Spotlight on Services: Advocacy

Written By: The Women’s Center’s Staff

September 23, 2020

Here at The Women’s Center, we provide holistic, trauma-informed programming for survivors of domestic and sexual violence that emphasizes healing, empowerment, and justice. One of the core ways we do this is through short-term advocacy. 

How we provide advocacy 

Our advocacy model focuses on crisis intervention and providing one-on-one emotional support for survivors after experiencing domestic or sexual violence. As Advocates help survivors process their trauma, they listen and provide reassurance, encouragement, and guidance. They work with individuals and families on developing boundaries, practicing coping skills, identifying supports, and connecting to additional resources. Further, we provide advocacy within legal, housing, healthcare, and other systems for holistic support. 

Do we provide counseling? 

While we do not provide mental health counseling, diagnosis, or treatment plans, we will make referrals to specialized counseling services as needed. We understand that throughout their healing journey survivors may need ongoing mental health support beyond the immediate advocacy we provide. We always work with survivors on an individualized, case by case basis and have strong partnerships with other organizations in the community to make sure they have the comprehensive support system they need.

How to get connected to an Advocate: 

One-on-one advocacy and support is available for free to survivors of all ages, races, gender identities, sexual orientations, abilities, nationalities, and immigration status. We offer advocacy services over the phone and onsite in both Spanish and English.

You can get connected to an Advocate by calling our 24-Hour Hotline at 262.542.3828.