Understanding Intimate Partner Violence (IPV)

Definition:
Intimate Partner Violence refers to any behavior in a current or former relationship that causes physical, sexual, psychological or emotional harm. This includes physical assault, sexual abuse, stalking, coercive control, emotional manipulation, financial abuse, and cyber-violence. In Kamloops, the scope of intimate partner violence demands careful attention.

Why IPV Matters

Scale of the issue in Kamloops:
From January–March 2023 alone, RCMP received 222 calls related to IPV—nearly 2–3 per day—resulting in 36 criminal charges
In 2024, more than 1,000 IPV incidents were reported—an increase from 1,014 in 2023 CASTANET
Gender impact:
Nationally in BC, nearly half (48%) of women have experienced some form of intimate partner violence since age 15—and 30% have suffered physical or sexual violence
Women are about 3.5 times more likely than men to experience IPV
Underreporting among men:
Police‑based stats show about 79% of police‑reported IPV victims are women, with 21% men
However, this is likely underestimated, as men often avoid reporting due to stigma or fear of being disbelieved

Effects of Initimate Partner Violence: How It Impacts everyone

For Women:

Physical injuries (bruises, fractures, chronic pain) are a concern in Kamloops.
Sexual and reproductive health issues (STIs, unwanted pregnancies, complications)
Mental health challenges (PTSD, anxiety, depression, substance use)
Social and financial consequences (isolation, job loss, housing instability)

For Men:

Similar physical and mental health impacts, often minimized or dismissed, especially in Kamloops.
Fear of disclosure, stigma, not being believed
Lack of tailored support—most services target women and children

Intimate Partner Violence in Kamloops: Local Context

Kamloops mirrors provincial and national trends in intimate partner violence:

Over 1,000 Intimate Partner Violence incidents reported in 2024, with only a fraction resulting in charges. Addressing intimate partner violence in Kamloops is crucial.
Children and families are profoundly affected—some losing housing due to partner conflict or abuse kamloops.ca.
Support exists through the Kamloops Sexual Assault Counselling Centre, the Y Women’s Emergency Shelter, and STOP, a men’s voluntary prevention program aiming to reduce intimate partner violence in Kamloops.

Why Future Focus Counselling Center for IPV Recovery?

At Future Focus in Kamloops, we understand how crucial a safe, compassionate space is for recovery. Here’s why our approach matters in addressing intimate partner violence:

Trauma-informed care: With modalities like EMDR and relational therapy to address deep impacts
First 20-min consultation is free: A 20‑minute relaxed chat to discuss your needs—no pressure
Holistic focus: We support emotional, psychological, relational, and identity recovery
Specialized for survivors: We tailor counseling for those affected by Intimate Partner Violence, with empathy and expertise specific to Kamloops.

Future Focus offers women a place to start rebuilding trust in themselves, their relationships, and their lives after trauma.

Taking the Next Step

If IPV has impacted your life, consider:

Reach out today: Call or book a complimentary 20‑minute consultation with Future Focus Counselling, dedicated to helping people affected by intimate partner violence in Kamloops.
Learn what’s right for you: We’ll discuss what you’re looking for—individual therapy, EMDR, relationship work
Start feeling understood: Sessions are judgement‑free, grounded in safety and professional expertise

You don’t have to face this alone. If you’re a woman in Kamloops who has experienced IPV, Future Focus Counselling offers a supportive, trauma-informed path forward. Reach out for that first 20-minute complimentary consult—it could open the door to healing and reclaiming your life.

Stay Up-To-Date!

Subscribe For Blog Notifications