their content or availability. If you are experiencing domestic or family violence, confidential help is available. Call 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) or 000 in an emergency.