Denial is a dreadful thing. So he decided he needed to go alone. I went alone also. And again, things do not change overnight. Reading books on anger, co-dependency, abuse, boundaries are essential.
Perceptions get altered, inner awareness grows.
Talking to supportive friends is a must. It is too difficult and lonely to go through alone. Seek counseling with professionals who have an understanding of verbal abuse. DON'T give up when you have discovered the counselor is a dud. Ring a domestic violence center to get the names of professionals they can recommend.