Domestic violence is the most common type of gender-based violence, encompassing a variety of abusive behaviors, such as physical, emotional, psychological, and economic abuse. Although most domestic violence is perpetrated against women by men, this problem affects people of all ages, gender identities, races, and socioeconomic backgrounds. The recovery of individuals who have experienced severe violence and complex trauma from their partners, family members, community members, and other perpetrators involves more than ensuring physical safety. It also requires addressing the psychological and emotional effects that the trauma from the incident may have inflicted.
Through our crisis intervention program, we provide immediate, short-term counseling and psychological support for individuals experiencing violence to strengthen their coping skills and help them experience safety. We actively assess the risk level of survivors who disclose safety concerns using an adapted version of the Conflict Tactics Scale (CTS), a widely used research tool to understand family violence and other forms of violence clients have experienced. In these sessions, our staff work collaboratively with clients to help them understand their experiences, strengthen their internal and external support systems, and develop personalized safety plans catered to their unique needs. By addressing these immediate concerns, we ensure survivors have access to essential resources and connect them with relevant support networks, such as healthcare providers, legal services, and social welfare agencies. Beyond the immediate intervention, we monitor clients for potential indicators of distress, assist them with referral needs, and revisit crisis cases if safety concerns resurface. One of our clients recently shared her positive experience:
“I’m grateful to everyone here at Eleison. They always respond immediately and have a great understanding of their clients. Although we’re not perfect, they are patient with us and are always willing to help no matter how difficult the situation may be. They have been a great source of strength, especially during the difficult time when I had to leave my toxic relationship. My phone was taken away from me, and I was left without any means of communication. The sessions at Eleison helped me gain the courage and confidence to remove myself from that situation and start a new life. They never forced their opinions on me but encouraged me to make my own decisions. They constantly monitored my well-being by reaching out to me regularly. This helped ease my feelings and made me realize I could always count on them. They even helped me with a safety plan and provided me with action steps on what to do in an emergency. As a result, I have regained my self-confidence and broken free from staying in a toxic relationship.”
We believe everyone has the right to live free from violence and abuse. As we observe Domestic Violence Awareness Month, let us aim to create a world where violence is not tolerated and survivors can access the support they need to heal and thrive. If you’re interested in supporting our crisis intervention services, we invite you to donate here.
