Counseling
Our Counselors are professionally trained licensed or pre-licensed therapists who approach counseling in a trauma-informed, culturally responsive, LGBTQ+ friendly manner.
Domestic violence has very harmful effects on victims and survivors. Beyond physical injuries, many people victimized by intimate partner violence experience depression, low self-esteem, post-traumatic stress, and traumatic grief. Counselors at Catalyst understand that intimate partner violence is a very complex and delicate situation, and they are fully equipped to address these issues. Our Counselors are professionally trained licensed or pre-licensed therapists who approach counseling in a trauma-informed, culturally responsive, LGBTQ+ friendly manner. They also provide education about the cycle of violence and how to establish healthy relationships.
As a result of the Pandemic, Catalyst has expanded the way in which appointments can be offered. In addition to offering in-person individual counseling for adults and children, by appointment, in Chico, Oroville, and Paradise, our counselors are also available for phone and telehealth appointments for Butte County survivors. Youth appointments are currently offered 12 years of age and older. Children under the age of 12 will be determined on a case-by-case basis. We also offer group counseling – please call for days and times.*
*We have decided to discontinue, for now, the Oroville drop-in group due to lack of attendance. Currently, we do not offer any other group counseling outside of the shelter.
Initial Session
During your initial session with a counselor, they will help you assess your situation and talk to you about a safety plan, whether or not you decide to stay or leave. They will discuss all other services that Catalyst can provide to keep you safe. Also involved in this session will be education around the dynamics of domestic violence. Handouts will be given at the end of the session, so that you can determine your situation more clearly.
Follow up Sessions
Follow up sessions will involve more domestic violence education around the pathology of abusers, red flags, etc. Safety plans will be re-evaluated. Counselors may also explore with you what may be preventing you from finding the life that you want. These areas usually involve exploration around: self-esteem, boundaries, trauma, relationship patterns, etc.