Impact of a Psychotherapy Protocol on Women with a History of Intimate Partner Violence in Brazil

Abstract

Violence against women is a public health problem, and it causes psychological damage that should be the focus of psychological treatment. Psychological symptoms include anxiety, depression, and trauma-related stress. Scientific, evidence-based practices are recommended for a high-quality outcome. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of a 16-session Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapy protocol for women with a history of intimate partner violence (IPV). The final sample included 26 women. The participants were evaluated before the intervention and after the end of it. The study results indicate an increase in the level of life satisfaction, as well as a reduction in anxiety, depression, and trauma-related symptoms. Patients with different histories of violence have benefited from the intervention. Despite the limitations of this study, for example, sample size and the absence of a control group, the results provide initial evidence of the effectiveness of the protocol. This study contributes to stimulating evidence-based practices for treatment for this population in Brazil. Future experimental and follow-up studies are necessary to produce evidence of the effectiveness of the protocol.